How Hair Systems Are Attached

A step-by-step guide (for everyday, natural wear)

This guide explains three common attachment methods — tape, glue, or a combined approach — and how to apply a men’s hair system in a clean, controlled, and realistic way.

The best method depends on your lifestyle, skin sensitivity, and how often you wear your system.
The goal is not complexity — it’s a secure, natural result that feels comfortable and stable.

Before You Start (Important)

A successful installation depends more on preparation than on the adhesive itself.

You’ll need:

  • Hair system (clean and completely dry)
  • Clippers or trimmer (optional, for cleaning the area)
  • 99% isopropyl alcohol or scalp cleanser
  • Cotton pads or paper towels
  • Wide-tooth comb
  • Tape (pre-cut strips or roll) and/or glue
  • Optional: scalp protector, adhesive remover, mirror(s)

Hygiene note
Hair systems are personal hygiene items. Always work with clean hands, clean tools, and a clean surface.

Step 1 — Prepare Your Scalp

This step determines how well the system holds.

  1. Remove any old adhesive (if applicable) using remover and gentle wiping.
  2. Clean the attachment area with alcohol or scalp cleanser to remove oils.
  3. Allow the scalp to dry completely — no moisture.
  4. If you sweat easily or have oily skin, apply a thin layer of scalp protector and let it dry fully.

Tip
Most lifting issues happen because the scalp wasn’t fully degreased or dried.

Step 2 — Prepare the Hair System

  1. Ensure the base is clean, dry, and free of adhesive residue.
  2. Comb hair away from the hairline so it won’t fall into the adhesive.
  3. If helpful, lightly mark your natural front hairline to guide placement.

Important
Never apply tape or glue onto a damp base.

Not Sure Which Method to Use?

  • New to hair systems → start with Tape
  • Focused on hairline realism → choose Glue
  • Everyday balance → Tape + Glue

You only need to follow one method — not all three.

Option A — Tape Only

Simple, clean, and beginner-friendly

Tape is often the easiest starting point. It offers fast application, tidy removal, and consistent results.

Step-by-step (Tape)

1) Cut the tape to match the contour of your hair system

2) Apply tape to the base (recommended)

  • Apply tape around the perimeter of the base
  • Optional support strips can be placed inside
  • Press firmly to avoid air bubbles

2) Peel backing in stages

  • Do not peel all at once
  • Peel gradually as you position the system

3) Place the system

  • Align the front hairline first
  • Gently lower the system from front to back

4) Press and secure

  • Press firmly around the perimeter
  • Apply steady pressure for 30–60 seconds

5) Final blend

  • Style gently
  • Avoid aggressive pulling at the hairline

Best for: routine wear, low mess, faster application

Option B — Glue Only

Maximum seamless hairline

Glue is often chosen for exposed hairline styles. It requires patience and correct drying time.

Step-by-step (Glue)

1) Apply a thin layer to the scalp or base

 

  • Apply a thin, even layer on scalp where the base will sit, or on the base
  • Avoid thick application (it reduces hold and gets messy)

2) Let it turn tacky

  • Wait until the glue becomes tacky or clear — not wet
  • Drying time varies by glue type, humidity, and temperature

3) Optional additional layers

  • Some users apply 2–3 thin layers
  • Allow each layer to turn tacky before applying the next

4) Place the system carefully

  • Align the front hairline precisely
  • Lower slowly — avoid repositioning once contact is made

5) Press and set

  • Press gently along the hairline and perimeter
  • Avoid sweating or heavy activity for several hours

Best for: hairline realism, higher-visibility settings

Option C — Tape + Glue

Balanced hold for everyday wear

This method combines the strength of tape with the realism of glue.

Step-by-step (Tape + Glue)

1) Tape the perimeter

  • Apply tape to the back and sides of the base

2) Glue the front hairline zone

  • Apply a thin layer of glue to the scalp at the hairline
  • Wait until tacky or clear

3) Place the system

  • Anchor the front hairline into the glue area
  • Lower the rest onto the taped sections

4) Press and secure

  • Press the hairline gently
  • Press taped areas firmly around the perimeter

Best for: everyday security with a natural front hairline

After Application

The first hour matters

To protect the bond:

  • Avoid heavy sweating, swimming, or steam
  • Avoid repeatedly touching or lifting the hairline
  • Keep styling light and natural

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

  • Applying adhesive to oily skin → always degrease and dry
  • Using thick glue layers → use thin layers and allow tack time
  • Placing too quickly → align first, lower slowly
  • Repositioning repeatedly → weakens bonding
  • Over-styling on day one → allow the bond to settle

Quick Choosing Guide

Choose Tape if you want:
Fast installs, less mess, easy routine

Choose Glue if you want:
Maximum hairline realism and a seamless finish

Choose Tape + Glue if you want:
Strong all-day hold with a clean, natural hairline

When to Stop and Recheck

If you feel:

  • pulling
  • tension
  • burning
  • itching
  • significant discomfort

Stop, remove safely with remover, and reassess:

  • skin sensitivity
  • adhesive type
  • application thickness
  • drying time

If irritation continues, consider patch-testing products or consulting a professional.

Where to Go Next

You may also find these guides helpful:

If you’re unsure which method suits you best, feel free to contact us for clarification.

This guide provides general information for everyday use. Adhesives and skin responses vary by individual.