Non-Surgical Hair Replacement
For some, hair loss is a part of the aging process and is bound to happen anyway. For others the discouraging effects of hair loss or thinning occurs long before age thirty or forty. More than half of men experience hair loss at some point in their lives and many women are affected as a result of hormonal and emotional stress, serious illnesses or surgeries. Among the many ways to replace or add hair, non-surgical hair replacement is a means to achieve that goal in several different ways. It is sometimes more cost effective compared to surgery and some of the means can be done in the comfort of your own home without the sense of embarrassment or discomfort.
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Features
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Non-surgical hair replacement is deemed an alternative for acquiring a full head of hair without undergoing surgery. Many hair specialists use toupees, wigs, hair extensions and weaves to fulfill this purpose. Several other methods are also used, offering the recipient a number of options to choose from.
Function
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Hairpieces are strategically applied to specific areas of the scalp and are available in many shapes and sizes. When applied properly, they can look very real and as natural as one's own hair. Depending on the situation, the technician or stylist may have to trim or shave off existing hair on the scalp to better fit the style and cut of the hairpiece. The hair in the hairpiece can be made of human hair, animal hair or artificial materials. At the base of each headpiece or wig is a foundation made up of polyester or nylon fabric mesh, and a layer of either polyurethane or silicone polymers. The most expensive hairpieces are made of human hair and must be given special care and attention.
Types
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There are a few different options from which to choose for non-surgical hair replacement. Semi-permanent attachments are installed and maintained by a trained technician and replaced about every six weeks. Some procedures involve weaving the existing hair into the hairpiece for added security, which can be quite uncomfortable considering dead skin, oil, and hair may accumulate between the hairpiece and the scalp. Hair can also be attached with temporary tape adhesives or metal clips. However, temporary adhesives can lose their grip if you sweat profusely or swim. This may not be a good option for athletes, or those who are extremely active. Likewise, clip attachments hang on to existing hair on your scalp. Both options are easy to apply and remove, requiring the least amount of skill. But remember that achieving "the natural look" depends much on how you apply the hairpiece.
Benefits
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Non-surgical hair replacement can benefit those who are averse to or cannot undergo surgery. It is also an alternative for those who have tried, or are uncertain of the results of supplements and topical treatments. For some, the ability to alternate between wigs, toupees and other hair pieces is quite beneficial.
Considerations
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Adhesives and the weaving process can accelerate hair loss, so this may be counter-productive if you decide to take a supplement or apply topical hair growth aids at the same time. Make sure that you are not allergic to the adhesives and other materials on the hairpiece and consider your lifestyle before deciding on a certain method. If you spend most of the day outdoors, certain hairpieces may fall off when you sweat. Also, to maintain a natural appearance in between salon visits, try to perform daily maintenance.
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