Category: Wig and Hair piece info

Did you know?

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Before and after with our 2 minute makeover

When a woman is faced with the devastation of hair loss, whether a temporary incident or a more permanent condition, it can be both scary as well as depressing. It doesn’t have to be that way. There is a wealth of product available to remedy the situation. It’s 2018 and there is no shame associated with wearing hair.

Alternative Hair Solutions is committed to prioritizing women with medical hair loss. For us, It is not an afterthought, it is our only thought. We are not a hair salon, but rather a private studio whose client base is predominately women with hair loss.

Our business was spawned out of an escalating need for high quality, natural looking products.
We have an extensive assortment of carefully curated hair systems from around the globe. If a wig is needed or desired, we have a full line of varied cap constructions, densities and hair types. We also have a diverse group of options for localized hair loss which can result from many things such as different types of alopecia, female pattern baldness or cold cap applications, to name a few.
We work tirelessly to get the word out to professionals on the front lines such as nurse navigators, patient coordinators or social workers who are faced daily with the question” Where do I go?”

We offer a complimentary consultation by appointment only. 203 987 5948 ext. 1. #althairsolutions
#Wecanhelp

Ask me about: Look Good Feel Better

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As someone diagnosed with breast cancer I didn’t want to be part of “The Club” so when it was offered to me to go for a Look Good Feel Better session, immediately I said “No,thank you”. After all, I had a terrific support team and the last thing I wanted to be reminded of was my diagnosis. Somehow I believed by not being associated with support groups, I was somehow handling my own journey. I was strong. I was different then others.

How silly of me! I can only tell you that now. I am a fully certified volunteer for the program. Each month, I have the privileged of being present with some of the bravest and beautiful woman I have had the pleasure to meet. When the session begins we are all strangers with a common denominator: the big C. As the session ends we are all team members ready to fight back on the identity loss that can come from this illness.

We share tips and walk you through a step by step program that the American Cancer Society has worked long and hard to provide. There are fabulous make up and skin care products available for each participant. It is also a great resource for wigs both human and synthetic including care and tips on other accessories.

This is the first part in a series I will be posting about. I am interested to hear your questions. Please feel free to comment.

We can help! Visit www.althairsolutions.com or call (203) 987 5948 Ext 1

HAIR, A SPARE AND CARE

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If you are planning to wear a wig daily, whatever your reasons, you need to have realistic expectations about the longevity and how to get the most out of your purchase. Despite the wonderful products that are available today, it is still a wig and will not have the exact same properties as the hair that grows out of our heads. We do strongly recommend that when making your purchase, you consider buying two as that will extend the life expectancy of both pieces. With the vast selection of price points available, chances are you can find two pieces that together will fit into your budget.

For those committed to human hair, be sure to consider that it must be cared for the same way as the hair on your head, so it is not low maintenance. It will need to be washed more frequently, blown and styled for it to look exactly as you want. You may become adept at doing this yourself, or you may need to take it to a salon for styling. Having a backup synthetic version will enable you to pull it on and go, not care about humidity or heat and its effects. Because there is a permanent style to a synthetic wig, it will retain the same look as the day you purchased it. Synthetics sometimes can have a bit of a shine; this can be remedied with a dry shampoo.

If you choose to sleep in a wig, which isn’t recommended, the lifespan will definitely be affected. You cannot control how you move in your sleep and therefore, you could spend extended periods of time with hair askew in different directions with the weight of your head in it.

Wigs should be brushed to remove tangles each time you wear it. Turn the wig inside out to comb the return at the nape of the neck. Do so gently, with short strokes working from the bottom up. Never start at the top and vigorously brush to the bottom. This will yank the hair and can cause damage to the strands.

Synthetic wigs can suffer from friction frizz if you are wearing a longer length that grazed your collar, particularly in the winter when we wear coats. There are de-tangling sprays or processes available at wig salons that can aid this situation.

Likewise, you should also be cognizant of how you handle the hair when the wig is on your head. Repeatedly running your fingers through the top of your hair to brush away from the face can cause a lace front wig to roll or rip. The lace front can be replaced at a cost, but then comes the issue of matching the color or grade of lace. It is best to refrain from habits such as these. A simple solution for this is to spray a wig brush with an approved hairspray for wigs and brush gently away from the hairline. You should let the hairspray dry completely before wearing it.

If you wash your wig frequently, it is imperative that you rinse the hair thoroughly.  Avoid putting conditioners or oils close to the base. It should be at least 2 inches from the base, never near the roots. Apply from the bottom and work your way up the hair.

Always be sure to “block” your wig after washing, meaning place it on a mannequin head. A rubber one is preferable as it allow the piece to breathe. Placing it on a head will prevent hair from coming back through the cap and it will also prevent the wig from stretching providing that the head is smaller than your head.

Feel free to watch our step by step, wig washing tutorial at https://youtu.be/YMORXtI73b4

It is not recommended to chemically process a human hair wig if you want it to last and remain as it was when you purchased it.  There are consequences and noticeable differences ranging anywhere from breakage, to flattening to a loss of shine and or color. You can never know exactly how your wig will react and there is no recourse for damage to the wig, it is at your own risk. Additionally, if you do so, it voids any and all manufacturer warranty.

Please schedule a consultation by calling (203) 987-5948 ext 1 or visit our website www.althairsolutions.com

Don’t Say Wig

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1crop

 

 

Some of the most popular questions that we receive are about insurance coverage. First, insurance coverage answers may vary from company to company, and the amount of coverage also can vary. The insured patient should have a benefit booklet, and details should be outlined under prosthetic devices. You may call your company direct, but do not say the word “wig” as it can have several meanings. Most importantly, it implies that it is cosmetic in nature. Hair loss stops being a cosmetic problem and becomes a medical issue when it interferes with your life. If a person does not want to go out because of hair loss then it directly interferes with their quality of life.

When speaking to your insurance company, you should say: “I am going to get a full, cranial hair prosthesis, and I have a prescription from my physician. Does my insurance policy cover it?”

As a patient, you will need a prescription from your doctor. It must be written for a full, cranial prosthesis on a standard prescription form. You will also need a paid receipt from the place of purchase.

Keep a copy of your prescription and a paid bill for tax purposes. Sales tax is not charged in most states for a medical prosthesis. Check with your accountant – there is a possibility for a full, cranial prosthesis to be written off (if a person itemizes deductions). When you file, do not include head ware or hats even if you wear them for the same reason.

Finally, if you lose your hair for medical reasons, it can no longer be considered a cosmetic issue.

Lymphoma: The Paul Foundation’s Swirl Event

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swirl

We are trying to do our part to help eradicate cancer in our lifetime. At Alternative Hair Solutions in Greenwich, Conn, we have experienced the journey of the diagnosis, personally. We understand the power of the impact those words can have.  We offer solutions for medical hair loss.  As a stylist, Diane D’Angelo’s niche has always been women with hair challenges. Her total focus and commitment is to help ease the angst associated with medical hair loss. We look to help make it one less thing to worry about so that you can focus on what’s most important.

In the upcoming cancer awareness months we are proud contributors/sponsors to the following events:

November: We will support THE LYMPHOMA RESEARCH FOUNDATION/THE PAUL FOUNDATION-Swirl NYC on November 10,2016 if you would like to join us you may go to: lymphoma.org/swirlNYC  or if you are unable to attend you may donate directly at http://www.pwsfoundation.org/

On October 2, 2016 we joined forces THE SUPPORT Connection annual Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fundraiser 2016. Donations are still being accepted at http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/daria-rocco-1/walk2016. Support Connection is an amazing organization located in Westchester County.  Our team is Daria’s Angels which was founded in 2003.
Please join us in any way you can to support the heroic efforts of these wonderful organizations

Or call (203) 987 5948 ext 1 or visit www.althairsolutions.com to learn more.

Your Piece of Mind

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Your piece of mind
Your piece of mind

Did you know that stress is one of the most common causes of hair loss in woman?  Your body’s way of responding to any kind of demand or threat can be both internal and/or external.  Gaining weight and hair thinning are just two ways of your body reacting. When you experience stress your nervous system responds by releasing a flood of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol into your body.

Generally it is physiological stress that causes hair loss. Some physiological stress examples are: major surgery, a weight gain/loss of more the 15 pounds, severe calorie restriction and going off oral contraceptives are the most common ones.  This type of hair loss is usually temporary as long as the stress is temporary. Once the stress event is over hair generally begins to grow back and the normal hair cycle resumes.

Be patient and kind to your self. For your piece of mind, know that clip in toppers or wigs can help bridge this temporary hair loss time. Owning this type of accessory can be a huge time saver for the busy woman. You hair can look terrific in just a few minutes when you learn how how simple it is to wear.

To learn more visit www.althairsolutions.com or call (203) 987 4948 ext 1

 

 

Private Salon: Is it right for you?

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Human wig out of box

Why a private salon?

In this big, global world sometimes we can become overwhelmed with options. When faced with hair loss, there are many choices to make. If your goal is to find the least expensive option and you really don’t need a professional, then the internet can serve you well. However, if you’re looking for value and individualized attention, a private salon can provide all of that and more for you.

As a private salon we have years of knowledge, experience in the field, we consistently comb the globe for product, and pursue continuing education all to bring you the very best. We work hard to make sure the product that we offer you isn’t something you’ll find all over the internet. Pictures can be quite deceiving; what may look beautiful online oftentimes has been styled and adjusted by a professional.

Are wigs sold online less expensive? Some are, some are not. Continuity is not always a guarantee – I have spoken with clients who ordered the same product twice and have received completely different versions. There can be hidden costs such as restocking fees that can be as much as 20% of the purchase price if you need to return. Every wig needs some adjustments or styling which can require a work from a professional. The picture in this post features a synthetic hair wig taken directly out of a box; unless you are adept at styling, using the proper tools and understanding variables that can damage a wig (e.g., heat tolerance) it may become a challenge.

A brick and mortar, private salon excels in personalized customer service and devotes the time needed to deliver that will not be competitive with prices online. If you’re someone who appreciates having a stylist that can work with you one-on-one to achieve your personalized look, then booking a consultation is your next step. Given the large amount of diversity in product, it can take more then one appointment to achieve the perfect fit or style.

Consider how much money you spend to maintain your hair. Now factor in hair cuts, coloring, and highlights over a year. You’ll realize that many hair options will cost you about the same (or sometimes even a little less) than what you would normally spend on hair maintenance in a year.

Here is an excerpt on Yelp from just one of our clients::

“In her intimate salon, Ms. D’Angelo keeps everything very personal and very private. She works one-on-one with her clients, by appointment only. She has created a warm and welcoming environment where she focuses on what is best for her clients. What she does comes from her heart. It is clear that she is not driven by “selling,” but rather by helping her clients through what is most likely the most difficult time of their lives. With her expertise in all types of hair, Ms. D’Angelo was able to help me understand all of my options and help me choose the best solution to meet my needs. We discussed the differences between real hair and synthetic. I was able to pick the style, color and cut to my complete satisfaction. Throughout, she was extremely patient and very creative. Her work is amazing and I can honestly say that she exceeded my expectations. “

Visit our website at www.althairsolutions.com or call (203) 987 – 5948 ext. 1 to learn more.

Hats off to the Summer | Alternative Hair Solutions

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Pintrest Hat hair

As summer kicks off what’s a girl to do? We want to look fabulous but we also want to be comfortable. Finally there is a perfect solution. Breathable, lightweight ‘on trend options’ for the warmer weather. With barbecues, pool time and picnics there is no need to stress over your tresses.  Our private studio will show you how simple this and other options can be.

Now you can keep your focus on the fun stuff like making the perfect Lemonade or Potato Salad.

Perfect Potato Salad:

Ingredients:

Directions

  • Prep 10 minutes, Cook 30 minutes and Ready In 40 minutes

  1. Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes; cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain and cool.
  2. Place eggs in a saucepan, and cover completely with cold water. Bring water to a boil. Cover, remove from heat, and let eggs stand in hot water for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from hot water, and cool.
  3. Peel the eggs and cut around the egg white; keep the yolk whole.
  4. Dice the egg whites and potatoes. Combine in a mixing bowl and add the salad dressing.
  5. Toss the potatoes and egg; crumble the egg yolk on top and serve chilled.

Hats off to the summer, keeping it simple and the perfect potato salad! Call us at (203) 987 – 5948 ext 1 or visit www.althairsolutions.com

Active Lifestyle Tips

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Young woman with flowers
Young woman with flowers

Facts to consider when wearing hair and maintaining an active lifestyle.

We have often been asked “what wigs will work best for a person who has an active lifestyle”? It is important that you be aware of the characteristics of different types of wigs so that you can make the appropriate choice. Wigs can be an investment  and you need them to serve you well and last. Wigs do deteriorate over time.  You need a breathable wig for sports. If you shampoo it every day because you are active, the life expectancy will be shortened. It is realistic that by time a human hair wig is 9 months old it will need to be repaired or replaced.

 

For Swimming

A human hair wig is porous so it isn’t recommended to swim in.  Not to mention that chlorine and salt are very damaging. As is true with our natural hair, sun oxidizes and fades the color. You can swim in a full silicone cap, but human hair is four times the weight of synthetic hair so the weight of water alone can pull a silicone cap away from the head. If you submerge your head a wig will stretch out if its wet and taut on your head. Your best bet is an inexpensive synthetic piece.

Vacuum Wigs are made with 100% medical grade silicone. They have the ability to pass water vapor through them so they are breathable. Do consider that sweat does accumulate inside the cap if worn for athletic activities so be sure to clean the inside of the cap daily. Use a little mild detergent or wet wipes for hygiene to do so.

If you are wearing a lace front, use waterproof adhesive along the front so it doesn’t lift off when sweating.

If your hair is thinning and you augment that with a topper, you can swim in a topper but again it should be synthetic. Just be sure that if you go underwater, you must secure the topper so that the clips will not pull on your delicate hair. Best hint is to put it on with a wide hairband holding it in place or put it into a messy bun on top of your head.

visit www.althairsolutions.com or call us today (203) 987-5948 ext 1 for more information.