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Tatayana Yomary with a LBL Virgin Afro Kinky Curly Extension install

Source: Tatayana Yomary / Tatayana Yomary

When factoring in my 35th birthday, the relentless heat, and summer vacation plans, finding the perfect style was key. As a natural maven who lives for a protective style, I usually opt for braids or faux locs. However, I wanted to switch things up this time around. So, I opted for the flip-over sew-in method with LBL’s Afro Kinky Curly extensions.

It’s common for most people to be hesitant about a flip-over sew-in install. After all, a flip-over sew-in requires leaving out 1 to 2 inches of the front hairline or the entire perimeter of your mane. That said, your natural hair must match the texture of your extensions for a seamless look. And for some, that means utilizing heat-styling tools, which can take a toll on your leave-out — trust me, I know from experience. However, once I came across LBL’s Afro Kinky Curly extensions by Laay on TikTok, I was determined to try the style again.

The beauty of Laay’s extensions is that they remove heat from the equation. For hair mavens with type 4 hair, primarily 4B and 4C, these extensions match your natural texture. As a result, there’s no need to reach for a flat iron. All you need are the right styling products to bring your curls to life.

Tatayana Yomary with a LBL Virgin Afro Kinky Curly Extension install

Source: Tatayana Yomary / Tatayana Yomary

After ordering three 24-inch bundles for $445, I immediately contacted my stylist, my aunt Patricia, to create the heatless curly look. She immediately praised the quality of the hair. We decided to use nearly all three bundles for a full look. 

When using The Doux’s Mousse Def Texture Foam ($15.99, Target.com), The Mane Choice’s Alpha Curl Defining Cream ($14.99, Cvs.com) and the Tangle Teezer Brush ($15.99, Target.com), I noticed that the curls were defined and moisturized. The extensions felt very soft and looked bouncy. 

After a week with the install, I headed to the Bahamas for a baecation. Since it’s easy for curly hair to get matted after swimming, I wet my hair before entering the pool to avoid chlorine absorption, which can exacerbate knots and tangles. I also applied African Pride’s Moisture Miracle Hydrate & Strengthen Leave-In Cream ($5.49, Walgreens.com) to help keep knots at bay.

Tatayana Yomary with a LBL Virgin Afro Kinky Curly Extension install

Source: Tatayana Yomary / Tatayana Yomary

In addition, I also made sure to pineapple my curls at night and cover my head with a silk scarf and bonnet to prevent frizz and tangling. I moisturized my coils in the mornings with a spritz of water and the Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Leave-In Conditioner ($15.99, Target.com).

Since shedding is a top concern with curly extensions, I was a bit nervous. However, the only time I experienced shedding was during the detangling and styling process. Thankfully, the shedding was minimal. 

If I had to rate LBL’s Afro Kinky Curly extensions, I would give it a solid 10. Unlike other offerings, the quality is unmatched, and shedding was not a huge factor. I also appreciate the seamless texture match and how easy it was to bring the curls to life.

If you’re partial to flip-over sew-ins and want to try other hair textures, explore LBL Extensions’ offerings here.

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TRIED IT: LBL’s Afro Kinky Curly Extensions Reignited My Love For Flip Over Sew-Ins  was originally published on hellobeautiful.com