Sly Bald Guys Forum
Discussions About Being Bald => To be or not be...Bald => Topic started by: Tampadrew on July 15, 2008, 08:54:57 AM
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Hi Sly Guys;
First off I want to say hello since I am a new member here.....I am glad that I ran across this site because I see that I am not alone in this world when it comes to having hair loss problems. I think making a decision to deal with your hair loss problem in a straight forward and manly way is not always an easy desicion to make, but it is the right one.
My Background - To tell you a little about myself I am 32, happy, healthy, have a good job, and have had a receding/thinned out hairline since I was 19. I tried different hair styles and kept it cut short, but I always thought it looked bad and at a young age it affected my confidence in certain situations. I was 24, in a long-term relationship and with her support I decided to try Hair Club for Men and basically sell my soul to the Devil! When I first joined there was a boost in confidence b/c I have never had such a full head of hair before in my life, but I did not realize all the BS that came with being a member. It is a trap, they put hair on your head knowing how difficult it is to take it off and explain to people about your wig and deal with your hair loss again. I spend over $400 a month for a lame service from "sometimes" rude and unhelpful hairstylists, you figure they would be grateful that they have made as much money off of me as they have over the last 8 years. Then you have to factor in the hassle of having to deal with the "system" (their term for a freakin wig.....like it is something high tech or revolutionary...lol). Since you only get your hair cut every month, the 1st couple of days you get your hair cut it looks good, real, and fresh........but as the month rolls on, I get less confident with the look...it looks flat, it shifts on the sides and back, and the front (which is held on by a type of glue) gets all gummy and is a real pain in the ass!!!!! Man, I really hate wearing a wig and being part of Hair Club....and to think I actually pay for it! :-(
Living a lie - My long term girlfriend and I broke up about 2 and a half years ago, and I have been single ever since. I really have no problem meeting women (which is fine for dating or short term relationships)......but I do not allow myself to get close to a girl and start dating and my confidence is down. The reason is because I am living a Lie!! I have a wig on my head that I do not tell anyone about, and because I hide this from the woman I meet it messes up my head and crushes my confidence. I mean, what do I tell her.....do I say something right away, do I hide it, I hate just not being me!
Final Straw - Last weekend I was in New Orleans with friends and we meet some ladies.......I was back in the room foolin around with Gabby when she ran her fingers through my hair......she paused and said "can I ask you a question"......I said sure.....she said "are you wearing a wig"?
WOW......I was blown away and devastated.....i told here that it is only temporary b/c I had some surgery on my scalp. :-( (talk about a buzz kill!)
You know what......it really is temporary...screw this wig.....I'm going BALD!!!! I already planned it out and have taken two weeks vacation.....I am doing it then to get used to it myself.....I finally want to feel good about myself and get this damn wig off my hear for good! :-)
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Heck yes!
What a great intro and story my friend... You WILL NOT regret this and judging from what you said you will feel completely free.
Man, I can't wait for your to shave it off and tell HCFM good riddens!
(https://www.slybaldguys.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.l13.us%2Fsmf%2FSmileys%2FYahoo%2Fpullhair.gif&hash=824ee7a7569dfcd857a78844228beab5b461ba17) = (https://www.slybaldguys.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.l13.us%2Fsmf%2FSmileys%2FYahoo%2Frock.gif&hash=bf3bc030643cb8d18484b19b36f03f7570576897)
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Drew,
Welcome to the Bald Club for Men (and women too, if they care to join).
Sly Bald Guys is a great way to start your new Sly life.
Cheers,
Red
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Fence sitters and others who are waiting or hesitating, take heed.
This fella has his head on straight
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Thanks for the support guys....I really appreciate it and it makes me feel even more confident with my decision! The good things is I really don't care if other people like it....I know I am going to like it! :-) I am in sales, I wonder what my boss will say when I do it, I am going to tell him before I do.
I can't wait to feel my 1st shower being bald, smooth, and without a wig on my head! :D
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Bro you are going to be a new person. Its an awesome feeling let me tell ya. It has been a year now since I have started shaving and I do not regret any moment.
I take it you are from Tampa. We go to Bradenton/Sarasota every year, actually I just got back from there about 3 weeks ago. Next time we are down there if you are still around we need to meet up and hang out or something. Talk to you later...Good Luck and Congratulations!
Timmay
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Drew-
Welcome to the Hairless Club for Men!!! Good for you to finally be done with that beast you've been wearing...
Mike O0
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Hey, now that there is a picture I can honestly say you're going to pull of the 'slyness' very well... Should actually help in your sales position since you'll have more confidence.
Good luck, wish you were doing it sooner lol.
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TampaDrew. A GREAT introduction. In the words of Morpheus from the Matrix... "FREE YOUR MIND"
You dont need a wig to make you look good. Shave it and be free. ---No more "system", no more combover...
no more worrying. Now you will know if a girl likes you it will be for you...not for the fake person you are putting out there.
Awesome group of people here that I am proud to be a part of. You will get a lot of support...just do it.
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I really have to admit I have a huge smile on my face, I am not really the kind of guy that types on message boards much.....but this has been a fantastic experience! I feel so good about taking this step and changing my life! The advice and support you guys give is so helpful! I am excited to join the HAIRLESS club for me soon! :-)
TimmJ, Sarasota is an awesome area.....I'll grab a drink with a fellow Sly Guy anytime!
Lucky13, I agree....I think my confidence will be WAY up and it will show in my performance.
DJ_Bald, How did you know I love the Matrix.....great movie and advice!
Oh yea, I am doing this the week of August 5th (my birthday) I will post pics as soon as it is done! !B@
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Quick Photoshop to help nudge you over to the sly side...
(https://www.slybaldguys.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.l13.us%2FUploads%2Ftampadrew.png&hash=a323f7194fb3b5b69b163fbb1f3b2319430266db)
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Drew,
Great intro. Like you, I rarely post on boards (in fact this is the only one I frequent).
I never did rugs, plugs or drugs, and considered myself a pretty confident guy (even with the "horseshoe of hair"). However, I got a tremendous boost of confidence when I shaved my dome in January 2007 (my wife might say too much confidence ;D ). In all seriousness, I think you'll absolutely love the look & feel when you finally go sly. The feeling you get is TRULY LIBERATING.
I only have two questions for you:
1. How are you going to use all that free space in your brain when you stop worrying about the rat on your head wig?
2. How are you going to keep all the ladies in check when they start with the headrubs? (And there will be plenty).
All the Best, bro!
Schro
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Hey TampaDrew and welcome! Unfortunately as soon as I saw your pic, and due to the fact I had several friends over the last # of years with a "system", I could tell...................
Just make sure you don;t shock yourself with your new look too quickly. Get rid of the wig, tell a few people you;'re doing it and shave it off on vacation. You can always let it grow. 5 bux says your head shape will fit your new look and u keep it shaved permanently.
BTW-I was in Sarasota last year and the traffic was brutal. Nice place tho. I've been condo hunting all over the Florida area for a year or so. see u there in the Winter(lol)!
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Fence sitters and others who are waiting or hesitating, take heed.
This fella has his head on straight
but not his hair!! :D
Welcome to the family Tampadrew :)
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Drew! My man! What a great into!
I'm so glad you were able to find this site. You are going to rock the Sly look.
Just a word of advice for you. If you haven't already, start reading the boards to learn how to get a good shave. That way you make your first shave an awesome shave.
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Welcome Drew! Great intro! Glad that you've decided to go for it and I can tell you from my own experience that you are going to love it! Good Luck and keep us posted eh O0
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Tampadrew, I think my bald brothers have all said it very well.
To come to this conclusion to recapture your independence is a tremendous display of character and resilience. I imagine you will have no idea how much that "System" has weighed until it is gone.
I am glad that the Hair Club for Men has lost another client... they are evil and I will laugh when they go belly up to a world of proud SBG's.
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Looking forward to the "new you".
And yes even though its a somewhat darkly lit picture I can spot your "system"
One of my best friends has a "system" --I will say he looks pretty good but if I look hard I can always tell.
Besides...even if it "looks" great who cares if none of the honeys can touch your head. O:O
PS...Dammit Tye you've peeked my curiosity....who are all those pretty girls surrounding you ?
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Awesome intro Drew!
Dude...you WILL LOVE having a slick bald head....bro you've got it together now...
wait until you're slick and sly...you will get such a boost that will stay with you...NOT JUST the first few days! ;)
I know you wont have a problem with the ladies...they do like bald dudes...especially the confidence...and bro you WANT the ladies that like a bald head...
very progressive and very cool!
Welcome aboard bro...you will NOT regret it!
BTW...I've been bald by choice for almost 15 years and I love it...wouldn't want to live life any other way!
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That family on MTV I think it is, some reality show focussing on their lives. One of the daughters was in Playboy and the step dad was an attorney in the OJ trial.
Kardashian's?
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Wow...awesome intro, Bro! Welcome to the site...and welcome to being bald. It really is liberating. You're going to love it!
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welcome to the forum drew, i agree with the others, great intro!!
i found that video about a guy who wear a wig:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEKEMBp9xCI&feature=related
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That family on MTV I think it is, some reality show focussing on their lives. One of the daughters was in Playboy and the step dad was an attorney in the OJ trial.
Kardashian's?
Yeah, it's the Kardashian ladies.
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That family on MTV I think it is, some reality show focussing on their lives. One of the daughters was in Playboy and the step dad was an attorney in the OJ trial.
Kardashian's?
Yeah, it's the Kardashian ladies.
Ya know looking at that pic closer... where is your right hand Tyler? Kims facial expression seems to give that away... you friggin pimp. :*))
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Welcome to SBG! O0
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Welcome Drew!!! I enjoyed your intro. Thanks for sharing.
Max
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Welcome Drew!
Am sure you'll love being sly!!
And you will look great too!
Going to do it on your birthday Agutust 5th??
My birthday is August 6th! your bald pics will be the birthday gift!! ;)
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Welcome to the neighborhood brother
Next time I'm home we'll have to go have a beer and show off the new dome O0
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tampadrew: welcome 2 the sly fraternity. that is one helluva intro. thanks 4 sharing. i promise U that once U "do the deed"/shave the dome... it will B the most liberating feeling in the world. the feeling is priceless. b4 U decide 2 shave your noggin'... do some research in the HEADSHAVING section of the forum (your shave routine, what razor you use, products review). it's gr8 2 C another sly member from the sunshine state. i reside in beautful pensacola. i have a very close friend who lives in tampa. if i ever visit her... we'll have 2 share a brew or 2. again... welcome & keep us posted 2 your road 2 slyness. O0
WARHAWK O0
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Welcome aboard! I just am newly slick myself after having lived with a "system" for years too. Fortunately I got out of the hair club circuit, but even when I was ordering my own hair -- the constant upkeep, the uncomfortableness, and the concern that others would find out was very draining.
I don't post anywhere else either -- but this group is great. They've got all the answers to all the sly-type questions. But, I can tell you from experience ... it feels so fricking good when you can have the wind blowing through the car windows and not have to worry about how it's gonna mess up your carefully crafted wig do. And --- swimming is AWESOME when you're sly.
Keep us posted on when you do it. I was gonna wait till I had a vacation too, but a weekend heatwave here made me do it sooner. And it's been just fine. Life goes on, and I've almost forgotten I've done it most of the time, which SURE beats constantly wondering if you're system is looking OK, that the glue or tape is working as it should, that the hair matches OK or is starting to get a different hue, etc. etc. -- you know the drill. :)
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Hey man welcome to SBG! Dude, you're ready for it, everyone can tell! I'm sure you'll be happy once you get it all taken off and are squeeky clean! right now, i'm on the fence on whether or not i should go completely bald, i just go down to the lowest setting with some clippers without the guard. Maybe you can let me know how it goes? Also, let me know what you do it because MY BIRTHDAY IS AUGUST 5TH TOO!! atta kid!
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Thanks for the support everyone.....I feel like I am in a fraternity all over again...it is awesome! I had a dream last night that I had shaved my head, and when I finally woke up with the wig on I was kinda pissed! lol I am going to stick to my Birthday plan, but I was very tempted to do today......I can't wait to call Hair Club and tell them I quit! (finally swimming and scratching my head will be great too!)
Everyone have a wonderful day and thanks for the support, you really make me feel welcome and encourage me though a kinda stressful (but needed) change in my life.
Andrew
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Welcome soon to be Sly. Glad that you "saw the light" in New Orleans O0, this town can bring more freedom to peoples' lives than they can even imagine. Would love to be the fly on the wall when you tell HCM that their ride is over.
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I can't wait to call Hair Club and tell them I quit! (finally swimming and scratching my head will be great too!)
Andrew
Sounds good Andrew.
You should bring your wig in after you shave your head and return it to them, right in front of all their potential "clients". That will show some potential clients that their "system" is nothing more than a wig taped to your head. Swimming ? Wait you cant swim in the "system" ? The guy in the commercial can swim ! I dont get it !
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Thanks for the support everyone.....I feel like I am in a fraternity all over again...it is awesome! I had a dream last night that I had shaved my head, and when I finally woke up with the wig on I was kinda pissed! lol I am going to stick to my Birthday plan, but I was very tempted to do today......
Welcome to SBG and freedom from anxiety about hairloss, Andrew. It is like a fraternity. A lot of us don't post anywhere else on Web message boards, but, like you, came here in search of some information and found some good support and some good friends along the way.
And it won't cost you a thing except a shaving gel and a sharp razor.
From what you described, the "system" sounds like a real burden and that it almost owns you instead of you owning it. The idea to dump it like a bad habit is brewing in your mind...so why not go for it today?
By the time your birthday rolls around, your head will be good and ready to start a new year slick, clean and sly. I'm betting you don't last until your birthday. The seed's been planted and freedom is a swipe of the razor away!
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TampaDrew....you mentioned that you were pissed when you woke up and you still had your "piece" on and that you thought about doing it today. What an adrenaline rush that would be for you. I say do it....dont wait until your bday...do it now you wont be sorry I promise you that. I never really thought to much about doing it....just one morning after a shower I just took the plunge and havent looked back since. Only thing I regret is that I didnt find this site before I did it. Just do it bro....it would be awesome to sign back in here again tonight or tomorrow and you have posted up a pic of you slick and sly. Good Luck Bro!
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I agree with Tim...
Just go for it.
Crank up the music and declare your independence!
No time like the present.
Why put of till tomorrow what you can do today...
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Welcome here!
I agree with TimmJ!
Do it now and you get so3 weeks of the new freedom.
J
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Welcome to the family Andrew. I agree with my Brothers, Rob6, Timmay, Marz and JoergHH go for it. No time is better than right now. Free yourself from the shackles of that "system" and start living life, not that lie. Check out the Head Shaving section of this forum, get a fresh new razor blade and some gel and let the world know how you are! O0
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I agree with Tim...
Just go for it.
Crank up the music and declare your independence!
No time like the present.
Why put of till tomorrow what you can do today...
i agree also, there no need to wait. you will egt used to the new look and the feeling is great! there will also a new expirience of a new freedom. i bet you will like that.
go for it O0 O0
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Tampadrew, More people know about your system than you might think....a friend of mine went to hair club also
it looked good but you could still see that is wasnt quite right. He still has his "system" and is very happy with it.
It makes him feel better with it and thats great but you sound like your not into yours at all.
Do yourself a big favor and shave it ,get some sun on it, and you will look 100% better than you look now with fake hair. O0
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Give yourself an early birthday present O:O
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Boy -- you guys are relentless :)
But, then again, it worked on me.
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Boy -- you guys are relentless :)
But, then again, it worked on me.
I wouldn't say relentless....just giving the man the needed information to make an informed decision.
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Boy -- you guys are relentless :)
But, then again, it worked on me.
Relentless...sure...because we know that (all of us) know with a few minutes and some good swipes with a razor...dude is on his way to a better "slyer", bald life! O0
Plus that's our jobs! ;)
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Boy -- you guys are relentless :)
But, then again, it worked on me.
I wouldn't say relentless....just giving the man the needed information to make an informed decision.
Are you kidding?! Here's just a sampling -->
"The idea to dump it like a bad habit is brewing in your mind...so why not go for it today?"
"I say do it....dont wait until your bday...do it now you wont be sorry I promise you that."
"Just go for it. Crank up the music and declare your independence! No time like the present. Why put of till tomorrow what you can do today..."
"Do it now"
That's not a bit of soon-to-be peer pressure? Come on :*))
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OK, you win! 8)
Anytime we can stop the madness of rugs, plugs & drugs, it's a damn good thing. O0
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I couldn't agree more O0
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"I can only show you the door, you have to walk through it"
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Relentless might be an understatement for sure......but I know it comes from your experience on how good it feels to be a Sly bald guy. Trust me, I want this wig off my head as soon as possible......I am sick of it! :Xo! It might only weigh a few ounces....but living a lie and not being myself makes it feel like a 45 pound plate on top of my head! W3!ght
The reason I am going to wait till my birthday is two fold. One, I am in the process of telling people of me going smooth....people I work with, my friends, and family....this will make it less of a shock (especially in my sales office). Secondly, the main reason to wait is that I have two moles on my head under my hair....I have scheduled a visit to the dermatologist to have them removed.....then I can let my head heal, go smooth, enjoy my vacation, get used to being bald and get some sun before I return to reality as a new Sly Bald Guy!
See.....there is a method behind my madness! :D
Andrew
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That seems like a good plan....keep us updated.
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Welcome! As you can see, we're all pretty jazzed to see your upcoming transformation. You are going to be thrilled with the new you, I'm sure. I also don't post on any other site, so don't think it's weird. This is a good place to hang and to help others make the leap to freedom on the sly side.
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Yeah drew, dont take it to heart... we are just playing around with you (although I am sure we all anticipate the day that rug leaves its current post for good).
Sounds like a good plan.
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*mutters to self*
no matter what academic awards/life skills/promotions in the workplace someone earns
some people are still so stoooopid it's beyond comprehension!
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Tampadrew welcome to the forum.
That was a very honest intro. You'll be amazed how much you're life will change when you shed that system. All for the better. You can see from my bald mug that shedding all of your hair doesn't always mean llamo old-man.
BJ
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OK Tampa bro....I guess if it is a medical reason and all. But if it was just so you can let everyone KNOW you are GOING to do it...then I would say screw that and just shave it off man
Good luck and hope things go well with the doctors.
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Hey Tampadrew, hello from a fellow Tampa guy. Great intro! I'm not one to post on message boards either, but this one is great, the only one I belong to. So, welcome! Your reasons for waiting seem pretty reasonable to me, but I wouldn't worry about letting too many people know before you go sly. I didn't tell anybody. I just shaved on a Friday and went to work on Monday. The reaction was overwhelmingly positive. There was nothing to fear. Even my wife, who was mad when I shaved, is now joking around about it. Now that I'm used to the look, I can't imagine letting my hair grow back.
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Hey Drew, I forgot to mention the timing of when I actually shaved my dome for the first time.
I found this website in the fall of 2006 after doing some online research about head shaving. Got tons of advice on technique and also found out that alot of guys saw their dandruff disappear as a result of going sly (huge for me).
When I told my wife that I was planning on shaving my head, she was none too happy. I told her I'd gradually shave it closer so it wasn't too drastic during the 2006 holiday season. On New Year's day, I buzzed my head to a #0 level, went for a run, then shaved it when I showered up.
So, take your time, make the decision when it's right for you (although you sound pumped about the idea), and go for it.
Don't forget to post a pic up when the New & Improved 'Drew makes his grand entrance!
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The reason I am going to wait till my birthday is two fold. One, I am in the process of telling people of me going smooth....people I work with, my friends, and family....this will make it less of a shock (especially in my sales office). Secondly, the main reason to wait is that I have two moles on my head under my hair....I have scheduled a visit to the dermatologist to have them removed.....then I can let my head heal, go smooth, enjoy my vacation, get used to being bald and get some sun before I return to reality as a new Sly Bald Guy!
See.....there is a method behind my madness! :D
Andrew
Dude..you are already a SLY guy inside...very thought out...good about "prepping" everyone around you..
that way when they see ya it'll almost be anticipated!
Great move on the moles too...because bro once your entire head is slick bald...YOU will want it that way 24/7..
promise! ;)
I havent had maybe more than a month's total of "fuzzy days" in the last 14-15 years..and I'm a bald by choice full (90%) head of hair guy...
You're gonna love it bro!
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Welcome to the gang Andrew. What a great intro. We are all glad you found us. Like others have said, this is the ONLY board I post on. I hung around for a few weeks and it is a great group of guys & gals. We look forward to the new YOU!
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Good for u about getting rid of those moles. Been there done that. They can be dangerous. Check the threads.
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I had no idea Hair Club was actually a Wig Club...I thought it was a HT and attempt to regrow type of deal.
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And one of the best things about being SLY not having to pay a dime for a haircut and having a fresh haircut everyday!
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Tampadrew, What in your opinion are the pros (if any) and the cons of your system ? is it true that you couldnt swim in it ?
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Ill help u out here a little Diver as one of my buddys has a "system"
Can u swim in it ? NO. Not comfortably. Keep in mind this is really just a nice looking wig taped to your head. Think taking a shower with your socks on.
With the right styling and lighting it can look really good. My buddies hair does look natural on him..
BUT...life is not a controlled situation. Wind, sun, water---all these things can create a problem. Oh and forget about having anyone touch your head. Its almost immediately detectable.
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[/quote] Think taking a shower with your socks on.
DJ....nice analogy...that would be uncomfortable. LOL
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Ok, here is the unofficial breakdown of the system: (I feel retarded that I actually wear this thing and pay money for it)
- You can't swim in it unless you want it to come unglued! (standing in the pool does not count) The commercial you see on TV for Hair Club is complete BS....plus, Clorean will completely F-Up your system!! "I once jumped in a pool, Canon Ball style, and the damn system (wig) almost ripped clean off of my head". lol
-Hard sweating and activity can make the system shift....picture the whole thing sitting slightly crooked on your head now....very lame! (This is a serious problem at times b/c I workout regulary)
-Cleaning your system (wig) is a serious pain....you have to shower with it on your head, have problems getting under it to clean your scalp, and the whole thing dries out......so you have to do many procedures to give it a semi-realistic look again. The front is held on by a type of sticky tape that you have to change every 4 days or so......it gets gummy and is a real pain in the ass....plus, this is the part of the system that just never looks that realaistic.
-the sun is your enemy....long exposre to it can change the color of your system so it does not match you hair color.
-Time between hair cuts is a serious problem....the longer you go without seeing your stylist the less believable (if it ever was believable) the system looks. The color is bad, the textur is dry, the system shifts, the front looks flat, clumpy, and just not natural...plus the sides and back begin to show a line where the system and your real hair meet.
-You cant ride in the car with the windows down without being parinoid about your hair looking screwed up.
-You can't scratch your OWN head! How messed up is that?
-Some people experience an itchy scalp and bad dandruff the longer they wear the system. (They actually give you some weird spray to combat this) Oh yea, and you have to pay for all these "special" system products!
-And the worst part is that if someone touches your head they can tell right away that something is up.........that means no head scratches, rubs, or overall attention to your head.........screw that!
I know this was a lengthy answer to your question.....I hope it gives you better insight on the system (er......wig).
Have a wonderful day everyone and thanks for the support!
Andrew
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Great post Tampadrew...I had no idea about the limitations and restrictions. The commercials do a good job of disguising those aspects.
More importantly, your information will really help educate someone who visits here investigating the pros and cons of a "system" vs. SLY. And yeah, it is a decision that's ultimately up to the individual. Even though we tend to be a bit biased.
Thanks for the post and insight. O0
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Wow, what a huge PITA!
There's no way I could deal with that for more than a week... I'll take head shaving any day over any of those 'regimens'.
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Seems like this is a "System" alright....
-Play off a mans insecurities when he realizes he is loosing his hair.
-Remind this person repeatedly that girls only like guys with hair, even if it is fake.
-Really drill home the point that he will be a social paraiah if he allows his MPB to develop naturally.
-Assure them that the expense of a "system" is worth it and it looks real.
-Once it is on and the MPB continues, they are locked in to it. If they didnt want to be bald in the first place, removing it after they are more bald will be even harder.
Now seriously, this sounds like a tobacco company strategy.
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You are dead on Marz......well put! They really do play off a mans insecurities and try to keep you locked into the program forever!
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You are dead on Marz......well put! They really do play off a mans insecurities and try to keep you locked into the program forever!
I hear ya.
I have no respect for those that take advantage of people that are down, and that is basically the foundation of the Hair Club.
I guess that is why I am so stoked you have found the strength to get rid of it.
I cant wait for you to taste the sweet nectar of freedom Drew.....
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Very nice rundown Drew!
Oh and playing off a guys insecurities...
just a thought here bro's...
EVER wonder when the "not so sure about SLY" posts show up here...
you know the annoying one's were some of the dudes really don't want our good advice...but bash a bald headed look...and go on and on...
think about it...they are losing business since bald is an accepted and WANTED look..
Food for thought bro's!
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Are you saying the rug industry is trying to sabotage SBG's?
Wouldnt doubt it, seems like nothing is morally below these folks.
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Good point, Andre and Marz.
And congratulations Drew! You are doing the right thing, and we all commend you on that.
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As a previous long-time wearer of "systems" there's a bit more to the whole story of hair units/wigs/toupees -- not that any of you sly folks care O0 -- but just to put out a more complete picture
When I first started "wearing" hair, I too, went to one of these ripoff clubs. I got suckered into the whole high price, monthly maintenance routine and all the things that Drew mentioned are dead on. They try to get clients to get completely dependent on them for everything that has to do with the hair. And... only taking the system completely of once a month was horrible. It itches, it shifts, and it can smell too. Just awful. But the club-route is only one approach.
What I fortunately found out -- through other online sites, etc. is that someone can just order their hair systems themselves for a pittance of what the "clubs" charge (before going sly I was only paying $150 for a unit for top-notch product), get someone local to cut it in for them, and do all the attachments and cleanings themselves. The learning curve wasn't that great and the good thing is that it gave me the freedom to take it on and off whenever I wanted or needed too. Some guys take their hair off every night. Some, every few days to a week or so. That's pretty much the routine I followed.
And, talking about the hair systems now themselves -- the touch detectability can vary dramatically. It depends upon the base material and method of attachment. You can order hair that uses a lace-type material as the base and a special adhesive. When I had hair that way, I could barely feel where my real hair stopped and the unit hair began.
And -- I went swimming in the ocean and pools aplenty without any fear of losing my hair or it coming loose. Showered with it on everyday, etc. -- When the units are done well and applied well -- they really do look well too.
The inherent downsides though remained. You have to constantly monitor how it looks -- especially the front area. The hair can oxidize and get a different hue than the rest of your hair -- a dead giveaway. And the units wear out (hair falls out, bases begin to rip, etc.) after months (depending upon how you care for them). Plus, the whole taking it on and off is a real pain in the butt , and cleaning them, etc. -- it could literally eat up hours in a week. It can still itch, it still feels like you are wearing a hat 24/7. You still can feel very conscious of it all the time. But a lot of guys just deal with all of these negatives -- cuz they want the look. Thank goodness I came to my senses and ditched the rug a few weeks ago. I actually went back through my books over the past ten years and was dumbfounded by how much money I spent (even ordering myself, etc.) on hair (units, haircuts, products, etc.)
Anyway, I've rambled on enough -- just wanted to provide a broader picture of the "industry" to any of you interested.
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This is slowly becoming the most popular new guy post ever !
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Seriously, great post NWTRNR!!
Thanks for the education. O0
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Great thread, you're gonna love the sly side.
I like hearing all the info on "systems". I'm sorry you've had to go through that painstaking process to find out it's not what they make it out to be, but it makes me smile to think I made the right choice by going sly. :px :)
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Are you saying the rug industry is trying to sabotage SBG's?
Wouldnt doubt it, seems like nothing is morally below these folks.
Without a doubt...
bald guys being accepted...even embraced and LOVED for a slick bald head...
unheard of!
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When I started to thin in my 30's, my stepmother said to me, "If you lose more hair, maybe you should get a toupee or a transplant". Thankfully, I NEVER was tempted to do that. Now that I have been reading these posts, I am REALLY glad that I went the Sly way! ;D
Drew, I have a idea, before you do the deed, now that we have seen you with the "system", why don't you take a pic of you with the MPB so we have a idea as to what you were covering up with that system.
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No Problem....will do. I am so excited to get get rid of the wig and start my new life as a Sly Bald Guy that I moved my Dermatologist appointment up.....the office day is next Thursday (one week away) On that day I will take lots of pics of me removing the system and shaving, that way if anyone is curious what it was about they can see. Plus, hopefully it will help motivate anyone that maybe on the fence or in my same situation! O0
Andrew
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That is what this site is all about. Taking the support you need, and then returning the favor! You guys are awesome.
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Im checking in for a tampaDrew shaved pic !!
I just referred a buddy of mine here who has a "system". I know firsthand its really hard to get away from these systems once they are on your head. Hopefully I can tempt him over to the "sly" side ! He does look good with his system but I know he hates some of the constraints that other guys have mentioned.
I maintain this will be the most popular new guy thread ever !
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I had a friend who had a fancy system ($4k a year) and unfortunately he got into white collar crime trouble and was shipped off for a year or so. He came back with white hair instead of black and no wig but he had staple marks all over his head (at least 25) from the grafting that was done for his fancy system. YUCK
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That was very insightful NWT and Drew. It really sounds like a pain. Marz is right on though, it plays on men's insecurities.
Glad you discovered the SLY way!
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This is a great thread. I'm really glad you're going to do it so quick. You're gonna love it.
I would like to see all kinds of pictures when you take the "system" off and start the shaving.
I saw a guy today who had almost no shadow, but if you STARED at his scalp, you could see the horseshoe. Anyone who wasn't sly or wasn't looking for the horseshoe wouldn't have seen it.
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Sounds like you are making a life changing for the better choice. I still have all my hair yet have chosen the sly lifestyle because of it's looks... and yes, that first shower is a religous experience. Also, when driving down the road feel the wind in your....er....on your scalp. Just dandy! I am sorry that you and others like you have had to go through a bit of hair hell. Welcome to Freedom! O0
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I check this post everyday....just waiting to see the pic of Tampa. I know he mentions he wont do it until after his appt. but ...just in case, with a little luck, maybe he will jump the fence and do it all early....what you think guys?
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Im guessing hes thinking about it every day he has to look in the mirror at the system.
No pressure Drew ! 8)
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My wife has been lurking over my shoulder, she says that you would look great sly. She says that you may be surprised by the number of single ladies that would want to rub your clean scrapped head.... hey... wait a minute here... should I be jealous? LOL. Do it! You will love it, and so will the ladies! >:D
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Drew, great introduction! Sounds like it will be an exciting weekend for you. I still remember how awesome that feeling was when I first shaved the dome. You will love it!
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Welcome TampaDrew. What a great introduction story. I can't really add anything to what others have said - only echo their thoughts and advice. As a long time unit wearer (23 years - from age 20 to 43) I can sympathize with your concerns about going back to the office, etc and all the "first times" when people saw you. I can say mine were all 100% positive. The only negative was I learned how many people knew I wore a system that I thought I was fooling all the time.
NWTRNR- thanks for your explanation of your system. I was right there with you. My barber and I traded wigs for legal services. I did all his legal work and he provided me with a new unit once a year and did all my styling. I took mine off every night and slept without it. That allowed me to scratch my head. Those who have never worn a unit have no idea what a blessing it is to just scratch your head whenever you want because with a unit you can't. I wore the lace front model that you described. I agree, for about a two month period it looked good and I loved it. Then it was downhill.
TampaDrew, I can honestly say that removing my wig 13 months ago was a joyous event. I was free - free to swim, ride a roller coaster, ride in a car with my sun roof open, etc, without worrying about if my hair looked right. Today I take those things for granted. O0
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FREEDOM!!!!! I finally did it.....but now have a ways to go to be a complete Sly Bald Guy.
On Thursday I raced home in anticipation of shaving my head......I busted out the clippers and went to town. The system was a pain to remove from my head, but once removed the rest of my hair came off like a hot knife through butter. I am not completely smooth yet due to the fact I had more moles than I anticipated to remove......but I have already been to the dermatologist and we are in the process of removing them.
Once I heal and get to the point where I can go completely smooth I will post pics of the process and final result. I can say already that I am relieved to have the wig off of my head, and I love being able to rub and scratch my scalp.
I can't wait to be bald! :-) I know I made the right choice....I feel great! O0
Thanks for your support everyone and I will keep you all posted!!
Andrew
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Tampadrew, you say that once removed the rest of your hair came off like a hot knife through butter.
How close to the scalp did you get?
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shave when ready......give those moles 2 weeks to heal.
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Good for you. Hope the heeling goes well. I didn't realize that moles were as trainable as dogs! Lol
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Drew,
Although we are anticipating the new pics, enjoy the natural air conditioning by not having the "system"! I am sure that it will be well worth the wait! O0
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Way to go Drew!! O0 I can hear the enthusiastic satisfaction in your post. O0 O:O Like Tom Petty says, "The waiting is the hardest part."
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Awesome Drew....
THE best thing you could ever do for yourself...
Show some pics our new (almost completely)bald brutha! O0 O0 O0
Freedom....YES!!!!
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Well done Drew! O0
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Somehow I missed your thread before. I read your first post and browsed a bit into the topic, and I would just like to say congratulations. It certainly is a manly way to deal with hairloss. Yeah, it was a long time coming for you, but we all have a different path to take. Don't be too rough on yourself for wearing a wig for so long, man. Just enjoy the freedom.
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tampadrew: way 2 go. hope the dome heals quickly so that U can complete the deed. keep us posted 2 your road 2 slyness. O0
WARHAWK O0
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Living a lie - My long term girlfriend and I broke up about 2 and a half years ago, and I have been single ever since. I really have no problem meeting women (which is fine for dating or short term relationships)......but I do not allow myself to get close to a girl and start dating and my confidence is down. The reason is because I am living a Lie!! I have a wig on my head that I do not tell anyone about, and because I hide this from the woman I meet it messes up my head and crushes my confidence. I mean, what do I tell her.....do I say something right away, do I hide it, I hate just not being me!
Feeling the same way about myself, never shared my life with anyone not even my friends/family. I don't want anyone to get to know me because I can't be whom I'm. I rather just be alone and look away from people if they trying to get in contact with me. If I get pushed I push them away further from me, don't want them to know me or whom I'm. I'm afraid what people will say, how they will react when they hear my voice, when I start talking to them, will they understand me or will they not ? I still don't know whom I'm even though I know that it is not my hair that is the problem.
I'm generally very skeptical when it comes to meet new people in real life. Sure I can give a good impression of myself but that's not whom I'm. I'm laying for them whom I'm, being someone I'm not. When I'm alone I'm myself but I don't feel good about who I'm. I always ask myself who I'm. Can't feel good about myself when I don't know who I'm.
One could ask me why I'm like this but its also a part of who I'm. I don't want to be a simple narrow-minded person, and that's what I think about most people.
Anyways I hope you will feel a lot better now when you can look into a mirror and see whom you really are and be proud of it!
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Way to go Drew!
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Drew just think of the freedom your having now, it'll be so much better when you get the moles clear out and get to go all the way smooth.
Way to go brother O0
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Drew, congrats, you're almost there! Take your time to let those moles heal and then whip out your razor of choice and enjoy your newfound slyness!
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Hey Tampadrew, I just shaved all my hair off after about a decade wearing a "system".
I'll admit the first couple days were sort of strange. The way my head felt, walking past a mirror. It's all sort of alien but now it's becoming more and more awesome. When I first came to this site, I just thought it was a bunch of guys trying to make each other feel better about their situation, but now I know it's more than that. I only have one mole on the back of the neck that is giving me a bit of grief. Luckily I have a GF to help me out. I think I'll probably do what you did and get it removed. O0
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Congrats Drew! Now you'll have some extra Guinness money!!!! `Dr!n# `Dr!n# `Dr!n# `Dr!n# `Dr!n#
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Well, it's after August 5th :)
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Drew,
How is the healing from the removal of the moles going? Hopefully we will see your unveiling soon!
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I always take a look at this thread, hoping we'll get an update.
Any news Drew?
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I'm glad this came up again. I was wondering about him yesterday actually.
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Drew, did you really exist? I am hoping that this was not someone pulling our leg!
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if it was, it was probably one of those dumb fucks that have multiple personalities.
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if it was, it was probably one of those dumb f**ks that have multiple personalities.
I hope not. With the detail he went into regarding him and his "system", it's hard to believe he's not legit.
The doubts are coming... Prove us wrong man!
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I think we lost him!
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The anticipatation and now the letdown!
Drew, if you ARE out there and did the deed, you are welcome to post again. Just so you know, we are not mad at you, but just anticipating the unveiling of your dome! So if the reason is that life got crazy, you will find that we are a mellow and understanding bunch with a crazy, but harmless side!
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oh well. I was looking forward to seeing Drews final transformation. I hope he is doing well and he stuck with the idea of going sly.
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Drew ... the suspense is killing us!