For beginners and new customers
After serving tens of thousands of customers over the last several decades and creating unending variations in base designs, we’ve found that a select group of base designs deliver the best results for most people. For that reason, instead of offering thousands of customizations that can create inconsistency between orders, we offer “best in class” base designs for each of the three most popular hair system base materials: polyurethane “thin skin,” fine lace, and monofilament. Regardless of your gender, hair loss pattern, or cap size, one of our base designs will provide the coverage and comfort you need, and the natural appearance and confidence you want.
Over the years, hair system materials have improved to allow more natural density. You no longer need (or want) to pack so much hair into the system that it covers the base material. You want your hair system to look as natural as possible, so let a little “scalp” show through! When properly designed and attached, materials like thin skin and lace can be undetectable to the eye, and often to touch as well.
However, the more delicate the material, the less durable it is, meaning you’ll need more systems per year. But don’t worry; compromise is key, and designing a hair system that fits your aesthetic needs and budget is our specialty. We do offer “combo” bases that feature a combination of materials to increase durability for those looking for that feature. Your hair replacement consultant will work closely with you to find a solution that works well for your lifestyle, budget and other unique needs.
Choosing the right hair system base depends on your lifestyle needs, budget, and expectations. Compare the best options, based on your desires for appearance, comfort, and durability.
Below is a high-level overview of the three classes of base styles we offer: Skin (PU), Lace, and Mono. There is more than one style of each base in each class.
|
Skin (PU) |
Lace |
Mono |
Description |
“Skin” is a solid-surface ultra-thin polyurethane hair system base material. At its thinnest, it’s similar to a contact lens. It is non-porous, so air, sweat, and water will not pass through the base, but It’s light enough to be comfortable in hot conditions and it has a very realistic appearance. |
“Lace” is a finely-knit piece of mesh fabric. It uses fine multifilament synthetic thread, onto which hair is hand-tied. Lace is naturally breathable with plenty of airflow, and allows for easy rinsing of your scalp while wearing the system. It’s very comfortable and perfect for active lifestyles. |
“Mono” base styles are constructed with more than one material (such as a monofilament or lace base with a poly perimeter) to allow for versatility for certain applications, such as durability, covering growing hair, etc. Each base style is very different from the other. |
Life Span |
Up to two months |
Up to three months |
Up to six months |
Material |
Solid surface, ultra thin polyurethane |
Polyester or nylon multifilament thread knit |
Polyester or nylon multifilament thread knit or monofilament thread weave |
Poly Perimeter |
No |
No |
Yes |
Front Hairline Appearance |
Excellent |
Good |
Depends on base style |
Breathability |
Low |
Excellent |
Good |
Ventilation Type |
V-looped (most common), knotted and injected |
Knotted |
Knotted |
Maximum Density |
Medium Light |
Medium |
Up to Medium-Heavy; depends on base style |
Size Limitation |
Partial cap |
None |
None |
Adhesive |
Liquid (tape) |
Tape, liquid, or combination bonding method |
Tape, liquid, clips, or combination bonding method |
Hair Length Limitation |
6 inches |
None |
None |
Curl Limitation |
No tight curl or Afro |
None |
None |