Thinking of getting a system any tips?

Rooster85

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Hi first post on this forum I'm in Australia I went and seen a lady who specialises in men's hair systems. She was very helpful in my consultation, I'm going back in two weeks to get a mould done and order a French Lace custom system, I'm 31 I currently shave my head but it looks like I still have hair, I'm going to have to grow my hair for 9 weeks so going to have to wear a hat for that time. I am having the last 4 weeks off work and getting it put on at the end of the 4 weeks. I'm am scared to go back to work with hair for what people are going to say, would they suspect a system or an I being paranoid. Im thinking most people that don't look into hair loss probably don't know how far hair systems have come. Any help and insight would be appreciated.
 

Kedha

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It depends on how long you've worked there, how well your coworkers know you, etc. If they've known you for a while (at least a year) and are used to you not having hair (albeit a shaved head), then people ARE going to scrutinize you quite a bit. I worked with a bald guy (he had hair on the sides) that I could tell was suspicious of me. They are always the toughest to fool cause they've probably done the research themselves at one point in their lives.

Do you normally wear hats? If not, then you suddenly wearing one for a month before revealing a full head of hair is going to set off alarm bells. If you're not a hat guy, I'd recommend committing to it for a while, like a couple of months at least, AFTER you get the system. It'll look less suspicious if you don't ditch it immediately.

Another good tip is to grow out your beard at the same time. Diverts attention away from the top. Like with the hat, keep the beard for an extended period of time after you get the system. This is what I did and almost every comment I got was about my beard and not my hair.

And lastly, make sure you get the system cut pretty short. It's tempting to have long(ish) hair, but be realistic about how much would have grown naturally in 9 weeks. Hopefully it's one that has a receding hairline, that'll look more natural.

Anyway, good luck to you!
 

Rooster85

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Thank so much for replying! Kedha a lot of the things you said I was already thinking so that makes me feel more confident I wear a hat sometimes at work already and it's coming into summer so I will start wearing it more, and your right I'm still going to run it after I get it done so people only notice slowly not all at once. I will like it shorter anyway just wasn't sure how short you can go. Any tips you can give on what I should be ordering obviously the lady will have an idea but iv read it's better to go lighter density and maybe a little lighter on top than what my sides are.

How long have you had yours do you still love it?
 

grincher

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some wearer when making the switch dont go for full density immediately. Instead they gradually increase density over a year or two. Note that a hat can be quite abrasive to the hair. Place some silk inside it to cause less wear & tear.

Given the scenerio you have described you will come under some scrutiny, but there are ways it can be deflected.
 

Kedha

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I'm the wrong guy to ask those kind of questions. I got my system through a clinic in March 2013 (I was 26). I wore it until February the next year, which is when I stopped wearing it after I took a job in remote northern Canada on a 1-year contract. I had some problems with wearing it, weighed the pros/cons, and decided to stop forever.

Well now I'm having second thoughts about having second thoughts and am thinking about going back to a system when I come home early next year. So I've been doing some research and just found this place.

It's great that you're doing this type of research before you commit. My guy didn't give me any options for density, or the shape of the hairline (definitely ask if they have receding ones). It was also a shock to find out I could've ordered it myself for $300-$500 (I paid him $2500 CDN).

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Oh and for the hat I'd recommend one of those flat brim snapbacks. Very roomy so it won't damage your system.
 

grincher

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Thank so much for replying! Kedha a lot of the things you said I was already thinking so that makes me feel more confident I wear a hat sometimes at work already and it's coming into summer so I will start wearing it more, and your right I'm still going to run it after I get it done so people only notice slowly not all at once. I will like it shorter anyway just wasn't sure how short you can go. Any tips you can give on what I should be ordering obviously the lady will have an idea but iv read it's better to go lighter density and maybe a little lighter on top than what my sides are.

How long have you had yours do you still love it?


side and back hair is slightly different to that on the top and front of heads. its usually thicker and stronger. Consider you side and back hair and age. Try to order a density lower that that hair for a more natural look

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I'm the wrong guy to ask those kind of questions. I got my system through a clinic in March 2013 (I was 26). I wore it until February the next year, which is when I stopped wearing it after I took a job in remote northern Canada on a 1-year contract. I had some problems with wearing it, weighed the pros/cons, and decided to stop forever.

Well now I'm having second thoughts about having second thoughts and am thinking about going back to a system when I come home early next year. So I've been doing some research and just found this place.

It's great that you're doing this type of research before you commit. My guy didn't give me any options for density, or the shape of the hairline (definitely ask if they have receding ones). It was also a shock to find out I could've ordered it myself for $300-$500 (I paid him $2500 CDN).

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Oh and for the hat I'd recommend one of those flat brim snapbacks. Very roomy so it won't damage your system.

Wow...thats alot!!

I pay under $400 for mine (£250) and have it custom made including the size, shape and density. I get them shipped out even when I am working abroad. Been quite happy with the DIY route. Done correctly a hair system will give you a renewed outlook on life.

I started with a lower density and over time raised it to a full head without any questions.
 

Rooster85

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Thanks for your help fellas so good to have this site to help make my decision, @grincher I will definitely go a lighter density to start with thanks for the tip. @kedha how come you thinking of getting another piece again? Did you take it for granted how good you look with hair or?

@grincher this lady I'm seeing is charging me 1000 for a system she is so helpful and said she will teach me how to diy. Do you think that is fair I'm happy to pay that much to start with because I have no idea how it works atm. Another thing she recommend to have 2 systems and inter- change them every 5- 6 weeks, and that should last 12 months give or take.. is it possible to only buy one and just keep re applying this one to make it cheaper and then start buying my own? Thanks again !
 

grincher

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2 pieces is sensible in case of an emergency - but only at the right price.

2 lace pieces should give 12-months.

I assume 1000 AUD. DIY isnt difficult and can be learnt via a forum and youtube. I learned that way plus found an online company with lots of advice. I think some online companies will advise what system to get and how to apply it.

I roughly pay 400 AUD per system. If you really feel it will help then 1000 is what you will need to pay.
 

Rooster85

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You reckon to tape or glue?? If I buy 2 thats 2000 yes AUD. Maybe buy one of her and one off Nwl I'd have to order soon tho and I'd have to copy the other one yeah?

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Like make both of them the Same is that possible seen I don't Know where she is getting it made.
 

Kedha

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Rooster85;1207574 @kedha how come you thinking of getting another piece again? Did you take it for granted how good you look with hair or? [/QUOTE said:
For the most part I thought it looked fantastic. My issues were:

1) couldn't expose the hair line. wasn't told if this beforehand, wish I had known.

2) shape of the hairline too unrealistic. I've seen now that there are other options.

3) what I'm assuming was allergic reactions to the bond. small, raised, red bumps. I was just told to not worry about it.

4) the cost. $2500 CDN for a lace system that would last a year. $100 to come in for a re-bonding/cleaning, which I needed at least every 3 weeks. in a perfect world I would've loved having it done every 2 weeks, due to my very oily scalp. with those prices I'd be looking at almost $5000/yr.

5) I'm a workout freak and a very sweaty dude. my front tape would melt and get sticky (and get into the hair-very messy) so I'd be changing it halfway through my day. I also had issues with smell, especially if I waited longer than 2 weeks for a re-bonding/cleaning.

6) paralyzing fear of getting caught by a girl. I went on a few dates and every time I couldn't relax if they got in close. my hair was relatively long, and girls LOVE to play with that kinda hair. I've heard great things about these skin systems where it's less detectable by touch.

I'm probably gonna order a new one (Northwest Lace is like 2 hours away from home), and play around with my old one. Try out these DIY techniques I've read about.

I think I just got burned by a clinic that overcharged and under informed me. I could deal with the prices but it's clear they were keeping me in the dark regarding potential options/methods. Reading forums like this and watching Youtube videos has opened my eyes.
 

grincher

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I think I just got burned by a clinic that overcharged and under informed me. I could deal with the prices but it's clear they were keeping me in the dark regarding potential options/methods. Reading forums like this and watching Youtube videos has opened my eyes.

too true. as soon as clinics educate their customers they lose them. With DIY you will have so many more options and be better informed for sure
 

Rooster85

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I'm currently growing my hair I'm getting excited.. But at the same time I'm still scared. I'm peaking out if someone hit me up that I was wearing wig what would I do or say?? Any tips on that? Do you reckon Anyone would say that...? I think I will be ok once I see it, I have faith this lady will do a good job. But just can't picture it atm!
 

kejan

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I'm currently growing my hair I'm getting excited.. But at the same time I'm still scared. I'm peaking out if someone hit me up that I was wearing wig what would I do or say?? Any tips on that? Do you reckon Anyone would say that...? I think I will be ok once I see it, I have faith this lady will do a good job. But just can't picture it atm!

I think you have to mentally prepare yourself for that. You may have a bad day attaching, some crazy lightning from a bar/office, an ultra intrusive person, colour of the piece/hair ration too,a fellow baldie knowing something is 'up' with your hair and to top of there are a ton of ignorant jerks out there today, whilst 90% of the population (if they did think your hair looked odd) wouldn't say anything, but some would and do, or even worse talk about it behind your back.

Sorry, I'm not trying to make you paranoid, but the question may well come up. I've no idea how I'd answer it, but I think the key is to be cool in your answer either way. Somehow I imagine admitting you are wearing would make the issue less especially if you delievered it in a lowkey way something like "Yeah, I wear. I tried everything and didn't feel happy or comfortable bald'' and emphasing that it makes you happy and that even if deep down you are hurling at the thought of it, that you pull it off in a non-caring tone.
 

Rooster85

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Yeah that doesn't do anything for my confidence.. But your being honest at least. There is no way I'm telling anyone that I'm wearing one. I'll just laugh and say as if!
Everyone thinks I have hair atm cause I have smp so I hoping if I can do the transition good it might dull the fact that I have hair now, I'm going really thin density and going to go as short as I can aswell, also keep wearing a hat for a while. Thanks for your input.

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Planning on using some thickening fibres on top as my hair gets longer as I do have a little bit up there
 

grincher

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hair systems do work and they dont work too. it all depends on the right system, cut in and the wearer's attention to detail. They can look great or awful. You and the sylist need to know what the heck is going on.

That said, I have never been found out in all the time I have been wearing and I was fine telling those closest to me.

Some days I have bad hair days (relatively) but way better than I had when thinning. And of course, other days I have the best hair I could wish for.

Its brave trying, but its the right thing. Even if its not 100% convincing (it takes time to master it) you can learn and improve next time.

ps women are probably the first to notice a change. just say you are using a new volumising shampoo if asked.
 

Kedha

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Yeah, using those "hair in a can" type products is a great idea. Stick with the hat most of the time, but make sure everyone gets a look that you DO have a full head of hair. Seriously, keep track of who has and hasn't seen it until you're sure everyone's covered

When you sit down with your middle man make sure they understand how important a realistic (as in similar to your actual) hairline is. That's usually the #1 thing nosy/skeptical people look for.

You might want to check out some message boards/forums/etc where people gossip about male celebrities they think wear a system (trust me, they're out there). You'll get a good idea of any other giveaways.

You'll be fine, you're doing a great job of covering all your bases. Like I said, I fooled pretty much everyone except for 1 bald guy (who I'm pretty sure gossiped about it) and that was with a bad hairline and too much density.

Hell, go online and join a bunch of clubs and meet new people that you won't stress about catching you since they never knew bald you.
 

Rooster85

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Hey fellas! Thanks again for the input I sent the lady 12 questions via email last night she answered everyone . I feel that's a good sign!
Was it hard to picture what you were going to look like just before you got it put on? I king of know the style I want but still can't picture it.

Grincher I hope you stay on this forum for a while cause I'm going to need your help when it comes to buying my own piece. If that's ok !

I will put up photos once I'm done! Have you put any photos up either of you two?
 

grincher

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You reckon to tape or glue?? If I buy 2 thats 2000 yes AUD. Maybe buy one of her and one off Nwl I'd have to order soon tho and I'd have to copy the other one yeah?

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Like make both of them the Same is that possible seen I don't Know where she is getting it made.


You will have one look at how she does it then you will have to learn it soon after if you are going down the DIY route.

Definitely wise to check youtube for experts and how they do it before you go there so you have a sound understanding of whats what and why. Everyone is slightly different with bad habits too :)

Like said, dont be put off if you dont pull it off first time. It takes a wee time.

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Indeed. To get the maximum out of a hair system, its the little subtle details that count. Often when you leave yourself at the mercy of these salons and clinics they will try to keep their costs down and go for something stock and simple and inappropriate.

I found the DIY route gave me a quicker and deeper understanding in a short time.

Skin is supposedly invisible to sight and touch. The down side is less durable and they would be as breathable as lace.

I quite easily get 3-weeks with my tapes despite 15 trips to the gym and I sweat like a champion.

The online company I am with suggested a graduated hairline so density is lower at the front just like a natural hairline. Its something to consider.
 

Vinton Harper

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One thing I would recommend to any new hair wearer is to try Got2BeGlued Spiking Gel mixed with the Freezing Spray, for use as an adhesive. If it works with your body chemistry(as it does mine) you will have a strong hold that will last just as long, if not longer, than glues or tapes. And it is very forgiving during cleanup. I am glad I tried it.
 
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