What to Expect
For many, the unknown keeps them from moving forward. So, let us give you a short guided tour of what you can expect from start to finish. When you come in for your free consultation, we will explain everything in more detail and answer all your questions.
Keep in mind that many don’t understand the amazing new technology available and still think of hair systems in terms of “toupee”, “wig”, or even a “rug”. Now, with a solid understanding of human hair growth patterns, and an advancement in materials and technology, the old hair pieces are a thing of the past.
Fortunately, with today’s technology in non-surgical hair replacement, you can have a full head of hair again that is totally undetectable and styled for your look and lifestyle. The hair restoration industry has undergone exciting changes in the last 15 years that makes having a full, good looking head of hair again possible.
Our cutting-edge systems human hair systems are customized to fit you perfectly. It matches your hair density, texture, color, and skin tone perfectly. They are permanently affixed to your scalp so that you can maintain your current activities, even exercising and swimming, without having to do anything except wash, condition, and comb your hair….just like before you lost it.
Consultation
First, Stormy will sit down and discuss your hair loss /hair replacement problem. You could be someone who has just started thinning, or someone who has significant baldness
and wants to explore the possibilities. You might also be an experienced wearer of a hair system and are looking for someone to give you the system, service, and personal attention you have been lacking
During the consultation, Stormy will perform a hair loss and scalp evaluation and let you know if you are a candidate for hair replacement. She will explain the latest technology and recommend the optimum solution for your unique situation, always keeping in mind your desired look, lifestyle, and budget. This will include explaining the different pros and cons of base materials and hair types available and going over what to expect from your hair replacement system. It’s that personal attention and caring that sets Imagine Hair apart from all the others.
Here is some of the information you will learn
• How much of the bald or thinning area can be covered?
• What is the best style for you, based on your needs and lifestyle?
• How will it be made and fitted?
• How it will be integrated into your own hair?
• How long will last?
• How much will it cost?
At this stage you will have as much time needed to discuss any more questions you may have. Some clients decide to go ahead with the hair replacement straight away. Others need time to consider going ahead.
Before you come in, if you can, go and get a photo of yourself from the days before you started losing your hair. We’re dead serious. Go get that photo and look at it carefully. That’s exactly how your hair can look with our latest non-surgical technology. Then, bring that photo in for your free consultation to show us how you used to look. We’ll show you how we can make a difference in your appearance just by making you look like you again.
Design
Once you decide to proceed, we will make a template of your scalp to create a base. On this template we replicate the style, color, density, curl, length, and growth pattern of your existing hair so your system will perfectly integrate with your existing hair. A sample of your hair is taken so that a perfect color match is made between your system and your or own hair. We can give you an “immediate” full head of hair or gradually increase the density over time.
Often with first time wearers choose a low density so the hair is replaced gradually to avoid attention being drawn.
Next, the base material is chosen to match your skin color so it will virtually disappear when it is worn. This base is then used to attach the new 100% human hair to build your system. Since each system is unique and custom just for you, it usually requires about 6 to 8 weeks to complete.
Why is it Called a “System”?
A hair replacement system is made by hand weaving individual human or synthetic hair onto a breathable material base comprised of a monofilament, lace or an ultra-thin “skin” membrane. The base is then secured by using a preferred method of attachment such as a tape or a surgical-grade adhesive. After the system is attached, it is then cut and blended with your existing hair by a professional, making it nearly undetectable. That is the goal of any hair replacement system. But, as it is with any product that is handcrafted, the quality will vary.
Getting a hair replacement system means you won’t have to compromise on your everyday lifestyle, constantly worrying that your hairpiece might fall off. However, keeping the hairpiece in good shape also requires commitment on your part.
Hair replacement systems can be shampooed, cut, and styled like natural hair. You don’t even have to take it off when you go swimming or hit the gym. It will have to be replaced from time to time due to the usual wear and tear and since it’s in constant contact with the skin’s natural acids and exposed to the elements, like the sun.
There are two different types of hair systems available (1) Stock and (2) Custom. The names should indicate the biggest difference between them.
Stock Hair Systems are bulk produced in standard sizes, colors, hair lines, and hair textures, to fit the majority of men and women that have complete or nearly complete top head balding. Generally, if your stylist measures correctly and takes the time to select a system that most closely matches your existing hair, stock hair systems can work well for many people. However, they are usually limited in the color selection, type of hair, and shape. That may require them to be modified to meet a specific head, color, and hair front shape.
The size and shape of a stock system is limited and generally cannot be cut down to fit a unique hair loss pattern.
If, however, they work for you, stock systems are generally less expansive and being “off-the-shelf”, they are usually available in a much shorter time than something custom.
Custom Hair System As the name suggests, custom systems are unique to the individual wearer. They are designed and made specifically to cover a certain area and have the flexibility of being able to be made with specific attributes in color, density, design, hair type, texture, and type of base. They bring the flexibility and freedom to create almost unlimited combinations that perfectly match a wearer’s existing hair and desired final look. They are especially good for hair where different colors need to be blended, like with gray on the temples, at specific areas on the head.
Attaching Your System
The most common problem for men and women who wear hair replacement systems is attachment. You have a sea of options to choose from and since we’re all different, one size doesn’t always fit all. There are three popular attachment methods these days; clips, glue or tape. Glue (often called bonding adhesive) and tape are used by well over 90% of hair wearers because they both offer a more secure attachment. Bonding also helps to achieve a more natural appearance.
Fitting and Styling
This is the exciting part. When your system arrives, you will come in for your fitting and styling. This is where the integration artistry begins.
Since you have already decided on the style you want, Stormy will check to be sure the system fits perfectly and then permanently bond it to your head. There are several bonding processes available, and Stormy will explain each one to you so you can make an informed decision. One of the keys to selecting a bonding method is your current lifestyle. For example, those with an active lifestyle of sports and outdoor activities may choose a method that provides absolute security under active conditions.
Done worry! When we say “bonding” we’re not going to staple it to your head. We use several different industry approved techniques including the latest medical adhesives that are non-toxic and don’t react with most people’s skin.
In about 1-2 hours, your new hair will be in place and styled. The first time most people look in the mirror they are in awe at the difference.
Stormy is a master hair stylist and knows that the most important thing is the final look and hair style. This is where we have the advantage because we know how to cut and style hair and ensure each and every customer leaves the salon with hair looking as great as they had hoped.
Adjustment and Haircuts
Because the bonding systems only hold for 3-6 weeks, you will need to schedule to come in for an adjustment and trim of your existing hair. Think of it like going to barber every so often for a haircut.
That’s all there is to it. It’s a pretty straight forward process, and you don’t have to worry about any of it, except taking care of your system with regular shampoo and combing.
System Life Expectancy
Depending upon your lifestyle, and care of your new system, it should last 1-2 years. After you have worn it for a while, and enjoy having a full head of hair once again, you may want to consider purchasing a 2nd system as a backup so you will have the security of knowing you can retain your new look regardless of what might happen.
Let Us Show You the Difference
A realistic hair replacement solution takes skill and artistry. It has to be perfect in order to blend in with your existing hair for it to look close to natural and stylish. An entirely separate level of creative artistry comes into play when designing the right hair system for you. That’s what we do best.
Come in for a free, private consultation. We will evaluate your hair and scalp, discuss your hopes, and go over your lifestyle so we can recommend the exact system that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. No Long Term Contracts Required!
Make an Appointment for your FREE Consultation
Note that all consultations are by appointment only. Please e-mail or call us first.