People with thinning hair or bald patches have probably exhausted all means to cover up their problem areas. Many have been suffering in silence, unaware that there’s a solution to hair loss problems that’s convenient, painless, and with visible results in just under 2 hours. We’re talking about a hair replacement system—a quick, affordable, and easy-to-maintain option.
These are not the wigs, toppers, or toupees that can be bought just about anywhere in Singapore. Hair replacement systems are professionally installed hairpieces that look so natural; no one can tell it from the hair you’re born with! An HRS session is definitely a safer and more affordable alternative to a hair transplant. It does not require surgery or any invasive procedure.
Ready to take the first step to a more confident you? Here’s a hair replacement guide to serve as a hair system starter. At Aremyhair, we’ll never, ever ask you to sign up for a package on your first consultation. Read on for the 6 things you need to know before getting your first hair replacement system, so you can make an informed decision and a sound investment.
(1) SHAVING is OPTIONAL
When your hair is already thinned out, or your scalp shows bald spots, shaving off even more hair would be cause for concern—and understandably so. The good news is, with a hair replacement system, you can choose to skip the shaving part.
The clipping and weaving methods rely on the wearer’s existing hair to stay on, so it’s actually better not to shave the hair if you’re opting for these methods. But these techniques have drawbacks such as making hair look bulky, putting tension on the existing hair, and the hairpiece not being securely attached, particularly with the clipping method.
For the most secure hold and a more natural look for your hair system, you can opt for soft- or hard-bonding. Hard bonding requires the perimeter of the target area to be shaved, leaving only 1/8inch of hair stubble. Here at Aremyhair, we specialise in the soft-bonding technique. While we recommend it, shaving the target area is not mandatory for a hair replacement system.
Tap here for BEFORE-AND-AFTER photos of clients who got a Hair Replacement System
(2) TYPES of HAIRPIECES
Hairpieces come in different kinds, depending on the origin of the hair and the processing techniques. The products needed to sanitize and style the hair also affects its strength and quality.
- Synthetic Hair
Synthetic hairpieces use man-made fibres and polymers. It’s basically low-grade acrylic that’s strung together to form individual hair fibres that mimic the look and feel of natural hair. Some hairpieces use horsehair, the long hair on the mane and tail, in particular.
- Human Virgin Hair
Virgin hair is simply human hair that has never been processed chemically in any way. That means the person from whom the hair came from never had it bleached, permed, dyed, coloured, or salon-treated—ever. Virgin hair can be steamed or blow-dried to give it waves or volume.
- Human Remy Hair
Remy hair is the premium option for hairpieces made from human hair. The hair is collected carefully from human donors, ensuring that the roots are not damaged. It’s also essential that the hair follicles are running in the same direction. The strands are checked for uniformity in cuticles and the direction of growth.
VALUE-ADDED SERVICES that make Aremyhair stand out as a Singapore Hair Replacement Studio
(3) TYPES of BONDING
There are 4 standard methods for hair bonding or hair attachment for thinning hair. Your choice of hair replacement technique ultimately depends on what would work best for your personality and lifestyle.
- Hard Bonding
Hard bonds are the superglue for hairpieces and wigs or toupees. Hair replacement systems that are attached through hard bonding stay in place the longest. Hard bonding can hold hair systems in place for up to 6 weeks, even in humid climates.
- Soft Bonding
Although slightly less adherent than hard bonding, soft-bonding glues and tapes are also entirely secure. The soft bonding technique makes use of flexible glues and adhesive tapes. Hairpieces that are attached through soft bonding can stay on for up to 4 weeks.
- Clipping
Wig clips look a lot like small combs or tiny barrettes used to affix the hairpiece to the wearer’s natural hair. The clips are fastened to existing hair around the thinned-out area’s perimeter or bald patch that will be covered up by the hairpiece.
- Weaving
The weaving technique for hair replacement systems is different from the hair weave you might know from popular culture. In the hair replacement world, an entire hairpiece is attached to a wearer by weaving their hair through the perimeter of the hairpiece. The hairpiece is secured by tying it onto the wearer’s hair.
See our INFOGRAPHIC on Hair Attachment Techniques PROS AND CONS
(4) EFFECTS and RESULTS VARY depending on the hair and scalp condition
Everyone’s scalp is different. Some people have more sensitive skin than others. And every person reacts differently to the various procedures of any hair loss solution. Before getting a hair replacement system, it’s crucial to consult with professionals to manage your expectations.
How long can the adhesives hold the hairpiece in place? That depends mainly on the acidity, oiliness, and salinity of a person’s scalp skin. The scalp produces secretions that interact with the adhesives used to attach the hairpiece, naturally wearing down its bonding strength over time. As such, some people may need a fresh coat of glue more frequently than others.
First off, check with your doctor for possible adverse reactions to chemicals or adhesives used in a hair replacement procedure. Some people have allergies to products used in hair replacements systems and others to the hairpiece’s material.
Know exactly what you’re paying for with our TRANSPARENT PRICING on Hair Replacement Systems
(5) COMMITMENT is KEY to maintaining hair systems
Getting a hair replacement system means you won’t have to compromise on your everyday lifestyle, constantly worrying that your hairpiece might fall off. However, keeping the hairpiece in good shape also requires commitment on your part.
Hair replacement systems can be shampooed, cut, and styled like natural hair. You don’t even have to take it off when you go swimming or hit the gym. It may have to be replaced from time to time due to the usual wear and tear and since it’s in constant contact with the skin’s natural acids.
Some people have experienced itching or flaking when the hairpiece has not been adequately cleaned or given regular maintenance. The buildup of oil and dirt will also make the hairpiece dull-looking and sticky, hence, quite uncomfortable for the wearer.
5 Things to Look Out for When Choosing a Hair Replacement Studio (Besides Price!)
(6) HAIRPIECE LIFESPAN depends on its quality and wearer’s care
Some of our customers here at Aremyhair Singapore say that they’ve been offered hairpieces by other studios that have a lifespan of one year or more and at lower prices. That’s highly unlikely and quite improbable based on our more than 10 years of experience in the hair replacement industry.
Remember that the more personal care you put into your hair system, the longer it will last. Hairpieces should be washed twice weekly, on average. Too much washing can lead to dryness and wear out the adhesives faster than normal. Same goes for using shampoo that’s too harsh, that’s why we at Aremyhair recommend hair products that are safe and gentle. Going to saunas and steam rooms with your hair system isn’t such a good idea as it will degrade the bonding strength of the adhesives more quickly. And while it’s safe to wear the hairpiece during swimming, we suggest using a swimming cap.
Note that hair systems come in different designs and quality, which determine hairpiece lifespan. Hairpieces with thin designs (less dense) usually look very natural and can last 2 months or longer. Meanwhile, denser hairpieces can last an average of 4 months, although not as natural-looking.
Hairpiece quality has recently decreased due to manpower shortage. Many of the factories that remained open are no longer able to employ the same skilled workers as before due to travel restrictions. Less experienced workers had to be called in, resulting in hairpieces that are not of the same standard as those from pre-COVID times.
Unfortunately, some hair replacement studios in Singapore continue to market these substandard hairpieces as premium products. Since there are many variables in play regarding durability, it’s best to seek advice from your stylist when selecting a hairpiece.
Here at Aremyhair Singapore, our transparently priced hair replacement packages entitle you to professional maintenance at our service centres. What’s more, our friendly HRS professionals will give you tips on caring for your hair, so you can enjoy 7 weeks of continuous wear.
