How Long Does a Hair System Last?

A toupée, hairpiece, or hair system all refer to the same thing – a system worn to cover part of the scalp if you have thinning hair or bald patches. Over the years, hair systems have come a long way, since they were worn by Ancient Egyptians and Greeks.

Hair systems can be made using natural or synthetic hair with various styles to suit every taste. But how long does a hair system last? Are there any tips to make your system last longer? Read to find the answers to your questions.

How Long Does a Hair System Last?

Most hair systems last between six months to a year before the tape or adhesive starts to dissolve. However, some systems can last between three and six months, depending on what they’re made of.

Nevertheless, regular maintenance is needed, so you might need to reattach your hair system every six to eight weeks. Your lifestyle plays a crucial role, so if you have an active lifestyle, you might need to reattach the system and replace the bonding more often.

Several factors can affect the durability of your hair system, including the base material and type of hair used. Mesh bases are more comfortable to wear and show a natural and untraceable hairline, but they aren’t as durable. A hair system with a polymer base is more affordable and durable, but it looks less natural and can be too hot.

Hair systems made of natural hair are less prone to tangling and matting. With proper care, they can be reapplied several times, and usually last up to three years. Synthetic systems are less costly but don’t last that long.

Finally, tape is more breathable and can be applied only where needed. Glue lasts longer but can run a little and might not work if you have a sensitive scalp.

Why Didn’t My Hair System Last That Long?

Leaving a hair system on for too long can damage your hair follicles. Several factors can disrupt its lifespan and make it last less than expected. Here are some mistakes some people commit that make their hair systems fail too soon.

Using shampoos with harsh ingredients dissolves the adhesive.
Combing or brushing the hair when it’s still wet.
Shampoing the hair too often.
Blow-drying your hair and taking long hot showers.
Using hair products that contain alcohol, like some hairsprays and hair gels.
Treating the system roughly and pulling the strands.
Brushing the hair too often or too roughly.
Ignoring regular shampoos, allowing products to build up.
Aggressive styling techniques.

Frequent exposure to salty or heavily chlorinated water, like if you’re a swimmer.
Exposing the hair system to harsh conditions, like excessive perspiration.

How Do You Know that It’s Time to Replace Your Hair System?

The lifespan of your hair system is just an estimate. You might need to replace it earlier or later, so it’s best to pay attention to the following signs that show it’s time to replace it.

Wear and Tear

You notice more shedding and start seeing bald patches and frayed edges. Hair systems shed, but unlike natural hair, the hair won’t grow back, and you’ll end up with too many bald patches.

Excessive shedding that leads to the formation of bald patches on your hair system is a sign that the adhesive is breaking off.

The Hair’s Quality Declines

Over time, you’ll notice that the hair’s texture looks too dry or straw-like. You might also notice that the hair’s color is fading or doesn’t look as radiant as it used to. Synthetic hair systems can also become too tangled, and the hair becomes more challenging to brush or comb.

This can happen earlier when you don’t maintain your hair system well or use the wrong products. It’s normal for the hair to become too dry towards the end of your hair system’s life, but it might happen earlier if you don’t take care of it.

Loss of Adhesion

If your hair system starts slipping or you see unexpected partings, this means that the adhesion is starting to weaken. Your hair system will start moving around towards the end of its life, and this shows that it’s time to replace it.

Changes in the Fit

You suddenly feel that your hair system doesn’t fit how it used to. This happens due to changes in the base, as it stretches, warps, or becomes more prone to tearing.

A hair system that doesn’t fit well can become uncomfortable to wear. It can also irritate your scalp due to friction and might move unexpectedly, causing embarrassment.

How Can You Make Your Hair System Last Longer?

Several tips and tricks can help your hair system last longer and look its best until it’s time for a replacement or reattachment.

Invest in a high-quality hair system with excellent adhesive and hair strands.
Use adequate styling products to clean, condition, and style your hair. It’s best to ask a professional hair systems specialist about the best products.
Don’t overapply any products that might cause an unnecessary buildup and weigh your hair system down.

Regular maintenance and cleaning are paramount. Use a suitable shampoo and condition your hair every time you wash it.
Gently handle your hair system and avoid harsh hairstyles, tugging, or pulling that might compromise the strands or adhesive.
Wear protective headwear when you’re working out or swimming.
Use a satin pillowcase to minimize friction while sleeping to keep your hair system in place.

Wrap Up

A hair system can last between six and 12 months, but its lifespan depends on several factors, like the quality of the base and the hair strands. Each type has pros and cons, so you should pick the one that works for you.

Your hair system might not last long if you don’t follow the correct maintenance routine or use adequate products. Exposing your hair system to harsh chemicals or handling it too roughly will shorten its lifespan and affect its look.

You’ll start noticing more shedding, a faded look, and it might shift or move. However, you can extend the hair system’s life by following the proper cleaning and conditioning regimens, while using suitable products that work for your hair system.