Lace Hair System Maintenance at Home: It's Easier Than You Think

If you're new to hair systems, maintenance might feel intimidating. Especially when it comes to a delicate, fine lace hair system base.

The idea of cleaning adhesive out of those tiny mesh openings can seem daunting. But here's the truth - it's not complicated. It just has to be consistent.

How to Maintain a Lace Hair System at Home?

Here's the full routine, step by step.

Step 1: Remove the System- Peel It Off

• Spray Lace Release (or any other adhesive solvent of your choice) around the perimeter of your lace system, and even some from above the base.
• Let it sit for a minute or two
• Once softened, peel gently from the back toward the front hairline.
• If you feel resistance, stop. Apply more solvent, and wait.
• Don't rush this step. Be as patient as you can, rolling the systems backward instead of pulling them upwards.

Step 2: Remove the Glue & Tape Residue

• Start with a warm-water rinse; running the lace base under warm water lifts most of the tape and glue on its own.
• Use a cloth to gently wipe away the loosened adhesive gently.
• For stubborn spots, spray Lace Release on both sides of the lace, let it penetrate for one to two minutes.
• Use a towel to ball up the residue and lift it gently.
• Follow up with a small amount of dish soap and warm water, scrubbed in gentle circular motions across the base to clear anything remaining.
• No harsh scraping, let the solvent do the work.

Step 3: Wash the Hair System

• Gently detangle first with a wide-tooth comb before getting the hair wet. Always brush from ends to roots.
• Then wet the hair, apply a sulfate-free shampoo, and work it through with your hands in one direction from top to bottom, just applying the shampoo. No rigorous scrubbing or washing.
• If you use a brush, be extremely gentle; wet hair is the most fragile time for a lace system.
• Rough handling at this stage causes shedding, which directly shortens your system's lifespan.

Step 4: Condition - Never Skip this Step

• While the hair is still damp, apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner spray, such as the 3-in-1 Miracle Protect, which works perfectly here.
• Comb it through gently to distribute it evenly through all the hair strands.

Step 5: Air Dry on a Mannequin Head

Always air dry and store your lace system on a styrofoam or mannequin head so the base holds its natural shape between wears.

Step 6: Clean Your Scalp

• While your system dries, wash your own scalp thoroughly.
• Shampoo well and scrub to remove oil, dead skin, and any adhesive residue.
• Shave your balding area clean to remove any stubble or hair growth.
• A clean, smooth, oil-free scalp is a necessity for a good adhesive bond.

Step 7: Apply Scalp Protector & Adhesives

• Once both your scalp and the system are fully dry, prep the bonding area with isopropyl alcohol to disinfect
• Then apply a scalp protector for comfort and added protection.

Attach using:

• Glue on the scalp only, never directly on the lace
• Double-sided tape along the perimeter of the lace base

Step 8: Reattach

• Position the front hairline approximately 3-4 fingers' distance from your eyebrow.
• Press the lace hair system backward, gently stretching to eliminate air bubbles.
• Hold firmly for about a minute.
• Keep it dry for at least 24 hours after attaching for the strongest hold.

Step 9: Style It

Apply a shine spray, pomade, or styling products and style as desired, and you're done.

How Often Should You Clean Your Lace Base Hair System?

Every 2 to 4 weeks. Cleaning and maintenance of the lace hair system, such as adhesive replacement, base cleaning, and hairline touch-ups, are very important to prevent hairline lifting, gradual slipping, and similar mishaps you won't notice until it's too late.

Prefer to Have the Maintenance Done for You?

If you prefer professional hair system maintenance, our salon offers full-lace hair system maintenance, base cleaning, shampoo, conditioning, adhesive reapplication, styling, and even base cuts and haircuts. Book an appointment at one of our locations, and we'll take care of everything while you relax and get a fresh new look.

A lace hair system that's maintained properly lasts significantly longer than one that isn't. Once you've done this routine a couple of times, it takes under 30 minutes, and the difference in how your system looks and holds is night and day.