The Importance of Learning How to Measure and Fit Hairpieces in Barber School
Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, affects as many as one in three men. It affects all ethnic groups and is often genetic. While medical and cosmetic surgery techniques are becoming increasingly effective in correcting this condition, they are often incredibly expensive. Hairpieces remain the choice of many men who want to preserve dignity and look their actual age, instead of several years older. A large portion of training at barber or beauty college covers the fitting and measuring of hairpieces.
Lessons in Barber School on Measuring and Fitting Hairpieces
In lessons about the proper measurement of hairpieces, the dimensions and features of the scalp are discussed in detail. There are several measurements that must be taken, and they all require that the hair be brushed down smoothly so the tape measure can be held close to the head. Stretching or pulling on the tape measure gives an inaccurate reading and results in a hairpiece that is too small, which is much more difficult to correct than a too-large piece that can simply be trimmed.
Cosmetology school lessons on hairpieces include how to determine measurements for:
- The head circumference, measured from the bend point at the back of the head to the natural hairline at the front (Usually, there is a noticeable skin difference, and in cases where the area is already bald, a client nearly always has a decent memory of the original hairline)
- The distance from the middle of the forehead, vertically over the top of the head to the nape of the neck
- From ear to ear across the forehead
- From ear to ear over the top of the head
- From temple to temple, across the crown of the head
- The width of the nape line
Even if your client has only one section of the head fitted for a hairpiece, taking all the measurements helps the wig manufacturer build a complete picture of the scalp shape. You may also need to include other information, such as hair texture, preferred hair color (not all will be available), and hair feel. Different hair styles may be available through the wig supplier, too.
Attaching a hair piece can be done using various methods. Barber or beauty school lessons on hairpieces spend time focusing on how to identify the best one for each customer. Hair pieces can be attached using:
- Elastic
- Adhesives
- Pins
After the placement of the hairpiece, it will need to be cut and shaped in order to best match the length and style of the customer's remaining hair. When a client feels good about the natural and attractive look of a newly placed hairpiece, your mission is accomplished.
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