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How to Use a Weave as a Protective Style

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photo credit: FingerComber
by Kavuli of Good Hair Diaries

Hey folks! I’ve decided to use a full sew-in weave as a protective style for a while. I am very happy with my decision to do this, but I thought I should go into serious detail regarding the maintenance of my hair underneath. Out of sight, out of mind does NOT apply when it comes to your hair. Let me state that this is how I CHOOSE TO TAKE CARE OF MY HAIR during the weave process. Take what you will from it and tweak what you need to. Let’s get started…

Read On!>>>



Before You Install the Weave:

  1. Wash and deep condition the hair with your choice of gentle and quality products.
  2. Moisturize the length of the hair using the L.O.C. Method.
  3. Air dry
  4. Take the weave that you are going to install and wash it. I clarify and deep condition the hair the same way I would my own hair. Go in the same direction as the cuticle and don’t tangle the hair. I may or may not use heat during the conditioning process. ( It’s crazy how much hair dye comes out of the weave when you wash it.) If you are using virgin hair, this process may or may not be necessary. 
  5. Be sure to wash the weave in warm water and rinse the conditioner out in cold water. This will help the weave to be very soft when it dries. 
  6. Let the weave air dry.


After You Install the Weave: 

  1. Get a spray bottle or an applicator bottle with the narrow nozzle. Fill it up with your favorite liquid moisturizer. S-curl is awesome to use, but if you don’t have that then you can always dilute your favorite cheapie conditioner with water, add glycerine and natural oils. 
  2. Lift up each track and spray or squeeze your moisturizer on the braids. This is time consuming, but completely necessary and it feels good. 
  3. Get another applicator bottle and fill it with your favorite oil to seal the moisturizer in the hair. Be sure to get the oil on your hair and scalp and not the weave. 
  4. Use the tips of your fingers to massage everything in. It will feel great! 
  5. Style as usual and cover with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet for bed.  Maintaining extensions is time consuming and requires a lot of patience. Cleansing and washing your hair properly is imperative to maintaining optimal hair health. Next, you’ll find the steps I take to clean my hair with a sew-in weave.
Be sure to Wash Your Real Hair Underneath AND the Weave
  1. Start by combing through the hair with a wide tooth comb to remove all tangles. If you are wearing a curly weave, then I would use my fingers to detangle. Start from the ends to the roots.
  2. Fill a spray bottle up with diluted shampoo and spray the scalp and hair. Use the method of spraying in between each track to get as close as possible to the scalp. Proceed by spraying the rest of the weave.
  3. Rinse the shampoo out of the hair using warm water and a wide tooth comb. Make sure that you rinse the scalp thoroughly and removing all of the soap from the scalp.
  4. Apply your favorite conditioner the same way you applied the shampoo, but let the conditioner sit on the hair for a while. * I am crazy about keeping my weave soft and smooth, and one of the ways I do that is with a good conditioner. Your weave will thank you!*
  5. Rinse the conditioner out and let your hair air dry. DO NOT APPLY any oils to the hair weave, and do try to limit your use of a heated appliance.
  6. Hair should be washed weekly!


Caring for Your Real Hair

I am obsessive about keeping my hair under the weave healthy and strong. There is no point of wearing a protective style if your refuse to care for your hair. 

Moisturize – I am obsessive about keeping my hair moisturized underneath a sew-in weave. My go to choice of moisturizer is a braid spray. I will use a braid spray or moisturizer generously on the hair every other day. This takes care of my scalp as well, and it ensures that I won’t have dry/brittle hair when I remove the braids.

Oiling – My scalp can get very dry under a weave and it isn’t uncommon for me to experience a few flakes. Oiling my scalp nightly is something I try to do faithfully. Purchasing a bottle with a thin nozzle, or a spray bottle and filling it with your favorite oil will do the trick. Apply this this oil liberally to the natural hair only. You don’t want to get your sew-in weave greasy as this will ruin the quality of hair.

Washing – The natural hair and weave hair must be washed weekly no matter what. Healthy hair grows out of a clean and healthy scalp. Being in a weave is no excuse to not wash the hair. I am careful to use a sulfate-free shampoo during this time.

Deep Conditioning – After shampooing the hair and weave, I apply a deep conditioner on both the weave hair and my exposed hair and sit under a hooded dryer for at least 30 minutes. The natural hair and weave love this process, and it also helps to keep the hair moist.

Protect Your Hairline – I protect my hairline by massaging castor oil into it every single night and while styling, if I remember. Weaves and braids can wreak havoc on the hairline if you are not careful. Take the necessary precaution by massaging and applying castor oil as often as possible. Also, during installation, make sure the braids aren’t too taught.


    Have you used a sew-in weave as a protective style?  How do you care for your hair under the weave?

    This article was originally published in 2012 and has been updated for grammar and clarity.

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    Tupac’s “Dear Mama” Gets A Country Twist For Mother’s Day With A Tribute By @ItsRvshvd

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    RVSHVD, the South Georgia singer-songwriter, is set to release his rendition of Tupac Shakur‘s iconic Dear Mama just in time for Mother’s Day. This heartfelt homage to one of hip-hop’s most beloved tracks pays tribute not only to Tupac, but also to RVSHVD’s own mother and the countless hardworking parents who sacrifice for their children. This deeply personal connection infuses RVSHVD’s rendition with authenticity and emotion, promising a moving listening experience for fans old and new. RVSHVD’s musical journey from hip-hop to country reflects his evolution as an artist seeking to express his truth. In RVSHVD’s own words:

    Tupac was a major influence in my life growing up. His music and message has reached millions and will continue to do so. ‘Dear Mama’ has a special message that many who grew up with a parent that worked tirelessly for their child can connect to, myself include.

    Inspired by Keith Urban‘s Sweet Thing, he found a sense of belonging in country music, where he could speak honestly about his experiences and emotions. His unique blend of hip-hop and country garnered attention with his version of Roddy Ricch‘s Ballin, amassing millions of streams and establishing him as a rising star in the industry. Recognized as Country Rookie of the Month by Billboard and featured as an Artist To Watch 2024 by CMT, RVSHVD continues to captivate audiences with his genre-bending sound and genuine storytelling. With upcoming live dates including a West Coast run, CMA Fest, Nashville Block Party, and London Long Road Festival, RVSHVD’s star is on the rise, promising an exciting journey ahead for fans worldwide. Experience RVSHVD’s heartfelt tribute to Tupac and celebrate the enduring love of mothers everywhere with “Dear Mama” below. Follow RVSHVD on Apple Music, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, TikTok, X, and YouTube. Stream your own company here.

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    From Local to Global: Ace K’s Plans for World Domination

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    In the ever-evolving landscape of music, authenticity remains the cornerstone of a resonating brand. The dynamic conversation between Ace K and Shah Cypha on On The Grynd Live serves as a testament to the importance of genuine connection with one’s roots, audience, and creative process. While navigating through the intricacies of the music business, Ace K emphasizes the significance of staying true to oneself, prepping meticulously for studio sessions, and the emotional gravity of having one’s music impact listeners. Drawing from the conversational gems and experiences shared, this article extrapolates the broader implications of the themes discussed, underlining their relevance to aspiring artists and veterans alike in the music domain.

    The Evolution of An Artist: Adapting to Change While Staying True

    The trajectory of Ace K’s musical career illustrates a journey marked by continuous learning and adaptation. From mastering his first 808 to exploring diverse genres, Ace K exemplifies an artist’s ability to grow while maintaining their core identity. It’s about “manipulating \[experiences] to the point where \[they] can write about them.” The gradual shift from analog to digital platforms and the evolution of music styles throughout his career is a testament to his resilience and versatility as an artist.

    “It’s miles ahead and miles away from each other, but it still is the same basic anatomy, shall I say, where people

    Crafting a Timeless Sound

    In discussing the significance of cultivating a timeless sound, Ace K touches on the crucial element of cadence and the anatomy of music. It’s not about following the trends but about creating a “vibe” that transcends them:

    “Music is a feeling, my guys. So if you make something that make people feel good, make feel sad, what not, what not. I mean, you gonna be successful.”

    This perspective pushes artists to look beyond the surface-level metrics of success and delve into the emotional resonance of their work—a principle that ensures longevity in a fast-paced industry.

    The Emotional Impact of Music: Bridging Generations and Cultures

    Ace K’s narrative underscores music as an emotional catalyst capable of cutting across generational lines. When a fan shares that his grandfather connected with Ace K’s track “slacking,” it reveals the profound nature of music’s reach.

    “He said, ace k, I want to let you know that my granddad loves your song. And he plays that. He told. He said, but how do you put it? He got on my nerves with your song, but I love it because he’s understanding our culture.”

    Music, as portrayed by Ace K, is an intergenerational language, uniting listeners and creating common ground even where least expected. The universal appeal of Ace K’s music not only supports the brand’s growth but becomes a catalyst for broader acceptance and understanding within diverse audiences.

    Cultivating Cultural Synergy

    In a cultural landscape seeking connection, artists who speak to varying experiences enable the bridging of gaps. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, musicians have the power to create a cultural synergy that enriches both their personal brand and the communities they touch. Ace K’s experience is an embodiment of such a phenomenon.

    Harnessing a Personal Brand: Importance of Pre-Studio Preparation and Self-Value

    Ace K sheds light on the pragmatic aspects of building a successful music career: meticulous preparation prior to studio sessions and a firm grasp of one’s market worth. He advises fellow artists to “make sure all my lyrics is right” before even setting foot in the studio—a discipline that minimizes wasted time and resources. Additionally, understanding one’s value is a sentiment Ace K passionately shares, as he refuses to sign with “no bull stuff company” underscoring the power of a marketable brand.

    “Market each song like it. Your last song… Put your all into everything.”

    Armed with this dual emphasis on preparation and self-worth, Ace K’s approach to the music business stands as a blueprint for artists striving to carve their own niche in the industry.

    The Business of Music Personified

    The business of music extends beyond the creation of melodies and lyrics; it’s also about presentation, perception, and the strategic maneuvering of one’s brand in a saturated market. Ace K’s philosophy highlights the importance of being both the face and the foundation of one’s business, ensuring credibility and appeal to potential audiences.

    In the midst of a landscape where content is prolific, and attention spans are fleeting, Ace K champions the significance of leaving a mark, whether it be through emotive music or carefully curated branding. His experiences and insights contribute to an evolving doctrine for artists in any stage of their journey, advocating for integrity, preparation, and self-awareness. By adhering to these tenets, one not only fosters a promising career but creates a life’s work that resonates with authenticity and purpose

    Stream Ace K’s Latest record titled W.A.Y.N.E now which is available on all digital platforms

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    Lord Salaam’s Debut Album ‘Lessons Learned’: A Deep Dive into Charleston’s Rising Hip-Hop Star

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    Nestled within the vibrant streets of Charleston, South Carolina, emerges Lord Salaam, a formidable force in the realm of hip-hop. His debut album, “Lessons Learned,” serves as a compelling testament to his journey of self-discovery and resilience.

    At the heart of the album lies its eponymous track, “Lessons Learned,” a mesmerizing blend of storytelling and emotion that captivates listeners. Lord Salaam’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of his trials and triumphs, drawing from his personal experiences to craft a narrative that resonates with authenticity.

    Teaming up with acclaimed producer Meka Beats, Lord Salaam delivers a sonic journey that transcends the boundaries of traditional hip-hop. From introspective verses to infectious beats, each track on the album offers a glimpse into Lord Salaam’s evolution as an artist and as an individual.

    “Lessons Learned” is more than just an album; it’s a testament to Lord Salaam’s resilience and determination to carve his own path in the music industry. With each verse, he invites listeners to join him on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and ultimately, triumph.

    Experience the immersive soundscape of “Lessons Learned” and discover the rising star that is Lord Salaam. Dive into his debut album and unlock the depths of Charleston’s burgeoning hip-hop scene.

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