A hair replacement system is a non-surgical way to address hair loss. It’s the modern version of a toupee and is a lot more natural-looking. A modern hair replacement system can work just as well as a surgical hair transplant to give you hair that looks like your real hair but without the expense and recovery period involved with hair transplant surgery. But how, exactly, does a hair replacement system work?

What Is a Hair Replacement System?

To know how a hair replacement system works, you first need to know exactly what it is. A hair replacement system is made of donated hair and is essentially a wig or a toupee. However, despite the reputation of a toupee as looking obviously artificial, a modern hair replacement system can look just like your natural hair. Alternatively, if you’d like a different look, your hair salon can work with you to change how your natural hair looks and match the hair replacement system to that instead.

What Is a Hair Replacement System Made From?

Hair replacement systems that you can get at a hair salon are typically made from real hair, which helps them to look natural. A hairstylist who specializes in hair replacement can help to match the hair replacement system to your natural hair color. The membrane that holds the hair together, which is what actually sits on your head, can be made out of lace, monofilament, or polyurethane.

How Do You Get a Hair Replacement System?

It’s possible to buy a stock hair replacement system essentially that is already made, but often these are lower-end and will be more obvious. To get the best possible results, you should make an appointment for a consultation with a hair salon that specializes in hair replacement systems. During that consultation, the stylist can speak privately with you about your hair and what style you’re looking for.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Hair Replacement System?

Once your salon knows what style and color you need for your hair replacement system, they’ll order what they need and schedule an appointment with you to apply it. The application process usually takes a few hours to complete.

How Long Does a Hair Replacement System Last?

Hair replacement systems don’t last forever. Typically, they can last up to 3-5 months, especially if they’re well cared-for. You should speak with your stylist about how frequently you’ll need to get it replaced. Your stylist should also be able to give you tips on how to properly care for your hair replacement system so that it lasts as long as possible.

However, this length of time will see you in the salon at around the same frequency as if you were coming in for haircuts. This means that you can take the opportunity to change up your hair style and color if you’d like. Just because you need a hair replacement system doesn’t mean you’re stuck with the same style forever!