What is Hair Prosthesis? Types of Hair Prosthesis
Contents
What is Hair Prosthesis? Types of Hair Prosthesis
Hair prosthesis application is a method that offers an alternative for individuals who want to achieve a full and aesthetic hair appearance without undergoing procedures such as hair transplantation or using wigs. Thanks to the use of hair prosthesis, it is possible to achieve the desired hair appearance painlessly and quickly. Before deciding to have a hair prosthesis applied, it is useful to learn important information such as the types of hair prostheses and how the hair prosthesis application is performed.
Article Content
- How is a Hair Prosthesis Applied?
- Who Can Use a Hair Prosthesis?
- Things to Consider in Hair Prosthesis Application
- What are the Types of Hair Prostheses?
- How is Hair Prosthesis Care Performed?
- Tips for Ensuring Long-Lasting Hair Prosthesis
- Things to Consider Before and After Hair Prosthesis
- Hair Prosthesis or Hair Transplant? Which is More Effective?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Prosthesis
How is Hair Prosthesis Applied?
Hair prostheses are made from natural hair or synthetic material that resembles natural hair. The goal of hair prosthesis application is to solve the individual’s hair loss problem while achieving a natural look. Most hair prosthesis models, especially those made from natural hair, are designed to be suitable for use for an average of 1.5-2 years.
The hair prosthesis application process involves several steps to achieve long-lasting hair solutions. Paying attention to certain points during this process ensures the most suitable appearance while also extending the lifespan of the hair.
Hair Prosthesis Application Process
In the hair prosthesis process, the individual experiencing hair loss and wishing to undergo the hair prosthesis application must first meet with the specialist who will perform the application. In order for the procedure to be completed with the most natural results, the person’s hair structure is examined and their requests are learned in detail. Conducting this consultation in a healthy manner and mutually communicating clear information and expectations about the process increases the benefit the individual will receive from the application.
During the examination, the individual’s hair structure, hair and skin color are analyzed. This allows for the design of a hairpiece that matches the individual’s existing hair or, if they have no hair, one that suits their head shape. In the next step, hair measurements are taken, considering the start of the individual’s hairline and the measurements of their head circumference. If the measurements taken match standard molds, these molds can also be used. Thanks to these molds, ready-made hairpiece products can be used, saving time.
After the initial consultation and measurements are completed, the hair prosthesis preparation process begins. A natural-looking hair prosthesis can be designed based on the hair analysis and the individual’s requests. Some individuals who want a hair prosthesis experience partial baldness, while others are completely bald, so one of the factors affecting prosthesis production is the individual’s hair density. Hair thickness and texture are also determined on an individual basis for production. Natural hair or synthetic material can be used when preparing hair prostheses. The choice between natural hair and synthetic hair material is up to the individual.
During the prosthesis design process, the part of the hair prosthesis that will adhere to the scalp is designed to be suitable for the individual’s skin structure and to allow air to pass through small holes without completely covering the scalp. This ensures that the desired appearance is achieved while preventing skin problems. The prepared hair prosthesis is attached to the scalp or, in some cases, to existing hair using special adhesives or tapes. In some applications, the stitching method may also be used. The hair can then be cut and styled to the desired length.
Who Can Use Hair Prostheses?
Hair prosthesis application can be performed at different ages depending on the individual’s needs and requests. Individuals who experience hair loss due to genetic or age-related factors or due to factors such as illness or stress and who want to increase their hair density can benefit from hair prosthesis. If a prosthesis is to be made for hair loss in children due to congenital or other reasons, the procedure can be performed after the parent’s approval and expert evaluation.
It is recommended that individuals with skin diseases such as eczema or hidradenitis suppurativa do not use hair prostheses. The reason for this is to prevent materials that may restrict the skin’s ability to breathe to a certain extent from damaging the skin. In addition, it is not recommended that individuals with special needs or other specific conditions who have difficulty meeting their personal needs have hair prostheses made. This is because these individuals may experience skin-related health problems if they neglect hair care.
Points to Consider When Applying Hair Prostheses
The main points to consider regarding the use of hair prostheses are as follows:
- Be careful about what needs to be done before and after the application.
- Choosing professional centers that are meticulous about important issues such as hygiene and individual health when having the application done,
- If a standard hair prosthesis is to be used, making sure that it is suitable for the individual’s head and hair structure,
- If there are special expectations and needs, choosing to have a personalized hair prosthesis design made,
- Being careful about health problems that require avoiding hair prosthesis application.
What Are the Types of Hair Prostheses?
Depending on the material used in production, hair prostheses have both advantages and disadvantages. Hair prosthesis types can be listed as follows:
Natural Hair Prostheses
Natural hair prostheses, made using real human hair, offer many advantages. The most important of these advantages is that natural prosthetic hair creates a realistic feel and appearance. It is also a suitable type of prosthesis for processes such as dyeing and styling normal hair. Among the disadvantages of natural hair prostheses is that this model is more expensive and difficult to maintain compared to other types. It requires regular maintenance with the right products, just like real hair.
Synthetic Hair Prostheses
Synthetic hair prostheses use artificial hair material. For this reason, synthetic hair is generally more economical than natural hair. It offers a suitable alternative, especially for individuals seeking short-term economical solutions. However, using synthetic hair prostheses may have some disadvantages, such as allergic reactions. Although these prostheses are specially designed to create a look similar to human hair, when viewed closely, they may not offer as natural a look as natural hair prostheses.
Semi-Natural Hair Prostheses
Semi-natural hair prostheses are produced using both synthetic hair material and human hair. They can be an ideal option for individuals who find it difficult to choose between natural and synthetic hair prostheses. Thanks to semi-natural hair prostheses, more natural-looking and durable hair can be achieved compared to synthetic hair prostheses. While the shorter lifespan compared to natural hair is a disadvantage of this type of hair prosthesis, requiring less maintenance is one of its advantages.
How to Care for Prosthetic Hair?
What you need to know about prosthetic hair care can be covered under the following headings:
Daily Care Routine
Daily care should not be neglected to ensure that the hair prosthesis looks better and lasts longer. When washing, combing, or styling the hair, movements appropriate to the design and structure of the hair should be made. While some hair prostheses need to be removed during sleep, others can be worn while sleeping. However, if sleeping with hair prostheses, it is helpful to protect them with items such as hair nets. In addition, shampoo and hair care products suitable for the material of the hairpiece and recommended by the specialist performing the procedure should be used. Daily care with the wrong products can damage the hairpiece.
Products for Cleaning Hairpieces
Keeping the hairpiece clean and sufficiently moisturized can extend its durability. Standard hair care products are generally not sufficient for use on hairpieces. For cleaning wigs, it is necessary to choose mild shampoos specially produced for wigs that provide moisture support. Wig shampoos are usually keratin-based. This makes it possible to clean them better by meeting the protein needs that the hair, which has been pulled out from the root, cannot produce.
Tips for Long-Lasting Wigs
Here are some tips to help your hair prosthesis last longer:
- Maintain your hair care routine.
- Use hair care products that are suitable for the design of your hair prosthesis and will not damage the structure of the hair.
- Use moisturizing hair products to prevent the hair from drying out and becoming damaged.
- Avoid hair styling methods that expose hair roots to excessive heat,
- Choose wide-toothed combs designed not to damage the hair prosthesis during combing,
- Use soft pillowcases to help maintain the shape of the hair.
Things to Consider Before and After Hair Prosthesis
Precautions before and after hair prosthesis application are important for the longevity of the hair prosthesis and to increase the individual’s satisfaction with the application. Before the procedure, if there is any hair, even sparse, in the area where the hair prosthesis will be attached, it may need to be shaved. Care should be taken to ensure that the area is free of oil and dirt. It is also important to ensure that there are no skin problems such as skin irritation or eczema.
After the hair prosthesis application, protective products such as hair nets should be used in situations that could damage the hair. In addition, very hot water should be avoided, and hot blow-drying should be avoided. Otherwise, the hair can wear out quickly and lose its natural appearance. It is also important to monitor whether the prosthesis procedure causes any allergic reactions.
Hair Prosthesis or Hair Transplant? Which is More Effective?
The choice between hair prosthesis and hair transplant can be made according to the individual’s needs, expectations, and budget. The characteristics of the two methods and some of the advantages they offer are as follows:
Hair Prosthesis
Duration of Use Although the duration of use varies depending on the material of the hair and the individual’s hair structure, it is generally used for a maximum of 1.5-2 years.
Application Process The application is painless and short. No pain is felt after the application.
Appearance The realism of the appearance may vary depending on the material of the prosthesis and the care after application.
Cost It is less expensive than hair transplantation. Since it needs to be renewed at certain intervals, the cost is spread over a long period.
Hair Transplantation
Usage Period After a successful hair transplantation procedure, the hair can be used for a lifetime.
Application Process Requires surgery. The application process is lengthy. Some pain may be felt during the healing process.
Appearance If applied correctly, it looks natural and the hair grows normally.
Cost It is more expensive than hair prostheses. It is done once, unless otherwise necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Prostheses
How long can hair prostheses be used?
The average usage period for hair prostheses is generally a maximum of 1.5-2 years. This period may vary depending on factors such as the design and post-application care.
Do hair prostheses cause headaches?
Hair prostheses do not cause headaches because they are designed using molds suitable for the individual or the individual’s head circumference measurements. However, hair prostheses that are not prepared appropriately for the individual or are not used correctly can cause discomfort such as headaches.
Can hair prostheses be used while playing sports?
