Last Updated on August 21, 2023 by Reiner Chase
Wearing a hair topper properly shouldn’t cause hair loss. Toppers can protect existing hair and promote healthy growth. However, excessive tension, incorrect attachment, or neglecting scalp care can potentially lead to hair breakage or thinning.
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What Are Hair Toppers?
A hair topper is a partial wig or hairpiece covering thinning hair or bald spots. They are primarily made from human, synthetic, or horse hair and can be styled like your own hair. Some people worry that wearing a hair topper will cause their hair to fall out, but no evidence supports this claim. Many people find their hair
looks fuller and healthier after wearing a topper.
It’s also worth noting that you should only wear a hair topper for as long as you need it, so if you stop wearing it, your natural hair will grow back. If you’re worried about losing your natural hair when using a topper, invest in one with the highest quality human hair.
Some experts believe that wearing a hair topper can stress the hair follicles, leading to hair loss over time. Additionally, if the topper is not fitted correctly or is too tight, it could cause traction alopecia, a hair loss condition caused by pulling on the hair.
Pros and Cons of Wearing a Hair Topper
| Pros of wearing a Hair Topper | Cons of wearing a Hair Topper |
|---|---|
| Coverage Unmatched: Hair toppers are excellent for providing unmatched coverage where it’s needed most. They cover balding spots or thinning hair with natural hair looks. | Can Be Uncomfortable: Wearing a hair topper can be uncomfortable for some people. It may cause itchiness or discomfort on the scalp. |
| Boost Confidence: They significantly enhance confidence by hiding bald patches, thereby giving an aesthetic appearance. | Potential Damage: If not appropriately worn or removed, a hair topper can potentially harm the existing natural hair or scalp. |
| Versatile Styling: Hair toppers come in diverse styles, lengths, and colors. This allows for versatile styling configurations. | Skilled Application Required: Proper fitting and styling of a hair topper may require professional hair stylist skills. |
| Affordable Solution: Compared with other hair-enhancing solutions like transplants or medications, hair toppers are relatively affordable. | Maintenance Required: Hair toppers require regular cleaning and maintenance which can be time-consuming. |
| Natural Look: High-quality hair toppers provide a highly natural look and often blend seamlessly with the wearer’s own hair. | Possibility of Detaching: There’s a risk of the hair topper detaching from your head if it’s not properly secured, which may cause embarrassment. |
Hair Loss Due to Wearing Hair Toppers
Do hair toppers cause hair loss? There’s no easy answer to this constantly asked question. While hair toppers can undoubtedly contribute to hair loss, several factors can contribute to the condition. To determine whether or not wearing a hair topper is causing your hair loss, it’s vital to consult a medical professional.
Your doctor will consider all the various causes of hair loss and come up with an accurate diagnosis. It’s worth noting that certain hairstyles such as weaves, braids, tight ponytails, and buns can also lead to long-term damage, which could lead to increased hair loss over time.
The Percentage of Americans who Wear Hair Toppers or Wigs
Even though some people feel stigmatized when wearing hair toppers, it is understood that over 50% of Americans wear wigs. The percentage is even higher for celebrities, who account for 90%.
Some renowned celebrities who have taken a bold step to wear hair extensions without shame include Beyonce, Keira Knightley, Jennifer Lopez, Selena Gomez, and Angelina Jolie, among others.
How to Avoid Hair Loss While Wearing Hair Toppers
If you discover that you are losing hair after wearing a hair topper, there are a few things you can do. First, try switching to a different type of topper. There are different types on the market, so you may be able to find one that can’t cause hair loss. If that doesn’t work for you, use a different type of hair loss treatment. Some treatments can help promote hair growth and stop hair loss.
You can also consider the tips below when using a hair topper to void hair loss:
Choose Your Hair Topper Wisely
There are many types of hair toppers on the market, and choosing one that is right for you is important. If you’re experiencing hair loss, it’s important to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to find out the cause before choosing a hair topper.
In some cases, wearing a hair topper can exacerbate hair loss. If you choose to wear a hair topper, clean it regularly and consult your doctor if you notice any changes in your hair loss.
Use a Hair Topper That Fits Perfectly
Hair toppers are becoming increasingly popular for women looking for a more affordable and temporary solution to hair loss. Nevertheless, with different types and sizes available, it’s crucial to find one that fits your head perfectly.
A poorly fitting hair topper can cause damage to your natural hair and even lead to hair loss. Here’s how to find a hair topper that fits you perfectly;
- Measure your head circumference by wrapping a measuring tape around your scalp at its widest point.
- Choose a hair topper with padding if you want something extra soft, or choose one without padding if you’re not concerned about comfort.
- Find something with elastic straps for easy installation.
- Check the return policy to get your money back if the product doesn’t work out for you.
Determine the Size of Your Hair Loss Area Before Using a Hair Topper
If you’re considering using a hair topper to cover hair loss, it’s important to determine the area you wish to cover. This helps in choosing the right product and avoiding any potential damage to your existing hair.
You can use three hair toppers: human, synthetic, or horsehair. The human-hair versions are more expensive but offer more realistic-looking results than synthetic ones. Horsehair is typically the cheapest option, but it may not blend well with your natural hair color or texture.
For a better idea of what style might work best for you, have an expert show you options in person or use an online search engine like Google to look at pictures of people wearing different styles before deciding on one.
Avoid Sleeping with Wet Hair Toppers
One of the leading causes of hair loss is wearing your hair topper while it’s wet. This can lead to traction alopecia, where hair follicles are pulled out from the roots over time.
Wet hair is susceptible to breakage, so it’s important to avoid sleeping with your topper if it’s wet. Instead, let it air or blow dry on low heat before putting it back on.
Protecting Your Hair Under a Hair Topper
Wigs and hair toppers are becoming increasingly popular, but there is still much misinformation about them. One common concern is that wearing a wig or hair topper can cause hair loss. However, most people won’t experience noticeable hair loss while wearing either a wig or a hair topper. Your hair will only fall out when it becomes brittle, scorched, or damaged
You’ll want to ensure you have your head and new piece clean daily for hygiene purposes! The best way to keep your natural locks healthy is by using shampoos with protein on your scalp before applying conditioner, which will coat the strands with moisture for better protection.
Common Hair Topper Mistakes to Avoid and Prevent the Hair From Damaging
Avoid these common hair topper mistakes to prevent damage:
- Wrong Size: Choosing an ill-fitting topper can strain hair and cause breakage. Select the right size for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Tension: Too tight attachment can lead to hair loss. Secure the topper gently and avoid pulling on hair.
- Neglecting Scalp Care: Proper scalp hygiene is vital. Cleanse and moisturize regularly to maintain a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Incorrect Blending: Improperly blending the topper with natural hair can appear unnatural. Blend carefully for a seamless look.
- Overuse of Products: Excessive styling products can weigh down hair and damage fibers. Use products sparingly.
- Heat Damage: Excessive heat styling can harm synthetic toppers. Use heat protectants and avoid high temperatures.
- Ignoring Maintenance: Regular cleaning and care are crucial. Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and storage.
- Lack of Rotation: Continual use of the same attachment points can stress hair. Rotate attachment sites to distribute tension evenly.
- Sleeping with Toppers: Sleeping with toppers can cause tangling and damage. Remove before bed.
- Ignoring Hair Health: Address underlying hair issues. Toppers should complement your natural hair care routine.
By avoiding these errors and prioritizing proper care, you can enjoy the benefits of hair toppers while safeguarding your hair’s health.
The Takeaway
Hair toppers are not the root cause of hair loss, but they can exacerbate the issue if you already have thinning hair. If you’re experiencing hair loss and are considering a hair topper, consult a doctor or trichologist first to find out if it’s the right solution. In some cases, wearing a hair topper can help improve the appearance of thinning hair by providing coverage and making the strands look fuller.
Reference 1: https://silkorlace.com/blogs/main/do-wigs-cause-hair-loss
Reference 2: https://www.cornerofhopeandmane.com/traction-alopecia-bald-spots/
