About Hair Systems

If you’re one of the millions dealing with hair loss, you’ve likely explored everything from hair transplants and medications to topical solutions and non-surgical hair replacement systems. The options can be overwhelming — and not all are created equal.

Surgical hair transplants (like Follicular Unit Extraction or FUE) can be expensive and ineffective for individuals with high DHT levels. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy is painful, costly, and still medically unproven. Medications like Propecia often come with lasting sexual side effects.

Hair systems, however, offer immediate, non-invasive, and natural-looking results — with minimal drawbacks for the right candidate.

At Thrive, hair systems aren’t just a service — they’re a passion. Co-Founder Taylor Kane, a hair system specialist and Hairskeen USA-certified professional, has worn systems himself and brings over 15 years of haircutting expertise. Located in Chicago, Taylor is known for creating the most undetectable and confidence-boosting hair systems in the area.

Before you make an appointment you should explore the FAQ below. If you have more questions we recommend coming in for a CONSULTATION or connecting with Taylor directly. You can do so via EMAIL or TEXT.

Hair System FAQ

What is a Hair System?

A hair system (sometimes referred to as a modern toupee) is a non-surgical solution to hair loss that uses high-quality human hair attached to a breathable base, applied to the scalp using specialized adhesives.

We now exclusively work with lace hair systems, the most breathable and versatile option available. These use a fine mesh base with individual hairs tied in, creating an ultra-realistic, undetectable hairline — especially when the knots are bleached.

Note: We previously offered polyurethane ("skin") systems. Although we no longer install them, we include details below to help you understand why lace is now the preferred choice.

What’s the difference between lace systems and polyurethane systems?

Why choose a hair system over surgery?

Hair systems are an instant, non-surgical solution for hair loss with no recovery time, scarring, or post-op care.

Transplants can work well for those with minimal baldness in specific areas. However, men with more extensive hair loss often face higher costs ($10,000+), mixed results, and ongoing pressure to use medications like Propecia or treatments like PRP.

With hair systems:

• Results are immediate

• You avoid surgery

• You can style your hair however you want

• No long-term medication or downtime is required

Is it expensive?

Hair systems are customized to your lifestyle and budget. Here are some realistic examples of yearly costs:

• Client A (lace, DIY maintenance): Maintains at home, uses 1 system/year → $1,000 + haircuts + products/supplies

• Client B (lace, high activity): Comes in every 2 weeks, uses 2 systems/year → $8,000

• Client C (lace, low maintenance): Comes in every 6 weeks, DIY between visits, uses 1 system/year → $2,500

All visits at Thrive include a haircut. So you can offset your usual salon spending against the cost of your hair system.

Can I reapply the system myself?

Yes — and lace systems are ideal for clients who want at-home reapplication.

While there is a learning curve, we’ll set you up for success:

• One-on-one instruction from Taylor (who applies his own system)

• A custom step-by-step toolkit

• Ongoing support for maintenance and troubleshooting

When it’s time for a new system, we recommend coming in for professional installation and cutting. But if you ever move away or decide to go full DIY at home we’re happy to provide you with your template.

Will people know I’m wearing a hair system?

Not unless you tell them.

Most people simply notice you look great. Clients often hear things like, “Did you lose weight?” or “You look younger!” Even people you see regularly won’t suspect unless they’re familiar with modern systems.

Is it real hair?

Yes. We use 100% human hair, color-matched to your own — with the option to include up to 40% grey for a realistic blend.

How long does each system last?

Lace systems last anywhere from 4 months to a year, depending on how it’s cared for.

• Proper care = longer wear

• We provide maintenance education and color-retention strategies

• Systems in lighter shades may fade slightly, but we have professional-grade products to refresh them

Is it hard to get used to wearing a hair system?

Like any new experience — it takes a little adjustment.

Most clients compare it to getting used to wearing contact lenses: a few days of awareness, then it becomes part of your normal routine.

Will the adhesive clog my pores or irritate my skin?

We use gentle, high-quality adhesives made for sensitive skin:

• Lace Systems:

  • Walker Signature Tape (ultra-thin + strong at the hairline)

  • Extenda-Bond Plus (breathable full-coverage tape with perforation)

We always conduct a patch test during your consultation to ensure no allergic reaction occurs.

What happens to the hair underneath the hair system?

Yes. Hair beneath the system continues to grow normally. Eventually, natural oils and new growth help break down the adhesive, which is why regular maintenance is important.

Is there a wait time to get a system?

We keep a limited selection of base color lace systems with no grey in stock, so in many cases, clients can begin their transformation without delay.

If you require a system with some percentage of grey, these typically need to be ordered and may take anywhere from 1 to 6 weeks depending on availability. Fully custom curl patterns generally take around 8 weeks to arrive.

We’ll discuss your hair goals and timeline during your consultation to help you plan accordingly.

Are hair systems just for men?

No — but they’re best for people with localized thinning on top.

• Systems are 6" long and sit on the crown

• Adhesive requires the scalp area to be shaved clean

• Clients with diffuse thinning or unwilling to shave may be better candidates for a wig

Will my appointment be private?

Yes. Most hair system appointments are booked Mondays - when the salon is closed - to ensure privacy and a comfortable experience.