When it comes to hair replacement systems, the ultimate goal for most men is achieving a natural appearance. However, achieving a truly natural look often requires making certain trade-offs, as there is no option that is both the most natural and the most durable hairpiece. To attain that seamless, natural effect, here are some key considerations and tips to keep in mind.
1. Base Materials
The Thin Skin and Lace Hair System
The thinner the base material, the more natural the appearance. However, thinner bases tend to be less durable, and this trade-off is often necessary to achieve a natural look.
French/Swiss Lace: These materials blend seamlessly with the forehead, delivering an exceptionally natural hairline. When French or Swiss lace serves as the base, the knots are typically bleached to harmonize with your skin tone, ensuring an invisible look.
Thin Skin: Thin skin bases possess an exceptional level of transparency, seamlessly blending with the scalp to create the illusion of natural hair growth, rendering the presence of a hair system virtually imperceptible.
2. The Importance of the Front Hairline
Attaining a realistic appearance requires meticulous attention to the front hairline of the hair system. If the hairline looks unnatural, it is immediately obvious that you are wearing a hairpiece.
Several aspects contribute to a natural-looking hairline:
Placement of the Hairline:
Ensure the hairline is positioned appropriately for your age and facial proportions. It shouldn’t be set too far back or too far forward. A general guideline is that the hairline should be four fingers away from the eyebrows.
Hair Density at the Hairline:
The hair density at the front hairline is typically thinner than in other areas. Professional hairpiece manufacturers craft this by gradually increasing the density starting from the front, creating a seamless and natural transition.
3. Bonding Methods
While focusing on the system itself, bonding is another crucial factor to consider.
1. Tape:
Tape is easy to apply but often leaves a shiny finish that is noticeable on lace hair systems, affecting the natural appearance. To achieve a more natural effect, it’s advisable to opt for matte-finish tapes, such as no shine tape.
2. Liquid Adhesives:
Liquid adhesives not only provide a more precise attachment but also deliver a more authentic appearance. Unlike tape, liquid adhesives lie flat on the hair system, enhancing the realism.
4. Ventilation Methods
With thin skin and lace bases, specific ventilation techniques enhance the overall naturalness :
Thin Skin Hair Systems: The V-looped and injected ventilation techniques are the best choice.
Lace Hair Systems: A single split knot is the preferred method for lace at the front, as it offers the most natural look.
5. Customized Hair Units
Taking the above factors into account, a customized hair system is the ideal choice for men seeking the most realistic results. Customization allows for a high level of personalization based on your exact head measurements. You can also select your preferred hair density, style, color, and texture. When ordering a customized hair system, it’s important to consider details that create an age-appropriate appearance. For example, mature men might choose a thinner density at the front hairline with a percentage of gray hair distributed across the system.
Conclusion
Achieving the most realistic hair replacement system demands careful attention to every detail, from selecting the appropriate base to choosing the optimal bonding. If a natural look is your top priority, you may wonder which hair system is best. However, the answer isn’t straightforward—it depends on both the features of the base and your lifestyle. For example, if you’re a fitness enthusiast or live in a hot climate, lace hair systems are a better choice than skin systems, as they offer improved breathability and comfort.