Sew In 18 20 22 - Your Guide To Lengths That Flatter And Flow

When it comes to choosing the right sew in, length really does matter. Whether you're going for volume, elegance, or just a fresh new look, 18, 20, and 22 inch extensions have become go-to choices for many. These lengths offer just the right balance between manageability and drama—long enough to make a statement without being too hard to maintain. They’re versatile, flattering on most face shapes, and can easily be styled for both casual and formal occasions. If you're new to sew ins, these lengths are a great starting point. You get enough hair to play with without the hassle of dealing with extra-long weaves that can be heavy or tricky to style. Plus, they tend to blend well with natural hair textures, making the overall look more seamless and natural. Whether you're going for straight, wavy, or curly, these lengths can be styled to suit your personal taste. But how do you choose between 18, 20, and 22 inches? And what types of textures work best at these lengths? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about sewing in 18, 20, and 22 inch hair extensions—from types and textures to where to buy them and how to maintain them. Keep reading to find the right fit for your style and lifestyle.

What Makes 18, 20, and 22 Inch Sew Ins So Popular?

Well, for starters, these lengths sit somewhere between mid-back and just below the shoulders—so they’re not too short, but not too long either. That makes them super versatile. You can wear them down, throw them up in a high ponytail, or even braid them without worrying about excess weight or tugging at your scalp.

They also tend to be easier to maintain compared to longer extensions. Because they're not dragging around your shoulders or back all day, they don’t get tangled as easily. Plus, they’re lighter on your scalp, which means less strain on your natural hair and a more comfortable experience overall.

Another reason these lengths are so widely loved? They look amazing on just about everyone. Whether you’re petite or tall, round-faced or oval, 18, 20, and 22 inch hair extensions can be styled to complement your features. And since they're not too long, they tend to hold their shape better and don’t flatten out as quickly.

Do These Lengths Work with All Hair Textures?

Yes, but with a little bit of a catch. While 18, 20, and 22 inch sew ins can work with a wide variety of textures—like straight, body wave, deep wave, and curly—the way they fall and move can vary depending on the texture.

For example, if you go with a deep wave or curly texture, these lengths tend to look a bit shorter once styled because the curls pull the hair upward. But that also means more volume and bounce. On the flip side, straight textures will give you the full length you see listed and tend to look sleeker and more polished.

Body wave textures are kind of a middle ground—they add just enough movement without losing the length. So if you're looking for something that’s neither too flat nor too wild, body wave at these lengths might be just what you're after.

How to Choose Between 18, 20, and 22 Inches

It really comes down to your personal style and face shape. 18 inches usually falls right at the collarbone or just below, making it a great option if you want something a little shorter but still want to make a statement. It’s ideal for those with smaller frames or rounder faces since it elongates the look a bit.

20 inches is probably the most popular of the three. It falls just below the shoulders, giving you enough length to play with without being overwhelming. It’s a versatile length that works well with most face shapes and hair types, especially if you’re going for a more natural, everyday look.

22 inches is the longest of the trio and gives you a bit more drama. It hits somewhere around the mid-back area, making it a perfect fit if you want to make a bold entrance. If you’re taller or have a longer face shape, this might be the length that flatters you the most.

Still Not Sure? Think About Your Lifestyle

Do you work out a lot? 18 inches might be the better option since it’s less likely to get in the way or get tangled during your workout. If you're more of a desk jockey or someone who likes to keep things neat and tidy, 20 or 22 inches could be a better fit.

Also, if you're someone who likes to switch up your style often, these lengths are great for experimenting. You can wear it straight one day, curly the next, and even try a half-updo without any issues.

Where to Buy Quality 18, 20, and 22 Inch Sew Ins

There are a ton of places where you can find these lengths online or in local beauty supply stores. But not all hair is created equal. If you're looking for something that lasts longer and looks more natural, it’s best to go with 100% unprocessed human hair.

Some popular options include brands like Unice, Lush by HotHeads, and MomoShero. These brands offer a variety of textures and colors, so you’re more likely to find something that matches your natural hair or complements your desired look.

Also, don’t forget to read the reviews before purchasing. Real customer feedback can give you a better idea of the quality and how the hair holds up after a few wears. Some sites like SewGuide and AllFreesewing also have helpful resources and tips on choosing the right extensions.

Are There Affordable Options That Still Look Good?

Of course, there are! You don’t always have to spend a fortune to get good quality hair. Some sites offer bundles and closures at a more affordable price point without compromising on the look or feel. For example, you can find 3 or 4 bundle sets with a closure for under $200, sometimes even less during sales.

Just keep in mind that cheaper doesn’t always mean better. If you go too low on price, you might end up with hair that tangles easily, doesn’t hold its style, or has a weird shine. So it’s worth investing a little more if you want something that lasts a while and looks natural.

How to Maintain Your 18, 20, or 22 Inch Sew In

Once you've got your sew in, maintenance is key to keeping it looking fresh and preventing damage to your natural hair. Start by using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. These formulas are gentler and won’t strip the hair of its natural oils.

Also, make sure to wash your hair regularly but not too often. Overwashing can dry out both your extensions and your scalp. A good rule of thumb is to wash every 1–2 weeks, depending on how much product you use or how much you sweat.

Conditioner is your best friend when it comes to keeping your extensions smooth and tangle-free. Apply it from mid-shaft down to the ends and use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle. Don’t skip this step—trust us, it makes a world of difference.

What About Styling and Heat Protection?

If you like to curl or straighten your sew in, always use a heat protectant. These products help prevent heat damage and keep your hair looking shiny and healthy. Also, try not to use too much heat too often—it can cause the hair to become brittle over time.

And if you’re sleeping in your sew in, make sure to tie it up or put it in a bun. This helps prevent tangling and keeps the style looking fresh longer. A satin pillowcase is also a good investment because it reduces friction and keeps your hair smoother.

Can You Color or Bleach Your 18, 20, or 22 Inch Sew In?

Technically, yes, but with a big caveat. If you're using 100% virgin human hair, you can dye or bleach it just like your natural hair. But if the hair has already been processed or colored, it might not take the new color well.

Also, keep in mind that bleaching can weaken the hair, so it’s best to go to a professional if you’re not experienced with coloring. And if you do it yourself, always do a strand test first to see how the hair reacts.

Some people prefer to buy pre-colored extensions instead of risking damage through bleaching. That way, you get the color you want without putting unnecessary stress on the hair. Just make sure the color matches your skin tone and personal style.

How Long Can You Keep a 18, 20, or 22 Inch Sew In In?

Typically, a sew in can last anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on how well you take care of it and how fast your natural hair grows. If you keep it clean and moisturized, and don’t pull or tug at it too much, you can get closer to the 8-week mark.

But if you notice a lot of matting, odor, or your scalp feels irritated, it’s time to take it out. Don’t try to push through discomfort—it’s not worth risking damage to your natural hair.

Also, when it’s time to remove the sew in, do it carefully. Use a seam ripper or small scissors to gently cut the threads, and avoid yanking or pulling. Once it’s out, give your scalp a break and let your natural hair breathe before jumping into another style.

What Should You Do After Taking It Out?

After removing your sew in, it’s a good idea to give your hair a deep conditioning treatment. This helps restore moisture and repair any minor damage from the extensions. Also, be sure to give your scalp a gentle massage to stimulate blood flow and encourage healthy growth.

Don’t jump into another sew in right away. Let your hair rest for a few days to a week. This gives your scalp time to recover and prevents issues like tension alopecia or breakage from constant manipulation.

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