When it comes to hair extensions, one question that often pops up is whether a specific type of hair can hold up to the demands of popular installation methods like sew-ins or glue-ins. It’s a valid concern—after all, no one wants to invest time and money into a gorgeous set of extensions only to find out they don’t work well with their preferred technique. So, are Vietnamese hair extensions suitable for sew-in or glue-in methods?
The short answer is yes, they absolutely are. But let’s not stop there. In this in-depth review, I’ll break down everything you need to know about Vietnamese hair extensions, how they perform with these two methods, and why they might just be your next go-to choice. Having tried various hair types myself and spoken with stylists who swear by Vietnamese hair, I’m excited to share my insights and experiences with you.
What Are Vietnamese Hair Extensions?
Vietnamese hair extensions are made from 100% human hair sourced directly from donors in Vietnam, typically women from rural or mountainous regions. This hair is renowned for its natural strength, thickness, and silky texture. Unlike processed hair that’s been chemically treated or mixed with synthetic fibers, Vietnamese hair is often sold as "raw" or "virgin," meaning it’s unprocessed and retains its natural cuticles, all aligned in the same direction. This gives it a smooth, tangle-free quality that’s highly sought after in the hair extension world. Available in textures like straight, wavy, and curly, and in lengths ranging from 8 to 32 inches or more, Vietnamese hair offers versatility that appeals to a wide range of users. It’s also naturally dark—usually black or dark brown—but can be dyed to lighter shades like blonde or red with excellent results.
So why does this matter? The quality and characteristics of the hair play a huge role in how well it performs with sew-in or glue-in methods. With that foundation laid, let’s explore how Vietnamese hair stacks up for each technique.
See more: Why Raw Vietnamese Hair Is a Popular Choice for Extensions?
Vietnamese Hair Extensions and Sew-In Methods
Sew-in hair extensions involve braiding your natural hair into cornrows or tracks, then using a needle and thread to attach wefts (strips of hair) to those braids. It’s a classic method, especially popular for its durability and protective qualities, and I’ve always appreciated how secure it feels once installed. But does Vietnamese hair work well for this?
From my experience and the feedback I’ve gathered from friends and stylists, Vietnamese hair is a fantastic match for sew-ins. Here’s why. First, its natural thickness and density make it ideal for creating full, voluminous looks. When you sew in Vietnamese hair, you don’t need as many bundles to achieve that lush, flowing style—sometimes just two or three bundles do the trick for a full head, depending on the length and your hair’s natural volume. I remember getting a sew-in with 20-inch straight Vietnamese hair last year, and the stylist couldn’t stop raving about how easy it was to work with. The wefts were sturdy, double-stitched, and didn’t shed as she sewed them in, which is a common issue with lower-quality hair.
Another big plus is the hair’s strength. Sew-ins can put tension on the wefts, especially if you’re someone like me who loves a tight, sleek install. Vietnamese hair holds up beautifully under this pressure. Its cuticles are intact, so it resists fraying or breaking at the stitch points. I’ve worn sew-ins with Vietnamese hair for up to eight weeks, and even after washing and styling, the wefts stayed intact with minimal shedding. Compare that to some synthetic or overly processed hair I’ve tried in the past, where the wefts started unraveling after just a couple of weeks—it’s night and day.
The texture options also make Vietnamese hair a winner for sew-ins. Whether you prefer straight, body wave, or deep curly, it blends seamlessly with many natural hair types. I’ve seen it work wonders for friends with coarse, thick hair as well as those with finer textures who opt for a braid-less sew-in (like the LA Weave method, which uses micro rings instead of cornrows). One thing to note, though: if your natural hair is very fine or thin, the weight of Vietnamese hair might feel a bit heavy. In that case, a skilled stylist can adjust the installation to use fewer wefts or a lighter density.
Maintenance is another area where Vietnamese hair shines. Sew-ins require regular care to keep both the extensions and your natural hair healthy, and this hair type responds well to washing, conditioning, and heat styling. I usually wash my sew-ins every two weeks with a sulfate-free shampoo, and the Vietnamese hair I’ve used has never lost its softness or sheen. Plus, because it’s virgin hair, it takes to coloring like a dream if you want to switch up your look mid-install.
See more: How long does Vietnamese hair last in extensions or wigs?
Vietnamese Hair Extensions and Glue-In Methods
Now, let’s switch gears to glue-in methods, also known as quick weaves or bonding. This technique uses a strong adhesive—like bonding glue or hair balm—to attach wefts directly to your natural hair or a protective cap over your braids. It’s faster than a sew-in, often taking less than an hour, and it’s a go-to for anyone wanting a temporary style change. I’ve done a few glue-ins over the years, usually when I’m short on time but still want a polished look. So, how does Vietnamese hair hold up here?
In a word: excellently. The same qualities that make Vietnamese hair great for sew-ins—its strength, thickness, and smooth texture—translate perfectly to glue-ins. One of the first things I noticed when using Vietnamese hair for a glue-in was how well the wefts adhered to the glue. The hair’s natural density means the wefts are robust, so they don’t thin out or shed excessively when you apply the adhesive. I’ve had glue-ins with cheaper hair where the wefts started falling apart at the edges after a week, but with Vietnamese hair, the integrity stays solid.
The smooth, cuticle-aligned nature of Vietnamese hair also makes it less prone to tangling, which is a huge deal with glue-ins. Since the hair is often glued close to the scalp or a cap, any tangling can pull on the adhesive and loosen the install. With Vietnamese hair, I’ve found it stays sleek and manageable, even after sleeping on it or styling it with heat tools. I did a 24-inch wavy glue-in once for a weekend event, and it looked just as good on day three as it did when I left the salon.
One thing I love about glue-ins with Vietnamese hair is how natural it looks. The hair’s silky finish blends effortlessly with my own, especially when I leave out a small section of my natural hair to cover the tracks. And because it’s virgin hair, it holds up to styling—curling irons, flat irons, you name it—without frizzing or losing its luster. I’ve even dyed a set of Vietnamese glue-ins from jet black to a honey blonde, and the color took evenly without damaging the hair.
That said, glue-ins come with a caveat: the removal process. You’ll need an oil-based solvent to break down the adhesive, and if not done carefully, it can damage your natural hair. Vietnamese hair itself isn’t the issue here—it’s durable enough to handle the glue and removal without falling apart—but you’ll want to be gentle with your scalp. I’ve found that using a generous amount of coconut oil and letting it sit for 10 minutes before peeling off the wefts works like a charm, leaving both my hair and the extensions in good shape.
See more: What grade is Vietnamese hair?
Comparing Sew-In vs. Glue-In with Vietnamese Hair
So, which method is better with Vietnamese hair extensions? It really depends on your needs, and I’ve found both have their strengths. Sew-ins are my pick for longevity and security. They last 6-8 weeks (sometimes longer with proper care), and Vietnamese hair’s durability makes it a perfect fit for this semi-permanent style. It’s also less damaging to your natural hair since there’s no adhesive involved—just braids and thread. I’d recommend sew-ins if you’re looking for a protective style to grow out your hair or a look that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Glue-ins, on the other hand, are all about speed and flexibility. They’re in and out in under an hour, and with Vietnamese hair, you get a flawless, natural finish that lasts 4-6 weeks. I love them for short-term styles—like a bold cut or color I don’t want to commit to long-term. The trade-off is the potential for damage if the glue isn’t applied or removed correctly, but with Vietnamese hair’s strength, the extensions themselves hold up beautifully either way.
See more: What is the process for selecting hair donors in Vietnam?
Pros and Cons of Vietnamese Hair for Each Method
Let’s break it down further with some pros and cons based on my experience:
Sew-In Pros:
- Vietnamese hair’s thickness creates a full, luxurious look with fewer bundles.
- Strong wefts withstand sewing tension without shedding or fraying.
- Long-lasting (6-8 weeks or more) and low-maintenance once installed.
- Great for protective styling and versatile textures.
Sew-In Cons:
- Can feel heavy for very fine or thin natural hair.
- Installation takes longer (2-4 hours), requiring a skilled stylist.
Glue-In Pros:
- Quick install (under an hour) with a natural, seamless finish.
- Smooth texture prevents tangling around glue points.
- Ideal for temporary styles and easy to style or dye.
Glue-In Cons:
- Removal requires care to avoid damaging natural hair.
- Shorter lifespan (4-6 weeks) compared to sew-ins.
See more: What are the signs of high-quality Vietnamese hair?
Why Vietnamese Hair Extensions Are a Top Choice
After trying Vietnamese hair extensions for both sew-ins and glue-ins, I can confidently say they’re among the best options out there. Their natural strength, thickness, and silky quality make them adaptable to either method, delivering stunning results every time. Whether you’re after a long-term protective style with a sew-in or a quick, glamorous switch-up with a glue-in, Vietnamese hair has you covered. I’ve loved how it feels—soft yet sturdy—and how it elevates my look without the hassle of constant upkeep.
If you’re on the fence, I’d say go for it. Just make sure to source high-quality, authentic Vietnamese hair from a reputable supplier (there are plenty of fakes out there!), and work with a stylist who knows their stuff. For sew-ins, I’d lean toward Vietnamese hair if you want volume and durability; for glue-ins, it’s perfect if you crave convenience and a flawless blend. Either way, you’re in for a treat—trust me, your hair will thank you!
