Heard the one about the man who spent all his savings on an expensive wig? He thought it was a small price toupée. Boom! Wig jokes used to provide comedians with a rich vein of material. That all started when hairpieces were the only hair restoration option available to those losing their hair. And, truth be told, they weren’t a great option, either. Back in the day, wigs could be spotted from some distance away. All that has changed. These days, hairpieces are more sophisticated. More importantly, hair transplants provide another option. So, which are better, wigs or transplants? Read on as we compare and contrast these two hair restoration options!
Decisions, Decisions…
When it comes to dealing with hair loss, there are a multitude of options available today, both surgical and non-surgical. Much depends on what stage of hair loss the individual has reached, the type of hair loss they are experiencing and other factors such as personal preference.
While some of these treatments have arrived on the scene comparatively recently, two popular choices have been around for decades. These are wigs (also known as hairpieces or hair systems) and hair transplants. Both methods have their own merits, but which one is truly the best option for you?
Hair Systems
Hair systems have come a long way in terms of quality and natural appearance. These systems are designed to mimic natural hair and can be customised to match your hair colour, texture and style. Many people have successfully embraced hair systems and find them to be the right solution for their hair loss problem.
One of the biggest advantages of hair systems is that they deliver instant outcomes. It might take a few days for your new hair to be measured, made up and fitted, but that still makes for a quick turnaround. This is particularly appealing for those seeking a quick-fix solution or individuals who may not be suitable candidates for hair transplant surgery due to medical reasons or limited donor hair availability.
One important point to note, however, is that hair systems require ongoing maintenance. They need to be regularly cleaned, styled and re-attached. This upkeep can be time-consuming and may also involve additional costs in the future. They will also need replacing at regular intervals; human hair wigs may last up to three years if you treat them well, while synthetic hairpieces may last up to six months. Furthermore, wearing a hair system can sometimes feel uncomfortable or restrictive, especially in hot and humid weather conditions.
Hair Transplants
Hair transplants offer a more permanent solution to hair loss. This surgical procedure involves harvesting healthy hair follicles from the donor area (typically the back or sides of the head) and implanting them into the balding or thinning areas. Over time, these transplanted hairs grow naturally, providing a long-lasting and natural-looking result.
Studies have shown that hair transplants have a high success rate, with clients experiencing significant hair regrowth.
One of the key advantages of hair transplants is that they require minimal ongoing maintenance. Once the transplanted hair has fully grown, you can treat it just like your natural hair, washing, styling and cutting it as desired. This makes hair transplants a convenient choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance solution.
Remember, however, that hair transplants are surgical procedures; there are risks involved, even though these can be minimised. Results are also slower than for hair systems. New hair growth will be visible after a few months, but it takes about a year for the full outcome to emerge.
Finally, the initial cost of a hair transplant exceeds that of a new hair system. What you have to calculate, however, is how much that hair system will cost to maintain and replace over about twenty years. When viewed in the long term, it could well be that a one-and-done hair transplant provides better value for money.
Ultimately, the best option for you depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, budget and individual circumstances. Consulting with a hair loss specialist or a dermatologist is crucial in determining the most suitable solution for your specific needs.
Conclusion
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the hair loss dilemma. Hair systems can provide instant results and versatility, while hair transplants offer a more permanent and low-maintenance solution. By thoroughly researching and understanding the options available, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and preferences.
If you’re worried about hair thinning or hair loss, you should speak with a specialist as soon as possible. Vinci Hair Clinic can help with that. We have some of the best people in the hair restoration business. What’s more, we offer a free, no-obligation consultation to all our new clients. This can happen in person at one of our clinics or over the phone using photographs. Get in touch and make your appointment today!