Caring for Your Naturally Curly Hair Under a Weave & Curly Hair Extensions
Wearing a weave should never mean neglecting your curls. With the right routine, you can keep your scalp balanced, protect your natural hair, and help your curly hair extensions stay soft and defined. Use this stylist-approved routine for healthy curls under a weave, week after week.
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Step 1 – Prep Your Curls Before the Weave Installation
Deep Moisture Treatment & End Sealing
Before any install, start with a thorough cleanse and a moisturizing deep treatment. Rinse well, then seal ends with a lightweight oil or leave‑in to reduce dryness and split ends while your hair is braided.
Scalp & Braid Care Before Installing Extensions
After braiding, lightly moisturize the braids and scalp. If your stylist is installing, they should perform this step before applying a mesh cap or sewing in the extensions. Prepped hair = less friction and better longevity during your wear.
Step 2 – How to Maintain Natural Hair Under a Curly Weave
Washing Your Hair Under a Weave (Yes, You Can!)
You can (and should) wash under a weave. Aim for once weekly or at least every 7–10 days. To target the scalp without disturbing your install, apply diluted shampoo using a nozzle bottle directly at the parts and tracks, gently massage, rinse thoroughly, and ensure full dry time. Dilute conditioner in an applicator bottle with warm water to help it flow easily into the scalp and braids without over-saturating the extensions.
Recommended Tools
Nozzle applicator bottle for precise scalp cleansing, a microfiber towel for gentle blotting, and a hooded dryer to ensure complete dry time at the tracks. Sit under the dryer for at least 60-90 minutes, ensuring both your braids and tracks are fully dry to prevent mildew or odor.
Fully dry braids/tracks to prevent odor, itching, and mildew.
Moisturizing & Preventing Dryness
Between washes, use a lightweight leave‑in or braid spray 2–3 times per week to keep braids supple without over‑saturating. Use a light natural oil such as jojoba or a tea tree blend sparingly along your scalp to maintain moisture without causing buildup. Avoid heavy grease, which can weigh down curls and attract dirt.
Note: Focus on the scalp and new growth; avoid heavy creams that cause buildup.
Avoiding Scalp Itch & Product Buildup
If itchiness persists after regular cleansing, switch to a gentle, sulfate‑free formula and reduce heavy stylers. A few drops of scalp‑friendly oil along the parts can soothe, but keep it light to avoid residue on the tracks.
Step 3 – Care for Your Leave‑Out Hair
Heat Protection & Styling Tips
Any time you blend leave‑out with extensions, apply a quality heat protectant first and keep settings moderate. If blending leave-out with your curly extensions, keep hot tool temperatures under 350°F to protect both your hair and the extensions from heat damage.
Note: Limit daily passes; prioritize smooth tension and smaller sections over high heat.
Here are three excellent heat protectant brands you can consider : Chi 44 Iron Guard, Mielle Organics Thermal Spray, and Kenra Thermal Styling Spray.
Moisture Preservation & Edge Protection
Edge areas are fragile. Avoid products high in drying alcohols. Maintain hydration with a light leave‑in and protect nightly with a silk or satin layer over the hairline.
Step 4 – Caring for Curly Hair Extensions
Detangling & Nighttime Protection
To prevent tangling and matting, mist with water or leave‑in, then detangle from ends upward with a wide‑tooth tool or extension‑safe brush to minimize shedding and prevent matting. At night, braid or twist in 2–6 sections and cover with a satin bonnet or scarf to preserve definition.
Longevity Tips for Curly Bundles
Consistent gentle cleansing, proper drying, and low‑manipulation styling can help high‑quality curly bundles stay beautiful through multiple installs. Store clean and fully dry, and avoid heavy silicones that weigh down curl patterns.
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Get Expert HelpCurly Weave Care FAQs
How often should I wash under my weave?
Aim for once weekly or every 7–10 days. Use diluted shampoo in a nozzle bottle to reach the scalp and tracks without disturbing your install.
How do I dry my braids and tracks completely?
Blot with a microfiber towel, then sit under a hooded dryer on low/medium until the base is fully dry (often 60–90 minutes). Damp bases can lead to odor or mildew.
What products should I avoid on curly weaves?
Skip heavy greases, butters, and high-silicone stylers that cause buildup and weigh down curls. Opt for lightweight leave-ins and curl-friendly gels/foams.
How do I prevent itchiness?
Keep a regular cleanse schedule, rinse thoroughly, and use a few drops of a scalp-friendly oil along the parts—not on the tracks. Persistent itch often signals buildup.
Can I reuse my curly bundles?
Yes. Cleanse, condition, fully dry, and store carefully. High-quality curly bundles can be reused across multiple installs with proper care.
What’s the best night routine for curly weaves?
Mist with water/leave-in, detangle from ends up, then braid/twist in 2–6 sections and cover with a satin bonnet or scarf to preserve definition.
How should I care for the leave-out around a curly weave?
Use heat protectant every time and keep temps under 350°F. Favor small sections and gentle tension over high heat to protect your hair and the extensions.
If you’re not comfortable caring for your hair under your weave, then speak to your stylist. You can schedule regular maintenance services during the time you have in the extensions to ensure your natural hair stays protected as much as possible.
A good salon professional will ensure to use products and practices suitable for your hair type and the hair extensions you have.
Final Takeaways for Healthy Hair Under a Weave
- Deep condition and seal ends before braiding.
- Cleanse the scalp under your weave every 7–10 days; dry fully.
- Keep leave‑out protected: heat protectant + lower settings.
- For curly bundles, detangle gently and protect nightly.
- Follow recommended wear times—don’t overextend installs.
Follow these recommendations and you’ll thoroughly enjoy wearing weaves while preventing damage to your natural hair. You’ll have healthy hair and scalp, and gorgeous curly hair extensions.
Written by:
Yvette J Haughton