What Are Male Hair Units?
Male hair units (MHUs) are non-surgical hair replacement systems that are attached to the scalp to conceal hair loss. They are made from human or synthetic hair and can be customized to match the wearer’s natural hair color, texture, and style.
Types of Male Hair Units
There are two main types of MHUs:
- Lace-based units: These units are made with a thin, transparent lace base that is attached to the scalp using adhesive. Lace-based units are natural-looking and undetectable when applied correctly.
- Skin-based units: These units are made with a thin, flesh-colored polyurethane base that is attached to the scalp using glue or tape. Skin-based units are less natural-looking than lace-based units, but they are more durable and last longer.
Benefits of Male Hair Units
MHUs offer a number of benefits over other hair loss treatments, including:
- Immediate results: MHUs can be applied in a single day, providing immediate results.
- Natural-looking appearance: Modern MHUs are designed to look and feel like natural hair.
- Versatile styling options: MHUs can be styled in a variety of ways, just like natural hair.
- Confidence-boosting: MHUs can help men regain their confidence and self-esteem by concealing hair loss.
How to Choose the Right Male Hair Unit
When choosing an MHU, there are a few factors to consider, including:
- Hair type: MHUs are available in a variety of hair types, including human hair, synthetic hair, and a blend of both. Human hair MHUs are more expensive than synthetic hair MHUs, but they are also more durable and natural-looking.
- Base type: MHUs are available with lace bases or skin bases. Lace bases are more natural-looking, but they are also more delicate and require more maintenance. Skin bases are less natural-looking, but they are more durable and last longer.
- Attachment method: MHUs can be attached to the scalp using adhesive, glue, or tape. Adhesive attachment is the most popular method, as it is quick and easy to apply. However, it can also be more damaging to the scalp. Glue attachment is more permanent than adhesive attachment, but it can also be more difficult to remove. Tape attachment is a good compromise between adhesive and glue attachment, as it is relatively easy to apply and remove.
- Cost: MHUs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of an MHU will vary depending on the hair type, base type, attachment method, and size.
How to Apply a Male Hair Unit
Applying an MHU is a relatively simple process that can be done at home or in a salon. The following steps will help you apply your MHU correctly:
- Prepare your scalp: Wash your scalp with a clarifying shampoo and conditioner to remove any dirt or oil. Dry your scalp completely.
- Apply adhesive: Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the base of the MHU. Be sure to avoid getting adhesive on your hair or scalp.
- Position the MHU: Position the MHU on your scalp and press down firmly. Hold the MHU in place for a few minutes to allow the adhesive to bond.
- Style your hair: Once the adhesive has bonded, you can style your hair as desired.
How to Care for a Male Hair Unit
MHUs require regular care to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips for caring for your MHU:
- Wash your MHU regularly: Wash your MHU every 7-10 days with a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
- Use sulfate-free products: Avoid using shampoos and conditioners that contain sulfates, as they can damage the hair unit.
- Comb your MHU gently: Use a wide-tooth comb to gently comb your MHU. Start at the ends of the hair and work your way up to the roots.
- Avoid heat styling: Avoid using heat styling tools, such as blow dryers and curling irons, as they can damage the hair unit.
- Store your MHU properly: When you are not wearing your MHU, store it in a cool, dry place.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when using MHUs:
- Applying too much adhesive: Applying too much adhesive can cause the MHU to become bulky and unnatural-looking.
- Getting adhesive on your hair or scalp: If you get adhesive on your hair or scalp, it can damage your hair or cause irritation.
- Not cleaning your MHU regularly: Not cleaning your MHU regularly can lead to a build-up of dirt and oil, which can damage the hair unit and cause it to become unsightly.
- Using heat styling tools: Using heat styling tools can damage the hair unit and shorten its lifespan.
- Improper storage: Storing your MHU in a damp or hot environment can damage the hair unit.
Where to Buy Male Hair Units
MHUs can be purchased from a variety of sources, including hair salons, online retailers, and medical supply stores. When choosing a source for your MHU, it is important to do your research and read reviews from other customers.
Conclusion
Male hair units are a great way to conceal hair loss and regain your confidence. By following the tips in this article, you can choose, apply, and care for your MHU correctly so that it looks and feels like natural hair.
Tables
| Type of MHU | Base Material | Attachment Method | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lace-based | Thin, transparent lace | Adhesive, glue, or tape | $500-$2,000 |
| Skin-based | Thin, flesh-colored polyurethane | Glue or tape | $1,000-$3,000 |
| Adhesive Type | Bonding Time | Durability | Removal Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water-based | 1-2 hours | Low | Easy |
| Solvent-based | 2-4 hours | High | Difficult |
| Acrylic-based | 4-6 hours | Very high | Very difficult |
| Hair Type | Durability | Natural-Looking | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human hair | 6-12 months | Very high | High |
| Synthetic hair | 3-6 months | Low | Low |
| Blend of human and synthetic hair | 4-8 months | Medium | Medium |
| Maintenance Tips | Frequency | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Wash with gentle shampoo and conditioner | Every 7-10 days | Removes dirt and oil, prevents damage |
| Use sulfate-free products | Every wash | Prevents damage |
| Comb gently with a wide-tooth comb | Daily | Prevents tangles, distributes natural oils |
| Avoid heat styling | As much as possible | Prevents damage |
| Store in a cool, dry place | When not wearing | Prevents damage, extends lifespan |
Tips and Tricks
- Use a mirror to help you apply your MHU. This will help you see what you are doing and avoid mistakes.
- Take your time when applying your MHU. Rushing the process can lead to mistakes.
- Be careful not to get adhesive on your hair or scalp. If you do, use a cotton swab to gently remove it.
- Style your MHU with a wide-tooth comb. This will help prevent damage.
- Avoid using heat styling tools on your MHU. Heat can damage the hair unit.
- Store your MHU in a cool, dry place when you are not wearing it. This will help prevent damage and extend its lifespan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too much adhesive. This can make the MHU look bulky and unnatural.
- Getting adhesive on your hair or scalp. This can damage your hair or cause irritation.
- Not cleaning your MHU regularly. This can lead to a build-up of dirt and oil, which can damage the hair unit and make it unsightly.
- Using heat styling tools. This can damage the hair unit and shorten its lifespan.
- Improper storage. Storing your MHU in a damp or hot environment can damage the hair unit.
How to Step-by-Step Approach
- Prepare your scalp. Wash your scalp with a clarifying shampoo and conditioner to remove any dirt or oil. Dry your scalp completely.
- Apply adhesive to the base of the MHU. Be sure to avoid getting adhesive on your hair or scalp.
- Position the MHU on your scalp and press down firmly. Hold the MHU in place for a few minutes to allow the adhesive to bond.
- Style your hair as desired.