William Collier Design Hair Loss Treatment Blog - Seattle Hair Replacement News

Hair Loss Options - Wigs vs. Custom Hairpiece's

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:55:00 -0400

Hi Everyone,

I get a lot of phone calls from people asking if we sell wigs, the short answer is "Yes". The more complete answer is that a custom hair replacement system is NOT the same as an off-the-shelf wig.

Our custom wigs and hairpieces are specifically designed to fit the exact specifications of your head-size, they are custom-colored to match your own hair color and unlike a standard all-machine ready-made wig, (human hair or synthetic) they are incredibly light and very comfortable to wear.

At William Collier Design our expertise for the last 25 years has been in creating custom hair prosthesis (wigs) that are so natural looking - no one will be able to detect you're wearing one. Custom hair replacements include top of the head hair additions as well as full-cranial .

Please call or email us today with any questions or to schedule a free consultation to learn more about the work we do and to see and feel first-hand the types of hair replacement we offer.

Judi Wygant-Collier

Here is some additional information from our website.....

William Collier Design provides custom cranial prosthesis for anyone experiencing hair loss of any kind – including hair loss due to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, genetic Alopecia, Alopecia Areata Totalis or Universalis. Our complete line of semi-custom and custom cranial hair prosthesis includes design options especially for patients with hair loss due to medical treatment. In order for anyone, women in particular, to live a normal, active lifestyle it requires them to have hair that looks natural.

Finding a hair prosthesis that looks natural and is comfortable and secure allows people to go through this period of treatment with dignity and confidence. We are aware of the powerful psychological effect one’s appearance and attitude may have on the healing process. William Collier Design understands the personal needs of those experiencing hair loss. Whether it is short or long-term, many people, woman in particular, have expressed that hair loss is one of the most, if not the most difficult aspect of their treatment process. A person’s dignity may be significantly altered due to their hair loss. Wig shops traditionally offer cosmetic and fashion options with little or no privacy. A private, professional environment adds support and dignity to a potentially uncomfortable experience.

Many of our clients are working while going through therapy, and having no hair, or an uncomfortable, unrealistic snythetic wig is not an option. A cranial prosthesis that is a synthetic wig is not custom to the wearer— the fit may not be accurate, causing it to be irritable. A synthetic prosthesis, even if it is a “good one”—is not the most natural in appearance; the hair looks shiny and un-natural, becomes frizzy overtime, and cannot be re-styled or colored. Some people can actually have an allergic reaction to the synthetic fibers. It is not very breathable, so the wig can make the wearer perspire, causing more irritation to the scalp. And, if exposed to heat, around the oven or stove, the fibers will melt. Someone experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy a/or radiation therapy needs a hair prosthesis that is the most natural in appearance, and most importantly—comfortable, as if it is a part of them. We provide full cranial prosthesis that allows our clients to feel comfortable, confident and secure.

Someone with long term or especially lifetime hair loss, needs it to be the most natural in appearance, and most importantly—comfortable, as if it is a part of them.

Why William Collier Design?

Ø William Collier Design has been providing

professional hair design, replacement and

consultative services for people with all types of

hair loss for over 30 years.

Ø Continues to explore the industry for the most

effective methods of resolving hair loss issues.

Ø Personal attention in a private friendly

environment.

Ø Information on insurance coverage provided.

Ø Professional guidance for the most appropriate

choice.

Ø Client education with regard to care and styling.

Ø Membership in the American Hair Loss Council;

Certified as a Hair Addition Specialist.

For more information please see our website:

William Collier Design, www.williamcollierdesign.com

How to care for your hair system during the summer months

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:32:00 -0400

Hi Everyone,

If you’ve been reading my blogs you know that we are big believers in supporting your hair system with the best products to increase the longevity and manageability of your hair replacement system. We love Pureology Hydrate products because these technologically advanced formulas are free of any carcinogenic color stripping sulfates and most importantly they are specifically formulated to maintain color-treated hair. You can find these products and more at our on-line store – feel free to call or email us with any questions you have about how to best care for your hair system in the summer weather – in the meantime please read the following article from this months “The Hair Industry Connection Magazine” for some more in-depth information for caring for your hair replacement sytem in the sun and surf!

All my best,

Judi Collier

Summer Hairpiece Haircare by T.P. Maloy

Summer can be a tricky time for protecting a hairpiece from all the things we love about this season: sun, beach and salt and pool water. In fact, it’s imperative for stylists to educate their clients about how to properly maintain a hairpiece during hot summer days. For this reason, THIC – The Hair Industry Connection, spoke to top stylists and hair solution experts about the top six ways to care for a hairpiece during the summer.

Rule #1 Condition, condition, condition. Just because it’s a hairpiece doesn’t mean it fails to need all the TLC we give natural hair. If a person with a hairpiece is hanging-out in the sun make sure to use conditioners with UV protection”, says Ruth Roche, owner of RARE Salon in New York City. “Many companies make spray-on conditioners, which are easy to use, helps color from fading, and hair from getting dry.”

Rule # 2: Use a Shampoo for color treated hair; if a hairpiece has been dyed all haircare products used should be for color treated hair. It’s important to know that sunlight fades all hairs, Nikki Walsh, president of PK Walsh Hair Solutions for Women in Needham, MA. “So like your own hair, the hair in a hair addition does oxidize. A custom color shampoo can help to maintain the color.”

Rule #3: Protect if from Chlorine. Perhaps one of the most damaging Summer chemicals is chlorine. “To protect a hairpiece from chlorine, wet the hair down, and apply deep conditioner before getting in the pool,” suggests Roche. “The hair won’t be able to absorb the chlorine. Just like a sponge, if it’s full it won’t accept any more water.” After swimming use a cream conditioner and comb it with your fingers through the hair, and leave it in. Don’t use a comb or brush because it will tend to tangle or break ends while heated under the sun.”

Rule#4: Wear the Spare: If you have more than one hairpiece, wear the older one to the beach or in the pool. “It’s best to wear an old hairpiece to the beach and pool,” says Walsh. “That way your newer hair keeps fresh, and it will take you no time to get ready to go out if you have two.”

Rule#5: Wear protection. “Another way to protect a hairpiece from the wind/sun is to wear a hat or scarf to protect it from the rays,” says Roche. “If the hair is long, tying it back keeps it from getting tangled in the water and wind.”

Client Reviews & Testimonials from CitySearch.com of William Collier Design

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:47:00 -0400

OK...so don't take our word for it - read what some of our clients are saying about the service they receive for all their hair replacement needs here at William Collier Design.....

Reviews & Ratings for William Collier Design

What users are saying:

Showing 1-10 of 13 reviews

Great Service and Product

by mpedwards

May 13, 2009

I searched all over the Seattle area for the best place to receive help for my thinning hair. This has been one of the best choices I have made for myself. The product is wonderful and have given me a new confidence.

Thank you to all the staff - you have been so supportive and kind!

Maureen - Washington State

Pros: Very kind, understanding and knowledgable staff
Cons: Parking

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A GREAT PLACE IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT

by Juneleahy

March 27, 2009

Last May my 21 year old daughter was diagnosed with cancer and undergoing Chemo treatments. We visited several recommended resources for wigs, most having a very inpersonal self-defeating outcome. We happened upon William Collier Design which turned out to be the most positive exhillerating experience! The compassion, understanding and attention to her needs, were unparralled. They were able to transform a very sensative subject matter into an exciting prospect of having a new look that fit her personality and an ability to reinstill a sense of normality. The staff was amazing... the attention to detail unparralled... the follow through even months later... the greatest. I highly recommend thier service and hope those going through similar challenges find this invalluable resourse!!! They are the BEST and we will be forever greatful for what they gave us at such a difficult time.

Pros: Personal attention and compassion beyond compaire
Cons: None

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I feel like a new woman!

by alopeciasufferer

March 02, 2009

I've had Alopecia Areata for almost 15 years, and it has been somewhat bearable. Since i had a baby a year ago, my hair is falling out like crazy (AA aswell as Post Partum hairloss is no fun) and the patches are really visible on my head. I didn't want to get a full wig just yet, as i still have about 60% of my hair, however i needed something to cover up the really visible patches on the top and hte back of my head. I found William Collier's place through Google. The reviews sounded really good, but i didn't know if they were real reviews or not. I met with William for a free initial consultation and he recommended i get a top piece instead of a full wig. It was fun seeing the top piece on my head, as it was a lot longer than my own hair, however when i got home the reality of wearing a wig set in and i thought there must be something else i can do. I called them again and they suggested i go in and meet with their hair extensions specialist Echo. She is fabulous! She showed me how some clip in extensions could cover up my patches, and potentially get me over a period until a lot more of my hair falls out. So she checked the color of my hair so she could match hte extensions.

A week later i had an appointment to get them put in and trimmed into my hair. She showed me how to clip them in and THEY LOOKED AMAZING! Seriously, i even got an extra inch of hair and my hair was so thick afterwards. Yes, they're a pain to put in and take out, aswell as wear during hte day, but they cover my patches and i look like i've got a full head of hair and it makes me feel great. The color match is so good...even my husband commented on it and he hasn't got a clue about hair.

I know i'll have to go back to WCD for a wig in the next year or so, but i feel in really good hands while i'm there. The offices are lovely and inviting, and the staff are all really friendly...it has been a pleasure to deal with them. I'm even going back to Echo to get my highlights done.

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Best Possible Experience

by MaryJoT

November 21, 2008

When I first went to William Collier Design I was at the lowest point of my life. I was in desperate need of something, anything, to boost my spirits and help see me through such a difficult time. Well I found it the minute I walked through the doors of their wonderful salon. They are warm, compassionate and so professional. They very kindly guided me through, and helped diminish, a very painful time for me. I not only came away with a beautiful wig, I also found new hope and a hairdresser and salon that I will always trust. This experience helped change my life and I highly recommend William Collier Design for anybody's salon needs. They are the best!

Pros: Great Parking!! Very convenient

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Satisfied Customer for 5 years

by doubledown55

September 09, 2008

If you're considering hair replacement, I highly recommend William Collier Design (WCD). You're always treated with respect and dignity at WCD. I have been with WCD for over 5 years now and I am so happy I made the move from that large hair replacement company. The staff is professional and flexible with my personal situation. Also, if there's ever a problem, they make it right as quickly as possible. I also love the salon feel at WCD. It's truly night and day from those large hair replacement companies that are located in some office park.

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Wonderful experience, beautiful hair!

by l8dybug

June 03, 2008

I have trichotillomania and made an appt with William Collier Design after finding them on the TLC website. They were extrememly compassionate and discrete and made me feel completely comfortable. I went in for a consultation and walked out with the most beautiful wig you could ever imagine. When I left, I had to hug them. My hair is gorgeous and my life is completely changed. THANK YOU!

Pros: Great parking, discrete, extremely talented
Cons: quite a drive for me, but that's not their fault...and it's totally worth it!

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Most amazing "hair" experience ever!

by Jessica1973

May 01, 2008

I have had an absolutley wonderful experience at William Collier. From my first visit I felt so welcomed and accepted. I just had my cut in of my new hair and I am in Love. I have lived with insecurity around my thin hair for so long that I almost forget what it felt like to feel confident in the way that my hair felt and looked.

I left the salon feeling absolutley beautiful... After recieiving my new hair all I wanted to do was to jump up and hug William! It looks soooo natural that when I went to work everyone positively commented on my haircut! I am certain I was unrecognizable to some people whom have never seen me walk with confidence and a new spring in my step!

Thank you so much to William and to Judy and Echo for such quailty, professional care, excellent customer service and loads of knowledge.

I most definately would reccomend William Collier Salon to anyone without any hesitation!

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Run, Don't Walk to William Collier Design

by jwb07

October 31, 2007

This is a very special "thank you" to William and his staff for changing my dauther's life.

I would say to anyone out there that has any hesitation about William Collier's hair system....run, don't walk, as fast as you can to see him. It literally changed my daughter's life. She was so concerned about her hair loss that she had begun to refuse social invitations. Now that she has her "new hair" she is a new person. All people ever ask her is "where did you get that cute hair cut". She lives out of state so when she tells them in Seattle their reply is "oh, of course".

From the minute you walk in the door they make you feel like an old friend. William and his staff are very professional, capable and you know that you are in good hands - and on top of all that - they are fun!

I urge you, don't hesitate, go now!

Pros: Very professional, friendly, and lot's of fun.

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A very discreet and professional salon. Very respectful of privacy. A++++

by bichonlover

October 10, 2007

I have trichotillomania and this is the first salon that I have gone to that is educated about my condition. Wendy and Rhonda were professional, respectful, courteous - I felt so comfortable "letting my hair down" in front of them. Wendy first really looked at my hair before my haircut and Rhonda informed me about the hair replacement options that are available to me from them without any pressure to purchase one right away. I would highly recommend William Collier Design for someone with trichotillomania - it is a first-class salon.

Pros: Close parking, customer service, professional, pleasant
Cons: Not wheelchair accessible

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Seattle's Benchmark in Hair Replacement

by johndoe4223

September 06, 2007

It?s been nearly two months since the ?cutting in? and I could not be happier with the results.

From my initial phone conversation with Rhonda, until now as I enjoy the final results, every step of the process has exceeded my expectations. William Collier Design has treated me with dignity, warmth, and respect. The quality of my hair system is orders of magnitude better than what I previously was wearing. So much so, that sometimes I even think, ?it looks too good!?

Just kidding. I love it!

I recently visited my 87 year-old Mom who has not seen me for quite a few months and she

remarked upon how great I looked. She thought I?d gotten a fantastic hair transplant and wanted

to know the surgeon?s name because her own hair is thinning. I just told her I got lucky and

that at her age she probably shouldn?t do surgery. :)

So thanks again for everything. You guys are fabulous.

Pros: Attitude, warmth, professionalism, friendliness, quality of service and products
Cons: NONE