Butterfly Weft Extensions FAQ
So you've heard about butterfly weft extensions and you're intrigued (or maybe you've already taken the plunge and now have questions). Either way, you're in the right place!
We've rounded up the most common questions people ask about butterfly wefts - from styling and colouring to maintenance and troubleshooting. Let's get into it!
Medusa Butterfly Weft Extensions
All About the Hair Quality
Are Butterfly Weft Extensions Real Human Hair?
Yes! Quality butterfly weft extensions (like the ones from Medusa Hair Extensions) are made from 100% real human hair. This means they look, feel, and behave just like your natural hair. You can style them, wash them, and treat them the same way you would your own locks.
Avoid synthetic or "blend" versions if you want extensions that look natural and last. Real human hair extensions blend seamlessly with your natural texture and move naturally - no weird shine or plasticky feel.
What's the Difference Between Remy Hair and Regular Human Hair?
Great question! Not all human hair is created equal. Here's the lowdown:
Remy Hair means all the hair cuticles are intact and aligned in the same direction (from root to tip). This is the gold standard because:
- It stays softer and shinier for longer
- It tangles way less
- It lasts significantly longer (we're talking 9-12 months with proper care)
- It feels incredibly smooth and natural
Non-Remy Hair has cuticles that may be stripped off or pointing in different directions. This can lead to tangling, matting, and a shorter lifespan.
At Medusa, our butterfly wefts are made from premium Remy human hair, which is why they maintain that gorgeous, silky texture even after months of wear.
Styling Your Butterfly Wefts
Can I Use Heat Tools on Butterfly Weft Extensions?
Absolutely! One of the best things about quality human hair extensions is that you can curl, straighten, and blow-dry them just like your natural hair.
Pro tips for heat styling:
- Always use a heat protectant spray first (non-negotiable!)
- Keep your tools under 180°C (350°F) when possible
- Avoid clamping the heat tool directly on the beads or weft
- Let them air-dry when you can to extend their lifespan
Your butterfly wefts can handle regular styling, but remember - unlike your natural hair, they can't repair themselves, so the gentler you are, the longer they'll last.
Can I Colour or Dye Butterfly Weft Extensions?
Yes, but with some important caveats:
You CAN:
- Go darker with semi-permanent or permanent colour
- Add lowlights or root smudges
- Tone them with purple shampoo or toner
- Use non-ammonia colour (Redken, Shades, EQ)
You CANNOT (or shouldn't):
- Lighten or bleach them - this will damage the hair structure
- Lift them to a lighter shade than they already are
- Use harsh chemical treatments repeatedly
Our recommendation? Always have a professional colourist handle any colour work on your extensions. They know how to work with the hair without compromising its integrity. And if you want lighter hair, it's better to purchase a lighter shade from the start rather than trying to lift darker extensions.
How Many Grams Do I Need for a Full Head?
This depends on your hair density and the look you're going for:
For Fine to Medium Hair:
- 100g (2 x 50g wefts) = Full head with natural volume
- 150g (3 x 50g wefts) = Extra fullness and length
For Thick Hair:
- 150-200g = Full head with noticeable volume
Most people find that 100g gives them the perfect amount of volume and length without looking overdone. Because butterfly wefts are so efficient and full from weft to end, you actually need less hair than you would with hand-tied extensions.

Butterfly wefts, while being excellent for thin hair, are also a fantastic non-damaging, easy-to-remove option for thicker hair types too (no glue and mess). What Dolores didn't realise is that these can also be doubled up to give more hair along each attachment row or to blend two shades. Stay posted for the video we're creating that'll show you how to do this. - Suzy 💕
Installation Methods Explained
How Many Grams Do I Need for a Full Head?
Butterfly wefts can be installed two ways:
Beaded/Pull-Through Method (Most Popular):
- Your natural hair is pulled through the pre-made holes in the weft
- Secured with small silicone-lined microbeads
- No sewing required
- Faster installation (15-30 minutes)
- Easier to adjust and remove
- Perfect for most hair types
Sew-In Method:
- A small braid is created at the root
- The weft is sewn onto the braid
- More secure for very active lifestyles
- Takes longer to install
- Requires more skill from the stylist
Most stylists prefer the beaded method for butterfly wefts because it's quicker, more comfortable, and takes full advantage of the weft's innovative design.
Lifespan and Maintenance
What's the Total Lifespan of Butterfly Weft Extensions?
Here's the realistic timeline:
Per Installation: 6-8 weeks before you need a move-up appointment (this is when your natural hair has grown and the wefts need repositioning)
Total Lifespan: 9-12 months with proper care and regular maintenance
Number of Reuses: 4-6+ times
So if you're doing the maths - your initial investment in quality butterfly wefts can give you almost a full year of gorgeous hair. Not bad at all!
What Happens If I Don't Move Them Up on Time?
Let's be honest - life gets busy and sometimes you push that appointment back a week or two. Here's what can happen:
- The wefts sit lower on your head, making them more visible
- Increased tangling near the roots
- Matting if left too long (especially while sleeping)
- Potential damage to your natural hair from excess tension
- The beads can become loose and slip
If you're a week or two over, you're usually fine. But pushing it beyond that? You're risking both the health of your natural hair and the quality of your extensions. Book that appointment!
Detailed Washing Instructions
How Often to Wash:2-3 times per week maximum. Unlike your natural hair, extensions don't get oily from your scalp, so they don't need washing as frequently.
The Right Way to Wash:
- Before washing: Brush gently from ends to roots with a loop brush
- Shampoo: Use sulphate-free, paraben-free shampoo. Dilute it slightly with water
- Application: Focus on your natural hair and scalp. Gently squeeze (don't rub!) the weft area
- Avoid: Don't scrub the beads or pile hair on top of your head
- Conditioning: Apply conditioner from mid-lengths to ends only. Keep it away from the beads and roots
- Rinsing: Rinse with lukewarm water (hot water can loosen beads)
- Drying: Gently squeeze out excess water with a microfibre towel. Air dry when possible
Products to Avoid:
- Sulphates (strips the hair and loosens beads)
- Heavy oils near the roots/beads (causes slipping)
- Clarifying shampoos (too harsh)
- 2-in-1 products (leave residue)
Will Butterfly Wefts Damage My Natural Hair?
When installed and maintained correctly by a professional, butterfly weft extensions are one of the gentlest methods available. Here's why:
The Good News:
- No glue, tape, or heat damage to your natural hair
- Weight is distributed evenly across the weft
- Less tension than traditional sew-ins
- The flat design prevents pressure points
- They move naturally with your hair, reducing stress on follicles
Potential Issues (and How to Avoid Them):
- Breakage from improper installation: Always see a certified, experienced stylist
- Tension damage: Don't pull your hair into super tight ponytails
- Neglect damage: Keep up with regular move-ups and gentle care
- Brushing damage: Use the right brush and technique
The key? Professional installation, proper care, and regular maintenance appointments. Treat your natural hair well, and the extensions will enhance rather than harm it.
Swimming, Exercise & Active Lifestyles
Detailed Washing Instructions
When installed and maintained correctly by a professional, butterfly weft extensions are one of the gentlest methods available. Here's why:
The Good News:
- No glue, tape, or heat damage to your natural hair
- Weight is distributed evenly across the weft
- Less tension than traditional sew-ins
- The flat design prevents pressure points
- They move naturally with your hair, reducing stress on follicles
Potential Issues (and How to Avoid Them):
- Breakage from improper installation: Always see a certified, experienced stylist
- Tension damage: Don't pull your hair into super tight ponytails
- Neglect damage: Keep up with regular move-ups and gentle care
- Brushing damage: Use the right brush and technique
The key? Professional installation, proper care, and regular maintenance appointments. Treat your natural hair well, and the extensions will enhance rather than harm it.
Butterfly Wefts vs. Other Extensions: The Full Comparison
Still wondering how butterfly wefts stack up? Here's the honest breakdown:
Detailed Washing Instructions
Butterfly Wefts Win:
- Faster installation (30 mins vs. 2+ hours)
- Can be cut without shedding
- More affordable
- Easier to customize
Hand-Tied Wefts Win:
- Slightly thinner at the base
- Some prefer the traditional sewing method
Butterfly Wefts vs. Tape-In Extensions
Butterfly Wefts Win:
- No sticky residue
- Last longer between move-ups (6-8 weeks vs. 4-6 weeks)
- Can wash hair more freely
- More comfortable for many people
Tape-Ins Win:
- Even flatter (though butterfly wefts are close!)
- Slightly quicker initial application
Butterfly Wefts vs. Genius Wefts
These are very similar!
Both are:
- Ultra-thin and flexible
- Comfortable
- Durable
Will Butterfly Wefts Damage My Natural Hair?
My Extensions Are Tangling - Help!
Possible causes and solutions:
- Sleeping without protection: Braid loosely or use a silk pillowcase
- Not brushing enough: Brush 2-3 times daily with a loop brush
- Product buildup: Use clarifying shampoo once a month (avoiding the beads)
- Dry hair: Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil on the mid-lengths and ends
- Overdue for maintenance: Book that move-up appointment!
The Beads Are Visible or Uncomfortable
- Your hair may have grown too much - time for a move-up
- Beads might be too close to the scalp - see your stylist for adjustment
- Wrong bead size was used - needs professional correction
- You need more natural hair blending over the top section
The Wefts Feel Loose or Are Slipping
- Beads need tightening (never DIY this - see your stylist!)
- Oil-based products may have loosened the beads
- Hair has grown and shifted the placement
- Time for a professional adjustment
Choosing Quality Butterfly Weft Extensions
Not all butterfly wefts are created equal! Here's what to look for:
Our Final Take on Butterfly Wefts
Butterfly weft extensions are seriously game-changing - they're comfortable, natural-looking, versatile, and relatively low-maintenance once you know how to care for them. Whether you're dealing with fine hair, want to add length, or just fancy a hair transformation without the commitment of permanent change, they're worth considering.
The key to success? Choose quality hair (hello, Medusa Hair Extensions!), find an experienced stylist, and commit to proper care and regular maintenance. Do that, and you'll have stunning hair that looks and feels completely natural for months to come.
Got more questions? Chat with our team - we're always happy to help you find your perfect hair match!
Ready to try butterfly weft extensions? Shop our range of premium Remy butterfly wefts at Medusa Hair Extensions and discover why everyone's making the switch.
 
         
       
           
        