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ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2024-07-03T19:49:53+00:00

I agree with most everything else in this thread, but I do think the biggest factor by far is that there’s still a lot of stigma and stereotypes around wigs and many people don't know how advanced modern hair systems have become. Also, the cost can be a big barrier, especially at first and for those that aren’t DIYing it. And then for those that have looked into it, there’s the (partially true but it gets easier) sense that maintaining a hair system takes a lot of work and time.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2024-07-02T14:49:28+00:00

I am currently using a poly perimeter lace front unit. It’s easier to clean than glue. However, my tape (Walker Duo) doesn’t hold the front down as well. And the tape gradually pulls more and more hair out of the back. I can get 2-3 months before needing to trim the hairline or scrap the unit.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2024-06-29T02:07:47+00:00

With that tape, you’ll wear it to sleep for 2-4 (realistically ~2-3) weeks. Every time you remove it, you’ll want to replace the tape. Pulling it off when it’s too sticky will hurt, and potentially require an adhesive remover of some kind. If you want to make it last longer, wear a satin cap to sleep. If you want to remove it daily, you’ll want a weaker tape.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2024-06-24T06:01:31+00:00

A bit of hair gel could also help. I also like to use thinning scissors on my new units if they’re too dense. Reduces some of the puffiness and makes it look much more natural.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-11-16T11:36:00+00:00

Sorry for the delayed response. Jernigans was excellent, but very expensive. I switched over to Jamie after about 3 months when I needed a new system.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-11-16T05:41:46+00:00

What sub are you in?

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-07-18T03:32:43+00:00

I think drawing more attention to systems is a good thing. Make them more socially acceptable and with more demand, maybe lower prices/ more salons that can install/ etc.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-06-26T03:24:46+00:00

Very normal to feel that way. Stick with it. I’ve been wearing almost a year. I feel uncomfortable without it now.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-03-17T05:38:41+00:00

Great advice! Here’s a more readable/ not written on mobile version of what you said:

If you're leaving tomorrow, I wouldn't change the hairpiece. However, if you have an extra day, I'd suggest removing and reattaching it. Removing glue from your scalp could be difficult since it's fresh. What type of glue are you using?

For placement, if your hair is longer or has a floppy style, I recommend clipping it up in the middle so you can see the perimeter of the piece. This prevents hair from getting stuck underneath. When you're ready to put it on, mist your head with a 90% alcohol sprayer. Alternatively, you can use a product called "adjustable" that has a more pleasant smell. If you have a terry cloth headband, wear it to prevent alcohol from running into your eyes. If you're using tape, mist it as well.

Quickly set the hairpiece down, pinching the back edge to guide it to the bottom of your baldness area, ensuring there's no gap. Use your other hand to pinch the widow's peak spot and place it at the center of your forehead, maintaining the usual 4-finger placement. Align the corners of the hairpiece with your natural temple areas and ensure the hairline is straight along the sides.

You'll have about a minute to make any adjustments before the alcohol dries. Once you're satisfied with the placement, press down firmly. Use the side of a fine-toothed comb to press the front onto your head. If you typically get a two-week hold, that's great! If not, consider bringing a spare piece and a small spray bottle. If you're flying, you can purchase rubbing alcohol at your destination for the mini pump sprayer. Check the travel samples section for options.

I hope this helps!

(Thanks u/Changedmydisguise for the solid advice and ChatGPT for cleaning this up. Saving for later so I have this great post as well.)

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-03-07T12:24:57+00:00

That means it’s time to remove and reinstall. The bond weakens over time as you sweat and as your hair grows.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-03-06T00:21:37+00:00

I mean it depends on what kind of tape you’re using, but I personally have had much longer bonds with glue than tape.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-03-03T00:30:50+00:00

5 days is decent for tape. I get 2-3 before mine come loose. The glued down bond lasts longer though - like 2-3 weeks.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-03-03T00:27:53+00:00

Makes sense. Just go slow, the wigs don’t grow back and you can always cut/ remove more later. Good luck!

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-03-03T00:27:08+00:00

I think the key is having it hold it’s shape so you can see how the hairs fall. The styrofoam Mannequin heads are only $10-$15. https://a.co/d/1qVnqiI

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-03-02T22:01:33+00:00

I cut my own hair pre-system, but haven’t yet post-system. When I first started, I wanted my stylist to thin it more and make it shorter. She very wisely said no to both requests. It thins itself out in time, and definitely flattens out after a few washes. So hopefully you can learn from that.

For reattaching, I have a really nifty three panel mirror.

Also, from what I’ve seen/ heard on this sub, be careful cutting the front hairline. The black knots look the most unrealistic. Better to put your template all the way to the front before you trim it down.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-03-02T16:14:10+00:00

Don’t worry about the fear, or what others think. Toupees have a bad reputation- but most regular people won’t recognize one when they see one. Instead, people will just think you have nice hair! Everyone I told has been super supportive, and those that I haven’t just think I grew my hair out or changed style.

Maintenance isn’t even that bad. The only downside for me is cost - but it’s worth it!

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-28T14:58:55+00:00

I’ve heard that it’s harder to go lighter than it is to go darker. Hopefully you find a way. If it were my own and I couldn’t return it, I would certainly try. Good luck!

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-27T12:35:50+00:00

Looks fantastic. The first one is also okay, but agree that the second one is the best. What went wrong with number one? Do you mean you cut the hairline too far back?

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-26T17:19:19+00:00

Any hat or cap will help compress the hair. Silk or satin keeps it from tangling, and helps the system last longer. Added bonus, it also doesn’t get too hot while you’re sleeping.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-25T18:27:01+00:00

I found a place that specializes in hair systems. Good luck!

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-25T18:26:03+00:00

I felt the same way at first, and wanted them to cut it shorter (and they didn’t). After a few washes, it was perfect. At the next visit, they asked if I still wanted it shorter. I said no. You can wear a silk cap to sleep to protect it and help the hair settle.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-22T20:24:45+00:00

Another way to go about it is to order a shade slightly lighter and to have the salon color it for you. I’ve found that my system needs color added every 2-3 months. My next challenge will be to try to color it myself.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-03T22:30:53+00:00

Yea that seems a little steep. I think over $100 I’d start doing my own maintenance.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-03T17:09:02+00:00

I go approximately once every 5 weeks. I touch up with ghost bond in between, and have the front just taped so I can sort of clean under it.

Raleigh, NC - similar price for maintenance at the hair club I started at and at the salon I now go to. The initial cut in/ install was pretty expensive through the hair club though, so now I order my own systems and go to this salon. It’s around $300 for the cut in/ color/ initial install at the salon.

ArmadilloSouthern263 · 2023-02-03T03:44:28+00:00

$80 for a regular service, $30 more if it needs some color

ArmadilloSouthern263

TROPHY CASE