Without doubt hair loss is one of the most dreaded scenarios for any individual. This is especially true for women, who have very less hair for hair transplantation and at the same time are subject to extensive baldness. For such people the only option that remains – is to adopt a hair system. Most of the time this gives a natural feel – as they are predominantly made from human hair. On the contrary, hair systems were the only available option before the late 1950s.

Then again like all other endeavors, hair systems also have their set of advantages and disadvantages:

The major advantages of adopting a hair system is that – the cost involved is relatively low and then again hair systems are a comparatively quick solution to hair loss problems. This is mainly because the adoption of a hair system doesn’t involve surgery.

The major disadvantages of adopting a hair system are – the sudden nature of this relatively quick fix solution tends to give the individual a relatively major change in appearance. Then again hair systems are subject to frequent repairs and cleaning schedules. Correspondingly there is a need for a spare hair system when the other hair system is undergoing maintenance and repair related work. Other disadvantages include – lack of durability, the odor caused by sebum build-up, a rather unnatural appearance of the frontal hairline. For individuals with slight amount of hair the adoption of hair systems are likely to increase the rate of natural hair loss.

One of the main concerns that are addressed while developing a hair system for a client apart from the appearance is – the ability of the hair system to stay in place and not fall off. However majority of the hair systems are very strongly attached to head and are heavily layered, so that no one will be able to see through the hair system. The strong attachment attribute of hair systems are due to the way in which they are attached to the foundation netting i.e. the hairs whether single or bundled are skillfully knotted to the foundation. This results in a more natural look as the hair is made to grow in the same direction as that of natural hair growth. With regard to layering, it’s done so well that even light does get through easily. However custom hair systems of the highest quality are extremely expensive. As it’s not exactly an easy task to obtain high quality hair that can exactly suit the client.

However there are other less expensive options too – like hair systems made of artificial and animal fibers. But their durability is skeptical, as they tend to look fuzzy very quickly. Correspondingly they are required to be replaced more frequently.

Generally the choice is to go for human hair as they will obviously have a more natural appearance. Taking cost considerations into account – it’s not uncommon to source Asian hair from saloons in Asia as they are not only cheaper but also because they tend be more coarse, thicker and stronger. However in spite of these desirable physical attributes, they tend to end up being vulnerable to damage due to all the processing that is associated with the hair system. Then again there is no guarantee that Asian hair needs to perfectly suit a client.

The Significance of Hair Attachment:

In spite of the visual appeal of a hair system being of significance to a client – the biggest and most serious issue faced by anyone who uses a hair system is that: whether it will fall off suddenly. This is a serious issue, such that it can even influence the lifestyle of the client. Generally quality manufactures go to extraordinary lengths to develop perfect hair systems for their clients. Here are a few methods that are used to attach the hair –

1. Glue – this involves the usage of glue to stick the outer edges of the hair system, after the particular area has been shaved.
2. Clips – here clips are used to attach the hair system to the surrounding fringes of natural hair.
3. Double-sided tape – involves the use of tape to stick the hair system on to the shaved scalp.
4. Weaves – here the naturally occurring hair is sewn in to the mesh foundation. However continues growth of natural hair loosens the mesh and hence it requires frequent maintenance. A common form of hair loss that is related to weaves is – Traction Alopecia.