Balding takes a toll of your looks, self-esteem and overall personality. You have two options– surgery and hair systems – to reclaim your hair and life. The hair systems steal a march over the surgical transplants to be the preferred choice to conceal thinning hair, receding hairlines and balding patterns. If that has piqued your interest, here’s an in-depth take on hair systems.
What is a hair system?
Hair system refers to a hairpiece to cover the balding area or make the crown look voluminous. The unit, hairpiece, wig or toupee for men, all refer to the hair system. It is widely worn for theatrical purposes as well, helping actors look the part. Let’s beef up your knowledge on the benefits.
- Safety:
Surgical transplants expose you to bleeding, bruises, numbness, swelling, pain, scab formation, allergic reactions, nerve damage, and infections. Conversely, hairpieces involve no surgery. They feature a thin base, which is safe on the scalps and even highly sensitive skin.
- Affordability:
Hair systems cost a fraction of a transplant. Maintenance, repair and replacement are within your budget. Available in multiple price points, there’s a unit for every budget.
- Unidentifiable:
The hairpieces, particularly human hair, go undetectable to the sight and touch. The base material quality is superior enough to give the illusion of natural hair growing from the scalp.
- Reliable:
A toupee for men is held in place with the help of adhesives. So, let go off the misconception that the hairpiece will fall when you travel, party, work out or pursue any other activity.
- Universal:
Unlike transplants, the hair replacement systems are for all. Regardless of what caused the hair loss, or your age, gender, hair colour, hair density or health status, there’s a hair system for you.
- Style:
You’ll find the toupee easy to style to your exact specifications. Straight, curled or any other style, it’s all achievable. The natural hair units can even be curled, coloured, and bleached.
Classification based on hair types:
Based on hair types, hair systems come in two variants – natural and synthetic.
- Natural hair: These wigs use bio hair harnessed from humans. As such, the hair quality is good, helping you achieve a realistic look. They are styling-friendly with the ability to endure heat treatments. European hairs are the most expensive and Asian, the least.
- Synthetic hair: These are fibres designed to mimic human hair. The synthetic hairs are easy to care for, cheaper and hold style irrespective of the weather. On the flip side, they aren’t as durable, versatile and natural-looking as their human hair counterparts.
Classification based on base material:
Natural or synthetic, all types of hairs are either tied or injected on a base material, which is the foundation of the hairpiece. Either meshes or polymers are typically used as base materials.
- Mesh: Made of nylon, the mesh is primarily used to create a hairline. In certain cases, they may be used throughout the wig. Count on the material for natural, extremely light, breathable and comfortable wigs. But it’s brittle and not feasible for long term use.
- Polymers: The base material is made of either polyurethane or silicone. Compared to mesh, it costs less, is way more durable and easy to attach. The downside is it being uncomfortable to wear. Plus, the material tends to deliver an artificial appearance.