Hair Systems and the Rise of the ‘Glow-Up’ Culture on Social Media

Social media platforms have completely reinvented the term ‘glow up’ to mean something entirely different. Self-improvement now literally means everything thanks to Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and even YouTube flooding with transformation videos. From skincare and workout challenges to full-on DIY hair makeover videos, the world has begun to notice that hair changing videos make up a huge part of this ‘self-makeover’ culture. This phenomenon can easily be tied to the increasing awareness of self beauty, worries of hair thinning, and the overall growing trend of social media.

Be it for medical treatment, style factor, or just to feel good, these approaches have now become a staple in the beauty industry. This blog post explores the modern beauty context, hair units for men and women, and the effects of hair systems on self-image.

Prosthesis Wigs, Hair Systems, And Toupees Relative to Construction Techniques

While more intricate options exist to change one’s hair with a degree of ease, systems like Wigs, Toupees, and Hair toppers such as pony or braid extensions allow for additional changes without requiring surgery.  

• Wigs – These are used as a disguise or for performance and can be made of synthetic or real hair.  
• Toupees – This is worn over bald patches particularly for men.  
• Hair Integrations – Known as Hair Toppers, these are worn to beautify the hair of the wearer by blending in with the original hair. Also, they can be used as extensions to create more coverage and volume.  
• Tailored Hair Systems – These are custom made pieces that resemble human hair and are meant for those suffering from alopecia, hair loss due to chemotherapy, or male pattern baldness. They are specifically constructed to the user’s requirements.  

If you want to try a hair system but don't know much about it yet, we recommend watching this video, which introduces “How to Get the Most Out of Your Hair System”.

While a hair system is a more effortless option than surgical hair transplants, it achieves the same end goal. Today, they act not only as a hairstyle restoration aid but also as a fashion statement for influencers and celebrities alike.

The Evolution of Hair Systems

This process of hair integration as they are referred to, has been used for hundreds of years, starting from Ancient Egypt which used hairpieces for fashion and noble status. Even so, the culture around it was frowned upon for many years.Indeed, the industry has improved substantially due to technology greatly improving over the years. 

Current contemporary hair systems incorporates lace bases with realistic hairlines and other light materials for relief as well as lace bases for ventilation. Furthermore, there has been a boom in the use of high quality, low cost synthetic fibers that enables anyone to modify their hair without any restrictions.

The Role of Social Media In Beauty And Transformation

Beauty and self care has seen a lot of improvement due to social media and in return the emergence of trends like Glow-U. Changes have become something that should be expected rather than wanted, all due to hashtags such as #GlowUp, #TransformationTuesday and #BeforeAndAfter.

Influencer Culture And Its Effect In The Contemporary World

The notion of beauty has changed with the rise of influencers. Numerous online figures feature their hair journeys whether it be via hair systems or extensions, or professional treatments. A Statista survey conducted in 2022 revealed that 72% of Gen Z and younger Millennials follow beauty instructional influencers which once more confirms the fact that social media has an influence on one's buying behavior.

There are several influencers on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram that provide detailed tips and even sponsor companies that create hair systems. Influencers are relatable and transparent with their followers which makes them willing to try new hairstyles, thus growing the demand for hair systems.

How Transformation Trends Have Grown in Popularity 

Owned by Facebook, Instagram thrives on pictures and videos and few things are more captivating than seeing a person’s “before and after” photos with hashtags like #HairTransformation has millions of views. These keywords and trends have been exceedingly popular as they allow people to document their Glow Up journeys in real time. These trends have popularized the usage of hair systems and beauty enhancements as the norm. 

Challenges like the “10-Year Challenge” or “Glow Up Challenge” portray a person’s life transformation over a long span while exaggerating how much impact hair has on beauty standards. The ease of changing hairstyles has been made possible by hair wigs, toupees, extensions, and hair systems which has greatly increased their popularity in recent years.

Self-Acceptance and Casting Aside All Stereotypes 

There is a beauty standard set globally, and many social media users argue that it is something which is unattainable. On the contrary, it has also served the purpose of self-acceptance and body positivity. Influencers talk about their experiences with hair fall due to reasons such as alopecia, medical chemotherapy, and stress-induced hair shedding. By sharing their stories and how hair systems immensely help boost their confidence, they aid in destigmatizing hair enhancements.

 

Moreover, multiple brands have been seen using flowers and fruits with children in their beauty campaigns as a sign of inclusivity. Companies have also capitalized on this and have begun offering numerous different textures and colors that will allow more people to feel like they have some power.

Hair Transformation and Glow-Ups: What Lies Behind the Psychology? 

Wanting to transform oneself stems from deeply embedded psychological issues. It is implied from the studies that self-esteem is greatly correlated with how one’s outward appearance is, and out of everything, hair takes the crown. The American Hair Loss Association states that 40% of women with hair loss are sufferers, revealing the emotional turmoil that comes with thinning hair.

One can redefine the power they possess through self-image with the use of glow-ups and it allows them to feel renewed. Social media makes it clear that beauty is adaptable, achievable, and rather effortless.

Celebrity Social Media Influencers Marketing Campaigns

The greater acceptance of hair systems has developed because prominent people are speaking about their experiences. John Travolta, Matthew McConaughey, and Tyra Banks are a few celebrities who have been known or are suspected of wearing hairpieces.

In addition, influencers on TikTok and YouTube document their journeys with hair systems and openly share it with their followers. This sort of openness increases self expression and reduces stigma.

Hair Systems Business Overview: Business Growth

Hair replacement business is booming because now, more than ever, there is a need for quality authentic hairpieces. Growth is attributed to several factors such as:

• Concerns of elder population about hair loss: Pattern baldness affects more than 50 million men and about 30 million women within the United States alone. 
• Media and entertainment impact: Actors in films and television require high-quality wigs.
• Social media advertising: People focus on these as it is becoming easier to reach world markets maximizing the potential for hair systems.

Famous brands such as Lordhair, Hair Club and Hairskeen lead the field by providing various solutions to different requirements and financial capabilities.

The Benefits and Drawbacks with Hair Systems

Advantages:

With hairpieces, unlike with transplants systems, results are instantaneous.

• Non-invasive – Does not involve any type of surgery or downtime. 
• Style flexibility – Users can change the style by varying the color, texture, and length. 
• Affordable alternatives – High-quality hair systems offer a more economical solution when compared to other transplants. 

Cons? 

• Maintenance required – Regular washing and the application of adhesive requires time, as does styling. 
• Cost of upkeep – Replacement and professional servicing requires ongoing investment. 

Conclusion

Hair systems were once considered a last option, but in the current world they have earned their place in beauty standards. The emergence of Glow-Up trends and their sponsorship by influencers, together with improved technology, has made the industry popular. As the world continues to embrace self-expression and acceptance, hair systems are set to lead the charge for new age empowerment by enabling people to reimagine their beauty aesthetics. 

Thus, confidence is the real beauty; and as long as one is comfortable – whether wearing a premium hairpiece or one’s hair – the outcome should be empowerment, and feeling unapologetically oneself.