Hair loss is a natural part of ageing. But it can have a serious impact on individuals, contributing to mental health issues like anxiety and depression [1]. One study found that having alopecia areata can increase the risk of major depressive disorder by 34% [2].
As a result, more and more men are seeking solutions for male pattern baldness. And while hair transplant surgery is the most effective type of permanent hair restoration, non-surgical hair replacement options like hair systems for men are becoming more popular.
In this ultimate guide to hair systems for men, you’ll learn everything you need to know about non-surgical hair replacement, including:
A hair system is a type of semi-permanent wig used to hide hair loss. Unlike traditional human hair wigs, which need to be removed regularly, a hair system is glued or taped to your scalp, so you can wear it continuously for up to six months.
The main advantage of a hair system is that it gives you instant results without the need for surgery. A hair system can restore your confidence, but you’ll need to take good care of it and get it replaced every few months to keep up the illusion.
This video shows you how to prepare and attach your own hair system to your scalp:
Some salons and barbers will help you source and install your hair system professionally, which is likely to give you the most natural-looking results.
But you can also apply a hair system yourself at home. Here are our top tips for attaching a hair system yourself:
A hair system typically lasts between three and six months before it needs replacing. But this depends on several factors, including:
If they’re applied properly, hair systems shouldn’t fall off. Experiment with different tapes and glues to find the most secure fitting for your hair system.
However, the adhesive won’t last forever. You’ll need to reattach it at certain intervals to make sure it stays stuck down.
If you notice your hair system lifting more than normal, it may be time to replace the adhesive.
Hair systems can be virtually indistinguishable from your natural hair, providing you match the colour, texture, and thickness to your original hair.
This is easier said than done. It’s best to speak to a hair system specialist to find a good match, rather than ordering online. A hair system that doesn’t match the back and sides of your hair can look unnatural and make your hair system very noticeable.
Poor styling choices can also make a hair system more noticeable. Swept-back pompadour styles expose the hairline, making it more obvious that you’re wearing a toupée.
Hair system prices start at around £500. This typically covers your first hair system (and sometimes professional installation). However, you’ll need to replace your hair system at some stage, so the costs add up over time.
The cost of a hair system depends on factors including:
Here are all the key reasons to consider getting a hair system for your hair loss:
While hair systems work well for many men, make sure you’re aware of the potential pitfalls, too:
If you haven’t yet ruled out surgical hair restoration options, it can be helpful to compare hair transplantation with hair systems to see which is right for you.
Considering a hair transplant or a non-surgical hair loss treatment? With a 97-100% success rate, we offer a range of hair loss solutions to help you find the right course of action to truly tackle your hair loss, rather than simply covering it up. Book a consultation at the Wimpole Clinic to get started.
Many men are happy with their hair system. It’s a good way to get a full head of hair if you’re not ready for the commitment of going through surgery.
But for others, the ongoing costs and hassle of maintaining and replacing their hair system isn’t worth it. Instead, opting to pay more for a hair transplant gives them the permanent security and confidence they’re looking for. Plus, you can pair your transplant with medical therapies like Finasteride to give you natural, lifelong results.
Ultimately, you’ll need to weigh up the pros and cons of getting a non-surgical hair system and see if it’s worth the investment for you.
If you’re not ready for hair transplant surgery, but don’t want the expense and uncertainty of a hair system, several other proven non-surgical hair restoration treatments can help your hair regrow. These include:
The Wimpole Clinic team can help you find the best treatment for male hair loss. Instead of covering up your bald spots, we get to the root cause of your hair thinning and find a solution that works for you.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about hair systems and non-surgical hair replacement.
Yes, you can wear and wash your hair system in the shower. However, you’ll need to make sure there are gaps between the adhesive to allow water to run out from underneath the hair system.
Yes, you can wear a hair system to the gym. Sweat shouldn’t dislodge your hair system provided you’ve used a good adhesive.
You can swim while wearing your hair system, but you’ll need to take extra care of it afterwards. Chlorine can dry out the hair, so make sure to condition it well at each wash.
Yes, you can sleep in your hair system. Just style it each morning as you would with your natural hair.
Your hair will still grow while you’re wearing a hair system. If your hair system is made from a thin, breathable fabric like lace, your hair can actually grow through the toupée, allowing you to wash it as normal.
Some people will find that their hair system starts to lift as new hair grows. This is a sign that you need to remove your system and shave your scalp before reattaching it.
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