How Long Can a Weft Stay In?

Introduction: The Most-Asked Question in the Chair

When clients get fresh extensions, one of the first questions they ask is:
“How long can I leave these in before I need to come back?”

It’s a fair question—extensions are an investment of both time and money, and clients want to maximize both.

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The length of time a weft can stay in depends on:

  • Type of weft installed

  • Your natural hair growth rate

  • Lifestyle (active vs. low-maintenance)

  • Aftercare and maintenance routine

This guide breaks down everything you need to know to manage expectations and create long-lasting results.

Chapter 1: Understanding Wefts

Before we talk longevity, let’s define what wefts are:

  • Machine Wefts – Thick, heavy, durable. Best for clients with dense hair.

  • Hand-Tied Wefts – Lightweight and flat but can’t be cut. Great for discreet installs.

  • Genius Wefts – Ultra-thin, cut-anywhere, and reusable. Perfect for fine to medium hair.

  • Flat/Seamless Wefts – Very thin seam, invisible finish, ideal for discreet blending.

Each type comes with its own wear time and maintenance needs.

Chapter 2: Average Wear Time

  • Machine Wefts → 6–8 weeks before move-up.

  • Hand-Tied Wefts → 6–8 weeks.

  • Genius Wefts → 6–10 weeks per install; reusable 9–12 months.

  • Flat/Seamless Wefts → 6–8 weeks, depending on growth.

The hair itself can last up to a year with proper care, but the install always needs refreshing.

Chapter 3: Factors That Impact Longevity

1. Hair Growth Rate

  • Fast growers = move-up every 6 weeks.

  • Slow growers = may stretch to 8–10 weeks.

2. Lifestyle

  • Gym, swimming, and sweating = more frequent maintenance.

  • Sedentary lifestyles = longer installs.

3. Aftercare

  • Brushing, washing correctly, drying seams = longer wear.

  • Neglect = tangles, matting, slippage.

4. Installation Method

  • Beaded rows may loosen sooner.

  • Sewn-in rows can sometimes hold longer.

Chapter 4: Why Move-Ups Matter

Move-ups aren’t just about aesthetics—they protect the natural hair.

If left too long:

  • Seams drop lower on the scalp.

  • Creates tension and discomfort.

  • Risk of matting or visible wefts.

  • Can cause breakage if ignored.

Stylists should always recommend a move-up schedule at install.

Chapter 5: Signs It’s Time for Maintenance

  • Extensions feel heavy or pull at roots.

  • Seams sit too far from scalp.

  • Tangling around beads or seams.

  • Wefts peek through in ponytails.

  • Clients report scalp itching or discomfort.

Chapter 6: Extending the Life of Wefts

Do’s

Brush gently, 2–3 times daily.
Wash 2–3 times a week with sulfate-free products.
Blow-dry seams after every wash.
Sleep with braids or silk pillowcases.

Don’ts

Apply conditioner to seams.
Sleep with wet hair.
Overload installs with too many wefts.
Wait longer than 8 weeks without checking in.

Chapter 7: Stylist Case Studies

Case 1: The Bride

  • Weft Type: Genius Wefts

  • Schedule: Move-ups every 8 weeks.

  • Result: Extensions stayed flawless for 11 months.

Case 2: The Athlete

  • Weft Type: Hand-Tied

  • Schedule: Needed move-ups every 5–6 weeks due to sweat + gym.

  • Result: Hair stayed healthy, but faster turnaround required.

Case 3: The Busy Mom

  • Weft Type: Flat Wefts

  • Schedule: Move-ups every 7 weeks.

  • Result: Comfortable, manageable, lasted 10 months total.

Chapter 8: FAQs

Q: Can I go 3 months without a move-up?
Not recommended—8–10 weeks max.

Q: Will I need to buy new hair each time?
No—quality wefts are reusable up to 12 months.

Q: Do longer wefts need faster move-ups?
Yes—more weight means more tension.

Q: Can I wash and style normally?
Yes—with extension-safe products and gentle handling.

Chapter 9: Brand Spotlights

Coovip Hair Extensions

  • Known for long-lasting Genius Wefts.

  • Balayage blends make re-installs seamless.

Bellami Professional

  • Offers 40+ colors.

  • Genius Wefts popular for longevity.

Glam Seamless

  • Lightweight wefts, perfect for discreet installs.

Chapter 10: Stylist Business Insights

  • Always book the next move-up before the client leaves.

  • Offer extension maintenance packages (move-up + wash + style).

  • Stock retail products to keep clients using safe formulas.

  • Educate clients with take-home care sheets.

Conclusion: The Golden Rule

So, how long can a weft stay in?

6–8 weeks on average, up to 10 weeks with slower growth and excellent care.

The extensions themselves may last a year, but installs must be refreshed regularly to protect both wefts and natural hair.

With the right care and a stylist-led maintenance schedule, wefts are not just a beauty investment—they’re a long-term confidence boost.