Last Updated on August 28, 2022 by Oscar O. Paquin
Hair toppers are an excellent option if you wish to add volume and length to your hair without needing to grow it out, and they’re beneficial if you’re worried about thinning hair! With the proper maintenance, you can even wear hair toppers as your natural hair grows and your thinning issue resolves itself. The key, though, is choosing the right one. Whether they are suitable for thin hair depends on personal preferences.
This article explores different types of hair toppers, how they work on thin hair, how to choose the right one, and some pros and cons of hair toppers that will help you decide whether or not they’re right for you.
What is Thin Hair?
When we talk about thin hair, we’re referring to the diameter of each strand. Fine hair has a small diameter, while thick hair has a large diameter. But it’s not just the diameter that determines whether your hair is fine or thick – it’s also the number of strands on your head.
If you have fewer strands of hair, your hair is considered thin. Therefore, if you have more strands of hair, your hair is considered thick. Of course, there are different degrees of thinness and thickness, and everybody’s definition of thin hair will be different. But generally speaking, you might consider your hair thin if you have less hair than you want.
So, are hair toppers good for thin hair? The answer is complicated. On the one hand, if you wear a topper over thin hair, the result will look like thicker hair! That can give people with thinner hair an instant confidence boost because they won’t feel they stand out as much from their peers who may have thicker locks.
However, wearing a topper over thin hair can make those with very few strands of natural hair feel self-conscious because they will know that their real scalp shows through the top layer of fibers, which often looks dry and flaky due to friction caused by daily use.

How Hair Toppers Work on Thin Hair
Hair toppers are becoming an increasingly popular solution for women with thinning hair. But what are they, and do they really work?
Hair toppers are made of either human or synthetic hair and act as a temporary way to camouflage balding spots. They’re attached via either adhesive or small clips onto the existing hair on your head, making them look like the person has more of it than they actually do.
It is not meant to be a permanent fix; instead, it’s a way for people with thinning hair to go about their daily lives without being constantly self-conscious about their appearance.
Types of Hair Topper
Several different types of hair toppers can be used to add volume and fullness to thin hair.
- Clip-in hair toppers are the most popular type, as they are easy to use and can be removed when you want.
- Tape-in hair toppers are another option, but they require more care and can be more challenging to remove.
- Halo-type hair toppers are also an option, but they can be less comfortable to wear.
- Human hair toppers (toupees) are made from natural human hair and can make your scalp look fuller. However, these toppers will often cost quite a bit more than other options and may not last as long.
- Synthetic hair toppers may have similar benefits but with a lower price tag. They’re also easier to find in stores if you need one quickly.
There’s no right or wrong answer about which type of hair topper is best – it all depends on what you’re looking for!
Choosing the Right Topper for Your Thin Hair
Selecting a suitable hair topper for your thin hair can be nerve-wracking. However, it will become a breeze if you follow the guidelines discussed below:
1. Decide Whether You’ll Go for Fiber or Human Hair
The critical factor in deciding which type of hair topper is best for you is the look you want to achieve. Human hair is always the best route if you want a natural look. But if you’re looking for more volume or want to experiment with color, fiber might be the better option.
There are also benefits and cons to each type regarding care and maintenance. Human hair needs to be shampooed, conditioned, and styled just like your own hair, while fiber hair can be left as-is or lightly styled with products specifically for synthetic hair.

2. Determine Your Hair Length
Determining your hair length is the first step in deciding if a hair topper is right for you.
- If you have short hair, a topper may not be necessary.
- A topper can give you the volume and coverage you need if you have medium-length hair.
- If you have long hair, a topper can help add volume and thickness.
Thicker or longer hair may require more than one topper. A hair topper can be added on top of another layer of thinning areas or at the front of the head where thinning is most evident. They must be secured well with clips or pins so they don’t shift around while you wear them!
3. Choose the Base
When attaching hair toppers to your thin hair, there are two bases to choose from wefted and monofilament. Considering the benefits and disadvantages would be ideal before deciding which is best for you.
The wefted base attaches the top to the scalp with an adhesive, meaning it can’t be removed easily or without damaging the hair underneath. This base provides excellent hair ventilation, thus, optimal comfort.
Monofilament attaches at the top of the head with a lace closure that goes over the natural hairline, making it easier to remove if necessary. The monofilament base is ideal if you are experiencing severe or complete hair loss.
4. Choose the Right Color
When it comes to hair toppers, one of the most important things to consider is color. You want to ensure that your chosen color matches your natural hair color as closely as possible. Otherwise, it will look unnatural and obvious. If you’re unsure what color to choose, consult a professional stylist.
The Pros of Using Hair Toppers on Thin Hair
- Hair toppers are a temporary solution to thinning hair.
- They are less expensive than other options such as surgery.
- They are easy to style and use with natural hair.
- They are less likely to cause scalp irritation.
- Some people find they have an instant confidence boost when wearing them.
- Rare cases of allergic reactions.
The Side Effects (Cons) of Using Hair Toppers on Thin Hair
Although hair toppers can be a quick fix for thinning hair, they can also have some adverse side effects:
- If not applied correctly, they can cause scalp irritation.
- The adhesive may contain chemicals that could irritate sensitive skin.
- Their weight is concentrated in one area – it can lead to bald spots on the scalp.
- Finally, certain hairstyles don’t work with hair toppers because they need an even thickness across all of your head.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can Hair Toppers Damage My Thin Hair?
Hair toppers are great for adding volume and fullness to thin hair but can also cause damage if misused. Toppers can strain your hair follicles and roots, leading to breakage. If you’re careful, though, you can avoid damaging your hair.
The Takeaway
So, are hair toppers good for thin hair? It depends on your situation. Suppose you have thinning hair or experiencing hair loss; a topper can be a great way to add volume and coverage. Nonetheless, other options may be better suited if you’re looking for a way to add some extra fullness to your hair. Weigh the benefits and cons carefully before making a decision, and consult with a professional stylist if possible.