Calling All Hair Wearers! Questions Questions Questions!

by Y on November 29, 2012

Guest Blog By: Angie

Does anyone out there who has begun their hair wearing journey regret their decision? Wish they’d tried harder to hang onto their bio hair? Feel they’ve done everything they can? Would do anything different? (Ok, so that’s more than one question, lol!)

At this point in my HLBS (to coin Lina’s term!) journey, I really don’t feel I have much choice but to start wearing hair. It’s getting more and more difficult to cover up, when I don’t use Toppik you can totally see my scalp, and even when I *do* use it, I still feel it looks like crap. 🙁 The thinning has REALLY accelerated the last few months for whatever reason, but I’ve been dealing with this for over a decade. At this point, even a crappy, synthetic wig I think would look better than my bio hair. 🙁

Anyhow, I made an appointment at a Hair Loss Restoration Clinic about an hour from here, this coming Tuesday. I’m looking into the Virtuesse system. I contemplated wigs, goodness knows there are beautiful ones out there – but I really want something that is “mine” – so am looking into a bonded system. I feel like if I’m going to make this leap, I might as well go all in and have something I can “own” and maybe even pass off as my own. I just feel like in a wig, I wouldn’t be able to do that….I’d be way to self concious about it falling off, being obvious, etc.

The problem in both areas is the cost. For a bonded system, I’m looking at about $360 a month, for four systems per year. That is all maintenance included, I would be going in every 4-6 weeks to have it cleaned and aligned, and would get a new system every three months. For the wigs that I like, they start off at a minimum of around $600, and need to be replaced about once a year – and I prefer the high end ones, which can run several thousand dollars.

So, I’m unsure of which route to go. I know if $$$ weren’t an issue, I would absolutely go the bonded route. Shave that crap off and be done with it, no more bio hair to deal with ever again. When I add up all that I spend on medications, minoxodil, cover up, etc – I easily spend over $100 per month as it is!

And I’m tired. So, so very tired – of spending over an hour a day doing my hair, only to have it fall out in spades the entire time. Tired of my bathroom being covered in hair fibers, tired of seeing my shiny scalp, just freakin over it and done. I know hair wearing is in my future, cause I can’t live like this anymore.

Advice on which route you took, and why, would be wonderful! Also, any pointers, tips, or pitfalls to avoid? Thanks in advance to all the wonderful, amazing women here whom I’ve come to know and love!

xoxo, Angie

{ 44 comments… read them below or add one }

ImJena November 29, 2012 at 1:24 pm

Angie,

If cost is a huge issue to you.. have you considered doing it yourself? I’m currently paying $250/mo for 6 systems per year through Hair Direct and I bond myself at home. I know when you’re first looking into bonding that having an experienced professional do it for you can look like your best option. But I am proof that you CAN do it yourself and you can have complete control over your hair and how it looks. I do a de/re once a week and I definitely need to by the end of that week (7-9 days).. your scalp needs to be cleaned! Every 4-6 weeks is a long time in between doing any kind of maintenance. You may start to feel itchy or you may start to feel that it has an “oily” smell to it with that length of time in between. PLUS if anything goes wrong, you have to go back to them and they will likely charge you more to have unscheduled maintenance! For me, if something goes wrong… I can fix it. Even if I were to completely screw up the bond (which has never happened, not even on my first try), I can start over and re-do it. There is really no mistake you can’t fix or cover up when you’re bonding. Also, Hair Directs forums are a PLETHORA of information on bonding yourself and it’s completely free.

Just my two cents. 🙂

Jena

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Beth S. November 29, 2012 at 2:01 pm

Hi Jena. I am in my fifties and have been dealing with hair loss for thirty years. During this time, I have had bonded hair, a wig and two hair transplants. I am sorry to say that there really are no perfect solutions. The transplants were great at the time (but also very expensive), but as I’ve aged the rest of my hair continued to thin, so although I have a little transplanted hair around my hairline, overall my hair is still thin and shitty.( If your hair is thin all over a transplant doesn’t do much — it is great however, if you just have a patch that needs filling in). My experience with bonded hair was awful. I’m not sure what type of bonding you are looking at, but mine involved using an integrated hair piece that was “sewn” into your own hair (they make tiny braids and then sew the hairpiece into that). In order to make the bonding last between two week appts, they would make it very tight, and I would end up taking Tylenol every four hours for the first two days! Also, I could never really wash my hair good because my own hair would get trapped under the piece. I don’t know how old you are, but keep in mind that if you have white or grey hair coming in, you will constantly have to dye your hair so that it matches the bonded hair or it will not look right. Other negative, like you said, it was very expensive, but so are all the options. Most importantly, you become a slave at the mercy of the hair replacement center. If they are closed over a holiday and you need a tightening it becomes a panic situation, and you WILL be there every two weeks or so for several hours. I don’t mean to upset you or be negative, but I just want you to be aware of what you are getting into. In the end, after spending over $3000, I wore it for about four months and then gave up the whole thing. But like I said, that was just my experience — perhaps all of the above would be worth it for you.

At one point, I bought a very good quality synthetic wig, but it still felt wiggy and not like myself. At this point, I have been using Toppik like you but I never go swimming in public (thankfully have my own pool!). I think I am at the point where I am going to invest in a really expensive human hair wig like “Y”, has done. Hopefully, I can just throw it on and go out the door. I know this will have a lot of limitations, like swimming, windy days etc, but at least if I am going to a party or job interview I can look good.
It is definitely a process. Best of luck to you.

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Lina November 29, 2012 at 2:37 pm

Hi Angie!

It´s Lina. I finally came to the resolution that I did EVERY POSSIBLE THING I could of to save, keep, stimulate my hair to grow. 25 years was more than enough and I kept letting the time tick to a point where it was leaving me all on it’s own and turning me into a sickly, negative, self loathing, sad, life hiding, neurotic, Negative Nelly. It even effected my mental health and my physical health! It robbed me of so much. So, fast foward, I first used the postiche (topper) I had bought and alas, I waited so long, not much to clip in. I went the wig route because I was scared about bonding and did not want to try the attaching thing on my own. I bought a decent wig $1500 and it should last me a few years, and it is unbelievably easy to maintain.
I used to worry about it coming off but the wigrip is amazing and I never worry, even on windy days. I like being able to take off my wig at night and believe it or not, I look better with a stubbly head than I did with my impending Homer Simpson.
I have not tackled the gym yet, but hope to next week and I think I will use a buff for that. As for swimming, I would never swim with my hair anyway or even wear a cap because it would pull on my strands, I guess now I won’t have that problem.
Do I regret wearing a wig? Absolutely no way. I regret not doing it earlier and for suffering for so long and letting it damage my relationships.
Is it all shits and giggles? No. First week, I wanted to cry, I could not wait to get home and take it off. It looked wiggy and I believe it was because I was just not used to seeing myself with hair, even though that is what I have wanted for so long.
It takes getting used to. A big plus for the wig is it is really a one time cost for as long as it “lives”. I love washing her and I love how I feel in her. I am so used to seeing me now, this IS me. I have my humor back, my positive outlook, I am living life and the weight that is off my shoulders is undescribable.
I become instantly nauseated when I remember all the showers, the shedding, the shine of my scalp and trying to leave the house. No more, no way, no how.
I wish you luck on your journey and wish you all the freedom that I know is possible.
Much love to you and all you ladies.

Lina

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Ciella November 29, 2012 at 2:41 pm

I wear a wig and couldn’t be happier:) As long is the wig is natural looking and feels comfortable, then I am a happy camper!! Since I am on a tight budget also I cannot imagine spending as much as some others do on bonding…that would be way too much for me. THAT said, before I even knew about how much bonding would be, I had chosen to go the wig route so that I had the freedom to do as I please with my hair…wear it slightly shorter some days…longer on others…wear one specifically for workouts…etc. If I am in a fun mood at home then wear a completely different one altogether:) I am used to it now…so these wigs already feel a “part” of me and who I am. I of course use a main one for going out with day to day. The initial investment in a good quality wig may (or may not) be a little bit more, but I feel that the cost savings in the long term is a LOT than if you had to bond ($250 or $350 a month is a LOT in my opinion). I did not realise just HOW expensive it was until you posted these figures. And human hair you will NOT have to replace every year if you look after it, more likely every 2 to 3 years and perhaps longer. I have read that Follea wigs (as an example) are not normally discarded but can be sent in for repairs as needed.

It all depends on course of what YOU feel most comfortable with:) I personally am not comfortable with shaving my hair. Who knows…maybe one day I will bond?? A lot of ladies seem to switch between wigs/bonding, etc. to find out what works for them best. There are a lot that really love bonding and are very happy with it. I’m perfectly happy with my wiggies;)

You’re fine with very windy days too…as long as you keep your wig secure (with something like a WiGrip) than you’re just fine:)

XX Best of luck!

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Angie T November 29, 2012 at 3:07 pm

Hey, All, just wanted to give a quick update! My apologies in advance if I ramble or misspell, I’m on some pretty heavy duty painkillers at the moment! 😉

To make a long story short, I threw out my back a few weeks ago, and unbelieveably – it hasn’t really been on my mind! I’ve been in so much pain that it’s hard to think of much else. But, ironically, it’s taught me that I do have more pressing issues than my hair!

Anyhow, I cancelled my appointment at the clinic. I just didn’t have the balls to go through with it. I did, however, go to the wig store. I went in to buy some Xfusion, and tried on a few wigs while I was there. It…was…WEIRD! But not in a bad way. In fact, I looked kinda hot! 😉

Anyhow, something very important I learned and wanted to pass along to anyone who might be interested. If you choose to use Toppik or Xfusion, you HAVE to use the applicator to apply it. I purchased one from the wig store, and it makes a HUGE difference. Used properly with the applicator, I still have thin hair, but there aren’t any noticeable spots. It’s a pretty amazing product, and I’d totally recommend it. I just couldn’t seem to get the hang of using it without getting it all over the place!

Don’t get me wrong. I know hair wearing is in my future at some point. I know I’d probably look better with a wig or system than with my bio hair. Honestly, if I could just get the shedding to stop, I’d be ok using this product forever. Realistically, I know that’s not going to happen. I just can’t quite get the nerve to make the leap yet.

Thank you for all the replies. I’m taking them all in and contemplating my options, as I know I’ll need to make a decision about it at some point – probably sooner than later.

For now, the shedding has slowed down and I’m covering it up well enough. It’s “passable”, but still crappy, IMO. The more I read about hear wearing the more comfortable I become considering it, it’s just moving along from contemplation to action that I need help with!

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Maia November 29, 2012 at 3:16 pm

I wear synthetics. I love my girls. When I first started to shed I panicked! Then I found this site and for many reasons, I was able to totally accept the inevitable. Yeah, it was a little weird to wear a wig at first but as my sister said: If you weren’t my sister, I would NEVER know that is a wig! Whew. Okay but so for me, I like the idea that these girls don’t last for years ’cause I like change! One wig is dark brunette, the other blonde! Now when I get ready to go out – I’m excited! I’m having fun. I married a great guy. He looks at me and my girls and grins from ear to ear. Yeah, true, I do also use beanies and scarves as well. I’m okay with that. Come summer ,,, swimming ,,, I think I’ll be okay. Maybe by then, I’ll have shaved it all off!
Whatever you decide, it’s okay if you need to try something different. We have that prerogative.
Hang tough girl!

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Shainajane November 29, 2012 at 3:16 pm

I starte losing my hair at 16 and I’m now 24. I tried everything I could! However, I want you to know that a good human hair wig can last years if you take well enough care of it! Mine cost 1300 and it changed my life! I have Jon renau’s Angie and I also bought the wigrip and together I feel so confident. My wig has lasted a year and is well on its way to lasting another one or more! I have even looked into what it would cost when I eventually (if I do) need to get my lace front redone and its under $100. So I feel wigs are good investments price wise! I hope you find what’s best for you! 🙂

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Gls November 29, 2012 at 4:27 pm

Thinning hair has been and issue (burden) for me for a long time. I have all over diffuse thinning that I can get by with using toppik (lots of toppik!!!) I bought a quality human hair topper a few months ago. I was really nervous about wearing it but wearing hair is something that takes some time getting used to and also you have to accept it . I think we mostly aren’t used to seeing ourselves with “good” hair. I started wearing it for the first time when I went on a trip and no one knew me . I also found that wearing it with a hat or a pair of sunglasses on the top of my head makes me feel more comfortable. I’m still getting used to it and wear it for short periods of time to the grocery store etc. You know what though-no one really cares or notices!! I did find that I’m more interested in fashion more when I think my hair looks better. I get my bio hair dyed and cut to blend in or wear natural sometimes. I go to the salon every 6 weeks at 8 in the morning when no one is there! I also find that messing up the topper hair (this is a clip-in
topper) makes it look more natural. I dampen it a little and scrunch. I was going to go ahead and buy a wig but I was told by the wig salon to try to wear a topper if I still have any healthy hair to use. This is what sort of works for me now. I try not to think about it too much because it can really become an obsession and life is too short. I think sometimes we bad-mouth and talk trash about our bio hair or lack of it and I think it just adds to the self-loathing. At least it does in my case. Best wishes to everyone.

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Jule November 29, 2012 at 5:03 pm

This is such an inspiring site. I have lost at least half my hair in the last 4 years; only explanation from the docs is that it’s due to menopause and hormone changes. I do the toppik (i’ll try the applicator). So I am starting to think about wearing hair, either a topper or a wig. My questions..1. I wear glasses, would I be able to wear a wiggrip? 2. If a topper is clipped in, will it pull on the thin delicate hair I still have? I can’t afford to lose any more. Just like all of you, I am sooo sick of feeling this way and want to move on. Thank you , thank you all for this site.

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mry jane November 29, 2012 at 5:43 pm

I wanted to thank all of you beautiful brave ladies for helping so many
of us. I am 70 and have always had dark ,thick shiney hair. It was my
crowning glory,.Just recently it began to thin and fall out. Its not as
noticeable as some women but it still bothers me and I don’t know where
it will end up.I am taking many things you recommend and iron , and
potassium becuase of deficiencies there.I have been to my internist and
have an appointment with a dermatologist. I will stay in touch and let you
know how the batttle goes.Thank you,MJA

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Gls November 29, 2012 at 6:17 pm

To Jule, I have a lot of hair loss due to menopause also but it was always on the thin side and became even thinner after menopause. Hormone therapy didn’t work for me, even though I didn’t have testosterone in my bioidentical hormone cream I think I was converting it to testosterone ( the progesterone and estrogen) and lost even more hair. Now (I’m 58 ) I think my hairloss has slowed/stabilized. The clips on my topper are really small and you have to snap them in the right way without stretching your bio hair.
Even though I don’t wear the topper all of the time, it gives me a sense of security knowing I can wear it if I feel I need or want to. I haven’t had any of my hair damaged but I can understand the concern. I think if your bio hair is pretty strong, a topper would work. The best thing to do, and this is hard, is to make an appointment and try on a topper and some wigs to see what they feel like and what you are comfortable with. I will eventually get a wig if my hair gets thinner but having an alternative like a topper or wig might give you a sense of security or relief. This is an ongoing process for all of us I think.

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suki November 29, 2012 at 6:27 pm

Hi Angie, first of all, congratulations on recognizing the empowering quality of focussing on solution rather than loss, wherever that solution may lead you. I can share a bit of my story with the hope that it will be helpful. My hair has been falling out forever (since 1965, not kidding) and finally became too thin to tolerate. my first step (after much agonizing) was to begin to wear commercial clip-on bangs. That eased me into hair wearing in a great way and i recommend it if that works at all with your style…anyway, the clip-on became untenable because in the wind when my covering bio hair blows up the whole clip-on thing shows.
I literally just received (like ten minutes ago) my bonded bang piece from Hair Direct. I am hoping this will provide a better solution than the clip ons even though the bonding part has taken me awhile to accept.
HD is very reasonable and I urge you to consider self-bonding and purchase of your piece from a vendor. My feeling is that this is not only financially sensible but that it will allow you to be free of a salon or a hair club or whatever. There’s a great deal to learn of course but I believe it is doable.
Of course, my hair is still sitting here in a box fresh off the UPS truck so I can’t say for sure it’s going to work. Still, for me it seems the right solution and I am committed to adapting myself to it. I wish you all the best in this difficult — but potentially strengthening — journey. Good luck to all of us! xo

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Gls November 29, 2012 at 7:09 pm

Suki, a question, with the HD system (not the integration but bonded hair) do you have to shave off some or all of your existing bio hair to one it. If so. How long can you wear it?

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MiChal November 30, 2012 at 8:09 am

Try using both Dermatch and Toppik. After I get out of the shower I apply Dermatch, then dry and style my hair. It does a great job of covering my scalp and also gives my hair lift at the roots. I’m so glad I stumbled onto it. It costs about $40, comes with several foam applicators, and lasts 5-6 months.

I tried using Toppik alone but it didn’t stick to my scalp all day (got patchy looking). After my hair is styled but before I put on hairspray, I sprinkle Toppik (without the applicator) on the spots I missed. Then I put on a few squirts of hairspray on the top of my head.

I’ve been doing this about a year, when I decided the wigs were too much trouble. It’s made a HUGE difference in how I feel about myself.

Dermatch works great when you’re exercising too. I get up before dawn and do a heavy workout that makes me sweat, sweat, sweat. The Dermatch I applied the morning before still looks fine.

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amy November 30, 2012 at 8:23 pm

I started wearing hair in May, after almost 15 years of hair loss. I just couldn’t take it anymore…the anxiety mainly. I tried a lot of OTC medications and I used rogaine for about a year. I really hate being on any medication so I gave it up. It did work though…although I didn’t know how much it worked until it all fell out. It also made my scalp itch pretty bad.

I LOVE WEARING HAIR. It is not perfect and it is absolutely terrifying at first but just 6 months in..I can tell you I would never go back. I wish I had done it sooner. It’s not like I want my hair to all fall out…and the topper is hard on my fine/thin hair….but I don’t care with the same sense of impending doom. There are so many solutions!!! I am cost conscious so I opted for a topper that I clip in and out. I like the freedom of being home with a wide headband and a ponytail. I got my piece for about 700 dollars, human hair/mono top/hand-tied/shoulder length. I think it is going to last a long time!

Good luck! It is quite a journey! But as many of us can tell you…it turns out hair loss..while a total thief…is not quite the unrelenting bitch I thought it was! I have found peace 😉

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Ann December 1, 2012 at 3:51 pm

I am new to this website but so glad I found it. I feel so alone with my hair loss. I have always had thick red hair. I have been losing it for about 10 years. I can’t believe its been that long. I am now at the point where I can no longer cover it up. I feel like everyone is staring at it. I am losing it right in the front which makes it hard to have a conversation without thinking the person is noticing my hair loss. I have been to doctors and they have no answers. My husband supposedly doesn’t notice but it is effecting my whole life! Every where I go I notice everyone else’s hair. If I see another woman with thinning hair (and I usually do), I feel like talking to her about it. I just feel so alone. I want my hair back! What do I do? Its ruining my life.

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Gls December 1, 2012 at 6:04 pm

Ann, I really feel for you. Try not to let this dominate your life but Iknow this is easier said when you feel that sense of panic about your hair. You are more than your hair. I would suggest that you try one of these products we were talking about like Toppik. I know they make one for red hair and it really may help you feel better until you can figure out what’s going on. They are relatively inexpensive, you can order online and there are several companies that make this hair powder. I remember the first time that I used it I was so happy because it really did mask my thinning hair. Maybe you can do some online research about these products. My thoughts are with you!

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chris December 1, 2012 at 7:46 pm

Lots of good comments and advice. Don’t jump too soon into bonding because it in itself causes hair loss, but if you have tried everything else it might be a good choice.

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suki December 2, 2012 at 9:54 am

To G1S — yes, i have to shave the area under the hair piece…it’s already so thin that it’s not too traumatic (at least in theory! haven’t done it yet)…as i understand it, that’s the only way to get a really good bond (as opposed to bonding on hair)…i am going to post once i take the leap and let everyone know how it’s working…just now getting all my products together and reading up on the bonding process. good luck!

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Suze December 2, 2012 at 10:08 am

Hi Ann
I can totally relate to what you are saying. Am only really in the early days of hair loss myself but have been struggling to get perspective since my hairdresser said to me (a month ago now), It would take a miracle for that hair to grow back now (referring to thin patch around centre parting.) So now I too find myself scouring the streets to see if anyone else has this too (and rarely see anyone….) It’s such a bummer. Having good days and bad but seeing a dermatologist in Jan to sort out a proper diagnosis and treatment. Would it be weird to just get a transplant right away on the thin bits?

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Ann December 2, 2012 at 10:28 am

Suze,
Thanks for writing back. That’s exactly what I am considering, a transplant on the thin parts. Has anyone done this? If so, please comment.

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Jule December 2, 2012 at 2:36 pm

GLS – Thanks for your reply. I tried on a topper about 10 months ago – I was not ready for that , but now I am ready to pursue that option again or, a wig. My mission would be to look as close to what I would look like as far as color and style, but just look better. I hope the hair stylist showing me the topper/wigs will be honest and not “pushy” for the sale (I kinda got that impression last time, or maybe I was just really sensitive)

Michal – I will look into Dermatch; I already use Toppik and somedays Joan Rivers hair powder. They certainly make a difference.

Ann- you are my twin. Everything you said is me (and probably a majority of us here on this site.) I too look at everybody’s hair and am very self conscious of my own – am sure people are staring at me as well. My husband tells me it’s not bad at all.

Thank you all again for this wonderful site.

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Diana Dee December 2, 2012 at 10:39 pm

Hi Ladies,

I am very happy I found this website because I have been losing my hair since I was in middle school. After years of going to dermatologists, endocrinologists and multiple doctors for my hair loss, as a young girl, I am now 24 and finally able to cope. I am wearing a human hair wig and I think it looks good. It gives me way more confidence. I think it looks natural and I really like the way it feels.

The only thing holding me back is being afraid men will not like me if they know I have to wear a wig? I was wondering if anyone could give me better insight about how they dealt with the wigs and relationships? Were men turned off by the wig? How did you end up telling these you love that you were wearing fake hair? I am just really concerned about this, so I haven’t been in a relationship in a very long time.

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Cindie December 4, 2012 at 3:07 pm

I don’t know if I did all that I could (I was dealing with so many other issues at the time — 20+ years ago when I was in my 30’s — ). I stop beating myself up over my hair loss — especially when I have been diagnosed with an “immune system disorder.” I let others beat up on me if it makes THEM feel better.

Anyway, I said all that to say that I am 59 years old, and have been wearing wigs for 25 years — and all synthetic wigs aren’t “crappy.” One can purchase very good synthetic wigs — the secret is to have more than one i the same color/style, and wear them “in rotation.” That’s what I do — it might not be for everyone, but it works for me.

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Ann December 4, 2012 at 3:52 pm

Jule,

Thank you. It really helps to know I am not alone.

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Angie T December 5, 2012 at 8:17 am

@Cindie – I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to say synthetic wigs are “crappy”. I’m sure there are fantastic ones out there, I have my eye on a few. What I should’ve said is that my BIO hair looks so crappy that anything else would be better. So sorry if I offended you!

Wearing them in rotation seems like a really good idea. I’ll definetely have to try that!

To All – I had a very, very low point this morning. I found out yesterday that my autistic daughter likely has Rett Syndrome. I threw out my back a few weeks ago, it isn’t getting better. To top it off, I managed to slam my pinky in the door yesterday and now THAT is bruised and hurting terribly, as well.

I use Toppik and it works wonderfully, but before putting it on I see my huge bald patch in front and the ever deepening “railroad tracks” along my part. This morning it almost made my physically nauseous. I have panic attacks pretty much every morning simply trying to get myself ready for the day. I should’ve started looking into wigs a long time ago – I might just have to get myself one for Xmas!

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Gls December 5, 2012 at 2:05 pm

I have to say that having either a masking product like toppik or derm match, a clip-in or pull through topper or a wig whether human hair or synthetic will really help ease the anxiety. Even if you don’t use it, it has helped me a lot to know I have options. Having some hair in my closet makes me feel better even if I’m not wearing it. It just really works for me and gives me a sense of security. I feel like if I woke up tomorrow without any hair at all or something else happened I have the back-up hair as a option. In the meantime I try it on and I try to make “friends” with it.

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Cindie December 9, 2012 at 6:18 pm

No offense taken, Angie! There are “crappy” synthetic wigs…there are “crappy” human hair wigs.

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Follical Fail January 8, 2013 at 5:19 pm

Hi ladies, I am so happy to have found this website. I have been fighting the slow death of my confidence for the last couple of months. Although I am no stranger to hair loss (2 hair transplants in the last 10 years), I am experiencing a hair loss cycle that has uncovered a lot of old hurtful memories and I feel as though I am at an impass as to what my next step is. I have been a Toppik veteran for years, but now instead of having to use it for ‘special occassions’, I can’t leave the house with it anymore- just too thin everywhere.

I appreciate you having shared your experiences. I am taking notes and will pursue some of these options. At least this evening, I feel as though I have found some direction… and with that some hope.

Thank you 🙂

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Kyle January 17, 2013 at 5:34 pm

Did anyody in here got diagnosed with fibromyalgia or other auto immune related chronic conditions? My hair loss started with fibromyalgia and would like to hear from someone else in a similar situation if their hair ever stopped falling. Bcause I’m going to live with this for the rest of my life I wonder whether I’m meant to be miserable unless I give up on my bio hair and move on to wear wig. A part of me still has some hope, but I think it may just be denial. Anyway, anybody in a similar situation?

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Ann March 5, 2013 at 5:53 pm

Thinking about using toppik. Where is the best place to get it and has anyone used it for red hair?

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Angie T March 9, 2013 at 6:46 am

Hi Ann – Toppik has been a lifesaver for me. I don’t doubt that eventually my solution will be wigs, but meanwhile, this product has really helped my self confidence.

I get mine at Sally’s. The normal price is $24.99 – if you belong to their Beauty Club (which is like $5 a year and totally worth it) it’s like $22 something. If you spend over $25 per month (which I always do, cause I use the Hair Fattener as well as the shampoo/conditioner sometimes) they will send you a 15% off coupon every month. So I’d say I average about $20 a month on just the fibers, but it’s totally worth it.

I’ve only ever used the medium brown, but have found that I’ve changed shades quite a few times and it does a great job of blending in.

One more word of advice, and my only complaint. THIS STUFF IS MESSY. Get the applicator cap with the spray nozzle. My Sally’s didn’t carry it, I got mine from the local wig shop and it was actually for Xfusion but fits Toppik’s as well. Even still, this stuff gets everywhere. Still totally worth it, just a PITA. 😉

Good luck with the red, let me know how it works!

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Brooke C. March 21, 2013 at 11:48 am

I have been losing my hair since I started menstruating. I am now 28 and have lost 3/4 of the hair on the top of my head. I used Toppik for a couple years and it worked initially but as my hair loss progressed it got less and less useful, not to mention it gets EVERYWHERE. I finally broke down and bought myself a Topper. I got a good quality HH topper that clips in. I payed about $500 for the topper and took it somewhere to get it cut and styled for another $200. It is absolutely beautiful. I don’t have a whole lot of hair to clip it to but I get it done. The main draw back is it does pull on your bio hair and I now have traction balding in the front hairline. But it is worth it and I am so thankful for my topper. My only regret is I didn’t do it sooner. I have gotten so many compliments and only one person asked me if its a wig. But you know the saying “it takes one to know one”.

I am interested in bonding a topper but I have heard mixed reviews. Plus the cost is terrible! I have a really oily scalp and would need to wash my hair at least every other day. I have heard some people are able to lift the topper and wash their hair. That may be do-able. Anyone have experience with bonded hair in the last year or two?

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Mary March 24, 2013 at 9:37 pm

Could someone please explain how the topper works. I know it clips on but my concern is how does it blend with your own hair. It just seems that it would be so noticable and separate from ones own hair. Also I was told that I could swim with it. Any information is greatly appreciated.

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Deborah May 15, 2013 at 1:42 pm

I have been wearing a bonded piece since October 2012. I have purchased 3 but have not worn the newest one yet. I am loving it, it does take some getting used to but worth the effort and cost in my opinion. I will be happy to answer anyone’s questions and give you a detailed account of my experiences.

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Lorinda May 27, 2013 at 10:00 am

First, thanks to everyone that takes the time to comment. I’m 67 and recently tried on a beautiful strapless dress (going on our first cruise) I used to wear. There in the mirror stood my father in a dress, complete with thinning hair and ever-lengthing ears! Big sigh here. Can’t do anything about the boney shoulders and big ears, but the thinning-on-top hair might just have a chance. I work outside every day in all kinds of weather and wind, with customers coming and going, and am wondering if there is anything out there that won’t show, or blow off completely? All my hair has thinned a lot but only the top scalp shines through. Has anyone used a pull-through wiglet? Do they really work and stay attached? How much time does it take to put it on? Will it work with straight hair? All the pieces I’ve seen online are curly. Thank you, all of you!

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Fay July 20, 2013 at 3:36 am

Reading everyone’s comments RE thinning hair to hair gone forever, has soothed my soul more than words can say. I am 61 with the male pattern baldness showing up over the last several years. My hair is still style-able, but never really looks good or fashionable, can only wear the back up and the rest goes to cover the thinning top and sides. Kaboki powder does mask thin spots, but it’s all under your nails if you even touch your scalp. Just purchased a synthetic topper, which looks better than my real hair ever has or could, even when I was younger. Will purchase more toppers and try a wig. My experience with the topper is that for the first time in my life, I have enough of “its” hair to play with and actually style. This alone has made a huge difference in improving my looks. Wish I’d done this 20 years ago. Best wishes and prayers to all of your for taking the time to encourage and share.

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laura February 6, 2014 at 5:22 am

I’m so sick of having thin hair on top I ordered a top piece with bonding it is real hair and cost 2500 I know it will be expensive but it will be worth it to have hair again I haven’t gotten it yet I’m 66 ill let you know how it goes I’m sure there’s side effects to the bonding what do you think

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dog April 29, 2014 at 8:23 am

Can anyone please recommend a place in Philadelphia for either bonded hair or a topper.
Looking for a reputable place that does amazing work. Thank you in advance.

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Jules July 3, 2014 at 7:48 pm

How long does a human hair topper last? Are they real hot to wear? I’m wanting to try a bonded human hair topper but I’m so scared. This one cost 800 dollars and they won’t tell me at the salon how long they last the lady just said “for a while”. What does that mean? Please someone help!! I’m not sure if I shld even try this, 800 dollars is a lot of money.. ????

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Rita August 14, 2014 at 11:14 pm

Hi
I had been wearing a wig for about 3 years, the bonded systems are much better.
I am perfectly comfortable unless it gets too hot outside. I can totally forget that I have it.
I started using the system using a professional, but it is much cheaper doing it myself. I learned very quickly how to do it.
I condition the hair well, so it seems, I can use one system for about 6 months, which keeps the cost down. I love that the hair is so full and healthy looking. I got a good cut and generally can wash, let it dry on its own, and am ready. Not using hot irons and such also helps keep it nice.
So yes, I say go for it.

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patty October 22, 2014 at 9:27 pm

Hi Rita,
What kind of wig do you have? I am currently using a bonded system and I get it serviced every 4 weeks the cost is ridiculous ($3,600.00 a year which include 2 systems per year!). I want to start bonding it myself but I don’t know what type of wigs I should get. Any advice??
Thank you!!!
Patty

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phyllis May 31, 2016 at 11:43 am

could some email me a good place to go for a wig hair piece all of that , i dont really know how to use this pc im old but need help wish i could just talk to a person.

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el October 29, 2017 at 1:39 pm

DO NOT use a bonded system! When they remove it, they pull out the little hair you have left! It feels like waxing! Your head gets no air for a month at a time. I once again am using a clip on real hair wig. I can wash my hair and head regularly. I own the bonded wig, but will NEVER use it again!

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