Bid goodbye to those synthetic wigs that would neither match your hair color nor look authentic. Hair replacement system has evolved drastically in the last two decades. Today, you no longer have to rely on those unnatural wigs.
There are better, cost-effective, and long-lasting alternatives available. We are talking about men’s hair systems that are designed to hide the bald crown area and the bald patches that are often quite easily visible on your scalp. Whether the hair loss is because of chemotherapy or you are diagnosed with male pattern baldness, these non-surgical hair replacement systems are your answer to all kinds of hair loss.
As tempting as they sound, they also need replacement once in a while. Since no hair system can be secured permanently to your scalp, it’s important to have them cleaned, removed, and replaced as and when required. So, to help you maintain your hairpiece and keep it in tip-top condition, we have come up with a hair system maintenance guide. Everyone who wears or is considering getting a hairpiece must read it till the end.
Prepare Your Scalp for the Hairpiece Installation
The hairpiece is secured to your bare skin either through glue or tape. Whichever you use, it’s important to be careful with the attachment, as if you get it wrong, you won’t be able to change the position of the hairpiece. Incorrect installation or shifting it multiple times can affect the quality of the bond, resulting in the extensions getting loose.
Start with washing your scalp. Shampoo and condition properly and trim the area where you’d be installing the wig’s base. You can use scalp protectants to prevent any discomfort, skin irritation, and itching from the material. Usually, a high-quality hair replacement system doesn’t cause any skin issues or damage to your natural hair, but still, it’s advisable to use a protectant.
Attaching the Hairpiece
The next step is to secure the hairpiece to your scalp using tape or glue. Depending on the material you are using, you need to apply the adhesive to the entire base or just the perimeter. Before attaching it to your scalp, make sure you mark your hairline so that you know where to place it. You can then move the hair system backward gently to adjust it into the right position. Once you have secured it in the right position, press it firmly with your fingers to set it in place.
Cleaning Your Hair System
Now, your hairpiece will stay attached to your scalp for a specified period. How long you can keep it on depends on the type of hairpiece you are wearing and its lifespan. Ideally, a hair system can last anywhere between 2 and 4 months, but some are designed to stay intact and secured to your scalp for up to 6 months. Your hairstylist will help choose the perfect hairpiece for you.
Cleaning is the next crucial step in hairpiece maintenance. Since they are made of human hair, they require as much cleaning as your biological hair. You can use your regular sulfate-free shampoo and a conditioner to give it a good wash. How often to use these cleaning products depends on the extension type.
When in doubt, ask your hairstylist to recommend shampoos and conditioners for your hair system. Conditioning restores the strength of the hair strands, keeps them nourished and moisturized, and prevents hair breakage. So, make sure you condition after shampooing. Both steps will give you smooth and hydrated locks that will look neat.
Tips for Washing Your Hair System
- Condition your hair system 2-3 days a week
- Apply the shampoo and cleaning products on your hair and not the base or the scalp
- Once you have showered, use a leave-in conditioner
Air Dry Your Hair
Human hair extensions have a small amount of sebum, which keeps your hair looking soft and nourished. This natural oil is important to nourish your hair and keep it looking clean and conditioned. Unfortunately, blow dryers and other appliances can take all the natural oil away from your hair, leaving you with dry and brittle locks.
While conditioning can help restore the smoothness and luster, you need to pay more attention to the blow dryer and heating appliances, as they are the main culprits. After washing, let your hair air dry and limit the use of heating appliances. If it’s absolutely necessary, use a heat protectant before running a straightener or curler through your tresses.
Use Glue Removers
You may have to remove your hairpiece every few days to clean them thoroughly. Usually, they must be soaked in the water for 20-30 minutes so that all the dirt and dust they have accumulated is removed. In the meantime, you can give your scalp a good wash. Remember, a lightweight and breathable hairpiece won’t cause any irritation to your scalp. That said, your scalp is a sensitive area. You must wash it at least once a week to keep it hydrated and clean.
The question is, how do you take the hairpiece off your scalp without causing any damage to the base, hair strands, and your bare skin? Find a high-quality adhesive remover or a solvent that can easily remove the glue and the hairpiece. You can try KP Pro Solvent, PURE adhesive remover, and PHL Ultra Safe adhesive remover. These were just a few to name. If you are concerned about ruining the quality of the hairpiece, talk to the Superhairpieces toupee manufacturer or hairstylist to get the best hair adhesive remover.
Conclusion
Maintaining your hair system is crucial to extend its lifespan and keep it looking neat and clean always. Remember, you are supposed to reattach the same hairpiece after cleaning. If there’s any glue left on the hair strands, it might create a mess on your scalp. So, be careful with the remover and attachment. Hope you understood the basic maintenance, cleaning, and removal process for your hairpiece. Follow these steps to keep the hair replacement for men clean.