Hair replacement systems offer a fantastic solution for those experiencing hair loss, providing a natural and confident look. Whether you use a hairpiece, wig, or bonded hair system, taking proper care of it is essential for longevity, appearance, and comfort. While hair replacement systems may require special attention compared to natural hair, following a few easy steps can make maintenance a breeze.
In this guide, we’ll share valuable hairpiece care tips and practical advice for maintaining hair replacement systems, including hair bonding maintenance. Whether you are new to hair systems or looking to improve your current routine, these tips will help keep your hair system looking fresh and healthy for longer.
Understanding Your Hair Replacement System
Before diving into specific care tips, it’s essential to understand the type of hair replacement system you’re using. Hair systems can vary in materials, construction, and attachment methods. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Hairpieces or Toupees: These typically cover a portion of the scalp, often used for thinning hair on the crown. They can be made of synthetic fibers or human hair.
- Wigs: Wigs can cover the entire head and are also available in synthetic and natural hair varieties.
- Bonded Hair Systems: These are more permanent solutions, where hair is attached to the scalp using medical-grade adhesive. Regular hair bonding maintenance is necessary to keep the system secure and looking natural.
Knowing your system type is crucial because it affects how you should care for it. Synthetic hair requires different products and maintenance routines than natural hair, and bonded systems demand particular attention to adhesives and scalp health.
Daily Care for Hair Replacement Systems
A daily care routine is vital for preserving the quality of your hair system. Taking a little time each day can prevent damage and extend the life of your system.
1. Gentle Brushing
Brushing your hair replacement system regularly is essential to keep it free of tangles and to maintain a smooth appearance. Use a soft-bristle or wide-tooth brush to avoid pulling on the hair and damaging the base of the system. Start from the ends of the hair and work your way up to the roots to minimize stress on the hair strands and attachment points.
- Tip: For curly hair systems, avoid brushing when dry. Use a detangling spray and a wide-tooth comb instead to prevent frizz.
2. Avoid Heat Damage
Excessive heat can damage both synthetic and natural hair systems, especially if they are not specifically designed to withstand heat. Be cautious when using hairdryers, straighteners, or curling irons. If you must use heat tools, use a heat protectant spray and keep the heat setting on low.
- Tip: For synthetic hair systems, avoid heat tools altogether unless the hairpiece is labeled as heat-friendly. Heat can cause irreversible damage to synthetic fibers.
3. Protect from the Elements
Sun, wind, and pollution can all affect the look and longevity of your hair replacement system. UV rays can fade hair color, while wind can cause tangles, and pollution can make the hair look dull.
- Tip: Wear a hat or scarf when spending extended periods outdoors, especially in harsh weather conditions. Using a leave-in conditioner with UV protection can also help shield your hair system from environmental damage.
Washing and Conditioning: Keeping Your Hair System Fresh
Keeping your hair replacement system clean is crucial, but overwashing can strip the hair of necessary moisture and reduce the adhesive’s effectiveness (for bonded systems). Proper washing and conditioning techniques are essential for maintaining hair replacement systems in top condition.
1. Wash in Moderation
How often you wash your hair replacement system depends on your lifestyle and environment. In general, washing it every 1-2 weeks is sufficient. Washing too frequently can dry out the hair, especially for human hair systems, while not washing enough can lead to product buildup.
- Tip: Use sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for hair systems. Harsh chemicals can weaken the bonds of adhesives and damage the hair over time.
2. Use Cool Water
Hot water can damage both synthetic and human hair systems. Always use cool or lukewarm water when washing your system to help preserve the hair’s integrity and shine.
- Tip: Be gentle when washing. Use a light touch to avoid pulling on the hair and base, and focus on cleaning the scalp area for bonded systems.
3. Deep Conditioning
Conditioning is essential for maintaining the softness and shine of your hair replacement system. After washing, apply a conditioner designed for wigs or hairpieces and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing. For human hair systems, you may want to deep condition once a month to restore moisture and elasticity.
- Tip: Avoid applying conditioner directly to the base or roots of the system, as this can loosen adhesives in bonded systems or cause tangling near the scalp in wigs and hairpieces.
Hair Bonding Maintenance: Ensuring Secure and Comfortable Attachment
If you’re using a bonded hair system, hair bonding maintenance is critical for keeping your system securely in place and ensuring a natural look. Improper care of the bonding adhesive can lead to discomfort, visible edges, or the hairpiece coming loose.
1. Regular Adhesive Checkups
The adhesive used to bond hair systems to your scalp can break down over time due to oils, sweat, and environmental exposure. Regularly check your system’s bond to ensure it’s still secure, especially around the hairline.
- Tip: If you notice the edges lifting or the system feeling loose, reapply adhesive as needed. Consult a professional if you’re unsure how to do this yourself.
2. Cleanse the Scalp Properly
Scalp hygiene is crucial for those with bonded systems. Product buildup, oils, and sweat can weaken the adhesive bond and cause skin irritation. Be sure to clean your scalp thoroughly but gently during maintenance.
- Tip: Use an adhesive remover to gently lift the system from the scalp during routine cleaning. Avoid harsh rubbing, which can irritate the skin.
3. Avoid Excessive Sweat
Excessive sweating can cause adhesive to break down more quickly, leading to slippage or discomfort. While it’s impossible to avoid sweat entirely, especially if you lead an active lifestyle, you can take steps to mitigate its effects.
- Tip: Use an antiperspirant scalp spray designed for bonded hair systems, and try to avoid heavy exercise immediately after reapplying adhesive. A scalp protector spray can also create a barrier between your skin and the adhesive, extending the bond’s lifespan.
Storage and Night-Time Care
How you store your hair system when not in use can significantly impact its appearance and longevity. Additionally, taking care of your system while you sleep can prevent unnecessary tangling and wear.
1. Proper Storage
When you’re not wearing your hair replacement system, store it on a wig stand or mannequin head to help maintain its shape. Keeping the system covered with a breathable material will protect it from dust and environmental damage.
- Tip: For long-term storage, use a silk or satin bag to reduce friction and keep the hair smooth.
2. Night-Time Protection
If you sleep with your hair replacement system on, consider using a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction that can cause tangles or frizz. For longer hair systems, loosely braiding the hair before bed can also prevent tangling.
- Tip: If possible, remove your hair system before bed to give your scalp a break and to prevent unnecessary wear on the system.
Maintaining Hair Replacement Systems with Confidence
Taking care of your hair replacement system doesn’t have to be a complicated process. By incorporating a few simple routines and following these hairpiece care tips, you can keep your system looking natural and feeling comfortable. Whether you wear a wig, toupee, or bonded system, the key to longevity is consistent care and attention to detail.
Remember, every hair replacement system is unique, so it’s essential to tailor your care routine to your specific system’s needs. With the right approach to hair bonding maintenance and general upkeep, your hair system will stay in top shape for years to come, helping you feel confident and looking great every day.
Need Hair Replacement and Treatment in Greensboro, NC?
Raveen Hair Replacement is your local full service professional at hair replacement, hair loss, and hair care services! We specialize at hair replacement for men and women. We use non surgical and non evasive hair replacement and hair loss treatment procedures. We also have free private consultations! We offer full head bonding, perimeter bonding, hair additions, hair repair, haircuts, cleaning, conditioning, styling, scalp treatments, coloring. We offer hair care products too such as shampoo, conditioner, hairpieces, hair piece tape, hair piece glue, toupees, full line of Paul Mitchell hair care products, and much more! Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you!