Questions and need advice on Player Modeling (TGEA-3DS MAX)

Well I started to write this thread and got lost searching other threads and ended up in some complete other direction. So I lost my original purpose for this. Don't be surprised if I double post saying "Oh, NOW I REMEMBER!!!" lol

With that said, I have a couple questions on how most of you would advise I go about doing my player modeling from within 3DS MAX and TGEA. First let me say what I am going for with these models. My current project is a small one meant for local friends and myself as well as attempting to rebuild my coding abilities since they become way more then rusty. So I am only placing in limited models too keep the project small. However, I want some options for my friends. So I have created both a base male and female model. What I would like to do is give the option for changing the color of both player models skin. This should be easy enough since all I would have to do is change the texture work.

Next I want to give the option of changing hair style and color. This I think would blend with giving the player the ability to change his/her gear while in game. So this would be best along the lines of meshes right? Create a mesh within the model or separate and mount it?

So with these things said I was wondering if anyone would either point me out to a nice resource on how to go about doing these things or mind giving advice on how to go about doing them. Any information is welcome since most of my model work is based around inanimate objects from interior and exterior design.

-Thanks,
~Foestar ☺