Hair Loss Wigs

As an example of how things have changed over the years in the manufacturing of wigs; manufacturers began making advanced machine-made wigs with nylon material at the top of the head to eliminate the need for a lot of back combing and to take away the crimpy look which is no longer in fashion. New wigs often combine machine-made and hand-tied pieces. These hair replacements are not as bulky as they once were. This is because manufacturers are able to use less hair so the wigs are not as full and back combed. They may still need more attention around the hairline, but they have gotten much better in that area as well.

The color, texture and quality of synthetic hair types are of a higher caliber than they were previously. Today we have amazing processes for human hair making it stunning when used in a wig or prosthetic. However, due to shortages in the human hair market, cost are rising and will continue to do so. Then there is Cyberhair which we have talked about on several occasions. Cyberhair is truly remarkable and has changed the face of the industry since it’s development.

The previous generation of wigs was so much poorer in quality than the ones we have today. However, with enhancement comes with increased cost. One of our wig specialist at Fantasia salon will be happy to discuss the type of investment you will be looking at depending upon the wig you select.

Types of Wigs and Prostethics

One of the main categories of wigs is ready-made or machine-made. These wigs come from stock and are a combination of machine-made materials with hand-tied tops. Pre-custom wigs have been hand-tied with synthetic hair. These are prefabricated and come in standard sizes and colors. The only alterations with these would be cutting and trimming bringing the wig somewhat closer to the custom level. Semi-custom wigs are hand-tied from the cap system or duplication of pre-custom to specialized needs.

Custom wigs and prosthetics are particularly good for quickly addressing the concerns of those experiencing hair loss due to medical situations. Because Fantasia works with all types of hair loss, we have a very large inventory of wigs of all types. We stock synthetics, human hair and Cyberhair. We have hair pieces and integrations as well. We work on a consultation basis so we can evaluate your needs and recommend the best possible solution for your situation and budget. We look forward to hearing from you.

Wigs of yesteryear, were not designed for women with hair loss concerns. It was all about the fashion of the day. Wigs back then were offered as solutions for women with bad hair days. Some were developed for theatrical use for costuming, or to allow a woman to change her look with minimal effort. These wigs were never constructed for the needs of a woman who wanted to cover her own head naturally and with the highest degree of security over a long period of time.

Looking natural was not a priority nor was comfort. Security was not a focus. The materials used in the construction of the wig were lackluster and sorely deficient in both sophistication and authenticity. And, these products were devoid of any artistry born of sensitivity.

If the industry had not changed, and our alternatives today were not what what they are, that might be a harsh assessment. However, the industry has changed and today, we are fortunate to enjoy the work of companies that take hair loss concerns into consideration as opposed to just fashion when they manufacture their products. Some, such as Amy Gibson, searched for years before finally coming up with “Amy’s Presence” wigs which allow one to live life to the fullest while wearing a wig for Alopecia, other medical conditions or whatever reason. Amy experienced first hand the pain and frustration of Alopecia. As an actress, she was involved in an industry which is all about beauty, hair and make-up. She was determined not to let hair loss control her life and out of that, the “Amy’s Presence ” collection of wigs was born.
Today we are blessed to have a movement toward greater education of specialists and stylist in helping to formulate the best hair replacement solutions for women with hair loss issues. Fantasia salon has been working with wigs since the 1960’s and has always been on the forefront of what is new and exciting in the industry. Our wig specialists receive on going education and training in order to keep our salon cutting edge.

Today’s materials for wig construction are technologically advanced and look genuine. Because of this, the final products are artfully constructed and sometimes look even better than your own hair possibly could!

Wigs and other hair replacement products can be made in different ways to accommodate special needs. You can order a wig from existing selections and get it quickly. Fantasia has an extensive collection of wigs both human hair, synthetic and Cyberhair. ( Fantasia carries Amy’s Presence, mentioned above.) Or, you may choose to have your hair replacement custom-made which will give you the ultimate in terms of comfort and personalization. Obviously you will have to wait a while for your finished product, but you can rest assured knowing it will be worth your wait.

If you have questions or concerns, call Fantasia today for a consultation with one of our wig specialist. There is no obligation and you will be able to get all of your questions answered.

OK, you have made the decision that you need hair replacement. Hopefully you have talked with your doctor and your insurance provider to find out what, if anything, is covered. At Fantasia, we always tell our clients, be prepared to pay for the entire purchase yourself and be pleasantly surprised if your insurance carrier pays anything. We always provide our clients with a receipt for a full cranial prosthesis. It is important that you submit this to the insurance company along with the prescription provided by your treating physician.

Do your due diligence in finding a reputable salon with experience in working with wigs. If you go cheap, such as in the mall stores or catalogues, just know you get what you pay for. It is not possible to take a cheap wig (under $200.) and make it look like your own hair. At Fantasia, we work with select Wig Vendors who have quality products which we know we can fit and customize to the individual. Should you decide to purchase a $100. wig somewhere and call Fantasia to have it customized, you can expect to pay $125.-150. to have the wig “tweaked” if in fact it can be done. Don’t assume any hair stylist can cut and fit a wig. There is an “art” to working with wigs, we have been doing it for 46 years!
When you purchase your wig at Fantasia, we will customize it for you. If we don’t get it exact in the first visit, you can come back until it is precisely what you want. We don’t charge you for multiple visits. We also have the products for caring for your purchase, whether it’s synthetic, human hair or Cyberhair.

There are various ways in which wigs are constructed which affects the fit and the price. At Fantasia, we have a huge inventory and our professional wig consultants will show you all of the different options available.

What’s it going to be? Synthetic, human hair or Cyberhair? It’s going to depend on you, your lifestyle and your reason for purchasing a wig. Typically if someone is experiencing temporary hair loss, they are more likely to purchase a synthetic wig. Today’s synthetic wigs can look amazing! Sometimes, when money is not an issue, clients will go with human hair or Cyberhair on the assumption that they may want to wear the wig even when their hair comes back.

If you have bald spots or thin spots, perhaps there is a better solution for you than a full wig. During your consultation at Fantasia, we will present all of the options to you so you can make the best decision for you!

The hair replacement specialist as Fantasia will educate you and answer all of your questions. How is a wig anchored to the head? What about fasteners and straps? Are tapes uses? How can I be certain the hair is going to stay on my head if I’m caught in the wind? We will answer all of these questions for you. There are custom fit caps which will help smooth out any remaining hair underneath the wig. We will teach you about that.

Most importantly, at Fantasia you will be given instructions on caring for your wig to get the most wear from it. You will be taught how to wash the wig and what products you should be using on it. The professionals at Fantasia want you to be excited about your new hair. We have been in business for 46 years and referrals are a huge part of our business. It it important to us that you leave happy!

This is an area of hair loss which is not discussed much. It is emotionally painful for those who struggle to overcome the condition and most of us cannot begin to understand it. It is equally painful for their loved ones.

Trichotillomania is a type of mental illness in which people have an irresistible urge to pull out their hair. Sometimes it’s from their scalp, their eyebrows, or other areas of their body. Hair pulling from the scalp often leaves them with patchy bald spots on their head. They will often go to great lengths to disguise these spots.

Although trichotillomania may seem like an obsession or compulsion, it’s classified as a type of impulse control disorder, where one cannot resist the temptation to perform an act that is harmful to them or others. There are behavior therapies which can help with an awareness of the disorder and teach the individual techniques to avoid pulling out the hair.

Some signs to look for would be: patchy bald spots on the scalp or other areas of the body; sparse or missing eyelashes or eyebrows; chewing pulled out hair; playing with pulled out hair; and rubbing pulled out hair against the face or lips. Most people with this disorder will pull the hair from their scalp. But, there are reports where the hair has been pulled from all areas such as the legs, arms, eyebrows and lashes as well as other areas of the body. Typically the pulling is done with the fingers, but sometimes tools are used such as brushes, combs and tweezers.

For some people, they are aware they are pulling their hair out while they are doing it, it is very focused and deliberate. For others, it is so automatic they may not even realize they are doing it.

Causes for this disorder are still being researched. Researchers think their may be a specific gene mutation thought to play a role in trichotillomania. Studies suggest that abnormalities in the natural brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine may play a role in the disorder. That being the case, nutrition and diet could certainly be a factor in this compulsive behavior.

If you or anyone you know is dealing with this disorder and it is affecting the quality of life, socially or otherwise, please call Fantasia. Most of the time there comes a point, if a person is pulling from the scalp, they can no longer continue to hide and disguise the bald spots. Our professional staff have experience dealing with this disorder just as with any other hair loss disorder. They will work with these clients in a discrete fashion and help them select an appropriate hair replacement system. Since hair is often associated with beauty and vitality, this can be one step in helping them regain control of their life. Remember, Fantasia offers no charge,no obligation consultations.

Alopecia is the most common type of hair loss in women. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as female pattern alopecia or baldness, or also called alopecia areata. Typically, it is seen as hair thinning mostly on the top and sides of the head. It affects one-third of all susceptible women, and is most commonly seen after menopause. However, this does not always hold true as it can begin in puberty or in some cases, younger. The average female will lose 100-125 hairs per day. The hairs are replaced and the cycle continues. True hair loss occurs when more than the average 125 hair are shed daily. Hair loss can come from either parents side of the family.

There are two types of alopecia and to avoid getting too technical, one is due to internally administered medications (chemotherapy) and the other due to an increased number of hair follicles entering the resting stage.

Some possible causes would include: surgery, illness, anemia, rapid weight loss, these are all physical stresses. Emotional stresses would include mental illness or death of a loved one. Thyroid abnormalities can cause hair loss and thinning hair. Medications such as high doses of Vitamin A, blood pressure and gout medications will promote hair loss. And, finally, hormonal causes which would include pregnancy, birth control pills and menopause.

Hair loss can occur to improper dieting. Rapid, significant weight loss can be a catalyst for hair loss. A diet too high in vitamin A can magnify hair loss. At Fantasia, our hair replacement specialist will ask about your diet and now you understand why.

Physical and emotional stress are huge factors in hair loss. The body simply shuts down production of hair during periods of stress sinces it’s not necessary for survival. Instead, the body devotes its energies toward repairing the vital body structures. There can be a three month delay between the stressor and the onset of hair loss. And, there may be a three month delay prior to the return of noticeable hair regrowth. Which means, the loss and regrowth cycle can last 6 months or longer. Some health conditions contribute to hair loss such as anemia, low blood count and thyroid abnormalities.

Hormonal changes are probably the most common cause of female hair loss. Unfortunately, many women don’t realize that hair loss can occur after pregnancy or following the discontinuation of birth control pills. Again, the 6 month cycle would apply.

Fantasia salon has many clients with alopecia, both young and old and all ages in between. The most common hair replacement system for these clients is a wig. Since we have many active, younger clients, Cyberhair is a very popular choice. Cyberhair and Amy’s Presence hair replacements allow the wearer live life to the fullest. You can swim and sleep in Cyberhair! Another popular choice for those with alopecia would be human hair wigs. Since the hair loss is usually not a temporary situation (unlike hair loss from chemotherapy) and they will be wearing the wig indefinitely, it makes sense to spend the money for the finest human hair wigs available. Sometimes choices are determines by what one does for a career. There are many factors which will determine the best choice of hair replacement for an individual. The professionals at Fantasia are trained to guide you in the best choice for you!

Fantasia has a full inventory of wigs, from low end synthetics to the high end European human hair. Call today for a free consultation.

In searching on the Internet for the Minneapolis and Upper Midwest areas, I actually found the above, “Quality wigs for $36.” Reality is that for $36. you cannot purchase a quality wig, much less something that is going to look remotely close to real hair. With hair replacements, wigs, whatever you chose to call them, you get what you pay for.

Why are you purchasing a wig? Is it for long term or short term? Do you want something that looks like hair? Something beautiful and natural looking? Something which would have luster, shine, lightness and manageability? Most people would naturally assume that a human hair wig is obviously better than a synthetic one, when in fact, it’s not quite that simple. For a woman who is very active or would like to be able to sleep and swim in their hair, Cyberhair would be a wonderful choice. (It would not be advisable to try sleeping or swimming in a human hair wig as sleeping could cause the wig to become matted and swimming will, over a period of time, destroy the wig because of the chlorinated water.) The cost of Cyberhair wigs is $1500-2000.

Human hair wigs are becoming more expensive and the quality of human hair is declining. The majority of human hair wigs on the market are made from Asian hair, most of which comes from China. Because Asian hair (or Indian and Pakistani for that matter) is by nature thick, straight and usually very dark in color, other than making wigs in straight black, the hair has to go through several bleaching steps and other chemical treatments before being made into a wig. For this reason a wig that looks great when new, could become dull in a few months.

Hair coming from Russia and Poland is really some of the best quality for wigs but costs more than Asian hair because not so many women in these countries are willing to sell their hair. Human hair wigs made from European hair will last longer and feel softer to the touch.

Therefore, it would be critical when purchasing a human hair wig, to find out where the hair originates. If you are prepared to spend thousands of dollars on a wig, its best to find one made from European hair. For the finest quality possible, be prepared to spend between $2500-5000.

Purchasing a wig really depends on your lifestyle, what you can afford, and what it means for your self esteem. At Fantasia, we only sell wigs which look great and can be customized to fit the individual. This is not be possible with a $36. wig. The only way others will know you are wearing a wig when you leave Fantasia salon, is if you choose to tell them. Most of our clients tell us that people ask them where they get their hair done. While we do have lower end wigs, the quality you find here will cost anywhere from $200.-5000.

If you are purchasing a wig for fun and fashion you may be interested in knowing that Beyonce Knowles wears European hair wigs. (as do many other celebrities) So, if you want the same hair she has, it’s on the high end of the spectrum and will cost you $5000. The good news is that you don’t have to go to the West Coast to buy it (that will save you a few bucks), Fantasia sells top of the line European hair wigs, just like Beyonce wears!

Amy’s Presence, a line of Cyberhair wigs, got it’s name from Amy Gibson. Amy is an actress who began her show business career when she received a starring role in the daytime drama “Love of Live” at age 13.

Just as Amy’s acting career was really taking off, she began experiencing bald spots due to alopecia areata. Back then, not much was known about alopecia and Amy had to find ways to cope with losing her “crowning glory”. She had to keep her secret from cast members, friends and the press for fear of being ousted from an industry which places such importance on beauty and hair.

Over the next 17 years Amy starred on many shows including “The Young and The Restless”, “The Facts of Life” and “Happy Days”. All the while Amy was scouring the globe trying every treatment imaginable and searching for answers to her problem. Amy became a star on “General Hospital” at a time when her body was rejecting treatment and she lost all of her hair within a three week period. Determined that “the show must go on”, she created techniques to allow her to live like every other woman who loves to swim, work out, go dancing and engage in intimacy. Amy was not going to allow hair loss to rob her life.

The Amy’s Presence line of wigs is a culmination of Amy’s lifelong search. Cyberhair is the world’s most technologically advanced patented hair. It is virtually indistinguishable from human hair. It is light as a feather, soft and silky, with rich hues and subtle, shimmering highlights that never fade or change color.

With Cyberhair, you can live life to the fullest! You can work, sleep, swim, exercise, and enjoy romantic moments without worrying about your hair. Amy’s presence is an everyday wig that fits your everyday life. Cyberhair has “style memory” so it requires no styling and only basic maintenance to keep it looking great.

Additional features of Amy’s Presence are: Two cap styles, the Action Cap and the Ultimate Cap, both super lightweight cap construction for the ultimate in comfort and secure wear-ability; hand tying with light, refined materials that conform to the head for an individually customized fit; and subtle colors, hues and highlights that you have to see to believe. Amy’s signature features are: extended ear tabs for natural appearance and loops for scarves and eyeglasses. Additionally, there are specially formulated shampoos, conditioners, protectants and styling aids all specifically formulated for Cyberhair and Synhair.

Fantasia is privileged to be one the few salons in the Upper Midwest area offering Cyberhair and Amy’s Presence. Of course we carry a full line of the above mentioned products for proper care and maintenance of the wigs. Call today for more information and to schedule your consultation.

Wearing wigs is not just a trend in the world of fashion today. It is certainly nothing new, history tells us that different styles of wigs have always been important in fashion. The more splendid the era, the more eccentric and pompous the hairstyles. In some cultures; wigs served for protection against the weather and in wars, wigs were sometimes worn to impress the enemy.

In ancient Egypt, men and women shaved their heads and replaced their hair with wigs. Removing the hair was more comfortable in the hot Egyptian climate. Also shaving the head allowed them to maintain cleanliness and to avoid the danger of lice infestation. The Egyptians wore wigs after losing their hair due to old age. Ironically, although the Egyptians shaved their heads both male and female, they did not think bald was beautiful which is why they wore wigs!

During the Roman Empire wigs were popular among the women. They wore hairpieces to increase the volume and effect of their hairstyle. In the Greek culture, wigs with braids were created.

In the middle ages, wigs lost their importance. The custom at that time was that young women wore their hair long and married women covered their head with a scarf or cap. Only the woman’s husband had the right to see her head uncovered.

In the Renaissance period, the female hairstyle gained importance again and was enhanced with hairpieces, braids and golden taps. The more ornate, the better.

The French were instrumental in creating and wearing wigs. King Louis XIII had lost all of his hair as a young man and it was during his reign that the Allonge wig for men was created and became an important part of every wardrobe. Wigs at this time were made from human and animal hair. During Louis XIV, the French Royal House employed 48 wig makers in the court! The famous hairstyle, a la Fontange was named after a mistress of King Louis XIV. There were countless variations based on the original style which were created with the help of hairpieces and false locks.

A flowering period for wigs was during the eighteenth century. Wigs were enormously important and were viewed as a status symbol for men and women. At this time, wigs were made mainly of Yak hair. The Yak hair was a natural white and was colored white, pink or blue, with rice powder.

In the mid to late 1700’s women’s wigs were towering, the higher the better. Men wore bag or braid wigs, these had the two hair-rolls at both sides. With the French Revolution, wigs lost their importance. They came back into prominence in the early 1800’s and were very popular once again. There were artistic hairstyles created with side locks and flower like loops. In the beginning of the 20th century, more and more freely arranged hairpieces were used. Short hair cuts came into vogue around the 1920’s causing the hairpiece trend disappeared almost overnight.

Since that time, wearing wigs had lost it’s importance. Today with Baby Boomers dealing with hair loss and thinning hair, the demand for wigs is once again on the rise. Fortunately there have been great advances in the manufacturing of wigs so that there are many materials as well as colors and styles to chose from. Fantasia salon is on the cutting edge with regard to hair replacement. If you need a wig due to hair loss or thinning hair or just want a wig for fashion or fun, call today for your free consultation!

The main stigma regarding wearing wigs is left over from the old school. Let’s face it, we have truly come a long way with regard to hair replacement for women (and men for that matter!) The days of the beehive monster cap wig are gone, may they rest in peace. They did not look real, and perhaps they were never intended to look real.

Today, those facing hair loss for whatever reason, have so many choices when it comes to wearing wigs. Some women wear wigs for fun rather than necessity and have a wardrobe of them, just like shoes and purses. These days, your hair can be changed to match your outfit!

In days past you pretty much had to buy “human” hair for a wig to look realistic. Not so today. Synthetic hair offers very competitive and in many cases superior looks. Cyberhair would be a good example of a product superior to the real thing. If you are going be wearing wigs; make certain you are aware of the care instructions. At Fantasia salon, you will be informed as to care required for the different hair replacements options as well as the attributes of each. For example, some synthetics may not last as long as human hair and; make sure you stay away from heat if you are going to wear synthetic. This would probably not be a good choice for a baker. It sounds funny but Fantasia receives calls from women after the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays wanting to know if we can “fix” their wigs. The wigs are such a part of them that they forget and stick their head in the oven to check the turkey or ham. Oops!

An important tip when purchasing a wig is that you spend as much money as you can. This is one area where you definitely get what you pay for. If you buy cheap wigs, people will most likely know you are wearing a wig as it’s difficult if not impossible to get them to look right. If you purchase a cheap wig in the mall, don’t assume a salon specializing in wigs such as Fantasia, can make it look like a master piece. We carry quality products not found at the malls for a reason.

Take your time when purchasing a wig. If you have a fan club or significant other, bring them with you and allow them to help you make your selection. At Fantasia, we have private consultation rooms and encourage you to bring family and friends so they can be involved in the process. We find this is especially important if one is going through treatment for cancer. Our support team are compassionate, caring professionals who will guide you in making this important purchase.

When you leave wearing a good wig, cut properly to frame your face; no one needs to know unless you tell them. All wigs sold at Fantasia are cut and styled to fit the individual regardless of the price of the wig. From our lower priced synthetics, to Cyberhair to human hair, each one is custom fit. (A word of caution regarding Cyberhair, special sheers are required for cutting. It is important to only allow a trained salon profession to make any modifications) Obviously because Fantasia sells a lot of Cyberhair; our professionals are highly skilled in customizing them. Just because your friend is a hair stylist, does not necessarily mean they can work with wigs. Fantasia’s wig specialist have years of training as there truly is an art to customizing wigs.

Don’t be terrified of having to wear a wig. Have fun with it! Perhaps you’ve always wanted to be a blonde or a red head? Who says your wig has to look just like your own hair? It just has to look good!

One solution for hair loss in women is wigs. Although wigs have been around for years, they are completely different today than in years gone by. The construction has changed so that today they are light and airy and; with proper fit and customization, you or anyone else should not be aware that you are wearing a wig.

Here are some options to think about when shopping for a wig. There are five ways wigs are manufactured. The one you choose will determine how quickly you will get your hair replacement and how much money you will spend.

There are ready made or machine made hair replacements. Fantasia has a huge stock of ready made wigs. In many cases you can choose your style and color and wear it home from the salon. There are several sizes which typically fit all.

There are pre-custom or hand tied hair replacements. Fantasia has a large inventory of these wigs in many colors, styles and fiber and construction options. Again, in many cases you can make your selection and leave wearing your new hair.

Semi-custom (hand-tied) wigs are another option. These replacements are selected from the manufacturers categories and are customized to your particular needs. Size is determined from six to eight measurements of the head. If you choose this option, generally it will take a minimum of eight to ten weeks to receive your new hair.

For the absolute perfect fit the choice would be full custom (hand tied from mold) hair replacements. You choose the design and the materials you like and how you want it to be constructed. You can expect to be wearing your hair within six to ten weeks.

And last but certainly not least, there is the new kid on the block, Cyberhair! Cyberhair is the most advanced hair system available, developed with breakthrough advanced technology by the world’s largest manufacturer and retail chain of hair systems. Cyberhair first arrived on the scene in 1995 in the United States after successful testing in Europe and Japan.

There are many desirable qualities to Cyberhair including durability, uniformity, lightness, softness, body, lift and style memory retention. It is equal or superior to other fibers and human hair while duplicating the texture of human hair. Cyberhair comes close to the texture of your own hair and is actually easier to style! And, it fits in with your lifestyle. When Cyberhair gets wet, it reacts just like your own hair! You truly can sleep and swim in Cyberhair!

Today most human hair used for hair systems has been chemically processed which results in weakened, poor hair quality. Cyberhair can actually withstand more stress than the human hair used in these systems!

You may be thinking that Cyberhair is really too good to be true and better than the real thing. Due to the fact that the quality of human hair is declining, Cyberhair is definitely a technology that’s time has come. Fantasia is one of two salons offering Cyberhair in the Minneapolis/St. Paul and surrounding areas and carries a significant inventory. Call for your free consultation today!

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