Cranial Prosthesis
What is a Cranial Prosthesis?
A hair prosthesis, also known as a cranial prosthesis, is a custom-made wig specifically crafted for individuals who have lost their hair due to medical conditions or treatments such as Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Trichotillomania, Chemotherapy, or other clinical diseases causing hair loss. This term is often used when seeking medical insurance coverage or tax deductions.
Medical professionals have been prescribing these prostheses since the 1950s. Cranial prostheses not only restore appearance but also provide protection to weakened immune systems from sun exposure and help regulate body temperature.
Advancements in technology have significantly improved cranial hair prostheses. Unlike regular wigs, cranial hair prostheses are created through several meticulous steps, beginning with a cranial perimeter mold to ensure a perfect fit. The base, where the hair is attached, is made from hypoallergenic fabric to accommodate the sensitive scalp conditions often associated with chemotherapy patients. Similar care is taken during the hair attachment process to prevent knots from touching the scalp.
For those in the DMV (DC, Maryland, and Virginia) area, Rachel’s Hair Loft offers personalized mold creation services for your scalp or alopecia, ensuring a precise fit when ordering. Out-of-state services are also available upon request.
Benefits of Cranial Prosthesis
A cranial prosthesis offers several benefits over a standard wig, particularly for individuals experiencing medical-related hair loss. Here are the key advantages:
- Custom Fit: Cranial prostheses are custom-made to fit the exact contours of your scalp, providing a secure and comfortable fit that standard wigs often lack.
- Medical-Grade Materials: Crafted from hypoallergenic, breathable materials, cranial prostheses are gentle on sensitive skin and reduce the risk of irritation and discomfort.
- Natural Appearance: These prostheses use high-quality human hair and advanced techniques to closely mimic natural hair growth patterns, offering a realistic look and natural hairline.
- Stability and Security: Designed to stay in place without adhesives or tapes, cranial prostheses are especially beneficial for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or other treatments that may cause scalp sensitivity.
- Insurance Coverage: Many insurance plans consider cranial prostheses a medical necessity, offering partial or full coverage to make them more affordable.
- Psychological and Emotional Support: A well-made cranial prosthesis can boost self-esteem and confidence, helping individuals better cope with the emotional impact of hair loss.
- Durability: These prostheses are built to withstand daily wear and tear, typically lasting up to 2 years with proper maintenance. They can be dyed, shampooed, conditioned, straightened, curled, and even worn while swimming without shedding.
- Personalized Styling: Cranial prostheses can be customized with cuts, colors, and textures to match or enhance your natural look.
- Healthcare Professional Involvement: The creation and fitting process involves collaboration with healthcare professionals to ensure the prosthesis meets both medical and personal needs.
- Enhanced Comfort: With better ventilation and lighter materials, cranial prostheses are more comfortable for extended wear, addressing common issues associated with standard wigs. Some units even feature memory foam around the ears for added comfort.
Combination Units
We offer combination cranial prostheses that blend the best features of different systems. For instance:
- Lace Front with Polyurethane (PU): For a natural-looking hairline combined with PU throughout the unit to ensure stability and full coverage.
- Lace Front with Polyurethane (PU) Perimeter and Monofilament (Mono) Throughout: Combines the benefits of natural hairlines with PU for coverage and Mono for enhanced ventilation.
- Integration Chains: Recommended for individuals who need to apply topical treatments or receive injections, as favored by physicians.
On your inquiry form, please include what type of hair system is best for you!