How To Pick A Base

The Base of the Hair Piece is the foundation of a hair restoration system.  Hair can be attached to a base in several different ways, and bases are made of many different materials. So how do you know what to look for in a base?  How do you know what type of base is right for you? Here's a list of common ones, including what we use at David Hansen Custom Hair Replacement.

1. The skin injected hair replacement is one of the newer forms of hair piece bases. The injected skin is an exceptionally thin base. Each hair is injected rather than knotted into the hair replacement system.  Since the hair is injected into the base at various angles it replicates natural hair well, however it restricts the movement of the hair.  The injected skin replacement systems are much more delicate than a fine welded mono system because the entire system is made from a thin, transparent, skin like material. Though they are comfortable, they also have the highest risk of tearing.

2. Polymer hairpiece bases are made of silicone or polyurethane, and are made to look and almost feel like your own skin. They are made of stronger materials than French and Swiss-lace bases, so they are very durable, easy to care for, and long-lasting. The hairline of the piece should be made of lace to create a more natural look, since the polymer itself has a plastic-like look to it. Also, the silicone or polyurethane base can become very hot, sticky and uncomfortable -- even in cooler weather.

3. French lace is one of the most common hair piece bases for both men and women. French lace is incredibly thin, light and almost undetectable. This base also helps keep your hairpiece looking natural and feeling snug. For an even more fine base, choose a Swiss-lace base. This ultra-thin lace base is almost completely invisible. The only draw back to the extra-fine Swiss-lace base is that it is so delicate, it calls for special care to prevent it from tearing or becoming ruined.

4. Monofilament bases are similar to the look and feel of the French- and Swiss-lace bases but are not made of lace. The stiff monofilament conforms to the shape of the head is able to hold the shape. One drawback of the monofilament, similar to the silicone or polyurethane hairpiece bases, is that you will need to add lace to the front of the base to keep your hairpiece looking natural and more like your own hair.

5. Fine welded mono is a lace base system with each individual hair hand tied into the lace. Each hair is added independently by hand to match the hairs color and texture. The fine welded mono is entirely composed of a lace material. The way David Hansen designs the fine welded mono systems is to look natural, placing the patch material half an inch under the edge to soften the hair line. This enables you to achieve an undetectable and natural looking hair line. The patch material used for the fine welded mono pieces is a thin bio skin which mimics the color of your own skin, similar but sturdier than the one used in an injected skin base. This makes it harder for anyone to notice the base material that is on your hair replacement system.The fine welded mono is excellent in any climate, since it is well ventilated and allows the scalp to breathe. The fine welded mono base is very light weight and far more durable than a skin injected base. These bases also keep their original form, ensuring a perfect fit every time. These are the bases that we use at David Hansen, since they are the only option that offers the complete package-durable, comfortable, breathes easy on the scalp, lightweight, and completely undetectable. 

How to Extend the Life of Your Hair Piece

Custom hair pieces are made with precision and superior materials, so they can be pricey. However, this can be a very worthy investment if you take proper care of your piece.  A well made piece can cost about $1500-1700. If it is also cared for, cleaned regularly and stored correctly, it can last for up to 10 years. When you break that down, that is roughly 50 cents a day for the hair piece.

So what are the best steps to take to make a hair piece last 10 years? The answers are very simple. It only takes a few little things each day to keep your hair piece soft, flexible, and looking like new.

1. The method of adhesive used to attach a hair piece is crucial in determining its life expectancy.  Using a bonding (glue) method requires constant wear for 2-3 months at a time. This will shorten the life of the hair piece by 75%. Even the most durable natural human hair piece will only last 2-3 years when using the bonding method.  Surgical tape is inexpensive, easy to change, and allows the wearer to remove and adjust the hair piece while still providing a secure hold. A hair piece secured with surgical tape WILL last longer than a bonded piece. To learn a little more about tape vs. bonding, read our previous posts.

2. Keep your head clean. A hair piece can take on excess oil from the scalp if it is worn for too long and become dirty. It is also the cause of hair pieces sliding around on the head. The excess oil from the scalp damages the adhesive of the tape and makes it less effective.  Always thoroughly shampoo the hair AND scalp to ensure the piece stays clean and creates a clean surface for secure attachment.

3. Keep your piece clean. Hair pieces do not need to be washed as often as live hair, and they can dry out and turn a yellowish hue if shampooed too frequently or with shampoos that contain sulfates. Hair restoration salons like David Hansen Studios clean pieces with the proper tools and shampoos when clients come in for haircuts every 4-6 weeks.

4. Know when to take your hair piece off. Take your piece off before showering and sleeping. If you are going to swim with your head UNDER the water, take it off. It is that simple. Shampooing the piece with regular hair will cause it to age quickly. Sleeping in the piece can cause matting that has to be brushed out with force, causing the piece to lose hair and develop bald patches. If you are going into a pool, but do not plan on getting your head wet, you can wear it.  Chlorine and other salts and minerals that are found in pools, oceans, and other bodies of water make the hair brittle and cause it to break easily and often.  Taking your hair piece off at these times WILL protect the integrity of the hair and extend the life of your piece.

5.  Change the tape. A clean scalp can allow  you to re-use tape once on occasion. Check the tape on the piece after removing it. Press your finger to it to check the tackiness. If the tape has lost its stickiness, remove it and replace it. Putting new tape on top of old tape (layering) can cause the adhesive to melt and create a very sticky mess that will need additional cleaning. Tape is inexpensive and can be purchased pre-cut from David Hansen. It's so simple!

A lot of keeping a hair piece clean comes back to common sense. By creating good hair piece habits, you can enjoy your custom made hair replacement system for years to come!

How to Extend the Life of Your Hair Piece

Custom hair pieces are made with precision and superior materials, so they can be pricey. However, this can be a very worthy investment if you take proper care of your piece.  A well made piece can cost about $1500-1700. If it is also cared for, cleaned regularly and stored correctly, it can last for up to 10 years. When you break that down, that is roughly 50 cents a day for the hair piece.

So what are the best steps to take to make a hair piece last 10 years? The answers are very simple. It only takes a few little things each day to keep your hair piece soft, flexible, and looking like new.

1. The method of adhesive used to attach a hair piece is crucial in determining its life expectancy.  Using a bonding (glue) method requires constant wear for 2-3 months at a time. This will shorten the life of the hair piece by 75%. Even the most durable natural human hair piece will only last 2-3 years when using the bonding method.  Surgical tape is inexpensive, easy to change, and allows the wearer to remove and adjust the hair piece while still providing a secure hold. A hair piece secured with surgical tape WILL last longer than a bonded piece. To learn a little more about tape vs. bonding, read our previous posts.

2. Keep your head clean. A hair piece can take on excess oil from the scalp if it is worn for too long and become dirty. It is also the cause of hair pieces sliding around on the head. The excess oil from the scalp damages the adhesive of the tape and makes it less effective.  Always thoroughly shampoo the hair AND scalp to ensure the piece stays clean and creates a clean surface for secure attachment.

3. Keep your piece clean. Hair pieces do not need to be washed as often as live hair, and they can dry out and turn a yellowish hue if shampooed too frequently or with shampoos that contain sulfates. Hair restoration salons like David Hansen Studios clean pieces with the proper tools and shampoos when clients come in for haircuts every 4-6 weeks.

4. Know when to take your hair piece off. Take your piece off before showering and sleeping. If you are going to swim with your head UNDER the water, take it off. It is that simple. Shampooing the piece with regular hair will cause it to age quickly. Sleeping in the piece can cause matting that has to be brushed out with force, causing the piece to lose hair and develop bald patches. If you are going into a pool, but do not plan on getting your head wet, you can wear it.  Chlorine and other salts and minerals that are found in pools, oceans, and other bodies of water make the hair brittle and cause it to break easily and often.  Taking your hair piece off at these times WILL protect the integrity of the hair and extend the life of your piece.

5.  Change the tape. A clean scalp can allow  you to re-use tape once on occasion. Check the tape on the piece after removing it. Press your finger to it to check the tackiness. If the tape has lost its stickiness, remove it and replace it. Putting new tape on top of old tape (layering) can cause the adhesive to melt and create a very sticky mess that will need additional cleaning. Tape is inexpensive and can be purchased pre-cut from David Hansen. It's so simple!

A lot of keeping a hair piece clean comes back to common sense. By creating good hair piece habits, you can enjoy your custom made hair replacement system for years to come!

TOP 10 Q&A

If you have a hair piece or are in the market for one, chances are you have or have had plenty of questions about your hairpiece. Here are the top 10 most frequently asked questions we've heard and their answers, direct from David Hansen.

1.  A tape-on system seems like a lot of work.  How long is this going to take me to put on?

Actually, it's barely any work at all! Our hair systems have thin strips on the inside that show you exactly where to put the tape. We also can sell you pre-cut tape and curved tape that is specifically designed for the front part of your hair piece.  Just take the old tape off at night, put your hair piece on a block at night, and in the morning, put the new tape on and pop it on your clean scalp. We also show you a step-by-step and allow you to practice putting it on when you come in to pick up your piece, so you are comfortable with securing the piece on your own head.  Even our most hesitant clients are now able to spend less than 5 minutes on their hair each morning!

2.  Do I need a lot of special supplies for my hair piece?

Nope! The minimum recommended supplies are: Canvas or Styrofoam Block (and holder), Straight Pins, Hair Pick, Tape, and Spray Bottle. We sell all these and other styling tools and products at our Chicago location.

3.  Can I swim in it?

This is one of our most frequently asked questions with the most ignored answer. You should NOT SWIM IN YOUR HAIRPIECE! Hair pieces can be expensive, and the salts and minerals in ocean water, lake water, and swimming pools will damage the hair in the piece. With proper care, a hair piece can last up to 10 years. A hair piece that takes constant use, such as in swimming pools, showers, and while sleeping, on average will last between 3 months and 2 years. SO DON'T SWIM IN IT.

4.  So I shouldn't sleep in it, either?

No! Sleeping will cause the hair to mat and trying to brush out tangles will cause the hair to pull out of the base. As the piece loses hair, it will become patchy and have bald spots in it.

5.  How often should I clean it?

Every 3-4 weeks. We will clean your piece when you come in for a haircut; it is included in our service.  If you can't make it in that often, fill a basin or sink with warm water, remove your piece, and wash gently with sulfate-free shampoo. Try to keep the piece flat while washing and rub the shampoo in a wide circle-hard erratic scrubbing can mat the hair. If the shampoo does not lather, wash it again. Rinse the hair, roll it in a towel to remove the excess moisture, and pin it to the block to dry. We'll show you how when you come in!

6.  Will people be able to tell this is fake if they get to close to my head?

Our custom hair pieces are just that-custom. We believe that hair pieces should fit like contact lenses- a perfect fit, comfortable, light, and measured specifically for you. The light flexible base, combined with a perfect hair sample match and superior ventilation, will blend in completely with your scalp.  Our custom hair pieces are COMPLETELY UNDETECTABLE. And they are so light and breathable, even you will forget it's there!

7.   Can I use styling products?

There are a few specific styling products that are gentle enough for a hair piece, but everyday styling products like hairspray and gels will dry out and damage the hair piece. We carry several of the highest recommended hair piece-safe styling products that you can purchase during your next visit.

8.  How long will it stay on?

Depends on the adhesive. Bonding will last 2-3 months without removal. It doesn't require you to take it off, however, it will force you to sleep, shower, and swim with it on. See questions 3 and 4.  A tape-on method has to be taken off every night, but if the tape is new and your head is clean and oil-free, the tape will last without any problems all day long, and will only come off when you take it off.

9.  How long will it take to get a hair system?

From the time we take your measurements and head mold, it takes between 4 and 6 weeks for your piece to be complete, sometimes sooner if your piece is smaller.

10.  What if I don't like the style of my hair piece after I wear it a few days?

You have several options. Put your piece on the block, pin it down, and spray with water. Use the pick or a brush to re-style the hair. Custom pieces allow each individual hair a full range of motion, so you can wear it in any direction you want. If you still are not satisfied and require a new cut, just bring it back in and we'll fix it until you love it.

Do you have any questions for us about hair pieces, hair loss, or our business?  Post them below and we will answer them in our next blog!!

Losing Hair is Hard; We're Here to Help.

Hair loss can be emotionally devastating for women and men alike. Hair loss has many possible causes, including genetics, an underactive thyroid, cancer treatments, or medications for other health conditions. And for many people, hair loss (alopecia) or thinning hair can result in a loss of self-esteem and cause depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues.  

Culture and society play a major role in sparking this negative reaction to hair loss.  In most parts of the world, having healthy, lustrous hair is a symbol of youth and beauty. To lose one's hair can spark powerful emotions. Many people find themselves less attractive. Some may become depressed. However a person copes with hair loss, we are here to tell you; you are not alone, and we are here to help.

David Hansen, founder of David Hansen Studios, understands on a personal level how hair loss can effect a person on a deep emotional level. Several years ago, David was diagnosed with throat cancer. The repercussions of the radiation treatment were drastic. He has always been an advocate for those suffering from hair loss. Now he has experienced firsthand the emotions that are tied with losing hair. 

So, if you are one of many people suffering from hair loss, don't lose hope! We don't just 'do hair', we are here to offer support and encouragement while giving you the best products. Our pieces are custom made, just for you. Just like you are a unique and beautiful individual, the pieces we make for you are completely original, and made with care. 

How to Wear it in Any Weather

Spring is here, which means unpredictable weather. How does this affect hairpiece wearers? Just like with natural hair, there are steps you must take to keep your hairpiece fresh, clean, and looking perfect.
Rain is one of the gentlest natural forces on your hairpiece, especially if you live in a rural area with low pollution. Air pollution and dust particles get trapped in raindrops that can get your piece dirty over time. If you have a custom made hairpiece, you won't have to worry about the style being ruined by a passing cloud. The hair in David Hansen's custom hair systems is ventilated by hand to achieve maximum mobility. If the rain tousles your style, your hairpiece is natural enough to just run a comb through it, and the style is done! All in all, a little rain won't hurt. But bring your umbrella!

Spending time in the sun can give your skin a great glow, but it can also bring some unwanted color to your hairpiece. When exposed to sunlight and air (especially near bodies of salt water), the hair in the piece can oxidize, or turn color. Pieces with grey or white hair can turn a yellowish color, blonde can gradually turn orange, and brunette pieces will display much more of a reddish tone.  This doesn't happen overnight, but a summer of fun in the sun can leave your piece looking lackluster after only a few months. There are options to both prevent and combat sun exposure. The first and most obvious is a hat. David Hansen's custom hairpieces use a lightweight yet durable mesh-type base that lets your scalp breathe just like it would with regular hair. Wearing a hat with one will not overheat your head like other hairpieces. The other option is talking to your stylist about shampoos used to tone yellow and red colors in the hair. These shampoos, like ShimmerLights, are purple or blue colored, and gradually remove yellow, orange, and red from hairpieces that have had too much sun or have aged considerably.

If a strong gust of wind blows past, your LAST thought should have to be worrying about your hairpiece staying on. If you have a custom hair replacement system from David Hansen, then your hairpiece is shaped perfectly to your head for an undetectable fit. If your scalp and piece are clean, and you are using the proper double-sided surgical tape, your hairpiece will stay on, even in winds that could blow YOU away!  The wind is not the danger to your hairpiece, but the wrong styling products are. NEVER use hairspray on a hair system. The alcohol, aerosol, and propellants in hairspray dehydrates hair and causes it to break easily. There is also alcohol in most generic hair products for natural hair. These chemicals are much too harsh for hair in hairpieces, so there are plenty of alternate styling tools and products that are alcohol-free.  You can buy Wet Look, a holding spray for hairpieces, at our studio. The best styling product for a hairpiece is just plain water. Custom hair replacement by David Hansen always styles easily, and can be combed back into place.

With the weather warming up, the beaches and pools will open. But before you take that dive, here's a few things you should know. Swimming in a hairpiece is one of the quickest ways to age it. Not only does the act of getting it wet and matted pull hairs out of the base and cause terrible tangling, what is IN the water can hurt the piece, too.  Chlorine from pools dries hair out, and will cause hairpieces to thin rapidly due to all the breakage. Salts from the ocean or salt lakes also have a drying effect on the hair. This combined with the matting of the hair can take years of life out of your piece.  There are a few alternatives to this, David Hansen suggests wearing a swim cap or even using an old hairpiece that has seen better days. The new ones, though, should be kept out of the water.

No matter what the weather may bring your way, you can keep you hairpiece looking undetectable!