In some ways channelers aren't affected by their weaves.
- Rand doesn't burn his hand with his fiery sword
- Channelers can't lift themselves with Air.
- Channelers can't Heal themselves.
- Rand doesn't get tossed about when he creates an earthquake beneath himself.

We don't really know how it all works. There are some people who think you can't even balefire yourself - it just won't work. I'm undecided.