What are the Different Bases for Hair Toppers - Hair System Base Types

Hair toppers, also known as hair systems or hair pieces, come in various base constructions that determine their durability, comfort, and attachment methods. Understanding the different hair base types is crucial in order to choose the right hair system that suits your unique requirements. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular hair system base types and their purposes.

What are the Different Bases for Hair Toppers?

Hair toppers and hair systems use different types of base materials to attach the hair strands and allow the piece to lay smoothly on the head. The base plays a major role in the look, feel, and performance of a hair topper or hair system. Selecting the right base type can optimize the naturalness, comfort, and longevity of your hair addition. Here is an overview of the most common hair systems base types.

Lace Bases

A lace base features strands of hair individually hand-tied to a base material made of delicate lace. Lace bases are known for:

• Ultra fine, sheer lace foundation

• Each hair strand is knotted through the lace

• Lightweight and breathable

• Flexible to mold to head shape

The hand-tied construction gives a very natural look, similar to your scalp. Lace bases are also airy for comfort in warm weather.

Pros of Lace Bases

• Mimics a natural hairline

• Allows the scalp to breathe

• Comfortable for all-day wear

Cons of Lace Bases

• Knots may be visible at hair part

• More delicate and prone to tearing

• Usually more expensive

Monofilament Bases

A monofilament base uses a fine, mesh-like material as the base. Hairs are intricately woven through the delicate netting. Attributes include:

• Made of soft mesh or microfine transparent material

• Hairs are individually hand-tied into the material

• Allows multidirectional hair parting

• Durable and long-lasting

Monofilament bases provide natural movement and customize styling options. They are also strong and easy to maintain.

Pros of Monofilament Bases

• Natural-looking hair growth pattern

• Can part hair in any direction

• Smooth, soft, and comfortable

• Strong and durable for longevity

Cons of Monofilament Bases

• Less breathable than lace

• Parting areas tend to be thicker

Silk Top Bases

A silk top base features a layer of silk material at the crown designed to hide knots and create a realistic scalp. Key attributes:

• Layer of silk fabric on top hide knots

• Mimics the look and feel of skin

• Hairs individually tied to a thin mesh underneath

• Part hair freely in any direction

The silk layer yields the most natural scalp appearance. Partings seamlessly blend with the skin.

Pros of Silk Top Bases

• Appears just like a natural scalp

• Hides knots perfectly

• Enables multidirectional parting

Cons of Silk Top Bases

• Can feel warm in hot weather

• Multiple layers can inhibit airflow

• Not as breathable as lace or monofilament

Skin Bases

Skin bases use an ultra-thin silicone or polyurethane skin material as the base, designed to replicate the look and feel of real skin. Features include:

• Made of soft, flexible skin-like silicone or polyurethane

• Hairs are injected or knotted into the material

• Mimics the appearance of a natural hairline and scalp

• Latex-free and hypoallergenic

Skin bases move and blend just like real skin and hair for an ultra-realistic integration.

Pros of Skin Bases

• Seamlessly blends with your scalp

• Creates natural hair growth patterns

• Lightweight and lays flat

Cons of Skin Bases

• Can retain heat

• More delicate and prone to tearing

• Shorter lifespan than other bases

Comparing the Pros and Cons of Different Types of Hair Bases

Which Hair System Base is Best?

So with all these options, which is the best base type for a hair topper or hair system? The answer depends on your needs and preferences.

• Lace bases - Best choice when breathability and ultra-fine hairlines are the priority.

• Monofilament bases - Optimal when you need strength, longevity, and flexible styling.

• Silk top bases - Ideal for perfectly concealing knots while closely mimicking the scalp.

• Skin bases - Most seamless integration and natural look but less durability.

Think about lifestyle factors too. Active individuals or those in hot climates do better with lace or monofilament for ventilation. Frequent style switchers get more versatility from monofilament or silk top constructions.

Discuss your needs with a hair topper specialist and they can recommend the optimal base type for your situation.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hair Topper Base

Follow these tips for selecting an ideal hair topper or hair system base for your needs:

• Consider breathability if wearing in warm weather

• Choose lace or silk if concealing knots is critical

• Monofilament or silk allow parting flexibility

• Skin bases offer the most seamless integration

• Assess durability based on your lifestyle

• Get an extended lace front for natural hairlines

• Ask a stylist to recommend the right base type for you