Hair System Tape vs. Glue

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

Both types of adhesives has their pros and cons.

Tape can be used on all types of hair system, it is easy to handle and remove, friendly to sensative scalps, and provides a more breathable experience.

Glue works well with poly skin hair systems, it provides a precise attachment and looks more natural, and won’t causa damage to the base when you remove it.
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Once you ordered a glue-on hair system or wig from an online supplier, you will need to consider what kind of adhesive you should choose for the hair system installation on your client’s head.

In the men’s hair system world, tape and glue adhesive are the most common tools for hair system and wig attachment. However, choosing between hair system tape vs. glue can pose a challenge to beginners without having any experience in using them.

In fact, which one is better between tape and glue when it comes to hair system attachment hinges on a large number of factors that highly matter to the wearers’ wearing experience. And the answer to that question varies from individual to individual, given each hair system wearer’s situation is different.

Today, we are answering this question based on the characteristics of the two different kinds of adhesives, as well as the pros and cons of tape and glue to help you make a better choice between them.

Now let’s dive directly into the blog.

Hair System Tape: Types, Characteristics, Pros, and Cons

Adhesive tape is a kind of carrier material that has adhesive coated on two sides to stick the skin and hair system together. It is transparent and available in rolls or pre-cut shapes.

Nowadays, the most dominant types of tapes have proved to be tape rolls, contour tape, and mini taps.

Rolls work the best around the perimeter of the hair system base when placed about 1mm away from the perimeter edge. Still, it is not recommended for the front hairline area since the shape of the area is very special as well as conspicuous.

Instead, contour tape turns out to be the best option for that area, given it is exclusively designed for the front hairline area of the hair system base in line with the various shapes of people’s front hairline. So it is set to help their hair systems appear as natural-looking as possible by presenting a more undetectable front hairline.

Then it comes to the mini tabs, which are much smaller pre-cut tape strips. They typically come with a length of 3.8cm and a width of only 2cm. They are so small for the sake of giving the wearers more flexibility. Because they would not need to go through the hassle of cutting the tape to the correct size and shape themselves, which is extremely handy and user-friendly.

Tapes typically are transparent and come in several liner colors that indicate the degree of tackiness.

Advantages of Tape Adhesives

Work well with different types of hair systems: As a very versatile hair system attachment tool, the tape is compatible with many kinds of base materials, including French lace, Swiss lace, skin base, NPU, poly perimeter, skin with gauze, as well as monofilament.

Easy to handle: Hair system tape is much easier to work with than tape. It will save you lots of time for you and your client. With tape adhesive, you can prepare the hair system in advance with tapes stick on for installation before your client arrives in your salon for the appointment. When you install the hair system, it doesn’t need time as the liquid adhesive to dry.

And different from the liquid adhesive, it won’t go anywhere else it shouldn’t go. Even if you place it in the wrong place, you can easily peel it off easily and reattach it again.

Easy to remove: Tapes can be peeled off from the base easily, even if sometimes it sticks hard to the base, you just need to spray some solvent on it, and it will get peeled off completely.

Safe for sensitive skin: In addition, tape usually works better for those hair system wearers with skin sensitivity because fewer chemicals are used to produce tape than glue.

Breathable: Tape offers a more breathable experience as it doesn’t cover every inch of skin as the glue does. They are even tapes with breathable holes like Walkertape Extenza-Bond Plus.

Disadvantages of Tape Adhesives

Despite the convincing pros of tape adhesive for hair systems, its limitations are very worth-noting.

May cause damage to the fragile base like poly skin: Hair system tape does not work very well for delicate base hair systems, like a very thin poly hair system with base thickness of under 0.08mm. Such kinds of bases can be easily torn when the tape is peeled off.

Visible in the front hairline: For another, hair system tape has 8-10mils thickness that creates a slight edge. When the tape is used along the hair system edge, especially the front hairline area, it appears not that natural. This is due to the fact that tapes are much thicker and much more visible compared with glue, thus tending to make the front hairline appear somewhat strange.

Hair System Glue: Types, Characteristics, Pros, And Cons

Hair system glue is a kind of clear or white liquid adhesive that’s usually brushed on the skin to secure the wig or hair system. It goes on liquid on the scalp and dries after a moment. There are solvent-based glue and water-based glue now on the market, designed for your different requirements.

Solvent-based glue dries faster and offers long-lasting hold and strength. It is more affordable than water-based solvent. However, they are made of different types of chemicals and thus may irritate sensitive scalps. Walker Tape Ultra Hold is a typical solvent-based glue that can  last for over four weeks 

Hair System Tape vs. GlueHair System Tape vs. Glue

Price: $31.12 ($9.15 / Fl Oz)

Water-based glue is a comparatively new product in the market, developed as an alternative to solvent-based glue. Fewer chemicals are involved in making water-based glue, thus it is more friendly to sensitive skin and more expensive. Ghost Bond is a water-based glue that provides 4-5 weeks of hold time

Hair System Tape vs. GlueHair System Tape vs. Glue

Price: $17.25 ($13.27 / Fl oz)

Advantages of Glue Adhesives

Durable: Generally speaking, glue adhesive has average longevity than tape products given that they contact the wearer’s skin more intensively and won’t let any water or air goes in.

Invisible: Hair system glue appears highly invisible compared to tapes. It is transparent when applied to the head. After it is dried, it will create a very thin film on the scalp that’s completely invisible, thus working exceptionally well for the front hairline area acting as a thin skin layer beneath the hair system.

Precise attachment: Besides, it is seen as a more flexible attachment tool. The users can precisely determine the area to be glued according to their own needs. By doing so, there are fewer chances for any air or space left under the hair system base, preventing water from seeping in when taking a showing or even swimming.

Disadvantages of Glue Adhesives

Like tape adhesives, glue adhesives have their own limitations that many hair systems wearers are not OK with.

Takes more time for installation: Unlike tape adhesives, attaching hair systems using glue is actually more demanding as well as time-consuming. After applying it to the hair systems, the wearers need to wait for a little while to let it dry out before attaching the hair systems. Both over-drying and under-drying can lead to the improper attachment for the wearers, so they need to be particularly careful with how long they should let the glue dry out.

Takes more time to remove: Removing the glue adhesive from the base takes more procedures and time. You will need to soak the hair in water or solvent and wait for the glue to get loose, then brush off the resides completely, and finally shampoo and rinse it.

Unfriendly to sensitive skin: As mentioned earlier, there are fewer chemicals involved in the production of tape. Glue adhesives, in comparison, have more chemicals that can cause certain kinds of discomfort to those with sensitive skin as a form of liquid. So it is recommended to test a small amount of glue on an area of your skin for about an hour to see if there will be any disturbing reactions. If there is not any, you can then use it while feeling reassured.

Don’t work well with mesh materials: Glue liquid is likely to seep through the base and cause damage to the hair, thus it is more of an ideal option for the poly base since the hair would be kept entirely away.

Hair System Tape vs. Glue: The Right Option

Both glue adhesive and tape adhesive have their own advantages and disadvantages for hair system wearers to take into consideration when making the decision. Which one to choose from largely depends on the base material of their hair systems.

Characteristics

Hair System Tape

Hair System Glue

Precise Application

Looks Natural in Front Hairline

Won't Damage Fragile Hair System

Easy to Handle

Easy to Remove

Safe to Sensative Skin

Goes Well With Mesh Materials

Breathable

On the hair system market, there are plenty of very popular options available loved by numerous hair system wearers. Please check out our list of the 12 best tapes and glues that are all highly recommended for attachment purposes.

All in all, which one is a better hair system attachment option between hair system tape vs. glue strongly depends on personal preference and what type of hair system you are going to wear. You just need to choose the one that better suits your clients’ situation, as well as lifestyle.

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INQUIRIES & QUESTIONS

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June

June Chen

Sales representative

Introduction

June is detail-oriented, excellent at simplifying complex issues, making them understandable to all our clients, particularly those new to our services and products or unfamiliar with China.

Originally from Weifang, China, known as the hometown of kites, June moved to Qingdao in search of a better work-life balance. This has been her first job ever since. Over the years working at Newtimes Hair, she has cultivated a friendly demeanor and a sense of humor. June considers Newtimes Hair her second home, a place where she invests her passion wholeheartedly.

Her role extends beyond just solving problems; June acts as a bridge between our team and our clients, embodying our commitment to impeccable customer service.

● What hobbies and interests do you have?

I enjoy exercising. That’s a very important part of my life. I’m a super active person.

● Do you have a phobia? If you do, what is it?

No, not that I know of. I’m a very realistic person. If you mention outlandish stuff like aliens, monster in the bush, I’d be out of my mind.

● What is something you would love to do in the future?

I want to learn how to swim. I know it might sound a bit sarcastic, as I just mentioned that I enjoy doing exercise. Unfortunately, swimming hasn’t been on my list. I think I better catch up on that.

● What wig would you wear if you wore one and why?

I’d give HW1 a try. It looks natural and beautiful. Though we categorize it as a medical wig, almost any female can wear it. It’s got a lace mesh base, breathable, and flexible. You don’t need glue or tape to fix it to your head. Pretty easy, and it gives you all the long hair look a girl could want.

Sherry

Sherry Sui

Sales representative

Introduction

Are you new to China or the hair-making industry and feeling a bit lost about where to start? Sherry is your go-to expert. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of our products and services, Sherry will help you identify the perfect product combo aligning with your business needs and client requirements.

Grew up in Yantai, and moved to Qingdao in 2015 with a medical background, Sherry’s thoughts are beyond simply selling hairpieces. She cares about the end user’s health, too. In the process of sourcing the most suitable hairpieces for your clients, it’s worthwhile to pay attention to what Sherry says in terms of scalp health and hairpiece maintenance. You can think of her as a comprehensive, yet concise hairpiece encyclopedia, equipped to offer you top-notch recommendations and ideas for exceptional customer service.

  • How would people in the office describe you?

At our end-of-year conference, my colleagues agreed that I’m a warm hearted, positive, and easy-going teammate. It gives me a sense of reward.

  • Do you have a phobia? If you do, what is it?

I don’t like being confined in a very small space. I believe it was due to a childhood experience. When I was six years old, I accidentally tripped and fell into a shallow well. I had to wait for two hours before I was found. Since then, I’ve found I just can’t tolerate the idea of being alone. I guess that makes me an active team player.

  • You are happiest when…

This may sound boastful, but it’s true. It’s just part of my nature to help others. When I actually see that what I did for them has helped them achieve something, it just makes me excited.

  • Which mens/womens hair system do you sell the most? Why that model?

I recomend HS25V. Oftentimes I’d introduce this model to my new clients to start with, so they can introduce this to their new clients see if hair systems are what really suit them, before they carry on with lace or mono hair systems.

Winni

Winni Yu

Sales Representative

Introduction

Born in Weifang, China’s kite capital, and moved to Qingdao in 2013, Winni has never looked back. Since joining Newtimes Hair, Winni has been a dynamo of efficiency and innovation. She is a problem-solver brimming with ideas and has become a vital part of our team.

From your first contact with Winni to the moment your orders are delivered, Winni ensures a smooth and exciting experience. With her at the helm, the business isn’t just easy but exhilarating, and every challenge becomes an opportunity for innovation.

Transitioning from a client developer to a retention specialist, throughout the years, Winni has successfully assisted numerous clients in solving their issues, particularly concerning product details, logistics, or custom hiccups.

  • What hobbies and interests do you have?

I’m into so many things. All the popular stuff you name: Swimming, badminton, running, all for keeping me in good shape.

  • How would people in the office describe you?

They keep calling me “pretty Winni pretty brainy.” I’d take that as a compliment. I’d say I’m generally pretty fast in term of thinking and figuring out solutions. My teammates often turn to me for help, too. And It turned out that most of the time my ideas worked for them.

  • Do you have any pet hates?

I’m a typical town girl, you know. I’m into cats and dogs. But things like snakes, all sorts of insects, and hamsters; they are not my cup of tea. So, never get them near me.

  • Which mens/womens hair system do you sell the most? Why that?

Most of my clietns are after Q6. And their clients happened to be guys who are into hair systems that are durable and natural. Q6 is a pretty good pick for them. With proper care, it should easily last 6 months.

Tori

Tori Zhang

Sales Representative

Introduction

Tori or Victoria to be exact, originally from Heze, brought her passion for life to Qingdao in 2016. An avid reader with a Teacher’s Qualification Certificate, Tori is known for her professional yet intriguing persona at the office.

As a quick learner, Tori always looks at customer’s needs from a tutor’s perspective. She has a sharp mind, is capable of picking up anything her client is unclear with, and offers the explanation in detail, making sure you understand it.

At Newtimes Hair, Tori thrives on the thrill of a sale, her triumphs now fueling the empowerment of her peers. Her journey at Newtimes Hair is marked by three profound words: abundant, proficient, and revolutionary.

  • Tell us an interesting fact about yourself other than your qualifications, your job.

I’m always fascinated about an exotic lifestyle. I really wish I could travel a lot, go to many different countries, and try their local gourmet food, and get in touch with the locals to actually have a feel of their culture.

  • Do you have a phobia? If you do, what is it?

I’m always afaid of heights. With any tall buildings, be it a chimney or TV tower, I look at it, and imagine I’m looking down right from the top, it will give me sweaty palms.

  • Do you have any pet hates?

Not at all. I generally love all pets. Dog, cats, guinea pigs, rabits, etc. I love them.

  • Do you have a favourite quote?

When you feel tired,it means you are walking uphill. I believe this quote as a truth that gives me a lift whenever I’m down. I believe there’s no gain without pain. Without trying, we can’t achieve anything.

  • Which men’s/women’s hair system do you sell the most? Why that model?

With me personally, the best-selling hair system has been HS1. It has what it’s required out of a good quality hair system, in terms of a natural-looking hairline, undetectable scalp, etc. Most wearers and salon owners are familiar with it. Plus, all our clients have faith in the quality of this hair system. According to their feedback, this is an easy-to-attach, easy-to-maintain hair system for both men and women.

Ivan

Ivan Mu

Sales representative

Introduction

Born and raised in a quiet town named Binzhou, China, where the Yellow River whispers its final secrets to the ocean. Ivan’s life was set to transform in ways he could hardly imagine. After completing college in Qingdao, young Ivan little knew that this vibrant coastal city would capture his heart and chart a new course in his life.

Ivan joined Newtimes Hair in mid-2022 soon after his graduation from his master’s. As a trilingual and someone with a professional understanding of Western cultures, Ivan plays a critical role in establishing customer relations in the US and Europe. His approachable nature and a mind of precision make him an invaluable asset to the team.

  • How would people in the office describe you?

I eardrop, and I hear them talking about me. I’m optimistic, proactive, and very friendly, and eager to help.

  • What is something you would love to do in the future?

I love basketball. And I’m a basketball freak. You can call me that. That’s just me. I’m looking at organizing a basketball team in the near future. 

  • Do you have a phobia? If you do, what is it?

I don’t know why I share the same gene with Doraemon. I’m scared of rats. I’m a 6’3″, but I hate rats; seeing one really freaks me out.

  • Which men/womens hair system do you sell the most? Why that model?

New Australia. When it first came out in early 2023, it made me top of sales. I think most wearers like it because at the design statge, our experts considered all possible aspects people could want from a hairpiece, such as a natural look, a level of comfort, and affordablity; it’s similar to lace, but most wearers can afford.