At HAIR DIRECT SG you can Do It Yourself!

Quick & simple hair maintenance tutorials made just for you.

Tips to make your hair system last longer

A hair replacement system can be styled and washed just like natural hair. You can even wear it while working out or swimming. However, when it comes to hair system maintenance, there are certain things you have to take note of in order to keep your hair replacement in good condition for a long time.

1. Proper Hair Washing

Washing the hair system is a little different from washing your growing hair. The main difference is that the hair system is not exposed to your natural scalp oils as the way your own does. With these variables, you do not need to shampoo your hair system very often. You can work with your washing schedule – shampooing every one to three days. 

To get rid of dirt and grime, clean your hair system with lukewarm water. Using your fingers, massage the hair strands in gentle, downward motions from the base of the hairpiece down to the tips. You may wash your hair daily with water but limit the shampooing to three days to prevent the hair system from drying out. However, in a tropical climate, such as Singapore, the need to wash everyday might be necessary to most therefore, daily conditioning is imperative.

2. Daily Conditioning 

As part of your daily hair system maintenance, we do not recommend shampooing your hair system daily however, if you must, use a mild conditioner. In fact, we strongly recommend it for your hair replacement system as it keeps hair strands moisturised. 

Conditioners that are safe for hair systems not only keep the tangles and fizz away, but they also help maintain hair strength and reduce hair breakage. In addition, you may also apply a spray-on leave-in conditioner to keep your hair system hydrated and moisturized all day.

3. Avoid Chemical Treatments

Our hair systems are usually made of real human hair. Any chemicals or chemical treatments can damage the hair’s protein structure, making hair brittle, discoloured, and prone to breakage and shedding. Hence, we do not recommend perming, bleaching, colouring or rebonding as this will expose your hair system to heat as well as weaken the hair system bonding.

4. Avoid Hair Tangling 

Our hair systems are mostly made of human hair, so it is softer, shinier, and more natural looking than synthetic hair. However, this type of hair is not completely tangle-proof. You would need to comb out a few kinks once in a while to keep your hair lustrous and in great shape. Your hair system can break and get pulled out just like your natural hair. The proper way of brushing a hair system is from base to the tip, in a straight and downward direction.

Credits: Hair Direct

Credits: Hair Direct

How to measure your scalp for your hair system

The aim of successfully wearing a partial hair system is to have it blend seamlessly with your growing hair. Therefore, when ordering a hair system, choosing the right size is crucial.

1. Find and mark your hairline

Firstly, you will need to find and mark your frontal hairline. The easiest way to do this is by placing four fingers above your eyebrows. The point above your topmost finger is where your hairline starts. Then, use a marker pen to mark this point.

2. Measure front to back

Next, you will need a measuring tape to measure your scalp from front to back. Start at the point where you’ve marked your hairline all the way to the point where your hair at the back of your head starts (assuming you’re bald in the centre).

3. Measure side to side

Same goes for side to side, measuring between the parts where your hair is thickest. Always go for the longest possible measurement when measuring side to side. This is because if it’s too long, the base can always be cut down to size. However, the same doesn’t apply if you measure and cut the length of the base size too short.

Otherwise, use a string and ruler if you don’t have a measuring tape. Simply place the string from your marked points from side to side and front to back. Then use a ruler to measure the length of the string to get an accurate measurement. Once you know your measurements, you will be able to order your hair piece online with the perfect fit, or if you don’t have the exact same fit, you can purchase a bigger hair system and cut it down to the right size.

Things to know before getting your first hair system

People with thinning hair or bald patches have probably exhausted all means to cover up their problem areas. Those suffering from hair loss have been suffering in silence, not knowing that there is a convenient and painless solution to the problem.

1. Shaving is optional

When your hair is already thinned out, your scalp shows bald spots, shaving off even more hair would cause concern. With a hair system, you can choose to skip the shaving part. The clipping method relies on the wearer’s hair to stay on, therefore it’s better not to shave the hair if you’re opting for the clipping method. The drawback of the clipping method is that making the hair look bulky puts tension on existing hair, and the hairpiece is not being securely attached.

2. Types of attachment

There are few methods for hair bonding or hair attachment for thinning hair. Your choice of hair replacement technique ultimately depends most on what fits your personality and lifestyle. You can adapt to clippings fairly easily, but if you choose to bond, you may need to experiment with various adhesives until you find the one works best for you.  

CLIPPING: Hair system clips look a lot like small combs or tiny barrettes used to affix the hairpiece to the wearer’s natural hair. The clips are fastened to existing hair around the thinned-out area’s perimeter or bald patch that will be covered up by the hairpiece.

HARD BOND: Hair replacement systems that are attached through hard bonding stay in place the longest. Hard bonding can hold hair systems in place for up to 5 weeks, even in humid climates.

SOFT BOND: The soft bonding technique makes use of flexible glues and adhesive tapes. Hairpieces that are attached through soft bonding can stay on for up to 3 weeks.

3. Lifespan of the hair system

A hair system’s life span varies depending on several factors, including its base type, material, attachment, cleaning, and maintenance. Your lifestyle will also affect the lifespan of your hair system. As a rule of thumb, hair systems last 2 to 6 months on average. Hairpieces with thin designs (less dense) tend to look very natural and can last 2 months or longer. Meanwhile, denser hair pieces can last an average of 4 to 6 months. Remember that the more personal care you put into your hair system, the longer it will last.

4. Setting expectation 

Wearing a hair system is a lifelong journey and you will be doing it for a long term. Clients who are new to doing their own hair replacement want a hair system that is totally undetectable to touch, is very durable, and will last a long time. 

However, for a hair system to be undetectable, especially to touch, the base material needs to be very thin and delicate. The more delicate the base material is, the less durable it is. On the other hand, the more durable a base material is, the heavier and thicker it is. A thicker base (such as any base with a poly perimeter) will last longer than a delicate base. When you touch the system while it’s attached, the thickness of the base has an edge you can feel.

Credits: Hair Direct

HAIR CARE

A hair system is made with hair that has already been taken off from heads. It will never grow or continue to receive nutrients therefore, good hair care methods will greatly prolong the hair’s lifespan and make the hair look healthy.

Step 1: Prepare the hair system

Before you install your hair system, you will need to make sure it is ready to be attached. This is done by making sure it is cut to size so that it fits your scalp. Wash the hair system before cutting to size, it helps you avoid cutting the hair during the process. As you are ready to attach your system, it’s a good idea to lay it out in a way that makes it easy to pick up. With the hair side down, place your system on the countertop, with the front edge facing you.

Step 2: Prepare your scalp

Once the hair system is ready, it’s time to get your scalp ready for the application. Make sure that the installation area is trimmed, washed and clean as there shouldn’t be any hair where the base is to be applied. Mark your hairline with an eyebrow pencil. One tip is to place four fingers sideways above your eyebrows to determine your hairline.

Step 3: Apply adhesive

Using your application tool, apply one thin, even layer of liquid adhesive to the front area of your scalp. We recommend extending the adhesive back at least 1 inch from the edge of the hair system, but you can cover as much area as you’d like beyond that.

Step 4: Install the hair system

Gently position your hair system on your scalp and start from the front of the hairline (which you have marked) and go backwards. Once you are happy with the placement of the hair system on your head, you can press down and stretch out the system with the teeth of a fine-tooth comb or your fingers to rid of air bubbles. Press and hold the hair system on your scalp for around a minute to keep it secure.

Cleaning Your Hair System

Step 1: Remove the tape from hair system

Once your hair system has been removed from your scalp with an adhesive remover, you will need to remove the tape from the edges of your hair system. Spray Sunshine Oil solvent onto your hair system and allow the solution to penetrate for 1-3 minutes and release the bond. Find a loose edge of the tape, gently peel off the edge of the tape.

Step 2: Clean the hair system

Once all the adhesive has been removed, do not rinse the base at once. The solvent takes some time to break down the leftover residue that may not be visible. Brush the hair system with a fine-tooth comb if there is a lot of residue. Comb it gradually over the area and the residue will collect on the comb.

Step 3: Rinse the hair system

After removing the residue from the hair system, apply a generous amount of detergent to the base. If there is any more residual tape, use a brush and  gently glide through the edges of the base and the hair, and the rest of the adhesive will easily come off. Lastly, rinse the entire hair system thoroughly with lukewarm water until all the soap has fully dissipated.

Step 4: Shampoo and condition the hair system

After rinsing thoroughly, wash the hair system again. Then, wash it with a mild shampoo like ABCDEFG to balance the acidity. After shampooing, apply conditioner onto the hair system. We recommend Pura D’OR’s Biotin Conditioner. You can use a comb when you’re applying shampoo and conditioner through the hair. For the best results, it is recommended to use a vented hairbrush. You may need to repeat this step several times as any residue on the hair system will weaken the strength of subsequent bonding.

Removing Your Hair System

Step 1: Locate the back edge

To avoid damaging your front hairline, it is recommended to start from the back and work your way to the front. Find the back edge of your hair system, grab it with two fingers and begin separating gently from your scalp. By doing this, it prevents damage to the delicate front hairline.

Step 2: Release the back edge

As you separate the hair system from your scalp, spray a few pumps of Sunshine Oil solvent or Sunshine Alcohol Remover under the back edge of the hair system. Spray the solvent upwards so that it penetrates under the edge. This will help to release the hair system from your scalp.

Step 3: Remove the system

Once the hair starts to release, lift the edge of the base and separate the hair from your scalp. Put your finger between the system and your scalp and keep spraying the solvent while sliding your finger to gently separate the system from your scalp until it’s fully released. Take your time while removing the hair system as you may damage the base or irritate your scalp.

Shampoo and Condition Your Hair System

Washing a hair system is different from washing your own hair. The main difference is that the system’s hair is not exposed to the natural oils from your scalp as your own hair is. However, with this variable, you do not need to shampoo your hair system very often. You can shampoo up to every three days. But in a tropical climate, such as Singapore, the need to wash everyday might be necessary to most therefore, daily conditioning is imperative.

When shampooing or conditioning, refrain from rubbing, scrunching, or scratching the hair and base, as this could damage your hair system. Comb the shampoo and conditioner through the system with your fingers or a wide tooth comb, keeping the hair flowing in the same direction to avoid tangling.

Step 1: Shampoo your hair system

Start by rinsing your hair then apply shampoo to your growing hair. When shampooing your hair system, avoid scrubbing and scratching as this will tangle your hair system. Use your fingers to gently distribute the shampoo all through the hair system instead. 

Work the shampoo gradually from the growing hair to the edge of the hair system in order to make sure your scalp is oil-free along the edge of the base. Rinse the hair system and your hair thoroughly with cold or lukewarm water. When rinsing off the shampoo, keep the hair system and water flowing in the same direction you shampooed.

Step 2: Condition your hair system

To maximize the longevity of your hair system, you need your hair system to stay hydrated. As this will also minimize tangling and breakage of the hair. After shampooing, you can use a small amount of conditioner. Pat the condition onto the hair system and comb it through. It is recommended to leave the conditioner on the hair for at least three minutes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water while combing through your hair. Ensure that you lift up each section of your hair system and rinse underneath.

Step 3: Towel dry your hair

After showering, blot dry your hair system gently by patting the hair with a bath towel. Never rub the hair with a towel as this will cause the hair to tangle and shed.

Step 4: Style your hair

While your hair is damp, brush the hair to make sure it is free of tangles. Use a soft-bristled detangling brush from top to front and blow dry, if necessary,  in one direction. Lastly, apply leave-in conditioner then style, or vice versa, with any of your preferred styling products.

Credits: Hair Direct

Credits: Hair Direct

Credits: Hair Direct

Credits: Hair Direct

Credits: Hair Direct

Credits: Hair Direct

Base Size

This section explains the base size of the hair system. Base size is the size of the cap of a hair system. 

Partial size

A partial size hair system covers areas of hair loss smaller than or equal to 4”x4”. In the early stages of hair loss, some clients only experience hair loss in isolated areas. In these situations, a partial system would be the most appropriate choice. This is because the partial system can be fitted to a smaller hair loss area and blended with the users’ existing hair.

Regular Size

Hair loss area that is larger than 4”x4” and up to 10”x8”. It is the most popular option for men with traditional male pattern baldness. It covers hair loss areas from the front hairline to the crown. You may need to select the exact measurement of your hair system base. 

Full Cap

Full cap hair systems are most common with women or men who have complete hair loss. It is the most suitable choice for chemotherapy patients who suffer severe hair loss or prefer total coverage of the scalp. Hair systems that cover your entire head, including sideburns and nape, are called full caps. These cap sizes are larger than 10”x10”.

 

How to measure?

Follow the instructions below to measure a partial size or regular size hair system.

Hair System Length

Place the measurement tape at the centre of the front hairline, measure across the middle to the back edge of the hair system.

Hair System Width

Place the measurement tape at one side edge of the base, the starting point should be half an inch backwards from the temple, then go up across the top to the opposite edge.

Helpful tips for taking correct measurements:

  1. Use cloth measuring tape. 
  2. Measure holding the tape snug, but not tight against the head.
  3. Keep tape flat against your head and do not allow kinks and twists to develop in the tape. 
  4. Take the measurements at least 3 times with the same measurement tape to ensure accuracy. Consistent measurements are an indication that you are measuring correctly. If you do not measure properly, your hair system may not fit.

Custom Hair Colour Image

Each of our colour choices is illustrated in a photo for your selection. Compare those colours and choose one that matches your own or the one you like best. Your order will then be processed based on your selection. 

PLEASE NOTE: We have done our best to display the colours of the hair on this website as accurately as possible. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the display of any colour on your monitor, as it will depend on your monitor.

#1 #2 #3 #4 #5
#6 #7 #8 #9 #10
#11 #12 #13 #14 #15
#16 #17 #18 #19 #20
#21 #22 #23 #24 #25
#26 #27 #28 #29 #30
#31 #32 #33 #34 #35
#36 #37 #38 #39 #40
#41 #42 #43 #44 #45

Hair Density

Choosing the correct density of hair system is one of the most significant factors in ensuring your hair system looks unbelievably natural. For a wearer, hair density plays a vital role in providing a realistic appearance that is age appropriate. The density of the hair is the amount of hair strands on the head. It is measured by the amount of hair per square inch and ranges from extra light to heavy. The following density options should help you to select a density pattern that works best for you.

Hair Density Description
Extra Light (65%) This density is way too thin and suitable for aged people only.

Light (80%) This is a very light density; this hair density will show your scalp when parted.

Light Medium (100%) This is the most commonly used density for men, which is natural and not so much volume of hair.

Medium (120%) Medium hair density is a regular hair density for young people.

Heavy (150%) Heavy hair density is a little bit heavy for men and is most suitable for their twenties and thirties.

 

Hair System Density vs HAIR System Base Material

BASE MATERIAL EXTRA LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT MEDIUM  MEDIUM HEAVY
SKIN / / / / /
LACE / / /
FINE MONO / / /

Hair System Base Design

Lace 

The lace system is best suited to active individuals, especially those in warmer climates, looking for comfort without compromising the look of their hair. Despite being lightweight, lace systems tend to look very realistic, allowing them to be worn every day. The lace material used in the hair system not only gives them breathability, but also looks natural and undetectable as it blends with the scalp easily. Lace hair systems can be delicate as they have less hair density and are not very durable as a whole. There are two types of lace system which are Swiss Lace and French Lace. The difference between Swiss Lace and French Lace is that Swiss Lace is extremely thin and light and must be handled with special care. While French Lace tends to look invisible and more durable compared to Swiss Lace. 

Skin  

Skin hair system is designed for those who desire the most undetectable hair system, yet one that is easy to maintain and durable. Skin hair systems are made from extremely thin material, so that they are undetectable, or made thick, which will be more durable. Because of the ultra-thin poly base and material used, skin hair system allows the wearer to experience the feeling of their natural scalp as though they are not wearing a hair system at all. Therefore, skin hair system looks like they are growing directly from the scalp, providing the appearance of completely natural-looking hair. On the other hand, skin hair systems are not very breathable, so they are not the most ideal option for those in warmer climates. 

Monofilament

Monofilament bases are made with a semi-transparent mesh into which individual strands of hair are tied in order to mimic natural hair growth. This can be a single or double layer. Monofilament base is one of the most durable hair systems as the hairs are tied to a mesh material which provides the illusion of hair growing from the scalp. They are soft and comfortable to wear while they tend to have a longer lifespan than lace or skin bases because of their strength. Monofilament bases can hold greater hair density and are ideal for those who want to wear a hair system on a semi-permanent basis. Monofilament hair system is not as breathable as a lace hair system, so it is not suitable for warm and humid climates. 

 

Hair System Base Material Pros vs. Cons

Base Durable Breathable Natural Looking Warm Climates Easy to attach/remove Hair density
Lace / / / Light to Medium

(60% – 100%)

Skin / / Light to Medium

(80% – 100%)

Monofilament / / / Medium to Heavy

(100% – 150%)

Hair Type

1. Synthetic Hair

Synthetic hair is simply very fine plastic filaments made primarily of modacrylic fibers that have the appearance and touch of real human hair. Wearing synthetic hair is very easy and requires little maintenance. Unlike human hair, synthetic hair requires minimal or no styling after washing. However, when wearing synthetic hair, it is important to avoid heat sources such as curling or straightening irons, hair dryers, or even an open oven. Besides, synthetic hair can also be easily damaged by friction. A constant friction from a pillowcase or wearing hats and helmet can cause the hair to deteriorate and become very frizzy.

2. Human Hair

Human hair is sourced from many countries, primarily China and India. Human hair allows for greater flexibility and styling as it can be curled, straightened, and permed just like your own growing hair. Human hair can also be subjected to heat from a curling iron or hair dryer. European, Indian and Chinese Hair are the most commonly used types of hair. 

European Hair

Among all hair types, European hair is considered to be the softest and finest. With a silky and sleek feel, your hair will have very natural movement. All our European hair is unprocessed virgin hair, with all cuticles intact and hair in the same direction. European hair can be used for hair replacements with a finished length up to 6 inches. 

Indian Hair

Indian hair is typically processed with an acid treatment. You can see the black knots at the hair ends. Indian hair texture is very smooth and soft. Genetically, it is very similar to Caucasian hair in its basic structure. With fine follicles, Indian hair is highly adaptable to colour and texture processing. It holds curls perfectly and works very well with all ethnicities. In the hair replacement industry, Indian hair is the most commonly used and widely available type of human hair.

Chinese Hair

Chinese hair is straight and smooth without having a shiny doll hair appearance which makes it the best choice for African Americans. Chinese hair comes in a variety of colours, ranging from off black to dark brown. It stays straight and does not wave up after being wet. It also does not swell with frizz in the humidity. In contrast to other hair types, Chinese hair is the only hair type which can withstand extreme processing without degrading the hair quality. Therefore, it is a great option for wearers with light blonde and silver hair.

Haircut Service

We have a range of hairstyles with different looks for you to choose. If you have any desired hair style, you are most welcome to share it with us. Below are the sample hairstyles that can be styled by our professional stylist.