Cranial Prosthesis Recommendations by Hair Loss Type

There are many different options when matching the best medical grade wig based on each specific type of hair loss. As a Cranial Prosthesis Specialist, have a good understanding of each wig option is crucial. 

Here are some of the most popular cranial prosthesis (medical grade wig) options you should consider for your clients.

Skin With Lace Fronts

In my experience, Skin with Lace Front units is most commonly requested by clients experiencing hair loss related to alopecia. Except for alopecia Universalis/Alopecia Totalis.

This Lace Front unit is because clients experiencing hair loss due to traction alopecia and scarring alopecia generally have hair loss in acute regions of the hair. Thus, depending on the scarring level, the scalp is less sensitive to the materials used to make the unit.

From meeting with your client, you can best assess their needs and lifestyle and recommend the unit that best suits them. This unit will have skin-like material in the front, thus making the fit a bit more snug and suitable for longer durations of wear. Depending on the client's preference, application with adhesive may be optional.

Full Skin Based Cranial Prosthetic Units

Full skin-based units are most commonly requested by clients experiencing hair loss due to traumatic events and stress, clients undergoing cancer chemoradiation, and clients suffering from trichotillomania.

This unit will closely resemble the patient's skin, thus mimicking their natural scalp and hairline. Due to the exact customizations of these units, clients who also need to apply medication to the scalp often prefer this unit because it is easy to take on and off. This unit also allows clients flexibility with their units if they want to lead an active lifestyle; they will not have to worry about dissolving adhesive, wearing lace, etc.

These units are generally more expensive due to the materials needed to make them. Again, this is all the client's preference and should only serve as a guideline for recommendations. These units are not limited to one type of hair loss.

Full Lace-Based Cranial Prosthetic Unit

Full lace-based units are units that will resemble traditional cosmetic units best. These units require more maintenance, and applications will be made with medical-grade adhesive.

This unit does promote the most versatility in terms of styling because the lace covers the entire base cap. Therefore, you can part your hair anywhere and create unlimited hairstyles. The hairline mimics a natural hairline, thus allowing the client to part in any way she wants.

Due to this unit's maintenance, I recommend this unit to clients who are familiar with lace fronts and have prior experience maintaining them. These units are the most cost-effective. Again, this is all the client's preference and should only serve as a guideline for recommendations. These units are not limited to one type of hair loss.

Lace/Mono with Polyurethane Edge

Lace/Mono with Polyurethane is the most durable of all cranial prosthetics. Some people prefer durability more than an undetectable look. If your client is seeking a more durable unit vs. an undetectable one, this is the unit for them. Due to the unit being more durable, it uses heavier materials during production.

These units are median in price range and can be suitable for all types of hair loss except for clients that experience scalp sensitivity due to the materials used to manufacture these units. This unit lasts the longest; however, it could be more natural looking due to the materials.

Again, this is all the client's preference and should only serve as a guideline for recommendations. These units are not limited to one type of hair loss.

What's the Best Medical Grade Wig for Your Client?

This is going to vary based on your client's medical condition, comfortability with wigs, and application type.

As a Cranial Prosthesis Specialist you should consult with your clients and discuss their options and think about what will work best for them.

Wig Medical offers a comprehensive Medical Wig Certification Course that will get you on track to work directly with clients, insurance companies, dermatologists, and terminology.