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Types of Hair Weaving for Men: Complete Guide

Hair weaving has come a long way from the days when it was strictly a women’s game. Today, more men than ever are exploring weave options to add volume, length, or coverage where thinning has taken its toll. Whether you’re dealing with a receding hairline, patchy spots, or you just want a completely different look without waiting months for growth, hair weaving offers real solutions. The key is knowing which method fits your hair type, lifestyle, and budget. This guide breaks down every major type of hair weaving available for men so you can walk into your next consultation with confidence.

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What Is Hair Weaving for Men?

Hair weaving is a non-surgical technique that attaches supplemental hair (human or synthetic) to your existing hair or scalp. Unlike wigs that sit on top of your head, weaves integrate with your natural hair for a more seamless, secure result. For men dealing with thinning hair or bald spots, weaving can restore a full, natural-looking head of hair without surgery or medications.

The process varies depending on the method. Some techniques use adhesives, others rely on thread and needle, and some use small rings or heat-activated bonds. Each approach has trade-offs when it comes to durability, maintenance, cost, and how natural the result looks. Understanding these differences is essential before you commit to any one method.

If you’re also exploring hairstyle options to work with your natural texture, check out our guide to haircut styles for Black men for more inspiration.

Sew-In Weave

How It Works

The sew-in weave is one of the most traditional and widely used methods. Your natural hair is braided into tight cornrows that serve as a foundation. Hair wefts (strips of hair) are then sewn directly onto those braids using a curved needle and weaving thread. The result is a secure attachment that moves naturally with your head.

Best For

Men with enough natural hair to create a solid braid foundation. This method works well for adding volume, length, or covering thinning areas in the crown and mid-scalp. It’s especially popular among Black men because cornrows work naturally with textured hair types.

Pros

• No chemicals or adhesives touch your scalp
• Secure hold that lasts 6 to 8 weeks
• Allows your natural hair to breathe underneath
• Can be styled, washed, and maintained relatively easily

Cons

• Requires enough natural hair for cornrow braids
• Can feel tight during the first few days
• Needs professional removal and reinstallation every 6 to 8 weeks
• May cause tension on hair follicles if braids are too tight

Cost

Expect to pay between $100 and $300 for installation, plus $50 to $200 for quality human hair wefts. Maintenance appointments run $60 to $150 every 6 to 8 weeks.

Bonding (Glue-In Weave)

How It Works

Bonding uses a special hair adhesive to attach wefts directly to your natural hair or scalp. The stylist applies a thin line of bonding glue along the weft track, then presses it against your hair close to the root. Products like Salon Pro Bonding Glue are industry standards for this method.

Best For

Men who want a quick, affordable solution for short-term wear. Bonding is popular for special events, photoshoots, or when you want to test a new look before committing to a longer-term method.

Pros

• Fast application (30 to 60 minutes)
• Lower upfront cost than most methods
• Works even with shorter natural hair
• Provides a flat, natural-looking attachment point

Cons

• Adhesive can damage natural hair over time
• Shorter lifespan (1 to 3 weeks typically)
• Glue residue can be difficult to remove completely
• Not ideal for active lifestyles with heavy sweating

Cost

One of the most budget-friendly options at $50 to $150 for installation. Hair wefts are an additional $30 to $150 depending on quality.

Fusion (Keratin Bond) Weaving

How It Works

Fusion weaving uses individual hair extensions that are attached to small sections of your natural hair using keratin-based adhesive. A heat tool melts the keratin tip, which then bonds to your hair as it cools. Each strand is attached individually, making this one of the most natural-looking methods available.

Best For

Men who want the most discreet, natural-looking result and are willing to invest the time and money. Fusion works well for adding overall volume or strategically filling in thinning areas.

Pros

• Extremely natural appearance, each strand moves independently
• Long-lasting (3 to 6 months with proper care)
• Versatile styling options including updos and partings
• Virtually undetectable when done well

Cons

• Time-intensive installation (2 to 4 hours or more)
• Most expensive weaving method
• Heat application can weaken natural hair over time
• Requires professional removal to avoid damage
• Not recommended for very fine or severely thinning hair

Cost

Fusion is the premium option, running $300 to $800+ for installation depending on the number of strands. Quality Remy human hair adds another $200 to $500.

Micro-Link (Micro-Bead) Weaving

How It Works

Micro-link weaving uses tiny silicone-lined metal rings (beads) to clamp individual hair extensions to small sections of your natural hair. No heat, no glue, no chemicals. The stylist threads your natural hair and the extension through the bead, then uses pliers to clamp it shut. The silicone lining protects your hair from metal friction.

Best For

Men who want a chemical-free, heat-free option that still delivers natural-looking results. This method is excellent for anyone with sensitivities to adhesives or who prefers a gentler approach.

Pros

• No heat, glue, or chemicals involved
• Gentle on natural hair when installed correctly
• Easy to adjust and reposition during maintenance
• Lasts 2 to 3 months between adjustments
• Individual strand placement for natural movement

Cons

• Beads can be visible if hair is very short or fine
• Requires regular tightening as natural hair grows
• Can slip if not clamped properly
• Installation takes 2 to 3 hours

Cost

Mid-range pricing at $200 to $500 for installation, with maintenance visits costing $75 to $150 every 4 to 6 weeks.

Crochet Braids

How It Works

Crochet braids use a latch hook tool to loop hair extensions through cornrow braids. Your natural hair is braided into a flat cornrow pattern, then the crochet needle pulls pre-looped extension hair through the braids and knots it in place. This method has roots in the Black hair community and delivers excellent results for textured hair.

Best For

Men with natural, textured hair (type 3B to 4C) who want a protective style that also adds fullness. Crochet braids are particularly popular for creating defined curly or loc-style looks. If you’re maintaining a 4C hair care routine, crochet braids can serve as a great protective option between styles.

Pros

• Fast installation (1 to 2 hours)
• Lightweight and comfortable to wear
• Protects natural hair underneath
• Wide variety of textures and styles available
• Affordable compared to most methods

Cons

• Requires enough hair for a cornrow foundation
• May not look as seamless as fusion or micro-link
• Extension hair can tangle with wear
• Typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks before needing a redo

Cost

Very affordable at $50 to $150 for installation. Extension hair packs run $5 to $20 each, and most installations need 3 to 5 packs.

Tape-In Extensions

How It Works

Tape-in extensions use thin wefts with medical-grade adhesive strips on one side. Two wefts are sandwiched around a thin section of your natural hair, the adhesive strips pressing together with your hair in between. The result is a flat, lightweight bond that sits close to the scalp.

Best For

Men with straight to wavy hair who want added volume or length with minimal bulk. Tape-ins work well for covering thinning areas along the hairline or top of the head.

Pros

• Quick installation (45 minutes to 1.5 hours)
• Very flat and comfortable to wear
• Reusable wefts (can be reinstalled 2 to 3 times)
• Looks natural with proper color matching

Cons

• Adhesive can weaken with oil-based products
• Not ideal for very curly or coily hair textures
• Needs reinstallation every 4 to 8 weeks
• Can slip or shift during heavy physical activity

Cost

Moderate cost at $150 to $400 for installation. Quality tape-in wefts run $100 to $300 and can be reused.

Hair Integration Systems (Hair Units)

How It Works

Hair integration systems, sometimes called hair units or toupees (though that word carries an outdated stigma), are custom-made hair pieces attached to the scalp using a combination of adhesive, tape, or clips. Modern units use a thin lace or poly base that mimics the appearance of a natural scalp. Your existing hair can be blended through the base for a seamless look.

Best For

Men with significant hair loss, including those with large bald areas where other weaving methods won’t work due to insufficient natural hair. These systems are popular among men who want a full head of hair without surgery.

Pros

• Works regardless of how much natural hair you have
• Custom-fit for your head shape and hairline
• Extremely natural-looking when done by a skilled specialist
• Can be worn 24/7, including during sleep and showering
• Offers the most dramatic transformation

Cons

• Requires regular maintenance every 2 to 4 weeks
• Higher long-term cost commitment
• Adhesive may irritate sensitive scalps
• Learning curve for self-maintenance

Cost

Quality custom units range from $200 to $800+. Professional installation runs $75 to $200. Monthly maintenance costs $50 to $150. Budget for $1,500 to $3,000+ annually for a well-maintained system.

How to Choose the Right Hair Weaving Method

Picking the right weaving method depends on several personal factors. Here’s a quick framework to help you decide:

Consider Your Hair Loss Level

• Minimal thinning: Sew-in, micro-link, or tape-in extensions can add volume where needed
• Moderate thinning: Fusion or bonding provides targeted coverage
• Significant loss or bald patches: Hair integration systems are your best bet

Consider Your Hair Texture

• Type 1-2 (Straight to Wavy): Tape-ins and fusion work well
• Type 3 (Curly): Micro-link and sew-in weaves blend seamlessly
• Type 4 (Coily/Kinky): Sew-in weaves and crochet braids are ideal

Consider Your Budget

• Budget-friendly: Crochet braids or bonding ($50 to $150)
• Mid-range: Sew-in or tape-in ($150 to $400)
• Premium: Fusion or hair systems ($300 to $800+)

Consider Your Lifestyle

• Active/Athletic: Sew-in or micro-link (no adhesive to weaken with sweat)
• Low maintenance preferred: Hair integration system (wear 24/7)
• Frequent style changes: Bonding or crochet (easy to switch up)

For men who are still exploring their style options, our 360 waves guide is a great resource for working with your natural texture.

Maintenance Tips for Hair Weaves

No matter which weaving method you choose, proper maintenance determines how long your weave lasts and how good it looks over time.

• Wash regularly but gently: Use sulfate-free shampoo and avoid scrubbing the attachment points aggressively. A product like SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie helps keep both your weave and natural hair moisturized.
• Keep your scalp clean: Use a scalp applicator bottle to get cleanser directly to your scalp without disturbing the weave.
• Sleep with protection: A silk or satin pillowcase reduces friction that can loosen bonds and cause tangling.
• Avoid excessive heat: If you must use heat styling tools, keep temperatures moderate and use a heat protectant.
• Keep maintenance appointments: Don’t skip your scheduled touch-ups. Overgrown weaves put stress on your natural hair and can cause breakage.
• Use the right styling products: For hold and edge control, got2b Glued Gel works well without interfering with most attachment methods.

Comparison Chart: All Hair Weaving Methods at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hair weaving safe for men?

Yes, when done by a trained professional and maintained properly. The most common risk is traction alopecia, which happens when the weave is installed too tightly or left in too long. Choose an experienced stylist, follow maintenance schedules, and give your natural hair breaks between installations to keep it healthy.

How long does a men’s hair weave last?

It depends on the method. Bonding lasts 1 to 3 weeks, sew-ins and crochet braids last 4 to 8 weeks, micro-link and tape-ins last 2 to 3 months, and fusion can last up to 6 months. Hair integration systems are ongoing with regular maintenance every 2 to 4 weeks.

Can you exercise and swim with a hair weave?

Most methods can handle regular exercise. Sew-in and micro-link weaves hold up best during physical activity since they don’t rely on adhesive. Swimming in chlorinated pools can affect bonding and tape-in adhesives, so wear a swim cap or rinse immediately after. Hair integration systems can handle swimming with proper adhesive.

Will people be able to tell I have a weave?

With professional installation and quality hair, modern weaving methods are very difficult to detect. Fusion and micro-link are the most discreet since each strand is attached individually. The key factors are proper color matching, natural hairline construction, and using human hair that matches your texture. Check out our shadow fade haircut guide for styles that blend seamlessly with weave edges.

How much does hair weaving cost annually?

Annual costs vary widely by method. Budget options like crochet braids or bonding can run $500 to $1,000 per year including reinstallations. Mid-range methods like sew-ins cost $1,000 to $2,000 annually. Premium options like fusion or hair systems can run $2,000 to $4,000+ per year when you factor in quality hair, installation, and maintenance.

Final Thoughts

Hair weaving is no longer something men need to be secretive about. It’s a legitimate grooming option that millions of men use worldwide, from everyday professionals to celebrities. The technology and techniques have advanced to the point where a quality weave is virtually undetectable.

The most important decision is choosing the right method for your specific situation. Consider your hair loss level, texture, budget, and how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Then find a skilled stylist who specializes in men’s hair systems, because even the best method will fall flat without proper installation.

If you’re exploring other ways to level up your look, our best clippers for Black men guide covers the tools every man should have at home, and our curly hair routine for men breaks down how to maintain your natural texture between weave installations.

Your hair is part of your identity. Whether you’re restoring what time has taken or reinventing your look entirely, hair weaving gives you options. Take your time, do your research, and invest in quality. You’ll thank yourself every time you look in the mirror.