Oct 09, 2024
TL;DR: Hair toppers are clip-in extensions designed to add volume and cover thinning areas on the scalp. This guide covers what they are, the differences between full-volume and light-volume toppers, and tips on choosing and styling the best quality hair toppers, especially from The Lauren Ashtyn Collection.
Did you know that as many as 50% of all women will experience some form of hair loss in their lives? From stress-induced hair loss to hair loss after pregnancy, losing volume is more common than you think. Genetically, many women have naturally thin hair that can be difficult to style.
No matter why your hair lacks the volume you crave, you need to know what hair toppers are!
Hair toppers are clip-in human hair extensions that add volume to the top of your head. They do everything from adding thickness for styling to covering areas of exposed scalp. Best of all, they look and feel natural, and blend in with your natural hair!
In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about this volume-boosting beauty solution. Read on to discover how hair toppers work and how to find the best one for you!
What Is a Hair Topper?
A hair topper is a type of hair extension specifically designed for women with thinning hair or hair loss. Toppers clip into your natural hair around the crown of your head, adding volume, fullness, and length. The highest-quality hair toppers can mask thinness or scalp exposure on the sides, top, crown, or back of the head.
Toppers can come in multiple styles, including full-volume and light-volume styles.
What Is a Full-Volume Hair Topper?
A full-volume hair topper is ideal for those with significant hair loss. These toppers are popular for women whose hair loss has a medical cause.
You do need some natural hair in order to get the most out of wearing a hair topper. Most experts agree that you should have at least a few inches of hair to get the most out of a hair topper.
Toppers clip into your natural hair using clips designed specifically for those with hair loss. They are pressure-sensitive and will not damage your natural hair.
What Is a Light-Volume Hair Topper?
The biggest difference between a full-volume and light-volume hair topper is the size. Light-volume hair toppers tend to have a smaller base and fewer layers than full-volume hair toppers. They are a better fit for those with naturally thin hair or minor hair thinning. For example, they can help women feel more confident while experiencing pregnancy-related hair loss.
Light-volume hair toppers may not be thick enough to cover areas of exposed scalp. However, they can make thin hair easier to style. They add length and fullness, making hair appear bouncier and more voluminous.
What Are the Best Quality Hair Toppers?
When choosing a hair topper, the primary goal is to choose the most natural-looking extensions. That’s why we recommend choosing a human hair topper.
Specifically, look for 100% European REMY human hair. That is the highest quality human hair available. It is collected with the follicle intact and can be styled like your natural hair.
REMY hair can be cut, dyed, styled, and even heat-treated. While we recommend using protective products, you can essentially treat REMY hair like your natural hair.
Some shedding is natural in toppers of any quality, but the best human hair toppers tend to last longer. They also hold up to more styling and daily wear. If you care for your luxury topper correctly, it can last for years.
How Can You Style a Hair Topper?
Once you’ve secured your hair topper to your head, you can treat it much like your natural hair. Here are a few tips for ensuring your high-quality hair topper looks its best.
Get Your Hair Topper Cut
Because the best quality human hair toppers are made from human hair, they can be cut without causing damage. The best way to ensure your topper blends with your hair is to bring it to be professionally cut. A trained stylist can ensure that it matches your preferred length and looks seamless.
Use a Wig Stand
Many women find it easier to use a wig stand for styling and maintenance purposes. It’s a great tool to use after washing your topper. Set it on the wig stand to air dry, or apply heat from a blow dryer to boost volume.
You can also use a wig stand to hold your topper while you heat-style the extensions. Most human hair toppers can tolerate heat styling. Consider straightening or curling your topper to match your natural texture.
Style Like Normal
You can style your hair topper just like it’s your natural hair! Toppers can tolerate ponytails and other up-dos. Just ensure you gather both the extension and your natural hair while styling for the most natural look.
How to Find the Best Quality Hair Toppers
We may be biased, but we believe the best hair toppers are the luxury toppers in The Lauren Ashtyn Collection. They are all 100% European REMY human hair. Plus, each topper is hand-painted to achieve the most vibrant, natural color.
We’re proud to offer one of the largest selections of hair topper colors and styles. Shop the collection to boost your confidence and achieve the volume you crave!