HAIR TOPPERS 101
Have you decided you are ready to take the leap into the alternative hair world? Or maybe you are already here and want to expand your options to see if toppers are the route you should take. If you want to add coverage, fullness and/or volume—toppers will be a great option to explore to see if it is the right alternative hair option for you!
This post lists HAIR TOPPER FAQ’s in one place and we are thrilled to share it with you.
What is the difference between a WIG and a HAIR TOPPER?
A WIG is a full, alternative hair, system that covers your head.
A HAIR TOPPER (aka TOPPER) covers part of your head. Base sizes vary and what size is right for you will be determined by the coverage you need and/or the density/fullness you desire.
TYPES OF HAIR LOSS SUITED FOR TOPPERS INCLUDE (BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO):
- Alopecia (Areata, Androgenic/Androgenetic, Post-Partum, Traction)
- Post Anagen Effluvium--Hair growing out after going through chemotherapy
- Autoimmune Disease (or the medication) causing hair thinning
- Telogen Effluvium (TE)
- Genetic/hereditary hair loss
- Medications
- Stress
- Rapid weight loss
- Fine thin hair—looking for more density and/or fullness
- Wonderful for helping blend extensions!
WHICH BASE SIZE IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDsnGZwEXNY
- Determining your stage or hair loss (if applicable) will help guide you to the base sizes that will work best for you. Measuring is the first step.
- oHow to measure for your topper (and apply): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsdDUaie2MY
- If there is a specific part of your scalp you want to cover: Measure the area and then add 1” to each side. For example, if have a thinning or bald spot that measures 3” X 4”, you will add 1” to each side. Your topper base will need to be at least 4” X 5”. Adding the 1” to each side will ensure the topper clips into stronger hair follicles which will reduce the risk of causing additional hair loss.
- If you have fine thin hair OR diffused hair loss: Determine how much additional density you desire. The more density you want, the larger the base size you will need to go (and visa versa for less density).
TOPPER CHART BASE OPTIONS (INCLUDES BASE DIMENSIONS):
TOPPER COVERAGE & PLACEMENT CHART:
COLOR MATCHING: Since a topper has to blend in with your biological hair, color matching is REALLY important! We recommend working with a professional alternative hair consultant to color match to your bio hair.
BLENDING: Depending on where you position your topper, there may be a 1”-2” transition area that will likely need to be blended to make the topper undetectable. Try one, some or all of the following techniques until you are satisfied that your topper is properly blended and undetectable:
- Brushing/combing
- Hair product (i.e. hair spray or contour crème)
- Colored powder, spray, or fiber (usually applying one of these to the part area to match the root of the topper works best)
LENGTH: The is determined by the length of your biological hair. Most toppers come in 8”, 12” and 18”. If you want a more layered look, you can go slightly shorter. If you go longer, you will likely need to have it styled/cut to blend in with your bio-hair.
CUSTOMIZING YOUR TOPPER IS VERY COMMON: We recommend working with a certified alternative hair consultant and/or a cosmetologist that specializes in working with alternative hair. Working with alternative hair is NOT taught in cosmetology school. Remember, alternative hair DOES NOT grow back!
MOST COMMON TOPPER CUSTOMIZATION REQUESTS
- CUT/STYLE:
- ADDING A FRINGE:
- COLORING:
- ADDING OR REMOVING CLIPS
WHICH FIBER IS RIGHT FOR YOU: Things to consider when choosing the fiber that is right for you includes your goals for look & feel, versatility, time required to care for and maintain compared to time you have available. If you are wearing toppers full time, many women have more than one topper and will alternate based on occasion and/or time they have to care for/style their topper.
- SYNTHETIC: Requires least amount of styling time, style memory, not as much styling versatility, color is permanent, lower investment.
- HD: More natural look and texture, multiple styling options and also style memory, more care & maintenance compared to traditional synthetic, benefits are similar to human hair without the high investment.
- HUMAN HAIR: Most natural look and feel, lighter weight makes it cooler than synthetic, unlimited styling options (does take longer to style—so more time needed for maintenance), higher investment.
Now that you have the tools to choose the perfect topper, here are your application instructions:
FIRST STEP: FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE TOPPER PRESSURE CLIPS BEFORE CLIPPING THEM INTO YOUR HAIR!
Open all of the pressure sensitive clips—we recommend getting familiar with the mechanics of the clips. Opening and closing them several times before applying will help you once you apply it to your hair. Count the number of clips before applying so you don’t miss any.
SECOND STEP: Secure front clip 1-2 inches behind front hairline. Put your hand on top of the topper, pressing the topper flush to your scalp before clipping the remainder of the clips. After you have secured the front clip, smoothed down the base of the topper over your head—secure the back clip, then secure the side clips. Be sure the clips are not pulling your hair. It is important to clip the topper in so it is secure and taut –NOT TIGHT.
THIRD STEP: STYLE AND BLEND HAIR (BIO HAIR WITH TOPPER HAIR).
CARE & STYLING INSTRUCTIONS: Following the proper care & styling instructions will determine the longevity of your topper. Keeping it looking natural and healthy is critical. Please see care & styling instructions by fiber:
SYNTHETIC: https://www.heartandhair.com/blog/synthetic-hair-care-/
HD: https://www.heartandhair.com/blog/hd-high-heat-synthetic-hair-care-/
HUMAN HAIR: https://www.heartandhair.com/blog/human-hair-care/