How to Apply a Closure
A closure is a versatile and essential tool in the world of hair extensions, offering a natural-looking solution to enhance or complete your hairstyle. Whether you’re aiming for a protective style or a flawless finish, learning how to properly apply a closure is crucial for achieving a polished and seamless look. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring that you can handle closures like a pro, whether you’re new to them or looking to refine your technique.
1. Understand the Purpose of a Closure
Before diving into the application process, it’s important to understand what a closure is and why it’s used. A closure is a small hairpiece, typically made of lace or silk, that mimics the natural scalp and provides a realistic finish to hairstyles involving weaves or extensions. It is a great solution for covering the top area of your head where extensions or tracks are sewn in. Closures offer benefits such as reduced tension on natural hair, protection from heat damage, and the ability to experiment with different styles without altering your own hair.
2. Select the Right Closure for Your Needs
Choosing the right closure is a key step. Closures can vary in material, size, and texture. The most common types are lace and silk closures:
| Material | Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lace Closure | Made of a thin lace mesh with hair strands individually tied onto it. | Lightweight, breathable, and offers a natural hairline. | Can be delicate and prone to tearing if not handled gently. |
| Silk Base Closure | Features a silk fabric underneath, providing a scalp-like appearance. | Thicker, more durable, and realistic-looking. | Can be less breathable and slightly bulkier. |
Additionally, consider the hair texture and brand. For a high-quality, natural result, prioritize closures from reputable brands like SISHAIR, which offer a wide selection of textures and lengths to match your extensions.
3. Prepare Your Natural Hair
Proper preparation of your natural hair ensures a secure and flawless application of the closure. Follow these steps to prep your hair:
- Clean and Condition: Wash your hair thoroughly to remove any dirt or product buildup, and condition it to keep it moisturized.
- Braid Your Hair: Create a flat base by braiding your hair into cornrows. The braids should be neat and flat to ensure a smooth application.
- Protect Your Hairline: Apply a small amount of edge control or gel to lay down your edges and keep them neat.
If you have short or thin hair, you can also wear a wig cap to create an even base for your closure.
4. Position and Secure the Closure
Proper positioning is key to achieving a natural appearance. Here’s how to secure the closure:
- Align the Closure: Place the closure on your head, aligning it with the front of your hairline or slightly behind it, depending on your preferred style.
- Pin It Down: Use T-pins to temporarily secure the closure in place. This ensures it doesn’t shift while you’re attaching it.
-
Sew It In or Use Adhesive: Choose between sewing or gluing the closure, depending on your preference:
- Sewing: Thread a curved needle with thread that matches the color of the closure. Begin stitching along the edges of the closure, attaching it securely to the base of the cornrows. Take small, neat stitches to avoid any gaps or lumps.
- Adhesive: Apply a thin layer of lace glue or tape to the edges of the closure and gently press it onto your scalp. Allow the adhesive to dry completely for a secure hold.
5. Blend the Closure with Extensions
Once the closure is secured, it’s time to blend it seamlessly with the rest of your hair or extensions. Follow these steps:
- Style the Closure: Use a flat iron or curling wand to style the closure to match the texture of your extensions. Be mindful of the heat setting to avoid damaging the lace or silk.
- Create a Part: Most closures come with a pre-defined part, but you can customize it to suit your preference. Use a rat-tail comb to part the hair, and apply concealer or foundation to the parting area to match your scalp tone.
- Blend the Edges: Trim any excess lace around the edges of the closure and use a small amount of edge control to blend it with your natural hairline.
6. Maintain and Care for the Closure
Proper maintenance ensures that your closure remains in good condition and lasts longer. Here are some tips:
- Cleaning: Wash the closure gently with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to prevent buildup and maintain its texture.
- Styling: Avoid excessive heat styling, and always use a heat protectant when applying heat.
- Storage: When not in use, store the closure in its original packaging or a clean, dry place to protect it from dust and tangling.
7. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful application, you may encounter some challenges. Here’s how to address them:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Closure doesn’t lay flat | Use a hot comb or flat iron to flatten the closure, and ensure the braids underneath are neat. |
| Visible lace | Apply foundation or concealer that matches your skin tone to the lace for better blending. |
| Shedding hair strands | Reinforce the knots with a knot-sealing spray to reduce shedding over time. |
Conclusion
Learning how to apply a closure is a valuable skill that can elevate your styling game and protect your natural hair. By selecting the right closure, preparing your natural hair, and following proper application techniques, you can achieve a flawless and natural-looking hairstyle. Remember to prioritize high-quality closures from trusted brands like SISHAIR for the best results. With practice, you’ll be able to confidently apply closures and create stunning, versatile looks tailored to your individual preferences.
