Hair Systems: Pros & Cons
Hair systems are a quick and relatively easy fix to hair loss, but their use has large negative social connotations. The hair system market can almost be compared to buying a car. There are those companies that want to help you make a smart and educated decision and be happy with your product, and those who just want to line their pockets and forget about you as quickly as possible. In the end, all hair systems have their positive and negative aspects, just like any brand of car does.
The Pros of Hair Systems
Final results of hair systems
With modern hair systems, results can be flawless. The modern innovations used in the construction of the systems allows you to wear any hairstyle -- even have your hairline showing -- and it looks totally real. With modern bonding & styling tricks nearly anything can be pulled off. With certain types of bonds you can leave your system on for whatever amount of time suits you: one day, one week, 3 weeks, or more.
Low cost, quick results
Compared to transplants, hair systems are a low cost and quick method of hair replacement. Hair system costs can be anywhere from $200 - $2000, and turnaround time for getting one is between one and two months. And once you get it, you'll have a full head of hair. If you are in need of something fast with guaranteed results, a hair system is the best way to go.
The Cons of Hair Systems
Bad results with hair systems
As good as hair system innovations are, a small mistake could make your experience with hair systems a very nerve-wracking one. Visible adhesive, a loose bond, a noticably fake hairline, too much density, mismatched colors, your hair being on crooked, and many other small details can make a big difference in your appearance and confidence.
Costs add up
The initial costs can be very cheap compared to other methods, but that is just the beginning. Hair systems need replaced. They simply get worn out, and having a bad-looking hair system is not the reason you buy one in the first place. You may also need to pay for maintenance, styling products, shampoos, and the different kinds of adhesives you choose to use. All of these costs can add up over time.
Maintenance and repairs
Anytime you need something altered on your hair system, you may need to remove it and fix it. For more advanced problems, you may need to return your hair system to the company from which you purchased it, and they may even need to mail it back to their factory. When you need to have it sent back to the factory, it may be several weeks until you see your hair system again. If you don't have a back-up, you are out of luck. With non-growing hair, you always need to be ready for the unexpected.
Surrounding social stigma
Hair Systems. Toupee. Wig. Rug. You've heard jokes, and why would you want to be the butt end? You don't have to be. If you wear a hair system, be honest. Don't try to hide it for years and years. Eventually everyone will know the truth anyway. Tell them you were bored with the same "bald" look everyday. And if it looks good, no one will think less of it.
On the other hand, not everyone needs to know, either. It shouldn't be your topic of choice every chance you have. The best way to go is not to mention it. If someone asks, be honest, otherwise just let everyone think it is your real hair. Try not to get caught up in being completely socially dependent on it. Some people who wear a hair system may take off work, skip out on social events, or just put their life on hold because they have to be without their hair system that day, and that is not a good way to live.
Hair systems can be great but they can also be an inconvenience. They can look fantastic, be relatively inexpensive, and can even be done from your own home. As long as you don't let your hair system hold you back from your own life, it can be a very effective method of hair replacement.