Naturally, the popularity of hairpieces for men has surged in recent years. More and more individuals—whether teenagers, young adults, or men of all ages—are opting for toupees to cover their thinning or balding hair, enhance their appearance, and regain their confidence. A well-chosen hair system can make a world of difference, but there are a few common mistakes that can hinder its effectiveness. Whether you’re new to hair systems or have been using one for a while, avoiding these missteps will ensure that your hairpiece looks natural, feels comfortable, and lasts longer.
1. Choosing the Wrong Hairpiece for Your Lifestyle
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to toupee. The base material of your hair system plays a vital role in how it will perform in different environments. The first mistake many men make is choosing the wrong type for their lifestyle.
Active Lifestyles: If you’re hitting the gym regularly or live in a hot, humid climate, a lace-based system (like French lace) is ideal. Lace allows your scalp to breathe and sweat to escape, ensuring comfort during physical activities.
Sedentary Lifestyles: For those who spend most of their time indoors or lead a less active life, a poly-based system (like ultra-thin skin) may be more suitable.
In Between?: If your lifestyle falls somewhere in the middle, consider a hybrid toupee—a combination of lace and poly. Lace at the front provides an invisible hairline, while the poly base offers added durability.
2. Improper Application and Removal
Applying and removing your toupee correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. Many men make the mistake of using incorrect techniques or adhesives, which can lead to damage and discomfort.
Use an Adhesive Remover: Avoid tearing off your hairpiece. Always use a proper adhesive remover like C22 to safely take off your system.
Don’t Overdo the Alcohol: Isopropyl alcohol should never touch the base of your system, as it can dry out the hair and damage the material.
Avoid Wet Glue on Lace: Applying wet glue to a lace system is a big no-no. It causes clumping, staining, and can affect the appearance of your hair unit.
3. Failing to Match Hair Color and Density
Perhaps one of the most noticeable mistakes is failing to match the toupee’s color and density with your natural hair. An unnatural color or density can make your hairpiece look very artificial. If someone pays close attention, they’ll easily notice you’re wearing a hair unit.
Color Matching: If you’re unsure about your hair’s exact color, consider sending a lock of your natural hair to the hairpiece manufacturer for the most accurate color match.
Choosing the Right Density: The density of your toupee should reflect your natural hair density. For men in their twenties or thirties, a medium-light density works well, while those over forty might prefer lighter densities. Choosing a density too thick can lead to an overly bulky and unrealistic look.
4. Neglecting Professional Help
A major mistake many men make is attempting to handle everything themselves, from installing the hairpiece to cutting the base. While DIY methods might seem tempting, professional help ensures your hairpiece looks as natural and well-fitted as possible. This can save you time, and money, and avoid frustration in the long run.
5. Overusing Hairpiece Tape
Using too much tape can create unsightly residue and lead to discomfort. Excessive tape not only looks unnatural but can also cause irritation and make your hair system harder to remove.
Proper Application: Use the right amount of tape and ensure it’s applied correctly to avoid discomfort and residue. High-quality tape, along with proper attaching method, will secure your system.
6. Neglecting Your Natural Hair
Caring for your natural hair is just as important as maintaining your hairpiece. Neglecting to wash and condition your natural hair beneath the toupee can lead to scalp issues, hair thinning, and discomfort.
Regular Care: When removing your hair system at night, take the time to wash and condition your natural hair. This will keep both your hair and scalp healthy.
7. Exposing Your Hair Unit to Excessive Heat
Heat can be one of the biggest culprits in damaging your hair system. Overexposure to hot tools or weather can lead to dry, tangled hair and can even weaken the adhesive bonds.
Heat Protection: If you use styling tools, ensure that you use proper heat protection. Avoid excessive direct heat exposure to your hair system to maintain its longevity and prevent damage.
8. Relying on a Hairpiece
It’s tempting to buy just one toupee, but doing so can cause problems when it comes time for cleaning or repairs. A single system means you may be stuck without an option while your current system is being cleaned or maintained.
Having a Spare: Always have a second toupee in rotation. This way, you’ll have more flexibility and never be without one while you’re maintaining the other.
9. Choosing a Custom Hairpiece Over a Stock Option
While stock hairpieces might appear to be a more affordable and convenient choice, they often fall short in terms of fit and appearance. Custom systems, on the other hand, are tailored specifically to your needs, considering factors like color, fit, and style preferences. They guarantee a more precise and comfortable fit, resulting in a more natural and stylish look overall.
10. Forget About Longevity
Lastly, it’s important to recognize that every hairpiece has a limited lifespan. Even with proper care, systems usually last between 3 to 4 months. Pushing your toupee beyond its lifespan can result in thinning, wear, and an unnatural appearance.
Timely Replacement: Regular maintenance can prolong the life of your system, but don’t wait too long to replace it. A worn-out system can start looking artificial and lose its aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
Wearing a hairpiece can significantly improve your appearance and confidence, but it’s essential to avoid these common mistakes to ensure the best results. By selecting the right system for your lifestyle, using proper application techniques, matching color and density, and seeking professional help when needed, you can enjoy a natural and comfortable hairpiece that lasts. Remember, attention to detail is key—so take your time, invest in proper care, and you’ll reap the benefits of a flawless look.