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LACE BASE VS. PU UNITS: WHICH MAN WEAVE HAIR SYSTEM IS BEST FOR YOU?
Gone are the days when men had to settle for early-onset baldness. Now, with man weaves gaining increased popularity and acceptance, more men are coming around to the idea. While deciding to use a man weave to regain your youthful look is one thing; knowing which one suits you best is another.
You may be wondering, which man weave is most comfortable for my lifestyle? Which one lasts the longest? Which man weave base will give me a seamless finish? These are usual questions that need answers before you decide which to buy.
This article provides everything you need to know about choosing between lace base units and PU units (the most famous man weaves base units on the market). By understanding the different features, you can decide which man weave base best suits your lifestyle and aesthetic needs.
What is Lace Base Unit?
A lace base unit is a delicate material placed around a man’s weaves’ base, attached to human or synthetic hair. A lace base unit is usually lightweight and relatively breathable. It’s designed to be comfortable to wear.
Unlike invasive hair replacement strategies like surgery or medications, lace base units come with a seamless scalp to give you the desired finish.
You might have heard people saying, “nothing can be as perfect as natural hair.” Trying out man weaves with a suitable base will make you think otherwise. In most cases, people can hardly distinguish between a seamless lace base and your natural hair.
A lace base unit is a delicate material placed around a man’s weaves’ base, attached to human or synthetic hair. A lace base unit is usually lightweight and relatively breathable. It’s designed to be comfortable to wear.
Unlike invasive hair replacement strategies like surgery or medications, lace base units come with a seamless scalp to give you the desired finish.
You might have heard people saying, “nothing can be as perfect as natural hair.” Trying out man weaves with a suitable base will make you think otherwise. In most cases, people can hardly distinguish between a seamless lace base and your natural hair.
Types of Lace Base Unit
Swiss lace and French lace are the two types of lace materials. Swiss lace is finer and much more delicate than French lace. So, it needs to be handled with extreme care. Depending on how an individual maintains it, Swiss lace can still serve you for a good time. However, French lace is stronger and more durable than Swiss lace.
What is PU Base Unit
PU base unit is the thickest base unit when compared to other base units. It is made of a material called pure polyurethane, which is directly attached to synthetic or human hair. Polyurethane material can be used with any type of bonding agent, be it tape or glue.
Despite having a thick base, you can attach or remove the PU base effortlessly. In addition to being comfortable, PU’s thick base comes with a v-loop knot that makes it look more natural.
Lace Base Vs. PU Unit
The main difference between a lace base and a PU base lies in their material. While a PU base is made from polyurethane material, a lace base, as the name implies, is made from a seamless lace material.
Now that you have an idea of what Lace and PU base is, let’s explore their features based on the following 5 criteria.
EASE OF USE
The thickness of a PU base unit makes it easier to attach, remove and clean up the weaves. Due to its thickness, it is considerably sturdier than the lace base. This makes It suitable for people who exercise often
On the other hand, a lace base unit, particularly the swiss lace, is soft and quickly unravels during installation. Unlike with the PU base unit, you have to handle the lace base with a lot of care and caution.
Also, It’s easier to remove the PU base to spray it or clean up your scalp. This removal process leaves most PU bases intact, but this isn’t the case with a lace base. The reason being that the lace base unit is very delicate, so it can easily get torn or unraveled when handling. This may end up damaging or tearing the unit while trying to clean it up.
VERDICT
PU base unit requires less technicality to use (install and remove).
SEAMLESS SCALP-EXPOSING FINISH
If you are looking for that flawless scalp-identical finish, then a lace base is your best bet. It allows for styles that require exposure of the scalp, like a crew cut, braids amongst others. Lace base with its micro-perforations gives the illusion that the hair is growing from your scalp.
This is not the case with PU bases which cannot be exposed. With PU base, the hairstyle you choose should not be lower than 2″. This way, your head is covered through with the hair. The PU base, which doesn’t look exactly like your scalp, is exposed if cut too low.
VERDICT
If you want a style that exposes your scalp, your best bet is a lace base unit. If you want a full head of hair? Then go for the PU base unit for that full hair look.
DURABILITY & MAINTENANCE
Although they both last an average of 3 to 4 months, PU base units last longer than lace base units. Due to the thick layer of PU base, it holds firmly in place longer, especially in physically active people.
You should know that how long the duo will last ultimately depends on the level of maintenance and care given to them. With proper maintenance, PU base units can last as much as 7 months.
There are certain things you need to bear in mind if you want your hair replacement system, whether lace or PU, to last longer than usual:
VERDICT
If you have a highly active lifestyle (I.e., frequently workout, dance, or ride a bike), then a PU base unit will stick with you through all your activities. On the other hand, if you have a mellow calm lifestyle, then lace base is perfect for you.
BREATHABILITY
One major pro of lace base units is that it is absolutely breathable. Lace base units come with tiny holes that provide you with abundant airflow. These perforations allow a level of ventilation that doesn’t apply to the PU base unit.
Don’t expect to find any hole in any PU base unit due to its thick layer over your scalp. This means using a PU base unit in a warmer climate may not be a good idea. Something like a lace base unit with holes is suitable for warm temperatures.
VERDICT
Although the PU base unit is comfortable on the scalp, don’t expect adequate airflow like the lace base unit. So, if the climate is hot, choose a Lace base unit to give your scalp enough room to breathe.
HAIR DENSITY
Most times, hair density is a function of people’s personal preference, lifestyle, and what they feel looks best on them. Due to its thickness, a PU base unit can hold a fuller hair density like 100%-120%, while a Lace base usually holds a natural/medium hair density.
VERDICT
If you want a fuller look, think PU base unit. If you’re like more of a moderate to mild density, then a lace base is just right for you.
Other Base Unit Options
A monofilament base unit is another excellent option that may require your consideration. Its softness and comfortability remain its major selling points. It also holds considerable hair density, just like a PU base but is not as breathable as the lace base unit due to its thickness.
Lace with a poly base is considered a more durable option than a full lace base unit. In addition, lace with a poly base is easier to attach and maintain. A monofilament base unit has a more advanced version which is the lace front base. It makes front hairlines look perfectly natural while the lace is undetectable.
Conclusion
Factors like your personal preference, lifestyle, or need determine which hair system material is perfect for you. This article provides you with the necessary information about the different hair system materials and how they relate to individual needs and situations. for more on man weaves follow our blog on acemanweaveunits.com
