Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Norm on April 7, 2010 at 2:51pm

Contraband in wigs... now who'd be crazy enough to try that??? :-)

If I need to get an item through, I make sure my head's as shiny as possible... that way it reflects all electromagnetic radiation, and confuses the L outta the scanners.
However, if I want to get through "unseen" I paint a face on the back of my head, then walk through backwards. It's as if I was never there....

Oh OK, I was just kidding.... but how long before somebody tries it? (we can only hope.) :-)

Norm X

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Permalink Reply by Norm on April 7, 2010 at 4:23pm

"I was in jail overnight with some hookers".... hey, how come I never get lucky like that??? They usually just let me off with a warning... (sulks) :(

Not too concerned about not meeting the aforesaid Homicidal Harridan, tho' (relief!!) :)

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Permalink Reply by Mary on April 8, 2010 at 10:14am

I've found the best way to go through security checks is bald. The one time I wore a scarf, every item of my luggage was hand-checked. Maybe it was a coincidence, but since then I go through AU Natural, and everyone is super nice and quick.

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Permalink Reply by Suzanne on June 4, 2010 at 5:17pm

I just found out I'll be going to Spain with work, which is exciting, but it'll be my first time flying since my AA has gotten to the point that I can't hide it without a bandanna or hat. I'm definitely concerned about airport security, though.

The suggestions I've seen on here so far, are to go bald or with a hairpiece. Thing is, I haven't gotten to that point yet, either. Although, this may be the impetus for me to take that step. I'm at probably 70% loss right now, mostly on the tops and sides, so hats/scarves/bandannas have worked for me... so far. I'm almost certain I'd have to remove any type of head-wear, to get through security, though.

This is a work trip that requires me to work with/train clients who don't speak much English and I don't speak much Spanish. Eep! So, I think my anxiety levels will be high enough already. I don't think that's when I want to try out the bald thing for the first time.

I may have just convinced myself that it's time to find a wig. I guess I need to figure all of that out before I leave in a few weeks.

I'll have to stop back by here after I fly to add my own experiences. Hopefully they'll be good ones! :)

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Permalink Reply by BaldGirlsDoLunch.org on June 4, 2010 at 5:39pm

HI Suzanne,

Yes, the head covering has to come off, unless you request to be taken aside to a private room for a private screening. TSA has to comply with that request and it's what Muslim women do all the time. Additionally, If you wear very loose slacks or a long flowy skirt where the body outline can't be determined, you will need to be patted down and have the same option to go to a private room. I like long flights in the comfort of long skirts/western boots and if there are others who like to dress that way and they were not in the mood for an on-top-of -the-skirt leg pat down and had the time, the private room is definitely an option. So just a suggestion that if you were going to wear something loose for the flight anyway, you could get legs and head accomplished in private at the same time.

Agreed. There's no reason to add any stress inaugurating the bald look. If you're going to wear scarves and bandannas during the work week, you can just buy an inexpensive synthetic wig (or borrow from someone?) and put it on before you get to security. Then go to the nearest restroom beyond security and stuff it in your bag. WilshireWigs.com I know to have all the major synthetic brands. Join their email list and check out the monthly specials which are very low prices.Buy a wig mesh cap to squish down all your hair under the wig rather than try to pin your hair under the wig.

I'm sure it will go easily and you'll have a successful trip.

Thea
baldgirlsdolunch.org

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Permalink Reply by Suzanne on June 4, 2010 at 6:54pm

Thanks!! All great advice.

I'll probably wear jeans, because that's what I tend to be the most comfortable in, so that shouldn't be an issue. However, I still need to figure out the hair thing. Maybe I will go for a synthetic wig just to wear through security.

Of course I don't know if my remaining hair will last the whole trip, considering the rate at which it's falling out right now, but I could probably do the scarf/hat thing at work. At least I hope I can. I guess I don't really know what the dress code is there, but hopefully they'd be willing to work with me. ;)

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Permalink Reply by Suzanne on June 16, 2010 at 8:46pm

I just ordered a wig that should be in before my trip. However, I am starting to gain some confidence, so I may try going a few places with no hair, just to test things out.

I figure the wig is the safer bet for my first international flights. I hadn't thought about the passport photo, though. I do have hair in mine, since I've had the photo for about 4 years now and didn't start losing a lot of hair until a few months ago. The wig is pretty close to my natural hair color/style.

We'll see, though! I'm trying to prepare myself for whatever happens.

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Permalink Reply by Kristen Ridenhour on June 16, 2010 at 9:37pm

I've had AU for almost 7 years now and fly at least twice a year. I've always worn a bandana and I've never been stopped once for it.

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