Is Shaving The Head Necessary For Bonded Toppers – Anyone Know About Reprieve Hair ?

by Y on October 18, 2007

I am actually going for a consultation for Reprieve hair on Monday. I have also been to 2 other consultations for hair replacements. I am sooooo lost right now. I am currently using provillus (5% minoxidyl) and Toppik. I am not too thrilled with shaving my head for bonded toppers, but I am done with not having hair. Any advice for me??? Does anyone know if you have to be shaved for the Reprieve system – just curious since I haven’t had my consultation yet.~Alicia

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Hi Alicia,

Unfortunately I have so little information about wearing hair because I haven’t thoroughly researched it for myself yet. I am glad you are taking the initiative to have consultations and educating yourself so that you can possibly wear hair in the future. I know Julie has worn Reprieve Hair (here are her pictures) and absolutely loved it. She probably could answer your questions best about that system. I am going to email her to let her know this question is on the blog. But based on the little information I have read about the system I don’t think you have to shave your head for it. How did your two other consultations go? I am interested in learning about the different processes myself since that my be an option in the near future.

If anyone has experience with wearing hair, bonded toppers etc, please let us know your thoughts. Alicia, please keep us updated with how your consult goes with Reprieve and what you learn.

~Y

{ 78 comments… read them below or add one }

JULIE October 19, 2007 at 11:23 am

Alicia, I loved Reprieve! you do not have to shave your head, that’s the beauty of it! it simply attaches to your own hair with a medical grade adhesive. Its 100% safe and quite comfortable for something that’s taped to your hair! You wash it normally and style like you would your own hair. I miss it horribly. My doctors told me my hair was way too fragile, its really thin and needs no strength on the pull to fall out. I’m stuck wearing my wigs again but I absolutely advocate using Reprieve…at least once. You’ll be amazed by it, I know I was. Good luck to you! If you’d like to know more or feel reluctant to try it, get past your fears…ask as many questions as possible. Trust me, I would NEVER be an advocate of something I didn’t love. I would NEVER mislead any woman into trying something that didn’t work for me, as I would hope I would be treated the same. Good Luck Sweetie! Take care and remember, everything is temporary, even life…you have to just believe in yourself and be happy regardless! You are very beautiful! Believe that!

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Veronica October 19, 2007 at 12:43 pm

Ladies,

I am about to make the plunge into bonding myself. I have been meeting with a girl my age that I met through another hairloss forum. She has been bonding for two years now and has been helping me through this process. Her hair looks amazing and I know she would never change a thing about it. I have researched almost all types of hair replacement methods now. People have tried talking me into wearing clips but I don’t think I can deal with that. Who wants to take their hair off every night or take it off to take a shower…. you can’t do normal things, like go water skiing or go to amusement parks without fear that your hair is going to fly off. I refuse to let my hair make me lead an unactive life. I have been living in misery for a year now, just wearing my thin pathetic hair up in a clip and it really has taken a toll on me. The places I have talked to DO clip your hair underneath the bonded piece. However if your to the point I am at, I feel like my hair is only going to get worse and keep falling out. So whats the difference if I shave it off for a full head of beatiful hair. Anyways, let me know if you have any questions… I really have done lots of research with bonding and plan on ordering my piece in the next couple of weeks.

Veronica

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Tracy J January 29, 2024 at 1:00 pm

Hello. I too have tried just about everything out there. I literally just bought a beautiful but, clip in, topper (extremely expensive) and though I really like it on me, I JUST WANT A HEAD FULL OF MY OWN HAIR!!! So yes, I know exactly what you’re saying, like the swimming or 6 flags. I’m not nervous at all, I’m really excited.

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admin October 20, 2007 at 7:08 am

Hey Julie! Thanks for answering Alicia’s question. It is always good to hear first hand experiences. Good seeing you on the site again 🙂

Veronica – What type of hair system have you been looking into that you are planning on ordering? Also what type of hair are you going to use, Remy Indian Hair or European?

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Alicia October 21, 2007 at 7:31 pm

Thank you all for your comments! I am totally excited to go for my RERIEVE consultation on Wednesday, and if by chance that doesn’t work for me, I think I am going to bond. I have done research and had other consultations. I am sick and tired of having hair (what hair I do have) that I dread to look at in the mirror. I will post again after Wednesday! Veronica – let me know how your “jump” goes.

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admin October 22, 2007 at 3:08 am

Hi Alicia – Look forward to hearing your update on Wed. Good Luck!

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ami October 24, 2007 at 1:05 pm

Hi,

I live in nyc, how do I research where I can go get a Reprieve consultation?

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joshsmommy November 8, 2007 at 10:59 am

I jsut stumbled across this site. I am an active member of a couple of other hair loss forums, but for me, there can never be enough sites out there. Losing hair is a very lonely process to go through – one that you don’t feel you can share with the people around you. The more online forums the better, so thank you for starting this.

Now…I noticed that it’s past the date for the Reprieve consultation mentioned in the email above. I’m wondering how it went?

And Veronica…I’m glad to see you here. Are you still considering HRS in Portland? I would love to hear more about Sessa’s hair that I know you’ve seen up close and personal. Have you decided on which type of piece…lace or Virtual Reality? Have you decided whether or not to bond?
Sorry for all the questions!

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admin November 8, 2007 at 11:07 am

Dear Joshsmommy, Welcome to the site! Alicia did have her consultation already and she loved reprieve. She posted about it on this thread:
https://www.womenshairlossproject.com/hair-loss/hair-loss-weekened/#comment-614 also if you scroll down even further she addresses the questions I had about cost and how often if had to be redone.

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joshsmommy November 8, 2007 at 11:12 am

Oh thanks! I don’t think I have the hang of this site yet!

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Alicia November 19, 2007 at 1:13 pm

Well – I did it! I got my Reprieve hair on Friday. I really do love it, however, it is going to take some time to get used to. I have spend so long feeling so self-conscious and negative about my hair, that I still feel that way. This time however, I feel like everyone knows that this is not my real hair. Truthfully, everyone has said wonderful things. They can’t believe how real it looks. It is just me – a very anxious person! I really do like it. I am lamenting the fact that I actually am at the point in my hairloss where I will have to “cover it up” for the rest of my life. Financially and mentally straining. But please know that I really and truly love the Reprieve system. It is a nice alternative to clips and bonding. I am just going through an adjustment period. I really just miss my own hair 🙁

Anyway, I just wanted to let everyone know that it turned out wonderfully. I have gotten so many compliments on it. I will keep you posted during the “maintenance” phase.

Take care everyone!

Alicia

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Mira November 20, 2007 at 1:48 am

Ladies, is the reprive system only available in the US. I haven’t had much luck trying to find an official website etc. I live in Africa but can easily travel to Europe, particularly the UK if it is avaible there.

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Alicia November 20, 2007 at 6:40 am

I am not too sure – but if you go on their website – you can look up all their locations. The website is http://www.reprievehair.com.

Good luck!

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admin November 20, 2007 at 12:43 pm

Hi Alicia! I’m so excited for you!! You did it, you took that big step and have taken back control of your situation, I really admire what you’ve had the courage and strength to do. I’m sure it will take some getting used to and can imagine how you would feel self conscious in totally different way than before. I’d be the same way no matter how natural it looked. I have a few questions for you:

How long did it take for them to apply it?
How does it feel on your head, is it pulling, feel weighted or tugging at all?
Can you comb your hair normally?
Can you wear your hair up in a clip or high ponytail with the new hair?
What was your first thought when you saw yourself with the new hair attached?

I’m sorry for so many questions, I’m just really interested in learning from your experience since it is something I would like to be able to do for myself in the future and just want to learn everything about the whole process.

Thanks Alicia for keeping us updated. I’ve received a lot of emails from women looking for the reprieve website and locations so I know that your story and Julie’s story is really inspiring other women to look into adding hair as a solution to their own hair loss as well. Look forward to hearing more from you during the maintenance phase.

~Y

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Mira November 21, 2007 at 1:35 am

Hmmm, can’t get the site to open, even after downloading (despite my hesitation to do so, am so desperate to find out more about this system) the korean language pack they asked me to download! Would really appreciate it if you could look on the site and let me know if they mention any outlets in the UK. Thanks!

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Alicia November 21, 2007 at 7:06 am

Mira – I will look for you and get back to you.

As far as the questions… here are the answers:

It only took around an hour to an hour and half to apply, but the cut in took about another hour.

It felt weird at first – almost like a hat on my head, however, if you don’t obsess over it, like I am, you won’t even know it is there – that is how it feels. It is a little awkward to sleep in and a little tought to wash. I am not used to washing a full head of hair anyway!

You can brush, comb your hair naturally. It may feel weird at first because you can’t actually feel the brush on your scalp. You also have to take a little caution to not “manhandle” your hair. Not that it will come off, but it may loosen it.

Depending on your hairstyle, I guess you would be able to wear a clip or ponytail. I have a graduated bob, so the it is not long enough to wear a high ponytail. I can pull it back to low, tiny ponytail.

My first thought – WOW! It was very weird to see myself with hair. However, me being so pessimistic and self-conscious, I almost felt like I was wearing a very expensive wig. No one else thought that though!

It definitely takes some time to get used to . Now, the more I read about various medical things, I am starting to wonder. I did see a definite increase when I stopped the birth controls pill last year. I am wondering if it is too late to start back up and see what happens. I wish I knew that – I would’ve never stopped taking the pill. I am also considering 5% rogaine and then spironolactone (which I keep hearing about). Maybe I should’ve done everything I could before doing this. However, the nice thing about Reprieve is that there is no shaving involved. However, I am sure others will be wondering how I lost so much hair in such little time once I take it off!

I think it is a wonderful system for those who are not ready to bond, yet do not want to take hair off at night. I haven’t received this many compliments on my hair in years – so why am feeling sad…..

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Mira November 21, 2007 at 8:24 am

I guess you’re feeling sad because going for a system like retrieve or buying a wig is an admission that you are unlikely to get your own hair back again. I too am scared to take the plunge but feel I must. At the moment my hair is really long which is of course really silly as it further accentuates how sparse it is on top ( I have classic female pattern balding) but somehow can’t bear to cut it off as I know that once I do, that’s the end and I will probably never have my own long hair again. I remember when I used to wonder why balding men with little fringes/pony tails around their ring of bare scalp didn’t shave their heads; they’d look so much better; but now totally understand that they were holding on to that bit of hair that they still had!

I too wonder whether I tried everything. I tried monoxidil for a while but was not too disciplined about the application and just got fed up and stopped using it. Have never tried nizoral, spirolactone etc but am at a stage of my life where I don’t want to introduce chemicals into my body. Have also stopped taking the pill which has dramatically increased the shedding but I would like to have a kid one day so what the hell.

Also we ( or rather I) use so many artifices to look good, make up, nice clothes etc Will just think of wigs etc as extension of arsenal for looking good. Some people have fake boobs for goodness sake, surely we don’t need to obsess about a bit of fake hair.

Enjoy looking good with your fab new hair. Best of luck!

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Mira November 21, 2007 at 8:34 am

Am not saying that it’s not hard, just trying to pep myself up. I still haven’t had the courage to a) go for a hair cut b) get a wig. Reprieve sounds like a good half way measure, I really hope I can access it in Europe. Thanks in advanace for sending me the info!

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Alicia November 21, 2007 at 9:48 am

Hi Mira,

Thanks for the kinds words. You are totally right – we do use so many “artificial” things to make ourselves look better, like make-up, so what the heck, right ….

Anyway, I went on the website and I did not find a location in the UK 🙁 I think the only outside location is in Canada. At least that is what I gathered from their website. I do have a phone number for you to call if you would like – 888-261-2525.

Good luck and keep me posted.

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joshsmommy November 21, 2007 at 11:28 am

Alicia,

First let me say that you are so brave for having gotten the hair piece. You may not feel that you are brave, but you are. It’s a terrifying process to have to go through and you’ve made the biggest leap. Second, I think it is completely normal to grieve what you feel you’ve lost…you’re own hair. We wouldn’t expect someone who has lost a limb to just get a prosthetic and get on with it would we? This is the same thing. Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’ve been through a life changing and appearance altering event. I hear people who have had gastric bypass say the same thing…that it’s hard to get over the imagine they have of themselves as a heavy person. Allow yourself the time and patience to get used to yourself with hair. And maybe you will only do this for a while or maybe you’ll do it forever…who knows. Take it one day at a time. Hold your head up high and be proud of how you look. Even if you don’t feel like that right now, you will in time.

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Gracie November 28, 2007 at 3:21 pm

Alicia – How are things with Reprieve a week later? I actually just went in for a consultation before Thanksgiving and ended up ordering one. I am nervous because my bio hair is soooo thin and fine that I’m concerned that the fake hair won’t look real.

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Alicia November 29, 2007 at 9:21 am

Gracie – congratulations on the move. I am doing much better – it will be 2 weeks tomorrow. Everyday I feel stronger with my new hair.

My bio hair is also very thin – it was coming out in handfuls before. I may have a problem with my front hairline in the future with Reprieve, but for now it works fine. They did a really good job on my cut, so that most people just thought I got a new hairstyle. It is noticeably different, but you’d be amazed at how little people know or assume! You can tell more when your hair is close to needing a wash – the hair seems to separate more from your own hair. However, it is still not noticeable to most when you keep it brushed. I am getting to the point where I don’t even notice it is there. I so still get an itchy scalp, but I think that comes with the territory if you “wear hair”.

It was hard to wash at first, so be warned. I was so afraid to do anything to it. You will get use to it though. I think it is pretty durable if put on right.

Good luck and keep me posted.

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Gracie November 29, 2007 at 12:31 pm

Alicia,

Thank you so much for your reply. My hair, too, is coming out in handfuls (has been for the last 6 months due to Accutane and a switch in my BCP). I have a couple more questions for you (sorry!!). Did you get one of the systems that pulls your bio hair through? Also – do you have bangs? I am getting one of the systems that does pull my hair through so I’m curious to see how that feels. Also – I don’t have bangs now, but was thinking Reprieve would look more natural in the front with bangs cut in (my hair line is quickly fading away as well). I am glad I am finally doing something about my “hair”, but I am scared to death. Thank you for being a source of inspiration and hope for me…and others.

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Alicia November 29, 2007 at 2:26 pm

Gracie,
Yes. With Reprieve, the system actually gets glued to your own hair . Pieces of your own hair are pulled through small holes and then the rims are glued together. It is very hard to explain, but it works. I do have bangs – I think you would need to if you have a thin hairline.

Good luck and please ask away!

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gypsy November 30, 2007 at 10:44 am

hi guys ! jsut wondering if anyone know if they sell reprieve in canada, ontario spef.i tried to look it up, but didnt get anywhere???????
thanks
gypsy

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Alicia November 30, 2007 at 12:48 pm

Gypsy,

The only spot I know of in Canada is in Calgary, Alberta, Cananda. I hope this helps! See if you can access the website – http://www.reprievehair.com.

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admin November 30, 2007 at 2:19 pm

Hi Alicia – I wanted to thank you for sharing all your information and experience you’ve had with reprieve and answering my questions. It really helps to try and comprehend the process. I still have difficulty fully understanding how it is attached. You said it gets glued to your own hair so there is actual glue that is placed on your natural hair?

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Alicia December 3, 2007 at 11:42 am

It is a hairpiece with a rim around it. Pieces of your own hair are pulled through tiny holes in the rim and the the flaps of the rim are glued together. Sorry – I didn’t mean glued to your hair. It is very hard to explain, because I don’t fully understand how it is done! I just know it works 🙂 Sounds crazy doesn’t it!

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admin December 3, 2007 at 11:52 am

Hi Alicia thanks for clarifying. They should put out a video of the process, it would really help to demystify it. I hope you are enjoying your hair and feel more confident with it each day. Julie’s pics of her wearing reprieve are fabulous, here they are for everyone who hasn’t seem them: https://www.womenshairlossproject.com/hair-loss/hair-loss-photos-before-after/

The hair looks incredible. I’m excited for you and your new life with your bonded hair. I know it isn’t as good as having your own hair back, I mean thats what all really want, but it is a really good solution. It takes such strength and courage to move forward and take back your life and not leave your happiness up in the air waiting for your hair to return to it’s former state. You did something a lot of us women hope to have the strength to do ourselves one day.

Thanks for taking the time to explain all the nitty gritty of the process!

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Alicia December 3, 2007 at 2:22 pm

You are welcome! I may be trying something new with the Reprieve system next time I go – I will keep you informed. It will allow more access to my scalp supposedly. I may be a “guinea pig” so to speak. I am pretty happy with it now, so we’ll see…

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gracie December 5, 2007 at 11:29 am

Hi Alicia – I have two more questions for you! I just got a call that my hair is in, so of course I’m now nervous again. What does your part look like? Does it look natural? Also, is the hair on the system too thick? I have baby fine hair so I’m concerned that the reprieve hair isn’t going to look natural. Thanks again for all your answers here!!

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Alicia December 5, 2007 at 1:38 pm

My part is as natural as it can get. By that I mean, I feel like others will know – but I have some close friends who have told me that they don’t notice a thing. It is kind of a net looking piece, when it is on your scalp, from far away, it looks like it could be hair coming out of the scalp – does that make sense. Anyway, when I feel self-conscious, I jsut do a jagged part and that kind of alleviates any concerns.

It is thicker than what I have, but it is natural looking. It is not too much thicker, so mot of my hair underneath can flow with it. However, when my own hair gets oily, they start to separate. If it is too thick for you, just have them “thin” it out. That is what my stylist offered to do if it was “too much hair” (Imagine being able to say that 🙂

Good luck! Just ask questions and if you are not happy with the way it looks, just tell them. That is the beauty of the Reprieve system – you still have your hair underneath.

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ria December 11, 2007 at 9:55 am

i’m considering going for a consltation for the reprieve sytem as well and had a couple questions:
1. is the system detectable to the touch?
2. how much is the system and how often do you need to get maintenance done?
3. does it damage your existing hair?

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Alicia December 11, 2007 at 11:37 am

Ria,

Yes the system is detectable to the touch. Since it is not bonded to the scalp nor the tied to the hair – it has to be. The reason I got was because I didn’t want to shave my head nor did I want any damage to the hair I have.

The system itself cost me $995.00 and it should last anywhere from 6 – 8 months. You will need to go in for maintenance every 4-6 weeks and for my particular stylist, that will cost me $90.00 That may differ for another stylist.

Like I said, it should not damage the hair you already have. However, I am going for my first maintenance this week, so I will see what my hair looks like underneath for the first time.

Good luck!

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ria December 11, 2007 at 2:47 pm

Alicia, thanks so much for your response. It would be great to hear your feedback after you go for your first maintenance. It’s taken me a long time to come to terms with the extent of my own hairloss and the fact that the situation will not reverse itself. I’m still apprehensive about wearing a system, but this sounds like the best out there at the moment. Have you gotten any feedback as to wether it is viually detectable and is it possible to have long hair with the system? Thanks again for your responses.

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gracie December 11, 2007 at 3:03 pm

I will be chaneling Alicia’s strength tomorrow as I’m going to go get my Reprieve system put on. Gulp. Ria – I’ll be sure to leave my feedback for you as well.

Alica (go figure I have more questions for you on the eve of my new hair) – I know the system has your own hair pulled through, but I got one that actually pulls most of my bio hair through a net around it as well (to integrate it more into the system) – do you have this one or did you get one that has full scalp coverage? I am SO glad to hear that it’s undectable to the touch. What about the wind?? Any issues with it blowing and people seeing the rim?

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gracie December 12, 2007 at 12:15 pm

Well – I don’t have good news for the group. My experience today with Reprieve was beyond horrific. I found out (after the fact) that the woman who was doing my hair, had only used the system one other time. The hair was way too thick, so I had her thin it out. Needless to say, I don’t think she had a CLUE about what she was doing. I ended up with 1″ hairs all on the top of the piece. I looked like a chia pet. And, she was so ROUGH with putting the system on my hair that I’m convinced I lost about 50% of the pathetic mess of my own bio hair during the placement. I started hysterically crying and demanded she remove it instantly. Now I’m sitting at home so miserable and sad. I want my life back and now I’m so afraid that there is no hope to find a solution that will work for me. I am so tempted to just shave off all of my hair right now. Sorry for the pessimistic message. It’s just been a really tough day.

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Alicia December 12, 2007 at 12:15 pm

Good luck Gracie! I am sorry I didn’t get this until today.

I have one that covers the scalp – I may be switching to one that pulls my own hair through. Maybe you can tell me how you like it. I did notice that you said it was undetectable to tough. You can feel mine at the rims. Maybe yours is a little different. Even if your hair blows, you will not see the rim, because there is a flap of your own hair over it. No problems. I do have a slight problem with my bangs. You can see the rim when my hair is not combed right or parted right. i just make sure that is not the case.

As for your questions Ria, yes, you can have long hair. As far as others detecting it. I have had many close to me tell me they cannot tell anything. I have asked those that I trust to tell me and they say they can’t tell a thing. Most think I got a new cut and colored my hair.

Goo luck!

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joshsmommy December 12, 2007 at 12:31 pm

I’m so sorry to hear about your experience! What are you going to do now? Did you have to pay for anything? Again, I’m so sorry. I know what it’s like to have such high hopes and then be disappointed.

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admin December 12, 2007 at 1:20 pm

Dear Gracie – I’m so very sorry to hear about the horrible experience you had today with Reprieve. It obviously sounds like the person who worked with you didn’t know anything about how to work with the hair addition. I think less is most definitely better when it comes to adding hair to our own so that it is more natural. Did she using thinning shears on your hair piece? I’m not entirely sure, but I think they are suppose to actually remove entire hairs from it instead.

I could feel every word you wrote, I know how awful it must have been, it was such a big step to get to the place of accepting wearing hair and then to not get what you expected is just terrible. I would have been hysterically crying myself. What did the woman who worked on you say? Did she offer to order a new thinner piece or offer any helpful solution?

Gracie, please don’t give up hope. This was one really really bad experience, which you should never have been put through, but that was the fault of the inexperienced person who didn’t know how to work with the hair or the person getting the hair, by being gentle and compassionate to your situation. I really don’t know much about the Reprieve system because I’ve never had it done, I only know what I’ve read from Julie and Alicia. But Reprieve is only one product, there are many others. I know there are some women have had success with toppers which clip to the top of the head and provide coverage that way. It sounds odd, but they actually look really really good… providing you have an experienced person order the hair, color, and cut it in. I saw a video on it on youtube which I will find and post on the main page. There are actually several women in this video who are wearing wigs and one I know was a topper, they all remove their hair so you can really see how good they are.

I was seriously considering doing that because I was referred to a salon in New York that is suppose to be pretty good. I don’t live in New York, but I’d be willing to fly there to be fitted and have it done right if I ever do.

I just want you to know that it doesn’t end here, no matter how bad things seem right now. It takes a lot for a woman to move forward and accept wearing hair… you did that. The outcome wasn’t what it should have been, but you still can wear hair and have it done right. Don’t give up.

Again, I’m really so sorry about what happened to you today.

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ria December 12, 2007 at 2:22 pm

Gracie, I’m so sorry to hear about your experience, I know how devestated you must be. Don’t give up hope though, there are definitely other options and other people on this site have had good experiences with the repreive system. Maybe you can loook into another salon in your area that offers it and make sure they have more expeirence. Also, it’s probably a good idea to call Repreive and let them know about this particular salon so other women don’t have to go through what you did. If you don’t mind me asking, what salon was it? Alicia, thank you again for your responses.

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admin December 12, 2007 at 4:43 pm

Hi Gracie – Posted the video i was talking about on the main page: https://www.womenshairlossproject.com/

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gracie December 12, 2007 at 7:50 pm

Wow – I truly want to thank all of the amazing women on this site – especially to the woman who started this blog (Admin (-:) – it really does provide us with help, hope and understanding to a problem that is absolutely devastating to so many people. I appreciate all of your kind words and thoughts (and the youtube video!). As I mentioned, it has been a rough day, but as the hours pass, things are getting better (and it certainly didn’t hurt to have a nice glass of wine with dinner!).

I think the one thing that upset me the most is that it had taken me SO long to decide to finally do something about my bio hair and have the courage to put on a hair system. (I actually got no sleep last night worrying over things). I also was very excited, because I couldn’t wait to stop being a social recluse (another down-side to my hair loss).

You all are right – there are many solutions that still exist out there – and I just have to keep the faith that I will eventually find one that is absolutely perfect for me. I was also floored by the stylist’s insensitivity to my concerns. I think she realized (after the fact) that she had destroyed the hair piece by using thinning shears and couldn’t fix it. She kept telling me that “no one would notice all the tiny hairs sticking up once she combed over the hair”. PLEASE!!! I should sent you all a picture of my “chia pet” hair piece!!! I was so stunned by the entire ordeal that I paid for the hair, took it with me and left the salon as quickly as I could. I am (or maybe I should say was) one of the most vocal and stubborn people I know and I think I was a little ashamed that I didn’t stick up better for myself with her. I will be writing the folks at Reprieve directly and actually mailing the hair back to them (to see if I can try and get any of my money back). Ria – the salon I went to is on the east coast – please let me know if you need me to be more specific.

I had also been speaking with another salon who specializes in hair loss and called the owner later this afternoon. She wants to custom order a topper for me – but that will take 2 months. We discussed perhaps wearing a wig in the interim. I actually might do it – Then I don’t necessarily have to worry about incorporating my less than stellar hair into a piece – now I could just have great hair all-around!

Again – I want to thank you all for your support. You all are in my thoughts as well.

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admin December 12, 2007 at 10:10 pm

Dear Gracie –

I’m so glad to hear you are doing better, and yes I’d have to agree wine definitely helps! I am glad to hear that you are already looking forward to new options. It is always good to hear that the site has been of some comfort to women suffering with hair loss, so thank you for that. Honestly I would have done the same thing as you, paid for the hair and left the salon asap. In that type of vulnerable moment I don’t think I would have had it in me to fight about not paying for the product they ruined. But you should definitely follow up by contacting reprieve to get a refund. If you plan on mailing it back, take pictures of it first just so you have it. Please let me know what they say about compensating you. A lot of women have contacted me about obtaining reprieve info since it has been talked about a lot on this site and I would like to know that they stand by their product and service.

Keep us posted.

~Y

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Alicia December 13, 2007 at 7:10 am

Gracie,

First I need to tell you how sorry I am that you had such a horrific experience. It really sounds like the person who handled was very inexperienced and insensitive to your needs. When I read your blog, I wanted to cry. I feel awful that you had that experience with Reprieve. I definitely think you need to talk with them directly and tell them about your experience. I am also going to bring it up to my stylist tomorrow when I go – I am wondering what she will say. I will let you know. By chance, Julie and myself went to the same person for our Reprieve systems.

It makes me so SAD that things like this happen. When we finally get enough courage up to do something for ourselves and then to have others be so careless with our needs. You have truly found an inner strength to so something, so you should be very proud of yourself. There are so many other options out there, so please stay strong.
I too have anxiety about even wearing it still and tomorrow I will be having it re-done and I am nervous that it may not turn out as good as the first time. You now, they say stress can cause hairloss…well, it is hard to not have stress when you have to go through things like this.

Gracie, again, I am truly sorry you went through this. Please let me know what Reprieve has to say about this – hopefully they will give you your money back and do something about your stylist.

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ria December 13, 2007 at 12:06 pm

Gracie, glad to hear you are doing better. Truly sorry about your terrible expeience with Repreive, although I’m sure you’ll find somehting soon that will work for you. Hoepfully, they will refund your money. I’m getting more and more apprehnsive abotu my consultation. I have it scheduled for next week at a salon in Virgina. Actually, the only salon in this area that is listed on the Repreive site. If you had a bad expeience here, please let me know. Alicia, if you don’t mind me asking could you please recommend the salon/stylist you went to. I wouldn’t mind traveling if your stylist does a good job and you feel comfortable with her.

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Alicia December 13, 2007 at 12:30 pm

My stylist is in Chicago. I found out from Julie that she is actually one of the trainer/educators for Reprieve. Her name is Mette Menotti with World Hair Systems.

She is caring and compassionate and will work until you are happy. Of course, I have only had one Reprieve attachment thus far……

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gracie December 13, 2007 at 1:00 pm

I just wanted to let everyone know that I ended up emailing Reprieve last night and got a very nice email from one of their executives this morning. They are going to contact the salon directly and try and figure out what happened – evidently the system shouldn’t be “thinned out” too much. I am going to keep my fingers crossed that I can get some of my money back. Losing $800 in one day isn’t fun. I will keep everyone updated and thank you again for your well-wishes.

Ria – we need to talk. I went to that salon (what are the chances?!). Admin – can you send Ria my personal email?? Ria – please feel free to email me directly. I have a thing about “karma” and don’t want to air things out into the internet that not everyone needs to see.

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admin December 13, 2007 at 1:16 pm

Gracie – I just sent Ria your personal email address. I’m glad to hear that they responded in a good way and are going to contact the salon. I hope they refund your money. Keep us updated.

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ria December 19, 2007 at 2:33 pm

Alicia, thanks for the information. Have you had your maintenance yet and how did it go?

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admin December 21, 2007 at 3:53 pm

Alicia & Gracie- Alicia, I’m curious too, how did the maintenance go? Gracie, have you heard back from reprieve about what they are going to do to rectify what happened to you?

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Zeerys June 25, 2008 at 2:40 pm

Could somebody tell me where to buy toppik in Calgary?

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GADesign14 August 16, 2008 at 8:32 am

I am about to go for an appointment to see what Reprieve is all about.
I have tried everything else including go to MHR free consultation. (its completely useless, unless you are made of money) I have tried everything out there for natural regrowth, nothing really works or makes a noticable difference. I am young but I have been dealing with hair loss since 2000. Now I have no where else to turn.
No one seems to want to say how much Reprieve will cost, even a ball park figure. Please if anyone knows even roughly how much Reprieve costs I would really like to know before I drive so far for this appointment only to see I cannot afford it.

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Tara August 18, 2008 at 7:52 am

I have been looking into the Reprieve as well, so please let me know what you think. I remember reading someone’s post on this site that said they paid $950.00 initially and $95.00 for maintenance every 5 weeks. Like you, I would have to drive a couple of hours. It makes me wonder…if the system works really well, you would think that their would be more salons offering it. Anyway, please let me know what you think after your consultation!

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Lynn C September 13, 2008 at 5:58 am

I went to a place recently (Chicago area) to have a free consult re: toppers. The actual topper was human hair, very thin. System would be as in Reprieve- bonded to hair, no shaving,etc. $900 for topper, about $90 month to maintain hair cut and topper. I have elected to try Rogaine before going this route but am ahppy these folks exist! Toppers were thin enough to look natural not thick or fake looking at all….good luck to all who have taken this step as it is very difficult.

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Lynn C September 13, 2008 at 6:09 am

Added comments to above: Posh Spice and Natale Cole sporting cute,cute new short pixie hair….Natale has Hepatitis C and she stated she lost her hair so her hair could be a wig. If my hair was thicker, I would opt for the short, short and be done with it….Google both gals for recent pix and see how adorable they look!

Also, has anyone had success with Rogaine? Men’s or women’s???

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Leah Klein September 28, 2008 at 8:26 am

I just want to add that I absolutely love my Reprieve. It has restored my confidence and made me feel pretty again. If anyone wants to look at it, I have a page on the network under LDK. The stylist that does my Reprieve is very knowlegeable, she is in Ft. Worth, Texas. Her salon is Stylemakers. She has thyroid related hair loss so she completely understands what hair loss is like. When you go to have maintenance on your Reprieve you are taken into a private room so that you don’t have to be self conscious. I am so sorry that others have had a bad experience. I think that with many things, you have to go to someone who knows what they are doing. Not one person noticed that I had a Reprieve when I got it – it’s that realistic. Good luck!

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Isabella January 6, 2009 at 9:58 pm

Hello everyone. After much encouragement from my wonderful and supportive boyfriend I am going on Friday for a consultation at a salon that offers Reprieve. I am also scheduled to get my hair colored there as well. This will be the first time in years that I will be going to a salon. The thought of it makes me feel extremely uneasy but I feel as though I can do it. I will post more after my consultation.

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Debra January 21, 2009 at 4:15 pm

Hello!

I just wanted to say that I went and had my Reprieve consultation. I was nervous and almost canceled my appointment, but so glad I stuck with it. I drove 3 hours to get there and put a deposit down and scheduled an appt to go back next weekend to apply it on. It appears to look natural and hopefully will help bring my confidence back! It’s more expensive than what others have mentioned online, but I think it’ll be worth it. If it wasn’t for this website, I wouldn’t have known about Reprieve. So, thank you to all!

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Lauren January 25, 2009 at 9:19 pm

Hello Ladies! I have very curly hair (corkscrew type). Does anyone know if Reprieve does curly haired pieces? All the pictures I have seen are straight hair. thanks!

Lauren

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melissa January 26, 2009 at 10:34 am

Hi there, I am brand new to this site, but unfortunately, not to this subject. Female pattern baldness runs in my family. Unfortunately, my teen sisters will end up with this too. I use Toppik right now and will now look into Reprieve (thank you for all this information). But I’m also in the process of invitro fertilization (the crazy hormones will likely make my hair worse but there’s a greater good in this case), so I’ll have to wait a bit. In any event, thank you all for this site and I can’t wait to keep reading.

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mrss April 15, 2009 at 1:31 pm

An alternative I use is to wear a piece where the front is bonded and the back and sides are clipped. It says on well and you can more easily keep your scalp clean.

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Kelly September 30, 2009 at 10:38 am

Hi. I live on the east coast and am considering the Reprieve hair system. I read Gracie’s post about having a bad experience with a salon on the East coast. Since there are only 2 salons on the east coast that are certified in the placement of the Reprieve system, I was wondering if someone could please tell me which salon she had the bad experience with. I want to make sure I don’t go to that one and it seems like I have a 50-50 chance of ending up there. Thank you so much!

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Brooke October 16, 2009 at 6:45 am

Veronica, I was wondering if you could let me know who you were talking with on the network about hair systems? I would love to talk to her too.

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Nano May 12, 2010 at 7:28 pm

Hello,
My heart aches when I just today read what Gracie experienced a couple of years ago with a hairpiece from Reprieve. I went through almost exactly the same thing when I had a hairpiece glued on by the nation-wide salon called HAIR CLUB. They promised me that I wouldn’t lose any hair at all, but after staying with them for about three months I was practically bald. When they pull off the top hair piece they have to pull out your hair to get it off since the glue is attached to your own hair – unless you let them shave your scalp each time.
I was horrified by the few hairs that were left on my head that I had to buy a full wig or I wore a clipped on hairpiece over my bald top until my hair grew back in enough to look like a very short haircut. They claimed that I came to them totally bald and that they hadn’t pulled out any hair. That made me even more upset. At least I was able to get out of my contract. I also realized that they were not top-notch hairdressers but those who could not find other positions.
I will be happy to explain the system if anyone has questions about how it works, looks, feels, or what it costs. If you don’t mind them shaving off your hair underneath and you have lots of money to spare, you might still be happy with it. But remember, it needs to be replaced every few months so the cost and upkeep never ends.
Nano

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Michelle June 14, 2010 at 8:41 pm

Nano,
I am so sorry to hear about your Hair Club experience. I am kinda glad I didn’t decide to do business with them; can’t stand pushy sales people. I have been “gradually” loosing my hair for over 15 years and yet I am still very young. I have been debating whether to get a hair piece, but being that I don’t want to deal with the hassle of having one and as someone mentioned in a post a “social death sentence” I have been relunctant to do anything about it. You can see my scalp, but I use Toppik and that seems to work okay, albeit my hair thinning, it has volume. Go figure!

Ladies: I would love to know the “REAL NITTY GRITTY” about wearing hair systems; from the psychological to physical senstations. The ups and downs and everything in between. I am trying to make a decsion here that has been over 5 years in the making.

THANK YOU
Natalie

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Amy July 20, 2010 at 10:26 pm

Hi,
I’ve been wearing Reprieve hair for about 1 1/2 years now… I found out about the system through this website. I used to have thick beautiful long black hair, but have been experiencing noticeable hair loss for about 6 years now (I’m 39). I first used Toppik, then had a topper, and finally Reprieve.
What I like about Reprieve is that it is very natural looking, you can shower in it, and live a normal life. No one has noticed that I am wearing hair..
The bad things are the costs (I went to a salon in Astoria, NY and paid $1,700 down plus $150 per month for “maintenance”), and it itches sometimes (especially in the summer). I am also concerned about the long term effects on my scalp. But, the annoyances far outweigh the stigma of having hair loss. I have a very busy lifestyle which includes taking care of a 4 year old daughter and working in a very visible job, and I can live a normal life.
I also wanted to thank you for this website, it makes me feel better that there are other women out there who have had similar issues… sometimes it’s so easy to feel alone and isolated, as this is not something that you can easily talk about. Thanks again 🙂

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Mary July 24, 2010 at 6:21 am

Hi Amy,

I’ve been trying to find a solution to this problem for years. I’m a physician and have always been a little vain about my looks and taking good care of myself.
So this is really a problem for me because sometimes my hair looks awful regardless of the time I spend on it. I’m a professional and I really want to talk to someone who has found a solution that look’s real. There are so many money making sites on the web – I just don’t have time to make a mistake. Would you mind if I called you or could we email back and forth first. I would appreciate it. It sounds like you can relate to what I’m looking for!
Thank you, Mary Elizabeth

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Amy July 27, 2010 at 1:00 pm

Hi Mary,
Of course you can email me….. I myself am a professional (I have a law degree), and this is a very difficult issue to deal with. Society places so much emphasis on how you look, and for women, hair loss can be isolating. The only people who know are my mother (who suffers herself) and my husband (who most probably forgot now that I’m wearing Reprieve). Hugs,
Amy

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Patty August 24, 2010 at 4:34 pm

I am lost! My hair has been falling out for 15 months now. No actual diagnosis & I’ve been to doctor’s from NY to LA. I was on hormone replacement therapy for 2 yrs. when I stopped because I noticed my hair was thinning and had a ton of hair before HRT. Then, 2 weeks later it started falling out at the root. I went back on the hormones after 6 weeks but it has never stopped falling out. I weaned myself off the hormones SLOWLY 14 weeks ago but nothing has changed. The fallout continues. I’ve spent tons of money on wigs and unhappy with all. Had a custom topper made that has clips so I would look as close to my old self as possible. My hair is now almost too thin for the piece to be held on any longer. I need information regarding bonding/expense, etc., how to find a good piece. I’ve notice alot of junky split end pieces out there. I have been living like a hermit for almost a year now hiding under a hat most of the time. I can’t do it any longer and need to take this next major step. There are many who prey on desperate people so I am looking for as much advice as I can get. I live in Arizona. Thanks for any suggestions!! Patty

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Jess August 31, 2010 at 2:55 pm

I’ve also been considering the Reprieve hair system, but I’m not clear on how it is actually bonded to the scalp? And if anyone has noticed increased hair loss because of it? Thanks for any info you all could provide! It’s nice to find these forums and support.

Jess

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Kristy October 4, 2010 at 6:35 pm

Thank you for this site! I’m not alone!!!
I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with FARRELL hair replacement systems. I have been losing hair for the past 4 years and it is getting to the point where I have to wear some kind of replacement. Farrell was suggested to me but I just started my search. If anyone has any information on Farrell, please let me know. Thank you!

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tara December 3, 2010 at 5:09 am

dear amy,
i am in ny- if you feel comfortable discussing it please e-mail me about your experience with that particular salon in astoria-
thank you,
tara

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Erin April 13, 2011 at 4:31 pm

I have been wearing some type of hairpiece for at least 7 years now, maybe longer. I started with a clip on topper, and had to move on due to more hair loss. I have recently shaved my head and bond on (I do this myself) a full lace wig. I was resistant to a full wig but really had no choice. A wig, even lace, is a lot different and a bit heavier than a topper piece. I am still upset about my hairloss but have no other choice. I wish that someone would come up with the science to regrow hair. I guess this is better than nothing. I am still self conscious that someone might know I wear a hair piece. You would think that after years I would feel more confident about my hair.

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Dea July 2, 2011 at 6:26 am

Hey there guys. Im 18 and i am experiencing hairfall at a very young age because of all the chemicals and treatments that i have dont on my hair. i plan to shave my hair off after graduation. My hair is thin wavy and brittle. Would shaving my hair make it better? i fear that if i shave my hair, it might not grow back at all or if it does it grows curly hard and course. i am aware that some celebrities have shaved off their hair such as britney spears and even rhianna and they still have nice hair afterwards. what would you advise me to do? should i shave off my hair? would my hair still be wavy or will it be course and curly? please share your ideas or experiences with me. thank you! God Bless!

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Paloma January 3, 2014 at 7:17 pm

I saw Lauren’s post about having curly hair. I have 3b curls and wondering if a permed Reprieve hair piece would look natural or look like a wig on my head. I am concerned about additional hairloss or damage to my bio hair. I have PCOS and Hypothyroid hairloss/thinning. I want to go for the reprieve which was recommended by the staff at World Institute of Hair in Chicago. I just want it to look natural. Anyone have thoughts about follea topper as compared to reprieve?

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gwengail2266 June 9, 2015 at 7:00 am

HELP!! I have been trying to find something other than clip in toppers. I have had to start gathering up my teeny hairs into orthodontic bands in order to have something for the clips to clip to, but this is so painful I just can’t do it anymore. I have hair in the back, just about zero in a 4 inch swath on entire top, very thin on sides. I live in the Spokane Washington are and can’t find anyone who offers anything other than wigs in my area. Does anyone out there know where I should go? There has to be something better than what I’m doing!

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TeeEm June 27, 2015 at 10:33 pm

Gwen…I got a topper called easipart xl. I got the synthetic one first and loved it but hated the feeling of synthetic hair so I got the same one in Remy human hair as well. They are clip in but they have the surface for bonding and provide full top and crown coverage beautifully. I got one in 18″ because I’ve never been able to grow my fine thin hair past my shoulders. Even without extensions, as long as my hair isn’t greasy it blends quite nicely. The HH one lays flatter than the synthetic which I like because I have the same Seattle crapola hair as the rest of us in the great northwet (typo intentional). I ordered the synthetic from wigs dot com but the HH one from Patti’s Pearls (easy to find via google).

Hope that helps!
TeeEm

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