Choosing an adhesive for your hair system.
When you’re first getting started with hair systems, (or looking to make a switch) choosing an adhesive is one of the tougher choices you’ll have to make. Between scalp type, hold time, your regular life, etc., there are so many factors to sort through to make your adhesive choice.
Luckily, Walker Tape® is here to make it easier to choose with our “Choose Your Adhesive” quiz!
Simply answer each question below, and record your total points. Then use our scoring guide at the end of the blog to find your adhesives.
QUIZ
1. Hold Time
Walker Tape® hair system tapes and liquid adhesives come in three different hold time categories, depending on how long the client would like the bond to hold:
- A. Daily wear (1–7 days) – 1 point
- B. Extended wear (1–2 weeks) – 2 points
- C. Maximum wear (3–4+ weeks) – 3 points
2. Climate
Climate/environment plays a big role in how well an adhesive performs on the system. As such, it must be taken into account when choosing an adhesive for your hair system:
- A. Cool & chill – 1 point
- B. Warm & humid – 2 points
- C. Hot or tropical – 3 points
3. Activity Level
Activity level/fitness is another factor that can affect bonding for adhesives and hair systems. Sweat, heat, etc., can be detrimental to the bond if the wrong adhesive is chosen:
- A. Minimal (low activity, light movement) – 1 point
- B. Moderate (light exercise or movement) – 2 points
- C. Active (partaking in sports, going to the gym, etc.) – 3 points
4. Skin Sensitivity
Of course, the wearer’s skin is probably the most important factor when it comes to choosing an adhesive for your hair system. And there are adhesives available to fit most skin sensitivities:
- A. Dry or balanced – 1 point
- B. Slightly oily – 2 points
- C. Very oily or sensitive – 3 points
- D. Allergic/hard to bond – 4 points
Scoring Guide: Get Your Adhesives
4–6 points: Daily Wear Adhesives
Gentle, skin-safe, and low residue for more relaxed holds.
- Tapes: 1522 Clear™, Natural Hold™, This Side to Base™, Sensi-Tak Select™
- Liquid Adhesives: Mity-Tite®, Safe Grip™
7–9 points: Extended Wear Adhesives
Longer wear times, made with skin-safe to hypoallergenic gentleness and a secure hold for wear.
- Tapes: Lace Front Thin™, Duo-Tac™, Sensi-Tak™, Sensi-Tak Select™
- Liquids Adhesives: Liqui-Tape®, Safe Grip™
10–11 points: Max Wear Adhesives
Strong, long-lasting adhesives for those in hotter climates or living more active lifestyles.
- Tapes: Ultra Hold™ Tape, Lace Front, Walker Signature Tape™
- Liquids: Ultra Hold™ liquid adhesive, Great White™, Extreme Hold™
12–13 points: Maximum Wear with Scalp Protection
Made for wearers with oily or sensitive skin, and or high activity level. Use with the following prep products to get the best bond possible with your chosen adhesive.
- Tapes/Adhesives: Pro-Flex II™, No-Shine™, Extenda-Bond Plus; see other maximum wear adhesives above.
- Prep Products: Max Hold Sport™, Scalp Protector™, Just-Rite Positioning Spray™
If you have any more questions about choosing an adhesive for your hair system, or questions in general, feel free to reach out to our Customer Service Team at [email protected], or by phone at 1.800.759.5150
