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Costs of Wearing a Hair system
WHAT DOES WEARING A HAIR SYSTEM COST?
The cost of wearing a hair system includes more than just the system itself. Additional expenses come from regular maintenance, bonding, cleaning, and styling. Hair systems have a limited lifespan, which is influenced by various factors such as the bonding method, cleaning frequency, lifestyle, and environmental conditions.
Lifespan of a Hair System
On average, a hair system lasts around 3 months, but this can vary significantly depending on the materials used and how the system is maintained.
Here’s a breakdown of typical lifespans by base material:
| Base Material | Average Lifespan |
| Skin 0.03mm | ~4 weeks |
| Skin 0.06mm | 2–3 months |
| Skin 0.08mm | 3–4 months |
| Skin 0.1mm | 3–6 months |
| Swiss Lace | 1–2 months |
| French Lace | 3–4 months |
| Monofilament | 6–12 months |
If you wear a system continuously year-round (e.g., without breaks during holidays), you’ll need to plan for multiple systems annually. For example, with a French lace base, you may require 3–4 systems per year.
Custom vs. Stock Systems
Your choice between a custom or stock system depends on your personal needs and preferences.
- Custom Systems: Slightly more expensive due to their personalized nature and manual production. They are not mass-produced, so ordering multiple units does not significantly reduce the price. Production typically takes 10–12 weeks.
Stock Systems: These come in standard sizes and colors and are usually readily available. While they can be adjusted to some degree, they may not match your exact specifications.
Attachment and Re-Attachment
How long a hair system stays attached depends on the bonding method:
- Daily Wear: The system is removed every night or every other day. This routine avoids friction during sleep and extends the lifespan but requires more daily effort.
- Extended Wear (up to 4 weeks): Systems bonded with strong adhesive or tape can be worn continuously for weeks. However, daily activities like sleeping, showering, and exercising will affect the system’s durability.
Always let the tape and adhesive cure the recommended time to assure a optimal bonding time.
Removing the System
Proper removal is essential to avoid damage:
- Never rip the system off; this can destroy it, especially if you don’t have a replacement ready.
- Use a remover or lace release spray to loosen adhesives. These products often contain oils or citrus ingredients that dissolve adhesive but must be washed out afterward.
- For lace systems, spray the remover onto the lace and allow it to penetrate before gently lifting the system.
- For skin bases, apply remover to the edges and gently work it in, continuing around the perimeter until the system comes off.
Tip: Avoid using tools like a rat-tail comb to pry the system off—it can cause serious damage.
Cleaning the System
When cleaning off the head:
- Use a citrus or oil-based remover to eliminate adhesive and tape residue.
- Follow up with a bond-breaking shampoo to remove any remaining buildup.
- Skin systems may benefit from soaking in an adhesive remover (base cleaner) to gently strip off glue, then washing thoroughly.
Washing the Hair
- Wash as infrequently as possible—ideally once a week.
- Start with a deep cleansing shampoo to remove sweat and buildup.
- Follow with a moisturizing shampoo and a light conditioner, avoiding the base of the system.
- Finish with a leave-in conditioner to protect against UV rays, frizz, and environmental stressors.
Tip: Avoid getting conditioner of the base as it will loosen the knots and cause shedding.
Scalp Care
This often-overlooked step is crucial for strong bonding and overall comfort:
- A clean scalp ensures better adhesion. Use a detox or exfoliating scrub to remove sweat, oil, and buildup.
- Apply a scalp protector to create a barrier between your skin and the adhesive. Let it dry fully, and apply multiple layers if needed.
- If you sweat heavily, bonding time may be shorter—so this step becomes even more critical.
Once your scalp is prepared, apply the adhesive or tape (or both) to your scalp or the system base—depending on the design—and attach the system securely.
The cost of wearing a hair system isn’t something that can be summed up in a single number. There are many factors involved — from the type of hair system you choose (stock or custom-made) to the adhesives, removers, tapes, and care products you use. With such a wide range of products and price points available, total costs can vary greatly depending on your preferences, lifestyle, and how often you replace or maintain your system.
At Treat Project, we’re proud to offer one of the widest selections of hair system products — at the lowest possible prices. Whether you’re looking for adhesives, tapes, removers, or accessories, there’s always an affordable alternative available. We may be a small website, but we carry one of the largest ranges in Europe. Whatever your budget or routine, we’re here to help you wear your hair system with confidence — without overspending.