Hair Replacement System

If you're considering a hair replacement system, you have many options.  There's a bit of confusion in the field of hair replacement systems as new hybrid options surface every year so I'll try to give you a general overview here with links to more in depth information:

What is a Hair Replacement System?

A hair replacement system is one way to combat hair loss, thinning and balding.  It's an alternative to hair transplants and medical treatments like Rogaine/Propecia.  There are 3 types of hair replacement systems:

1) Hairpiece, Wig or Toupee

2) A Wig/Toupee Woven Directly into Your Existing Fringe Hair (Also called a Hair Weave)

3) Hair Integration System

 Here's a brief review of each hair replacement option:

#1 Hairpiece, Wig or Toupee

This type of hair system is your more traditional hairpiece that men have used for years to cover up bald spots (many women are actually using them now rather than full wigs if their hair loss is confined to the top and crown of their heads.)

A traditional hairpiece consists of natural or synthetic hair attached to a polymer (skinlike and/or meshlike) base. It is then attached to the scalp using glue, tape or even clips or elastics (although these last 2 aren't very popular options).  

In the past many hairpieces were quite noticeable and acquired an embarassing stigma. However today there are many new materials and advancements in design so you can get a much more natural look. For example, many sellers will customize your hairpiece to suit your specific hair color and pattern.

Many hairpiece manufacturers have not changed the name to 'hair system' to fight the negative stigma associated with the words 'hairpiece', 'rug' or 'toupee'.

Read More About Traditional Hairpieces or Toupees

#2 A Hairpiece/Toupee Woven Directly into Your Existing Fringe Hair (Also called Non Surgical Hair Replacement)

This system is a more sophisticated take on the traditional toupee and sellers usually promise a more natural looking head of hair.

What sets it apart from a traditional hairpiece is that the hairpiece is actually attached or woven into your existing hair with a surgical type glue.  Your hair is then cut so the system blends in with your current hair. 

This type of hair system usually uses human hair, dyed to match your existing hair color and can look very natural.  It is typically more expensive than the traditional hairpiece system described above but it's much more versatile and can be more natural looking.

This type of hair system is often called the 'Non-Surgical Hair Replacement' or a 'Non-Surgical Hair Transplant' and is offered by well-known names like Hair Club for Men and Bosley (who also offer hair transplants and medical options like Rogaine/Propecia).

Read more about Non-Surgical Hair Replacement

#3 Hair Integration System

A hair integration system is a less well known type of hair replacement system used to combat hair loss and balding.  It allows you to wear a hair replacement system without shaving your head.

So that's a general overview of hair replacement systems.  Is it the right option for you? Here's some advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

General advantages of hair replacement systems are that they can be more affordable than surgery or even medical hair loss treatments. And if done right, they can look quite natural. If you're squeamish about surgery and don't like the medical options like Rogaine/Propecia, a hair replacement system can be a great alternative way to get a full, natural looking head of hair.

Disadvantages: 

Disadvantages of hair systems are that they can require quite a bit of upkeep.  And done wrong, they can look quite poor.  Also, you'll go from no or little hair to lots of hair overnight so it will be fairly obvious to people who know you that you have a hair system.