Step One:

A donor with long hair arranges his or her clean and dry locks into a secure ponytail or braid, which is then cut. A minimum of 12 inches of hair is needed.

Step Two:

The hair undergoes chemical processing at a science lab. This special treatment removes the outer cuticle on each strand of hair. It also prepares and sanitizes the hair properly.

Step Three:

A hackle is used to carefully blend and direct the hair from root to end. It also omits shorter hairs. Now the hair is beginning to take on a new look.

Step Four:

Because natural hair is a blend of many colors, one "cranial prosthesis," or hairpiece, requires the generosity of many caring donors. It takes 20-30 ponytails to make one hairpiece. A blend of six to eight ounces of hair in varying shades of color ensures the natural look and feel of the child's new hairpiece.

Step Five:

To ensure a perfect fit, a plaster of Paris mold is made of the child's head. The "Spec Design" is specially coordinated to conform to the measurements of the cast that comes out of the mold. The measurements are precise so the foundation of the hairpiece will fit the child's head just right.

Step Six:

Once the mold is set, a liquid form is poured into the mold and allowed to dry. When the form and the mold are separated from one another, a cap that fits the size of the resulting cast is made. This cap serves as the foundation of the hairpiece. Because the child who wears the hairpiece will likely swim, shower, and sleep with it on, the design of this foundation is carefully considered and the materials from which it is made are carefully selected.

Step Seven:

Now the hair is ready to be implanted into the cap, or "ventilated." Each strand of hair is hand-tied. This delicate procedure requires 60 to 85 manpower hours. The hair is now custom designed per the child's request. At this point, the direction of the hair, and whether the hairs lie forward or part to the left or right, is determined.

Step Eight:

Finally, the hairpiece is ready for its proud new owner. The child receives the hairpiece along with special coaching on how to look and feel her best. The hair is cut and styled to the child's liking by a certified cosmetic therapist and his or her new life begins.