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Lexi

Female

Tampa, FL

United States

Profile Information:

Relationship Status:: Married
About Me:: My hair has been shedding and falling out since Summer 2008. I now have Ophiasis pattern alopecia, as well as overall thinning and female pattern hair loss.
Do you have alopecia?: Other type of alopecia
Are you age 18 or older?: Yes - I am 18 or older

Comment Wall:

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Carmen West

Hi Lexi,
I will be in Daytona, Orlando and Tampa, FL on and around November 5 to 10, 2010. Are you close to any of these areas? You could come and take a look.
The Gripper and Cool Solutions does not come styled. Taking care if the piece is simple, perspiration does break down the netting. This is a true statement for all net pieces. If it you have been working our or running you perspire more. You will need to clean the piece. Also taking care of the hair is shampooing and condition and once a month deep conditioning. Making sure you rinse out the shampoo and the conditioner well. This is ti make sure there is not any residue left in the netting.
email me at cwestgb@aol.com if you would like to see the pieces.

Sep 17, 2010
kaitlin lavin

Hahaa thaanks.. That post was sooo sweet! I bought soo many peices over the past 3 years.. I don't really look for any particular brands or anything like that. I go to a cosmetic store at a mall near me. And they're also pretty cheap so that's definitely a plus since I've seen some online which were absolutely rediculous!! Anyways, chat anytime. I love to talk!! Hehe (:

Sep 18, 2010
Mia

Hey Lexi :-)
I´m Mia from Germany.How are you doing?
I just saw your comment on my wall...sorry for my late reply. I haven´t been online for such a long time!!! I just needed some time to understand myself or something like that ;-).
You asked about my wig...the picture with the curly hair was the one before my hair loss started, so it was my real hair.
The other one is my wig. I stopped wearing it a few weeks ago and I´m wearing a scarf on my head. At first, it was really strange, but now I´m getting used to it. It exactly know what you mean when you say, you´re suffering from the summerheat. It felt so horrible sweating under my wig. But with my scarf, it fells much better!!!
What kond of wig do you wear?
Greeting from Germany!!!

Oct 8, 2010
Christy Ingram

Hi Lexi, Thanks for adding me. I know what you mean...I can't stand to hear people complain about bad hair days, or my hair is thinning, or turning grey when they have more than I ever had! I am just trying to get through the first couple of months w/o what little hair I had left. I have been trying different wigs and trying to find what I really like. One thing is for sure most of the wigs I have tried have way more hair than I have had most of my life! There is alot of good info and ideas on here. And I think more people actually wear wigs than let on! Take care!

Oct 9, 2010
Christy Ingram

Lexi, I'm not sure about other companies... I have bought a couple of wigs from Voguewigs, and they let me exchange, as long as I didn't take it out of the box and try it on. Make sure you don't remove netting, or any filler inside the wig. One wig I could tell just by moving the paper flap back that it was way wrong for me. I had to pay return shipping and shipping for the exchange, about 7-8 each way. So I ended up buying a couple of color rings so I could get a better idea as to what the hair color might really look like. The rings seem kinda expensive, but I am hoping in the long run they will save me some money!

Oct 9, 2010
Lavira

Thanks for adding me! Hope you are well!

Oct 9, 2010
Lavira

Thanks for the kind comment! I am a bit unsure about getting a wig, maybe exactly because I would constantly be thinking about whether people notice that it is a wig. I don't know if that would help or not... as now I think that others see my thin hair (though maybe they don't even notice it as most people are not as obsessed with hair as we are). I know I should be happy for having hair at least, it is just really annoying, but I guess most people have something they feel bad about... My friends, family and my boyfriend always tell me that my hair is totally ok, but I can never truly listen to them as I know that I was bullied because of my hair when I was back in school. Even if since then nobody has said anything it still bothers me.

Oct 9, 2010
Mia

Hey Lexi :-)
thanks for your fast answear!!! i hope you´re doing well...
Hehe I know what you mean. Sometimes I type about 20 minutes to write a nice message and suddenly when everything is quite finished, it´s gone. That´s life :P !
yea, the curly one was my own hair...wah i miss it. The stright one is my wig. One month ago, regrow started and therefore I stopped wearing it. But yesterday, I had to shave all again...but I guess I won´t wear the wig anyways. In Germany it´s not as hot as in California...but I absolutely hate it to sweat under my wig while playing tennis or sommething like that. A scarf is ways more comfortable :-) and in my opinion it doesn´t look that bad. Baseballcap is cool as well. Buut oonce I tried it and I didn´t manage to hide all of my bald head under it. How do you?i would love to have another wig. But they are so expensive...so I really agree with you a wig exchannge would be great!!! Shipping overseas is not thaaat expensive...imaginge you could buy a wig for 100 dollars less and just have to pay 20 for shipping or something like that. I only have this one wig that I can wear because it was that expensive...I really would like to have a darker one to have the possibility to change my style ;-)
What kind of wigs do you wear??
All the best.

Oct 10, 2010
Gail

Umm...I liked that hair a lot too! That was my real hair, and even in this shot it was getting a bit thin and scraggly-looking. In its hay day, it was thick and glorious.

Nov 28, 2010
Gail

Yeah, unfortunately, most of the non-mono synthetics I have seen have the "nappy teased" scalp look. It is less obvious when the wigs are new, but as they start to wear a bit, it looks bad. The one I wear now (Reese by Noriko) has a lot of volume on top and has a darkened root color, which helps conceal the nap. I will have to deal with this for now, as I can't afford anything more natural looking, however, I always get compliments on my "hair" and have never had anyone guess I was wearing a wig.

Nov 29, 2010
Mhairi

Hi Lexi,
Sorry for the delay in replying.
I still use the older wig, but not as often, it’s really just the one I wear if I’ve just washed the fitted wig. I’m still happy with it, although I did have a fringe cut because it will sometimes move a little about my hairline, and a fringe covers that.
The fitted wig is fantastic. I’m very happy with it, and at only US$50 to adjust it I think it was well worth the cost.
It does have clips, as well as elastic straps at the back. I went for that option because I still have a fair bit of hair around the hairline and glues or tape wouldn’t have worked for me. But if you look at the website there are quite a few options.
I haven’t noticed the clips affecting the hair yet, occasionally a strand will get caught, but they’re good quality clips so when open the hair just slides out.
I’ve been quite happy with the quality of both wigs. The Ponytail wig was a very full wig, so I struggle a little to keep it neat. It’s also quite weighty, so wearing a ponytail can drag a bit on the front clips, but a half pony seems fine.
The second wig is finer hair and not so heavily woven (sorry I’m not sure of wig lingo – I mean it doesn’t have as many strands woven in) so it looks more natural – or at least more like my hair was before it started to fall out.
As for maintenance, it’s been pretty easy. I bought some really good quality shampoos and conditioners – because I only wash them once a week. I try not to get too much conditioner on the cap of the wig, because I’ve been told that conditioner can loosen the knots. Then I let it dry O/night. It’s usually nearly dry by morning, so I straighten it then or blow-dry it. The ponytail wig always need straightening.
Okay, I think that’s covered all of your questions, but feel free to ask anything else that you’re curious about. I know that I interrogated poor Michelle when I was looking at wigs. I’d be happy to help in any way I can.

Dec 28, 2010
Peggy Knight

Hello Lexi! In regards to your question about Remi-European Hair;

Processed hair is problematic after 6 months or so and must be replaced. European hair is more cost effective over the long run since it can last many years. A piece made with processed (Remi-European) hair won't last nearly as long as a piece made with high quality European Hair. I have found that European hair gives you more bang for your buck!

Grey hair can be added to any of my hairpieces. I understand that older hair changes in texture but most of my clients prefer the younger looking hair, even if they are of a more mature age.

As for the cost of a high quality hair piece; have you considered financing? You may call me at any time to go over your options. 415-289-1777.

I hope you are doing well Lexi!

Jan 4, 2011
Jo Jo

Lol

Mar 5, 2011
Jo Jo

The LOL means- Laugh out loud- and it was in responce to the part about the LAB BILL! Yes this is the way it works. Doctors have you come in for multiple visits trying to figure out the proper diagnosis all the while alternating different medicines and treatments options in hopes of eliminating multiple possible diagnosis and all though none of it is 100% guarenteed (results of treatments/ effectivess of medicines or even the proper diagnosis concluded from a Biopsy or bloodwork ) the one thing that IS certain is the BILL, but for that I thank the insurance carriers for whatever portion they can (if any) pay although I was considered a "Self pay" for a while. As for the getting older part, well Lexi, thats a part of EVERYONES life and I am thankful for each and every passing day.

Mar 8, 2011
liselle

hi lol, it's me again :)
On wigs.com they sell Beautimark hairspray for synthetics @ $11.95.
yes...yes lol... I will let you know when the wig is on my head!
and yeah, Codi wig was $450 at store, online it is $113...... highway robbery lol.
ok then, bye

Mar 8, 2011
Stephanie

Hi Lexi,

Yes it is back. All but some of my eyebrows. How are you doing?

Stephanie

Mar 9, 2011
Stephanie

Here's the rub. I have met so many women whose hair all came back and then fell out again. I am still wearing my wig for that reason. The advantage (if you want to look for one) of ophiasis pattern is your hair doesn't get in the way of the wig at the nape. Because mine has filled in there I cannot tape it down in back to get the snuggest fit. Never in my wildest dreams would I have expected to be talking this way. The hope of everyone when they first lose their hair is that it will all grow back but they don't think about the fact that it only means the alopecia is in remission and will return at some point.
I just read your blog from July 28 and wonder if you have a more natural wig today. No one has ever suspected that I wear a wig, not even my most critical friends. I think that it is vital to own a hair piece that you feel confident in. Best of luck to you! We all have to go on this journey in our own way and I respect the variety of choices people make, whether it be searching for a cure, going out bald, being "out" with their condition, etc.. I have just figured out the way it works best for me.
Take care :) Stephanie

Mar 10, 2011
Stephanie

BTW, Lexi, I am sure what I wrote earlier was NOT what you wanted to hear. I am being "cautiously optimistic" but YES it is wonderful that my hair has grown back and I sure hope that yours does as well.

Mar 10, 2011
Julie G

My hair in the pictures..let's see - if it is darker and with bangs then that is my wig. Other than that it was my real hair. Thanks for the compliments and advice. The itch is a little better today now that I used a different shampoo, we will see how the rest of the week goes. The summer should be interesting cuz I am a sweater..FUN TIMES!!

Mar 29, 2011
Chefpam

Sorry I just saw your comment today. My wig is from Flora in New Jersey. I am not sure of the name. I went in and tried them on until I found one I liked and then she highlighted it for me. I am sure if you contacted her she would be able to help. I wish I could wear it more..I have terrible scalp pain. :>(

Apr 12, 2011
liselle

hi lexi
I just bought gabor prodigy, then read a post of yours saying it was too poufy? now I am having heart palpitations lol ha! so, apart form the pouf, was the rest of it realistic looking?
if you can rememberlol
thanx a bunch
liselle

Apr 14, 2011
Chefpam

Hey. Yes, the wig was $3000. I have to be honest, I haven't worn it but like 10x since I got it in Novemember. I have only worn it in colder weather thus far so not sure how it will be. I know this sounds crazy but I am not sure what kind of cap it is. I just tried on a bunch and liked this one the best and after driving 11 hours decided I wasn't go home without one. It is very nice but I still don't think it was worth THAT kind of money. For that, it should be perfect to me. If you want the number and address of the shop just let me know!

Apr 14, 2011
Mrs. Reyne Mann

Hi Lexi!

I am Reyne and am new to this site. I may have to break down and get a wig soon.
ugh! I'm anxious about it! Let me know your experience and any insight please!!
Reyne :)

Apr 19, 2011
Mrs. Reyne Mann

Hey Lexi! I am in the DC area. I don't like it here because it is sooo over-congested and people are not so nice. I know this may sound pretentious or something but I'm so embarrassed to go into a wig store - what IF I DO see someone I know, even just passing by. omg, I just don't know what to do! I wish you lived here or someone on this site so we could go together! My husband says I don't need a wig, he's one of those real nice men who says nice things that only a mother would say, ya know?! Can you tell me more about your wig? Is it one of those $3,000 ones? yikes - that is crazy. Take care! Reyne

Apr 25, 2011
Mhairi

Hi Lexi!
Happy New year! It's been a while since I've been back onto Alopecia world, I hope you're well.
The dermMatch hasn't arrived yet, I ordered it online, but I'll keep you posted...

The yaffa wig, was great, maintenance is easy, but of course after the first wash I couldn't style it quite as perfectly as when it arrived - but even when I had hair I never looked salon perfect after the first wash either. ;-)

It was very warm in summer, I can't lie about that - but I was happy not to have a sunburnt scalp for once. Hats really don't work for me, and sunscreen gloops up my thinning hair and makes it look even thinner (not to mention ratty and unwashed).

I'll be getting married in Fiji in July, so hopefully the dermMatch will mean that I don't have to really sweat it out on my wedding day (I bought a chignon hairpiece to fill out a bun & make it a bit prettier). But if it doesn't work for me I'll wear the wig.

Take care hon.
xx

Jun 18, 2011
Chefpam

Nah, I haven't worn it since Jan. My hair is coming out worse and I just returned from Cleveland Clinic after having EXTENSIVE bloodwork and for them to to tell me everything is normal and no explanation for the hairloss, oh and plus 5K and then some in medical bills...yeah, I am frustrated. I am in Ky and it's hot here too...I am just a bit miserable currently. Hugs to you.

Jun 19, 2011
Mrs. Reyne Mann

Hi Lexi! I cannot believe I am just not reading your comment back to me from April!!! I haven't been on the site since then! I hope you are still there? Thanks so much for your informative message. I've not still pursued getting a wig. I'm in hairloss denial I think....still. argh! You asked what state I am in? I'm in Virginia. How is the Florida humidity on your wigs? Do you wear one everyday? How about to the gym? Do your coworkers and friends know? My husband says I don't need one, but he's kinda like a mother saying how beautiful you are even on your worst day, ya know? Anyways, thanks again for the comment and hope you get this soon! Happy 4th celebration and pray for the troops! Reyne :)

Jun 30, 2011
Mrs. Reyne Mann

That is so true isn't it?! It's disgusting how black women wear these perfect weaves that some you can hardly tell! ugh! I guess we caucasian women when we were younger had it made, now that time is gaining a little on us, we no longer have the young, pretty locks! And when I was growing up, the majority of black girls seemed to hate white girls. And I have come to the conclusion that that is one of the reasons why - Hair! We had it, they didn't. But the smell of that afro sheen was so terrible, no wonder they were always so irritable! lol But now many of us are looking for the alternative to our straggly locks and it is a miserable search, IMO!
So Lexi, how is work going and have you begun wearing the wig? You are so right about the judging "female" public. ugh! My sister lives in Germany and she says on the most part, women there do mind their own business. Wouldn't that be nice if that were here? The women I work with have nothing better to do but to gossip!
Not all, but many. And I'm talking about women in the fifties! omg, pitiful isn't it.
Hope to chat soon! Reyne :)

Jul 11, 2011
Deirdre

Hi Lexi. My wig is by Jon Renau, the style is called "posh". I love the style but it is hot and itchy just like every wig I have ever tried. Especially here in Miami! It sucks, but I just deal with it. I am an attorney, so I need to look professional for work so I can't go bald. I am actually getting a freedom wig (the vacuum one from new zealand) but I still don't have it- it is taking forever to get- I started the order in like march or something. we'll see. I am sure that one will be hot too. I don't think in Miami I will ever be able to not be sweating under the wig. :((

Aug 21, 2011
Amy

I will let you know how the lazer works. Unfortunately it take 6 months to a year :( It will take patience and time, its worth it if it woks!!

Aug 24, 2011
Bre Cobb

Heyy thank you so much for the comment on my page and thank you for tellin me im pretty hah umm but im not exactly sure what photos you are talkin about lol i dont any big name brand wigs i just go to my local beauty supply store adn try then on and if i like them i buy them lol my wigs are no more than 70 bucks at the most:)

Sep 21, 2011
Stephanie

Lexi, I've been off AW for several months and glanced through this thread. How are things?

Dec 21, 2011
Stephanie

Lexi, Sorry to hear about your hair but congrats on the job. It's good to be busy, especially when you have this condition. My hair is starting to look like "me" finally, though since I don't color it, it is quite dark. That said, just a few days ago it started to come out again. Of course the first thing you notice is in the shower when you rinse and it comes off on your hands. That used to send me into a panic and I would avoid shampooing for a few days, not yet understanding that the hair was ALREADY disconnected to my scalp.
This time around I am disappointed but not terribly upset because I have these fabulous wigs. I just went to NYC to have them cut. I needed a change after a year. The most frustrating thing for me now is the people who know about it. They keep asking me about my hair and try to give me helpful advise on how to grow hair. I explain over and again that the problem is not my HAIR, it is my IMMUNE SYSTEM. If only they could find a cure for the immune system that seems to see my hair as a foreign object.

I understand that it is hard to wrap one's mind around. Why does this happen, especially with Alopecia Areata, when there are perfectly round bald spots? No question it is strange.

Are you wearing a wig right now? Do you have enough hair to pull it all back into a bun? I hope that people at work are being sensitive to you. Merry Christmas and happy new Year to you and yours!!

Dec 24, 2011
Stephanie

If you feel better when you wear a wig you should do so. Having just the right wig is essential though. My wig is ultra light and very comfortable My scalp is starting to itch as it begins to fall off again. I have ophiasis pattern as well and that seems to be where it is now coming out.

Funny thing is people forget what you used to look like after a short while when you start to wear a wig (or get a hair cut for that matter!) The Tonkin's Wig lady was very sweet but my wig (long, synthetic) lasted a few months and was about $200.00. After that I switched to HH and would never go back.

Save your pennies and get a beautiful wig. It will make all the difference. No more worrying about the wind! As far as I am concerned this IS my hair and when people compliment me on it I just say, "Thank you" with no explanation. It is none of their business and not my concern to satisfy their curiosity. There are many options when you are ready to buy a wig. My first was an Iwig. You can buy from her (Erica) without traveling to NY. Check out her website. She has a new one that she is copywriting that wicks up sweat and it is very comfortable.

Dec 24, 2011
Stephanie

Happy New Year! My current wig is a Follea and it cost $4000.00. That is twice the cost of an iwig. Considering they last 5 years minimum, that's not bad. I used to get cuts and color every six weeks which certainly added up! The quality is amazing and as I said, no one ever suspects this is not my hair, even top stylists! Let's keep in touch~

Jan 1, 2012
Stephanie

Lexi, Not sure what your price range is so you may need to shop around. I have been cruising through this site today and see that people have found beautiful HH wigs for much less than mine. Probably best to look at the photos and send a note to those whose hair you like. I am curious to see what you end up with. Please let me know! Stephanie

Feb 4, 2012
Alliegator

Thank you! Yes, I am a wigaholic! :) I'm afraid to admit that I don't have pictures of every wig that I own on here too. Are you a member of wigsupport.com? If not, you should join. Members post pictures of their new wigs all the time so you get to see a lot of different ones. I just got a new wig, "May". I posted a review with pictures of it on my blog: http://lifeasabaldgirl.wordpress.com

The wigs you asked about are... #1: High Society, #4: Tatum by Rene of Paris, Amore collection, #9: Tori by Rene of Paris, #14 Blair by Jon Renau, Long Blonde: Misha by Rene of Paris. It sounds like you might like the May by Rene of Paris. It doesn't have a lot of hair.

Feb 13, 2012
Carla Glick

Yes it's a Peggy Knight. At the time, it was around 6500.00, but prices have went up.to around 8500.00. I get the longest and best hair available, but she has different options to.choose from and get the price lower. This is my 3 rd piece and will be getting another ordered soon ( takes around 9 months to get) I can keep them looking like this for years being careful with how much I wash and wear it. It is worth every cent, amazing what she offers.

Feb 18, 2012
LeslieAnn Butler

Hi Lexi, the wig you are referring to in pics 16 and 21 is a cutom piece, a virgin European human hair full lace wig with hair that's never been processed. I got it through Brenda Kay. She made the one I'm wearing for this profile photo, too. It's just a different color with more red. The prices have gone up since I talked to you last (in 2010), so the one I just got was $3K. Still, it's a lot less than many other places for that beautiful hair and cap, and she guarantees satisfaction. I still have the piece you see in those pics you like. It's about 9 years old and still looks great. Anyway, Brenda works with women all over the country -- even some in the movie business. I have to say, I'd never get a wig anywhere else! You can contact her at 503-223-8092 or email bkswildhair@comcast.net.

Mar 3, 2012
LeslieAnn Butler

P.S. The wigs I order from Brenda only take a couple of months to get, depending on the hair. If you want the really pale baby blonde mixed in, that takes a little longer since that pale color is harder to come by.

Mar 3, 2012
Kristine

No, you rock lady !

Mar 18, 2012
Leslie Mader

Thanks for the compliment on my wig. I think you are talking about the Follea Gripper wig. I purchased it through the gal that cuts and styles my 2 newest human hair wigs. I'm not sure but i think you have to have a hair professional order. This one was $2400, normally $3000 but she gave me a discount. I also just got my Freedom Hair piece and am having it cut and styled, and hi-lited. I will post soon!

Mar 18, 2012
Elaine

Hi Lexi! Thanks for the comment. Yes, having colder weather does help plus I teach figure skating so I get to wear hats a lot which helps. I've had AA pretty much all my life but this is the first time it's been like this. In the passed it would fall out and come right back but this time I'm not so lucky :( I'm almost to the point of taking it all off and getting a nice freedom wig. I'm so nervous but I think once I do it will be okay.

Jun 16, 2012
Alliegator

Hey! Thank you so much! That is a good question. Yes, and no. If I am going to be indoors for most of the time, I can handle it. If I am going to be outdoors for most of the time, I will wear a hat or scarf. I have found that I can handle the shorter wigs in the heat. For example, the "Tori" is a great summer wig. Also, the "Blair" by Jon Renau is good because it is part of their "O'solite collection". I think that the wigs with open type caps are far more comfortable in the heat. Thank you! That means so much to me that you feel like I am a go-to person. I would probably buy & review a lot more wigs if I could afford it. I honestly haven't worn the "Opulence" yet so I can't say if I still like it or not. In regards to the one that you like... I haven't tried that one yet. Here is a website with some reviews and pictures from women who have that one...
http://www.voguewigs.com/premium-synthetic-wig-eva-gabor1.html
I'm not sure if you would like that one in the heat because of the length. I am wearing a wig that length now, and it makes me feel warm due to the hair on my neck. Hope that helps.

Jun 18, 2012
Alliegator

Thank you! That is so kind. Yes, there are days when I can't wait to take off the wig after work. You might just try to find a shorter wig that you like for the heat. One that doesn't have much hair around the neck. I find that chin length wigs work fine for me.

Jun 20, 2012
Allison

Howdy neighbor!!!! lol : )

Jul 7, 2012
Tallgirl

Florida
Support Group

Plantation, FL
Guadalupe O’Hare
954.249.9884

Ocala, FL
Jennifer Gilman
352.804.9594

Stuart
Marcy Pitkin
772.485.4317

Telephone Contacts
St. Augustine, FL
Harriet Levy
904.461.4535

Hollywood, FL
Cindy Sue Scher
352.256.7383

Southwest, FL
Nancy Dauphinais
239.867.4383

Tampa, FL
Mishon Glisson
813.963.2678

Jul 7, 2012
Allison

Hi Lexi! Thank you for the add. I'm really sorry to hear about the loss of your mom and other hard times. I pray that you continue to receive the strength to keep on keepin' on!!! ~Allison

Jul 10, 2012
Marianne Horvath - Morehouse

Hi Lexi,
I love your eye picture and your comments!! Wigs in the heat suck! I only buy cheap ones under $50 so far because money is the reason or lack of it. I lost my hair in 2 months, all gone but I have 6 different wigs.

Take care, Marianne

Jul 16, 2012
Klo

Hi Lexi, the short hair wig is a Gabor premium in sandy blonde. The longer blonde wig is a Renau julia in 24B22. The one I am wearing under my hat is a halo only by ROP in creamy toffee.

Aug 6, 2012