NON-SURGICAL HAIR REPLACEMENT SYSTEMS
SOME HELPFUL INFORMATION
Q: What is non-surgical hair replacement?
A: Non-surgical hair replacement systems refer to a range of options including wigs, hairpieces, hair toppers, hair extensions and hair meche integrations.
These can often be an alternative or precursor to surgical procedures which can be take time and money.
Q: What are the different hair replacement systems?
A: There are four common systems:
Wigs - these are the most well-known and established use of hair replacement. They are versatile and there are a wide range of practitioners offering a range of styles, colours and materials. This can be helpful for someone experiencing temporary hair loss, for example, due to chemotherapy. It can provide an almost immediate solution. They can also offer the opportunity to experiment with different hairstyles and colour on a temporary basis, making them a fashionable accessory. They can be worn and removed easily, allowing for quick changes in appearance for different occasions.
Hairpieces/ hair toppers - these are smaller versions of wigs to cover a specific area where there is hair thinning or balding. This can act as a camouflage and can blend into existing hair rather than covering the whole head. This typically requires less maintenance compared to an integrated system, and helpful for clients suffering from thinning on the crown or hairline.
Hair extensions - these are useful for adding length and/ or volume to existing hair. This can be useful for those with naturally thin hair or if there is a temporary loss in hair volume or length due to a medical condition. It can also be useful for special occasions when you want to add volume or length, allowing you to change your hairstyle. There is no contact with the scalp, which may be helpful if you have any scalp conditions.
Hair meche integration - this integrates a human hair hand tied meche. The meche is gently integrated with the bio hair and enables you to shampoo as normal to enable the scalp to be cleaned. The system can be used for all levels of hair loss. There are off-the-shelf integrations and for complex hair loss issues, a customised template can be produced. Your practitioner would apply the system and four weekly maintenance is required. The meche is implanted with human hair, that matches the patients existing hair characteristics. This includes colour match, density selection. The system can be used for all levels of hair loss. Integrations may not always be ideal for everyone as it can potentially exacerbate some hair loss conditions.
Q: What hair and scalp conditions can benefit from hair replacement?
A: There are many hair loss conditions that can affect people of all ages and gender. This may be genetic, relating to medical conditions, or natural ageing.
Common hair loss conditions include Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia which results in scarring and permanent hair loss in the front hair line, and Androgenetic Alopecia (Female Pattern Hair Loss) which can result in considerable hair loss, sometimes permanent.
Q: I don't have any balding/ thinning patches on my scalp, would hair replacement still be useful?
A: Yes, hair replacement systems can be used to create more volume or add length. It is common to use hair extensions or hair replacement membranes.
Q: What are the steps involved in the hair replacement process?
A: We would advise a follow-on consultation with one of our trichologists who are also hair replacement experts. With your initial consultation notes outlining any hair loss condition, they can provide personalised advice and guidance on the different hair replacement systems and what may be most effective for your needs.
Choosing the right hair replacement system depends on your unique circumstances, lifestyle and preferences. The key is to consult with a professional who can assess your specific needs. Ultimately, the goal is to regain confidence and feel comfortable in your own skin, regardless of your hair loss or growth situation.
Detailed information on the preferred system can be given including pricing, type of adhesive used, product source, method of application etc. This ensures you decide on the right option for your lifestyle and requirements.
Once you have decided on your preferred system, you can be referred to a clinic (or advised on the type of clinic you need) for an in-person service that offers your preferred choice. Some clinics only offer certain hair replacement options so it is helpful having an independent advisor to support you before you invest time and money.
Opting for a hair replacement system does not mean you cannot explore treatment options - your trichologist can advise you on this during your initial consultation, and this may also include an option to refer to a surgical team.
This is a general information sheet to support your treatment pathway but does not replace personalised medical guidance – we would always encourage you to discuss any concern with your trichologist and/ or doctor. No question is daft – our trichologists would be delighted to hear from you!
OCTOBER 2023