Hair replacement systems Q & A

If you are considering getting a hair replacement system or a hair piece, you may already have done some initial research on the internet and maybe talked to people who uses a hair piece. However, the initial knowledge is very low as hair pieces is not a talked about subject. The subject of hair, or lack of it, carries some strong emotions with it.

There are some hair piece producers that make some amazing and authentic looking units. But how do you find these in an industry that is notorious for its unethical and treacherous behavior.

While the preceding pages have given you some general knowledge on the terminology and the types of hair pieces, we will here try to equip you with a more practical list of items you should know and ask before you sign on the dotted line.

How do you find a hair piece provider
There are many sources that can help you find a hair piece provider. These include- word of mouth- recommendation from doctor- yellow pages- internet searches- advertising

It is important at this stage to have an open mind. Do not get deterred by smaller providers that do not seem as professional as some of the larger companies. Some of these smaller providers are the most passionate and caring about their customers. Look through their promotional material and do a Google search on them to see if anyone has written or blogged positively or negatively about them.

Once you have narrowed down a shortlist, it is wise to do a check with the Better Business Bureau � for complaints against the provider. The Better Business Bureau � can provide you with a report on the specific providers that include number of complaints, type of complaints etc. One complaint can be a fluke, but if there are many, just walk away. Alternative, you can ask the hair piece provider to comment on the complaints.

Getting a hair piece
Once you have selected a potential provider, you should meet with them. This will typically involve seeing a hair stylist or technician, if they are serious. If you are just seeing a sales representative, be on guard.

The hair stylist or technician will measure you for a hair piece and inquire what you are looking for. If you can bring a picture of the look you are seeking, this will avoid misunderstandings later on in the process.

You should ask the hair stylist or technician how the hair piece will be fitted, if you can see a similar hair piece, and what needs to be done to your existing hair. Normally, they will shave all your hair off that is underneath the hair piece. This is rarely explained to potential hair piece customers. Also, you should ask how much self-maintenance you are required to do.

You should also get the full details on price, maintenance schedule, how many hair pieces you need (a new hair piece is the biggest cost), how often you need to change the hair piece etc. Nothing should come as a surprise afterwards.

Some providers offer a price plan alternative. This is generally good, although typically a bit more expensive, as the customer do not have to pay the entire amount up front. However, be aware of the difference between a price plan for the initial purchase and a price plan for the initial purchase as well as ongoing maintenance and new hair pieces. Always check that you can get out of the contract at any time without having to pay a big penalty.

See if you can talk or, preferable, meet with some of the provider�s current customers. This will give you an idea of the quality of the hair pieces as well as some information on whether the company is living up to its promises.

If the hair piece will be fitted with some kind of adhesive, get a sample and wear it for a couple of days to see if you get any adverse reaction. Some people can have an allergic reaction to certain adhesives.

Once you have decided on your hair piece, it typically takes about a week to be created.

Also remember to ask what your options are if you for some reason is not happy with your hair piece. Be sure to get this in writing. This will also show you have serious the provider is. Most providers will alter your hair piece free of charge. Some more serious providers will perhaps offer you a money back guarantee (partly or fully). If you have signed a maintenance contract (which we advise against), under which conditions and costs can you get out of the contract.

Check list
This check list will help you to remember all the important items that you need to get confirmed before you sign on the dotted line.

- Ensure you have everything in writing. If there is a problem later on, it should be clear how the problem will be solved and what the costs to you will be, if any.
- Get a full detailed description of the entire process, what is included, what is NOT included. Get prices for everything that is NOT included.
- What does it cost to get out of the contract at any point in time?
- Are there any Better Business Bureau � cases against the provider. Will they admit them and comment on them.

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