Hair systems, or toupees, offer a non-surgical solution to hair loss, providing a natural appearance with either human or synthetic hair attached to the scalp using various base materials like lace or polyurethane. However, like any product, they experience wear and tear over time. Things like the quality of the material, exposure to the environment, and how well you take care of the system can make it wear out faster. Understanding why hair systems go bad is crucial for extending their lifespan and preserving their realistic look.
1. Wear and Tear of Materials
Hair Fibers:
Synthetic vs. Human Hair: Synthetic hair is made from artificial fibers, which can lose texture, shine, and shape more quickly than natural human hair. Synthetic fibers are also more prone to tangling and fraying after prolonged use, especially if exposed to excessive heat or friction. On the other hand, human hair, while more durable and natural-looking, still requires regular care and can suffer from fading, brittleness, and split ends as it ages.
Natural Hair Fading: Over time, natural hair may lose its vibrancy. Even when properly cared for, exposure to UV rays, pollution, and styling products can cause natural hair to fade, losing its luster and color. Moreover, natural hair may become dry and brittle if not conditioned regularly.
Base Material:
Lace: Lace bases are breathable and lightweight but can weaken, tear, or stretch with extended use. Factors like excessive friction (from brushing or daily wear) and moisture (sweat, water exposure) can cause the lace to deteriorate, compromising both the fit and appearance of the hair system.
Polyurethane/Skin Bases: These bases are known for their durability and water resistance, but over time, they may begin to go bad when exposed to oils, sweat, or excessive stretching. As the base material deteriorates, it can lead to an unnatural look, and the system may not adhere as securely to the scalp.
2. Accumulation of Dirt and Oils
Scalp Oils: Your scalp naturally produces oils that can accumulate on the base of the hair system. These oils not only make the system feel greasy but can also attract dirt and debris. Over time, the accumulation of oils can weaken adhesives, causing the system to shift or come loose.
Hair Products: Products like gels, hairspray, and mousse are often used to style hair systems, but over time, they can build up on the fibers and base. Product buildup can make the hair look dull, stiff, or unkempt. In some cases, it can also cause the hair system to feel heavy and difficult to manage.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to dust, pollution, and pollutants in the air can cause particles to stick to the hair system, further compromising its appearance. The accumulation of dirt and pollutants can also affect the adhesives, making them less effective and leading to premature wear.
3. Improper Care and Maintenance
Infrequent Cleaning: Failing to clean your hair system regularly can lead to the accumulation of dirt, oils, and product buildup, which may cause both visible damage and affect its functionality. Regular cleaning helps maintain the hair’s natural shine and softness while preserving the integrity of the base material.
Incorrect Washing Techniques: Washing hair systems with harsh shampoos or using hot water can strip away natural oils, dry out the hair, and damage the base. Rubbing the system too aggressively or using unapproved cleaning products can also lead to premature wear and tear.
Excessive Styling: Frequent use of heat tools (like straighteners or curlers) or chemical treatments (like dyeing or perming) can cause irreversible damage to both synthetic and human hair. Synthetic hair, in particular, can melt or lose its shape if exposed to excessive heat, while human hair may become brittle, split, or break.
4. Wear and Tear from Daily Use
Friction: Constant friction from activities like brushing, sleeping, or wearing hats can cause the fibers to break or lose their structure. The repetitive motion of brushing or combing can lead to tangling, fraying, or thinning of the hair fibers over time.
Tangles and Knots: As hair systems age, the fibers can start to tangle or knot, especially if they’re not maintained properly. Tangling is particularly common with synthetic hair, which lacks the natural movement of human hair. This can lead to an unnatural appearance and make the hair system harder to manage.
Pressure on the Base: If the hair unit is attached too tightly, it can cause stress on the base material, leading to stretching, weakening, or even tearing. Additionally, if the base is constantly pulled or shifted, it may lose its shape and affect the fit of the system.
5. Exposure to Extreme Conditions
Sunlight: UV rays from the sun can have a damaging effect on both human and synthetic hair. Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause the fibers to fade, dry out, or become brittle. UV damage can also weaken the base material, particularly if it’s made of lace or polyurethane.
Heat: High temperatures, whether from direct sunlight or hot styling tools, can dry out hair and make it more prone to breakage. Synthetic hair is especially vulnerable to heat, as it can melt or lose its texture when exposed to high temperatures.
Chlorine and Saltwater: Chlorine from pools and saltwater from the ocean can cause significant damage to hair systems. Chlorine can strip natural oils from both synthetic and human hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Saltwater can also weaken the base material, particularly if it’s not properly cleaned after exposure.
6. Aging of Adhesives (If Applicable)
Tape or Glue: The adhesives used to secure the hair system can go bad over time. As they break down, they lose their stickiness and effectiveness, which can result in the system loosening or shifting. The bond may weaken due to sweat, oils, or environmental exposure.
Product Residue: Over time, adhesives can leave a residue on both the scalp and the hair system. This residue can make it more difficult to clean the system effectively, causing buildup that affects both the appearance and the attachment quality.
Conclusion
All in all, while toupees naturally go bad over time due to factors like material wear, environmental exposure, and improper care, regular maintenance and proper handling can help slow the process. By cleaning your system, avoiding excessive styling, and using quality products, you can extend its lifespan and keep it looking natural for longer.