Hair loss can be an embarrassing and distressing experience. Those wishing to conceal their balding scalp or add volume and fullness to their existing hair may consider hair loss treatments such as hair restoration or hair transplant surgery, hair loss medications or hair replacement systems. A hair system is attached to the existing hair or scalp to give the appearance of a fuller head of hair. Hair replacement systems may be the most desirable solution for those who fear the side effects of hair loss medications or the invasive nature of hair restoration and hair transplant surgery. Hair systems may also be the most feasible option for those who are not good candidates for certain hair loss treatments. Regardless of the reason for seeking hair replacement, numerous options are currently available.
Hair Replacement Systems
Everyone thinks they can pick the guy wearing a hair system. This is because in the past the materials used in making hair systems were heavy and the construction methods were rather crude. Hence the long list of popular slang terms including toupees, wigs, men's hairpiece and rug. But times have changed. These days due to a better understanding of how the hair grows, plus advanced hair construction materials and hair tape and glue adhesives, what used to be called toupees, men's hairpiece or wig is now referred to as hair systems.
Hair replacement systems are intended for those with partial baldness and are attached directly to the scalp. Hair systems come in a variety of colours, lengths, textures and styles, and can be stock or custom made. A custom made hair replacement system is shaped to seamlessly fit the balding area of the scalp and when applied are cut and styled to blend in with the existing hair. The quality of the materials and the method used to blend it into the existing hair has significantly improved over the years. Unlike many products of the past, modern well made hair systems are virtually undetectable.
Quality of Hair in a Hair System
Hair systems differ in hair density, waves and curls, hair colours, style and structural components providing individuals with a variety of choices to meet their specific needs. In terms of outward appearances the most important part of a hair system is the quality of hair, which can originate from human hair or a synthetic blend fiber. Human hair can be heat styled to give the wearer greater style versatility. Synthetic blend fibre is more durable than human hair, but cannot be heat styled. Some hair systems are composed of a combination of human hair and synthetic blend fiber, striking a balance between style and care requirements.
Hair System Base Materials
The base component of a hair replacement system is a piece of material to which hair is either manually or mechanically attached. The bases can be composed of different materials including polyurethane, monofilament or lace. Personal preference, lifestyle and the needs of the person wearing the hair system ultimately determine which base material they select. Monofilament and lace bases allow breathability. Polyurethane bases are thin and flexible, and can allow wearers to attach their hair system through suction rather than hair tape adhesives. Some bases are created using a combination of two or more materials to incorporate the various advantages.
Attaching a Hair System
Bases can be attached to the scalp using a variety of different methods. Extremely tacky surgical grade hair glue or hair tape adhesives allow hair systems to be worn without removal for several weeks. Vacuum-fit hair systems attach to the scalp by vacuum suction. This type of base is made from a custom mold, creating a seamless fit between the base and the scalp, which produces sufficient suction to hold the hair system in place.
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