Toppers

Hair toppers, also known as wiglets or hairpieces, are hairpieces designed to add volume, coverage, and thickness to specific areas of the scalp. They are a popular solution for women with hair loss/thinning hair.

Construction Methods for Hair Toppers:

Wigs come in various styles and constructions, each designed to provide a different look, comfort, and realism. Here’s a detailed explanation of the most worn wig types:

Lace Front Toppers:

• These toppers feature a lace front that creates a natural hairline appearance.
• The rest of the topper may use wefted or hand-tied hair for volume and coverage.

Closed Front Toppers:

• Closed front toppers have a solid base at the front where the hairline is located.
• The rest of the topper may use wefted or hand-tied hair to achieve fullness and coverage. Blending of the natural or bio hairline is needed to ensure that these toppers look 100% natural.

Silk Top Toppers:

• Silk top toppers have a silk or French lace base at the parting area, mimicking the appearance of a real scalp.
• The hair strands are individually knotted under the silk top for a realistic part and scalp effect.

Lace Top Toppers:

• Lace top toppers feature a lace base at the crown, allowing for versatile parting and a natural-looking scalp appearance. (silk top toppers also provide the ability for versatile parting)
• Hair strands are individually knotted to the lace, giving the illusion of hair growing directly from the scalp.

Hair toppers are a versatile and effective solution for women dealing with hair loss, and the choice of construction method depends on individual needs and preferences.

Please note that all lace tops feature return hairs. These return hairs are part of the construction process as the hair must be anchored somewhere, either under or over the lace. It’s worth mentioning that individual preferences vary; some individuals may not favor these return hairs. Their length can also impact the cost of the wig, with longer return hairs typically resulting in a more expensive product, as longer hair is required for this feature. In contrast, shorter return hairs may necessitate more effort to ensure they lie flat, often requiring the use of wax or a hot comb. When these return hairs are not adequately managed, they can protrude, resulting in a less polished appearance. While a few flyaways may occur naturally, many women find it difficult to manage a significant amount of shorter return hairs and find the look undesirable.

How Hair Toppers Are Worn:

1. Attachment: Toppers can be attached in various ways, including clips, tape, or adhesive. The method of attachment will depend on the specific topper and the wearer’s preference.
2. Blending: To ensure a seamless blend with natural hair, it’s essential to select a topper that matches the color, texture, and length of your own hair.
3. Styling: Toppers can be styled just like natural hair. They can be curled, straightened, or worn in updos to achieve the desired look.
4. Maintenance: Regular care and maintenance, such as washing and styling, are necessary to keep the topper looking its best.

Hair toppers are a versatile and effective solution for women dealing with hair loss or thinning. They offer a way to regain confidence and maintain a natural, beautiful appearance without the need for a full wig. The choice of construction method will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the individual wearer.

What Is a Bonded Topper?

A bonded topper is a hairpiece designed to provide coverage and added hair volume to areas of the scalp that have experienced hair loss or thinning. Unlike some hair toppers that use clips or combs for attachment, bonded toppers are affixed to the scalp using special adhesive products, creating a secure and natural-looking connection between the wearer’s natural hair and the hairpiece.

The Bonding Process:

1. Preparing the Scalp: Before attaching the bonded topper, the wearer’s scalp should be clean, dry, and free of oils, residue, and debris. Some individuals may choose to shave or trim the existing hair in the area where the topper will be bonded.
2. Selecting Adhesive: There are various adhesives designed for securing hairpieces. Some popular options include tape, glue, and adhesive strips. The choice of adhesive may depend on individual preferences and the type of topper.
3. Applying Adhesive: The adhesive is carefully applied to the area of the scalp where the bonded topper will be attached. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure an even application of the adhesive.
4. Securing the Topper: The hairpiece is gently placed onto the adhesive, ensuring a proper fit and alignment with the wearer’s natural hair. The bond is created when the adhesive connects with the base of the topper.
5. Pressing and Blending: After attaching the topper, gentle pressure is applied to ensure a strong bond. The natural hair is combed or styled over the topper to blend it seamlessly.
6. Styling: The wearer can then style the topper and their natural hair as desired, creating a cohesive and natural look.

Why Some Women Choose Bonded Toppers:

1. Security: Bonded toppers offer a secure and long-lasting attachment method, reducing the risk of the hairpiece shifting or falling off during daily activities.
2. Natural Look: The bonding process creates a seamless and natural look, as the hairpiece is integrated with the natural hair, making it difficult to detect.
3. Versatility: Women who choose bonded toppers have the flexibility to wear their hair in various styles, including updos and high ponytails, as the attachment is secure.
4. Full Coverage: Bonded toppers provide full coverage, making them a preferred choice for women with extensive hair loss or thinning.
5. Confidence: Many women opt for bonded toppers because they offer a high level of confidence and a natural appearance, allowing them to feel more comfortable in social and professional settings.

Bonded toppers, or hairpieces, require a significant amount of maintenance. Many salons or companies selling this option may falsely claim that the hair can be securely bonded to the wearer’s scalp for up to six weeks. This deceptive marketing can make it seem like a simple, low-maintenance solution that seamlessly becomes part of the wearer’s natural hair. However, the reality is quite different.

In truth, these units must be removed at least once a week to maintain proper scalp hygiene. Failing to do so can lead to the accumulation of bacteria and even mold on the scalp, resulting in various issues, including an unpleasant odor emanating from the hair and scalp. It is extremely unhygienic to wear these systems without regular removal and maintenance on a weekly basis. In exceptional cases, such as being on vacation, waiting two weeks may be acceptable, but this should be a rare exception.

While bonding can be an excellent solution for many women, those who choose this option must learn how to remove and maintain the units themselves. Relying solely on monthly visits to the salon for maintenance is not a practical approach. Effective maintenance is essential for ensuring both the longevity of the hairpiece and the wearer’s overall comfort and hygiene.