Hair toppers are a fantastic solution for women experiencing thinning hair or hair loss or those looking to add volume and fullness to their natural hair. These versatile accessories come in a variety of styles, textures, and lengths to complement your hair type and personal style. While they are incredibly effective, there are a few tricks that can help you get the most out of your hair topper and ensure it blends seamlessly with your natural hair. Here are five game-changing hacks for using hair toppers for women that every one should know.
1. Choose the Right Hair Topper for Your Needs
The first step to achieving a flawless look with a hair topper is choosing the right one for your specific needs. Not all hair toppers are created equal, so consider factors like the type of hair loss you’re dealing with, your natural hair texture, and the overall style you want to achieve. There are two main types of hair toppers: full coverage and partial coverage.
- Full Coverage Toppers: These are ideal for those experiencing significant hair thinning or hair loss. They provide coverage from the crown to the nape of the neck, offering a fuller, thicker look. They are great for women with more extensive hair loss.
- Partial Coverage Toppers: If you’re dealing with hair thinning at specific areas, such as the crown or the front hairline, partial coverage toppers are the best choice. They are designed to add volume and thickness where needed, without covering your entire head.
By selecting the right type of hair topper, you’ll ensure a natural and comfortable fit, making it easier to blend your hair seamlessly with the topper.
2. Match the Color and Texture for a Natural Look
One of the most important hacks for using hair toppers is ensuring that the color and texture match your natural hair. This may seem obvious, but it’s crucial to get this step right to avoid the topper looking fake or unnatural.
- Color Matching: Choose a hair topper that matches your natural hair color as closely as possible. Many hair topper brands offer a variety of shades, so you can find the perfect match. If you’re between two shades, go for the one that’s slightly lighter, as it’s easier to darken hair than to lighten it. You can also ask a stylist to help you customize the color for a perfect match.
- Texture Matching: Another key factor is matching the texture of your topper to your natural hair. If you have curly or wavy hair, look for a topper with the same texture to ensure a seamless blend. Similarly, if your hair is straight, opt for a straight hair topper. Don’t forget to check the topper’s length and density as well, as this can make a significant difference in how natural it looks.
For added realism, many women choose to have their natural hair blended with the topper by a professional stylist. This is particularly helpful if you’re looking to incorporate layers or more subtle texture.
3. Secure the Hair Topper Properly for Maximum Comfort
One common issue with hair toppers is that they can sometimes feel loose or uncomfortable if not secured properly. The key is to ensure the topper stays in place throughout the day, even with movement.
- Clips and Combs: Many hair toppers come with built-in clips or combs that you can use to secure the topper to your natural hair. For extra security, you can add a few more bobby pins along the perimeter of the topper. Make sure to clip the topper into your hair at multiple points, especially at the sides and back, to prevent it from shifting.
- Adjustable Straps: Some hair toppers or clip in hair pieces have adjustable straps that allow you to customize the fit. Make sure to tighten or loosen these straps as needed to ensure the topper is snug but not too tight. If the topper feels uncomfortable or heavy, adjusting the straps can help relieve some of the pressure.
- Tuck and Tease: Before applying the topper, consider teasing the roots of your natural hair. This provides extra grip and helps prevent slippage, especially for women with finer hair. Tucking small sections of your natural hair under the topper also creates a more seamless look.
4. Style Your Hair Topper for Versatility
Hair toppers aren’t just about adding volume and fullness—they’re also a fantastic way to experiment with different hairstyles. Once your hair topper is securely in place, you can style it in various ways to suit your mood or the occasion.
- Curls and Waves: You can curl or wave your hair topper to create a glamorous, voluminous look. Just like your natural hair, most hair toppers can be styled with a curling iron or flat iron. Make sure to use heat protection spray, especially for synthetic hair toppers, which can be damaged by heat. If your hair topper is made of human hair, you can treat it just like your natural locks and experiment with different styles.
- Updos and Braids: Hair toppers can also be styled into updos or braids. A high ponytail, bun, or braided crown can give you an elegant, polished look. When doing an updo, ensure the topper is securely attached and blended with your natural hair for a seamless appearance.
- Layering: To add more dimension and texture to your hair topper, consider cutting it into layers. A layered topper will enhance volume and give a more natural, free-flowing look.
5. Proper Maintenance to Extend the Life of Your Hair Topper
To get the most out of your hair topper, it’s essential to maintain it properly. With the right care, your topper can last for months or even years, depending on the type and quality of the hair.
- Washing and Conditioning: Like natural hair, hair toppers need to be cleaned and conditioned regularly. Use gentle shampoos and conditioners to avoid drying out the fibers. For synthetic hair toppers, avoid using regular hair products and opt for products specifically designed for synthetic hair.
- Storage: When you’re not using your hair topper, store it in a cool, dry place. A wig stand or mannequin head is ideal for maintaining its shape and preventing tangling.
- Avoiding Heat Damage: If your topper is made from synthetic hair, avoid applying direct heat, as it can cause the fibers to melt or fray. If your topper is made of human hair, feel free to treat it like your natural hair and use heat tools sparingly.
Conclusion
Hair toppers are a game-changing solution for women looking to add volume, cover thinning areas, or experiment with new styles. By following these five essential hacks—choosing the right topper, matching the color and texture, securing it properly, styling for versatility, and maintaining it with care—you can enjoy a flawless and natural look. Whether you’re new to hair toppers or a seasoned user, these tips will help you make the most out of this fabulous accessory.
