Hair Weaving, Extensions & Non Surgical Hair Restoration
A question frequently asked by my patients is about hair weaving and
bonding. Some of them think it is a variety or technique of hair transplant. In
fact, it is not. These are just ways to attach artificial non growing hairs or
wig to your scalp. This confusion has occurred because clever new age salesmen
wanted to overcome the negative connotations that the words "wig"
"hairpiece" and "toupee" conjure up in the minds of most
men. Instead of calling their products wigs, we now have "hair
extensions", "hair weaves" or some kind of fancy "non
surgical hair restoration systems".
Listed below is a list of all the different types of wigs with an
explanation of each.
Wigs & Toupees
Wigs are artificially arranged animal, human or synthetic hair traditionally
used to conceal hair loss . Toupees are similar to wigs meant for a smaller
area. The most popular way to attach a wig to the scalp is with tape or glue.
The problem is that with perspiration and body heat, this glue melts and the
grip of the wig loosens. The wig can come off easily, causing embarrassment and
humiliation in public or amongst friends.
Some wigs are firmly held in place by wire loops or clips that pinch the
scalp skin. In such situation the chances of wig falling off is reduced. But
these clips or wire may cut through the skin causing infection. Also due to constant
pressure by clips the hair in that region are destroyed permanently.
 |
| A wig is a wig. |
The biggest aesthetic problem with a wig is unnatural appearing frontal
hair line, which appears too full and too straight, without usual
irregularities. If the wig is not color and hair texture matched, then it looks
ugly. Another problem is that the sun and water can cause the wig to discolour and
become frizzy thus making it stand out from the wearer’s original hair.
Wigs are highly visible and extremely delicate. To keep them looking
presentable, they must be of high quality, and be maintained with scrupulous
care. Ideally a person would have three wigs, one for wearing while one is
being cleaned and a spare for any catastrophe that may occur. The cost of
regular replacement is high and hygiene can also be a severe problem.
Hair Weaving
Hair weaving is a technique whereby the wig is attached by weaving wig’s
artificial hair with remaining scalp hair. Sometimes, strands or wefts of hair
are used for the weave.
The biggest problem with weaving is that the procedure itself causes more
hair loss. This permanent hair loss is caused due to pulling of hair roots
during retying or tightening of the wig. It also means that as your own hair
grows the wig loosens. Therefore retightening needs to be done at least once a
month. After about six months a person can begin to lose hair permanently along
the stress point where the wig is tied. This is known as traction alopecia.
 |
| Hair loss due to weaving |
The initial cost of the weave may seem very reasonable, which is a major
selling point, but the real expense comes in the monthly visits to have the
weave re-tightened, this will add to the cost considerably. Moreover, since
these are non-growing hair wear and tear means regular replacement of the hair fibers
as well.
Hair Bonding-Fusion
In this technique hair, artificial fiber or dead human hair, is bonded with
a glue to your existing hair and scalp. It needs to re-tightened on a regular
basis as your own hair grows. Again the initial cost may be comparatively low
but you have to continually go back to the clinic to have the hair piece
re-glued. Allergy to glue and pull on existing hair roots during combing and
styling are other problems.
Hair Extensions
Hair extensions are used to increase density or provide volume to existing
hair. They cannot cover a bald patch and are useful for long hair only. This
method is useful for females wanting long thick tresses. Re-tightening and
servicing is regularly required.
Comments
Post a Comment