Your First Hair System: A Simple Guide for Beginners

Introduction

If you’re starting with a hair system, it can feel confusing.

There are different bases, different attachment methods and a lot of information that assumes you already know the basics.

This guide is designed to simplify everything.

No technical language, no assumptions, just what you actually need to get started.

1. Hair loss treatments have limits

If you are dealing with androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern hair loss, it is important to be realistic.

At the moment, there is no guaranteed medical treatment that can objectively and permanently bring back all or most of the hair you have already lost.

Some treatments can help.

Some people respond well.

Some people stabilise their loss.

Some people see modest regrowth.

But if your expectation is to regain the full head of hair you had as a teenager, medication alone may disappoint you.

This is not an attack on medical treatments. It is simply a realistic assessment of what many people experience.

2. Treatments usually need to be continued indefinitely

Most pharmaceutical or topical treatments only maintain their results while you continue using them.

If stopped, the benefits usually fade gradually over time, such as with Minoxidil or Finasteride.

In simple terms, it is similar to physical training: if you stop training completely, muscle tone gradually decreases.

Hair loss treatments often work in the same way.

If they help, they generally need to be maintained long term.

3. Hair systems are reversible

From a practical point of view, wearing a hair system is a reversible cosmetic choice.

It does not cure baldness.

It covers it.

A modern system, if applied correctly and maintained properly, does not usually prevent normal scalp function. However, it is still true that a scalp without adhesives, tapes, solvents, or a base sitting on it 24/7 will naturally breathe more freely.

That does not mean a hair system is dangerous.

It means users should be honest with themselves: good hygiene, good products, and regular maintenance matter.

People wearing systems for years usually continue losing the hair they would have lost anyway due to their natural hair loss pattern. The system does not magically stop or accelerate the underlying condition.

It is also reasonable to assume that, over many years, a scalp regularly exposed to adhesives and removers may behave differently from a completely untreated scalp. This is a practical observation, not a medical conclusion.

Is a hair system just a wig?

Socially and psychologically, many people may still call it a wig or toupee.

Technically, modern hair systems are very different from old-fashioned wigs.

The difference between an old wig and a modern hair system is similar to the difference between an old wooden prosthetic leg and a modern medical prosthesis.

The concept may be similar from the outside, but the materials, comfort, realism, and functionality are completely different.

A modern system can be extremely natural when the base, density, colour, haircut, and installation are correct.

If you look at a well-installed modern system like the pictures on this website and still immediately think “that looks like a wig,” then hair systems may not be the right solution for you.

Are the hairs real or natural?

Most quality systems use real human hair.

The hair comes from donors and is treated so it can be processed, coloured, ventilated, styled and attached to a base.

So yes, the hair is real.

But it is also “dead” hair.

Once cut from the donor, it no longer regenerates, repairs itself, or grows.

Over time, it can:

  • lose colour
  • lose shine
  • become drier
  • oxidise
  • develop warm or reddish tones
  • become harder to style
  • shed from the base

This is normal.

A hair system is not permanent. It is a wearable product that needs care and eventual replacement.

Can a hair system be used for different types of hair loss?

Yes.

A hair system can cover almost any area of the scalp.

It can be:

  • very small
  • frontal only
  • crown only
  • top coverage
  • extended coverage
  • full cap

The most important thing is not the size.

The most important thing is integration.

For a natural result, the system must match your remaining hair in:

  • density
  • colour
  • texture
  • curl/wave
  • direction
  • style
  • haircut

The more realistic the integration, the more invisible the result.

How is a hair system attached?

Modern systems are usually attached to the scalp using:

  • liquid adhesive
  • double-sided tape
  • a combination of glue and tape

These adhesives are strong, but not permanent.

The system can be removed using appropriate removers or solvents.

A properly installed system does not randomly fall off.

It does not fly away.

It does not detach suddenly in water.

It does not come off because someone brushes your hair.

Attachment strength gradually decreases over time, depending on:

  • temperature
  • sweat
  • scalp oil
  • adhesive type
  • tape type
  • lifestyle
  • maintenance routine
  • skin chemistry

Many users do full maintenance around once per week, although some can go longer depending on conditions.

What does maintenance involve?

Maintenance means removing the system and preparing everything for a fresh application.

A full maintenance session usually includes (in order):

  • removing the system
  • cleaning adhesive residue from the base
  • cleaning the scalp
  • washing the system
  • washing your own hair/scalp
  • shaving the attachment area
  • degreasing/preparing the skin
  • applying tape and/or glue
  • positioning the system again
  • styling the hair

For a beginner, it can feel stressful.

For an experienced wearer, it becomes a routine.

A careful full maintenance session usually takes around 45–90 minutes. With experience, many users can complete it in about one hour.

Can a hair system fly off, detach in water, or come loose under a helmet?

No, not if it is installed and maintained properly.

A system can only become insecure if the adhesive has lost its strength, which happens gradually over time.

It is not usually sudden.

A wearer normally feels when the bond is weakening.

Signs may include:

  • slight front lift
  • tacky adhesive
  • extra shine at the hairline
  • movement at the edge
  • residue becoming soft
  • reduced hold after sweating or washing

If maintenance is done regularly, unexpected detachment is very unlikely.

Can you play sport with a hair system?

Yes.

Normal activities are possible, including:

  • gym
  • running
  • football
  • swimming
  • sauna
  • cycling
  • helmets
  • active work
  • travel

The key is correct attachment and regular maintenance.

Fresh maintenance gives maximum confidence.

Sport is not the problem.

Poor installation or overdue maintenance is the problem.

Can someone feel it by touching your head?

It depends on:

  • base type
  • base thickness
  • attachment method
  • haircut
  • installation quality
  • whether the front is exposed
  • how carefully the system is cleaned and attached

A lace system installed with glue can be very difficult to detect by casual touch.

A thicker poly system with tape may be more noticeable at the edge.

In normal social situations, if the system is well installed, casual contact is usually not a problem.

But no system feels at touch exactly like natural hair growing from your scalp.

The realistic goal is not “magic.”

The realistic goal is: natural enough that ordinary people do not notice.

Can you hide a hair system from your partner?

Technically, yes sometimes.

Practically, it is difficult.

Especially in a serious relationship or if you live together.

Why?

Because wearing a system involves:

  • spare systems
  • tapes
  • glues
  • removers
  • maintenance products
  • private maintenance time
  • changes between old and new systems
  • possible front lift if maintenance is overdue
  • products when travelling
  • systems stored somewhere at home

Also, no two handmade systems are ever completely identical.

A partner who sees you every day may notice if the hairline changes, density changes, colour changes, or the front is not properly attached.

So yes, secrecy is possible in theory.

But in a close relationship, it can become mentally exhausting.

Many users find that honesty with the right person is easier than constant hiding.

Is the base visible?

The base itself is visible if you look at it alone.

But when it is properly attached to the scalp, integrated with hair, and blended correctly, it can become extremely difficult to see.

The most common giveaways are not the base itself.

They are:

  • too much density
  • too perfect a hairline
  • wrong colour
  • wrong hair direction
  • visible adhesive shine
  • poor cleaning
  • lifted front edge
  • bad haircut
  • mismatch with side hair

A natural result depends on the whole system, not just the material.

Are there situations where wearing a system is not ideal?

Yes.

A hair system can be inconvenient in certain situations, such as:

  • long trips with no private space for maintenance
  • hospital stays
  • scalp wounds
  • skin irritation
  • very oily scalp without proper routine
  • extreme heat and sweating without maintenance planning
  • environments with dust, dirt, or heavy physical work
  • situations where privacy is impossible

Hair systems are manageable, but they require planning.

They are not maintenance-free.

Can you continue medical hair loss treatments while wearing a system?

In theory, yes.

If you apply treatments to areas not covered by the system, there is usually no issue.

If you want to apply topical treatment under the system, it becomes more complicated because the attachment area must remain clean and dry.

Some users continue treating the sides, crown, or exposed areas.

Others stop because once they see the cosmetic result of a system, the effort of maintaining medication for limited improvement no longer feels worth it.

This is personal.

You should discuss medical treatment decisions with a qualified professional.

Can you shower and shampoo between maintenance sessions?

Yes.

Many people shower and wash their hair while wearing a system.

However, frequent washing can accelerate:

  • colour fading
  • dryness
  • oxidation
  • reddish tones
  • reduced softness
  • adhesive weakening

This does not mean you cannot wash it.

It means you should use suitable products and avoid over-washing aggressively.

Can you dye a hair system?

Yes.

Hair systems can be coloured, toned, or treated with colour shampoos.

This is often useful because system hair can oxidise over time and develop warm or reddish tones.

However, colouring a system must be done carefully.

The hair is not growing, so damage is permanent.

Over-processing can reduce lifespan.

If you are not experienced, use a professional.

How can I avoid people noticing the transition?

If you are completely bald and appear the next day with dense hair and a low teenage hairline, people will notice.

The best transition is gradual and believable.

Useful strategies:

  • start with lower density
  • avoid aggressive hairlines
  • keep the hairline mature
  • match your side hair
  • choose a familiar haircut
  • avoid sudden dramatic colour change
  • consider a gradual improvement over multiple systems

If you already use fibres or concealers, transition is often easier because people are used to seeing more density on you.

The best result is not the thickest result.

The best result is the most believable result.

How can I avoid people noticing that I wear a system?

Focus on these points:

  • density must match your sides
  • colour must match your natural hair
  • curl/wave must match
  • front hairline should not be too perfect
  • base must be properly cleaned
  • adhesive must not shine
  • cut-in must be done well
  • system shape must match your scalp
  • maintenance must be regular
  • oxidised reddish tones must be controlled

Nobody naturally has more density on top than on the sides if the sides are thin.

That is one of the fastest ways to look fake.

A good system is not about maximum hair.

It is about realistic hair.

How long does a hair system last?

It depends on:

  • base type
  • hair quality
  • density
  • knotting/ventilation method
  • maintenance habits
  • products used
  • lifestyle
  • sun exposure
  • washing frequency
  • sport/sweat
  • how gentle the wearer is

A realistic average is often:

  • 2–4 months for very delicate and natural systems
  • 3–6 months for stronger systems with good care
  • sometimes longer, but usually with reduced quality

A system may still be wearable after several months, but it will not look or feel like new.

Hair systems age.

That is normal.

How much does a hair system cost?

Costs vary depending on:

  • supplier
  • stock vs custom
  • base type
  • hair type
  • density
  • length
  • colour
  • cut-in
  • maintenance products
  • shipping
  • professional installation

A realistic annual budget includes:

  • replacement systems
  • adhesive/tape
  • remover
  • shampoo/conditioner
  • colour correction products
  • professional cuts or installations if needed

For many users, the true cost is not just the unit.

For what concerns the unit, visit https://capello.co/ for an idea of the prices which is roughly between £200 to £250 (300$).

It is the full routine.

Pros of Hair Systems

  • immediate cosmetic improvement

  • works even with advanced baldness

  • no surgery required

  • reversible

  • can look extremely natural when done properly

  • modern systems are much harder to detect than old wigs

  • allows sport and normal life

  • can improve your appearance quickly

  • you can control density, colour, hairline and style

  • transition can be gradual if planned well

  • lightweight bases can be comfortable even in warm weather

  • you can stop wearing it if you choose

Main Disadvantages of Hair Systems

  • it does not cure hair loss, it hides it

  • requires regular maintenance

  • can create anxiety at the beginning

  • transition can be socially difficult

  • relationships can create psychological pressure

  • poor hairline, colour mismatch, or oxidation can reveal it

  • frequent washing and sun exposure can damage appearance

  • helmets, hats, and swim caps can flatten styling

  • the hair does not grow back once cut

  • the scalp area under the system usually needs to be shaved

  • natural-looking systems are often more delicate

  • recurring cost is unavoidable

  • travel and hospital situations can be inconvenient

  • treatments may become harder to apply under the system area

A satisfied wearer may barely think about the system most of the time.

But maintenance will always remind you that these are not your growing natural hairs.

If You Have Reached This Point

If you are still reading, you have probably already considered or rejected more conventional solutions such as medications, concealers, fibres, or transplants.

You may now be seriously considering a hair system.

At this point, you should understand the central truth:

a hair system can offer a powerful cosmetic result, but it requires knowledge, routine, money, and emotional realism.

There is no clear evidence here being claimed that long-term use of adhesives automatically causes major damage, but it is reasonable to assume that a scalp not exposed to adhesives, tapes and solvents for years may be healthier and easier to treat in the future than one covered continuously.

That is not a proven medical claim.

It is a cautious practical consideration.

The Technical Side

Modern systems are often called “new generation” hair systems.

They are lightweight, natural-looking systems similar in concept to what is used in film, television, and professional appearance work.

Their average lifespan depends on:

  • system construction

  • base type

  • hair type

  • wearer lifestyle

  • sport and sweat

  • maintenance habits

  • products used

  • climate

A system is mainly defined by three elements:

  1. the hair

  2. the base

  3. the ventilation or attachment method of the hair into the base

Hair Types

Common hair types include:

  • European hair

  • Indian hair

  • synthetic hair

For many European wearers, European hair can be the closest match because it usually requires fewer treatments to resemble natural European hair.

Advantages may include:

  • more natural texture

  • slower oxidation

  • better movement

  • better colour match

  • longer-lasting quality

However, European hair costs more, way more. On average an extra £100.

Indian hair is widely used, often more affordable, but may require more processing, especially for lighter colours. More processing can mean faster oxidation, dryness, and colour change.

Synthetic hair has specific uses but is generally less natural for most modern male hair system wearers.

Base Types

Lace

Lace is a very fine mesh.

The thinner and finer it is, the more invisible it can become.

The stronger it is, the more visible it may be.

Hair is usually knotted into the lace. These knots may need to be bleached or treated so they are not visible.

Lace is breathable and often excellent for natural front hairlines.

It is especially useful in warm weather.

Downsides:

  • can require more careful cleaning

  • may need glue for best realism

  • knots can become visible if not handled well

  • maintenance can be more complex than poly

Poly / Skin

Poly is a thin skin-like material.

It is often easier to clean than lace.

Tape can be easier to use on poly.

Poly systems can be practical for beginners because maintenance is usually simpler.

Hair can be:

  • injected

  • v-looped

  • knotted

Advantages:

  • easier cleanup

  • good realism with thin bases

  • practical for tape users

  • often beginner-friendly

Downsides:

  • less breathable than lace

  • very thin skin can be delicate

  • injected or v-looped hair may shed differently

  • thicker poly may be more detectable to touch

Hybrid Systems

Hybrid systems combine different materials.

For example:

  • lace front with poly perimeter

  • lace centre with poly sides

  • skin front with other base construction

The aim is usually to balance:

  • naturalness

  • durability

  • ease of maintenance

  • attachment flexibility

Hybrid systems can be excellent, but they must be chosen with a clear purpose.

Hair Ventilation Methods

Knotted Hair

The hair is tied into the base.

This is common with lace.

It can be strong, but knots may be visible if not bleached or hidden well.

Injected Hair

Individual hairs are inserted into the base.

This can create a very natural scalp-like effect, especially on skin bases.

However, injected hair can sometimes be less resistant to traction, meaning shedding can be higher depending on construction.

V-Looped Hair

Often used with very thin skin systems.

The hair is looped through the base without knots, giving a very natural look.

It can be extremely realistic but also extremely delicate.

Attachment

Attachment is achieved with specialist glues, tapes, or both.

Once properly installed, the system should not move unexpectedly.

The adhesive duration depends on:

  • product

  • skin type

  • heat

  • sweat

  • humidity

  • activity

  • scalp preparation

  • maintenance routine

Some adhesives may last longer in ideal conditions, but beginners should not plan around extreme hold times.

A weekly routine is often the safest starting point.

Maintenance Frequency

Maintenance frequency depends strongly on heat and lifestyle.

In winter, some people can go longer.

In summer, many wearers prefer shorter cycles.

A useful rule:

  • cooler weather: sometimes 10–14 days possible

  • hot weather: often 5–7 days is more realistic

This is not only because the system may lift.

It is also about hygiene and easier cleaning.

The longer you leave adhesive breakdown, the harder cleanup can become.

I Understand Everything. What Should I Do Before Buying?

Do not rush.

Before buying, you should:

1. Read the forum rules

READ FIRST - Forum rules and FAQ

2. Study & Plan

Document yourself about Hair System as much as possible it is in your interest. Either on this forum or on YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, Reddit ecc as you need to decide which base would be best for you.

Once decided if this is your path, you need to plan, check this thread which might be useful

3. Learn about templates

Despite stock system being available to order, it is suggested to order a custom system to fully match your personal characteristic such as density and hair type. To order a custom system, you need a template of the area to be covered.

A basic template can be made with:

  • cling film

  • clear tape

  • marker

  • patience

  • ideally help from another person

A bad template creates problems. I suggest to share pics of your template on your head before sending it to us to obtain the best possibile results.

Here a good explanation video, you could do this alone or helped by someone else such as a referent of the forum.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThCpWMwWbAM

4. Understand density

Density is one of the hardest parameters.

One supplier’s 80% may not equal another supplier’s 80%.

For realism, choose density based on your existing side hair.

Do not choose the hair you wish you had.

Choose the hair that will look believable on your head once compared to your sides and back.

5. Plan your first cut-in

Any experienced barber or hairdresser should be able to cut a hair system, although extra care is required: if too much hair is cut, it will not grow back. Also, a hairdresser with little or no experience with systems could accidentally damage the base if not properly adviced.

You can try asking local barbers or hairdressers in your area, even by phone, whether they have experience cutting hair systems.

There also be a private list of barbers and hairdressers who specialise in cutting and fitting hair systems and who have already been tested by forum members. For privacy and business-protection reasons, these names are not shared publicly or given to everyone, but only to members who have purchased the “Players Club” who are eligible to access that information.

6. Prepare for maintenance before installation

Do not install a system and then wonder what products you need.

You should already have:

  • adhesive or tape

  • remover

  • scalp cleaner

  • shampoo

  • conditioner

  • comb/brush

  • mirror setup

  • time and privacy

Be Careful With Private Messages

If someone contacts you privately trying to sell you systems, services, special deals, or “secret suppliers”, be cautious.

Report suspicious messages to the moderators.

This forum is not a place for hidden selling.

Final Word

A modern hair system can change how you look and how you feel.

But it is not magic.

It requires:

  • realistic expectations

  • correct density

  • good installation

  • regular maintenance

  • colour management

  • financial planning

  • emotional maturity

The best wearers are not the ones who buy the thickest hair.

COSTS

As mention above, prices vary depending on the manufacturer, supplier, type of base, and the type of hair chosen.

On average, a hair system purchased from regular salon costs between £400 and £700 all included, and typically lasts between 2 and 4 months when maintained and used correctly.

However, in order to make high quality HS affordable, some senior members of this forum created a project called the “Group Order”, which allows users each month to purchase their hair systems together in groups of 10+ people, ordering directly from the factories at production cost while sharing shipping and import expenses (which can be significant, especially since most factories are based in China).

The process usually involves submitting your parameters, such as:

  • hair sample

  • scalp template (mold)

  • reference photos

  • additional specifications or notes

The average quality of systems ordered through group orders is excellent way above the average you see online, and the quality-to-price ratio is extremely hard to beat. Roughly the price is around £260.

The project also includes regional helpers who can assist beginners with:

  • creating the scalp template

  • choosing the correct system specifications

  • helping with the first installation

usually in exchange for a small reimbursement for their time and travel.

To join the Group Orders, simply follow the rules and instructions provided in the dedicated regulation thread:

Read first.

Ask carefully.

Post photos when asking for personal advice.

Move slowly.

That is how you avoid expensive mistakes.

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