Mail Order Vs. Retail Hair Replacement
When it comes to the world of non-surgical hair replacement, there are two ways you can really go. You can go the salon and big clubs, or you can do it from home through the mail and online. Each option has its ups and downs but the biggest difference is in the price.
Retail Salons
Retail salons are very convenient. You make a visit to their location, and they have your hair system ready to go. They "cut it in" (cutting your hair system to the appropriate shape), style it, and attach it for you. You walk out ready to go, knowing everything has been taken care of by a professional.
The downside of this all is that there is really a lot more to it. Often, there is not a location for this to be done in your general area. Long drives to major cities are a common necessity. With the drive there, the drive back, and the time spent at the salon, you've just made a day out of it.
Retail salons and clubs are expensive. Expect to have to sign contracts and pay at least $1000 per hair system if not more. Also expect to pay a lot for your visits, anywhere from $70 to $250. There may also be some sort of monthly fee involved, as well. And if you have problems with the system, expect to make the journey back to have them take care of it for you since you are generally left in the dark as to what's they're doing on the top of your head.
Mail Order
The mail-order approach to hair systems is entirely different. They put the work on you in order to cut costs. You learn the methods to do it yourself, and you become the one in control of your hair. With mail order, you can order a completely custom hair system without ever leaving your house. They can found online for $200 and up. And don't think that because it costs less it isn't as good. All hair systems are made overseas using primarily the same methods.
These companies sell the products and generally offer you the know-how to manage your hair system. They sell the glue, tape, shampoo, and other specialty products you might need. There are tons of internet resources including tutorials and message boards to help you get your questions answered and concerns addressed.
By eliminating overhead costs and ordering directly from the factory, mail-order companies can save their cusomters a lot of money. They send you kits in the mail for you to get the proper shape and fit for your new piece, or if you like, some companies allow you to visit their locations and get a fitting free of charge.
The most intimidating part about ordering hair systems through the mail is the learning curve. It's not the hardest thing in the world, as thousands of people are already doing it, but it will take some reading and maybe a little trial and error. When you order through the mail, your hair system comes ready to be put on right out of the box, you don't need to do anything to the system.
One of the best parts about ordering hair systems online is that once you master doing it yourself, you will have complete and total control over your hair. If the front needs a little more adhesive, no problem, you can just do it all from home whenever you want. The other positive aspects are the money saving benefits. By doing this all yourself you can easily save thousands of dollars and days worth of time each year. Plus, it only takes minimal time for upkeep - on your schedule.
If you're willing to learn and want to save time and money, mail-order seems to be the way to go. But if you have the extra cash and would rather have someone else do it for you, retail is the method for you.
