Hair Extensions vs. Hair Toppers: The Ultimate Guide
When it comes to adding volume and length to your hair, there are two main options: hair extensions and hair toppers. Both have their own unique set of benefits and drawbacks, and which one is right for you will depend on your individual needs.
What Are Hair Extensions?
Hair extensions are pieces of hair that are attached to your own hair to add length, volume, or both. They come in a variety of materials, including human hair, synthetic hair, and a blend of the two.
Types of Hair Extensions
- Clip-in extensions: These are the most temporary type of hair extensions, and they can be clipped in and out in minutes. They’re perfect for adding a little extra volume or length for a special occasion.
- Tape-in extensions: These extensions are applied with a thin, invisible tape that is attached to your own hair. They’re more durable than clip-in extensions, but they still need to be reapplied every 6-8 weeks.
- Keratin extensions: These extensions are applied with a heated keratin bond that fuses them to your own hair. They’re the most permanent type of hair extensions, and they can last up to 6 months.
What Are Hair Toppers?
Hair toppers are a type of hairpiece that is worn on top of the head to add volume or coverage. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and they can be made from human hair, synthetic hair, or a blend of the two.
Types of Hair Toppers
- Full toppers: These toppers cover the entire top of the head, and they’re perfect for adding volume and coverage to thinning hair.
- Partial toppers: These toppers cover only a portion of the head, and they’re perfect for adding volume or coverage to specific areas of the scalp.
- Clip-in toppers: These toppers can be clipped in and out in minutes, and they’re perfect for adding a little extra volume or coverage for a special occasion.
How to Choose Between Hair Extensions and Hair Toppers
The best way to choose between hair extensions and hair toppers is to consider your individual needs. If you’re looking for a temporary solution that can be easily removed and reapplied, then clip-in hair extensions or a clip-in hair topper may be a good option. However, if you’re looking for a more permanent solution that will give you more volume and coverage, then tape-in hair extensions or a keratin hair topper may be a better choice.
Benefits of Hair Extensions
- Add length and volume: Hair extensions can add instant length and volume to your hair, which can give you a more glamorous look.
- Change your hairstyle: Hair extensions can be used to create a variety of hairstyles, from long, flowing locks to short, sassy bobs.
- Conceal hair loss: Hair extensions can be used to conceal hair loss, whether it’s due to thinning hair, alopecia, or other medical conditions.
Drawbacks of Hair Extensions
- Can be expensive: Hair extensions can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for high-quality human hair extensions.
- Can damage your hair: If hair extensions are not applied correctly, they can damage your own hair.
- Require maintenance: Hair extensions require regular maintenance, such as brushing, washing, and conditioning.
Benefits of Hair Toppers
- Add volume and coverage: Hair toppers can add instant volume and coverage to your hair, which can give you a more youthful and healthy appearance.
- Conceal hair loss: Hair toppers can be used to conceal hair loss, whether it’s due to thinning hair, alopecia, or other medical conditions.
- Less expensive than hair extensions: Hair toppers are generally less expensive than hair extensions, especially if you’re looking for a high-quality human hair topper.
Drawbacks of Hair Toppers
- Can be difficult to style: Hair toppers can be difficult to style, especially if you’re not used to wearing hairpieces.
- Can be uncomfortable: Hair toppers can be uncomfortable to wear, especially if they’re not fitted correctly.
- May not be suitable for all hair types: Hair toppers may not be suitable for all hair types, especially if you have very fine or thin hair.
Tips for Buying and Wearing Hair Extensions and Hair Toppers
- Do your research: Before you buy any hair extensions or hair toppers, do your research and find a reputable supplier.
- Get a professional consultation: Before you buy and wear hair extensions or hair toppers, get a professional consultation from a hair stylist.
- Follow the instructions carefully: When you’re applying hair extensions or hair toppers, follow the instructions carefully to avoid any damage to your own hair.
- Take care of your hair extensions or hair toppers: To keep your hair extensions or hair toppers looking their best, take care of them by brushing, washing, and conditioning them regularly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Wearing Hair Extensions and Hair Toppers
- Don’t wear them too tightly: When you wear hair extensions or hair toppers, don’t wear them too tightly. This can damage your own hair and cause discomfort.
- Don’t overstyle them: When you style hair extensions or hair toppers, don’t overstyle them. This can damage the hair and make it look unnatural.
- Don’t sleep in them: When you sleep, take out your hair extensions or hair toppers. This will help to prevent tangles and mats.
Creative New Applications for Hair Extensions and Hair Toppers
In addition to the traditional uses of hair extensions and hair toppers, there are a number of creative new applications for these products. For example, hair extensions can be used to:
- Create a temporary hair color change: If you’re not ready to commit to a permanent hair color change, you can use hair extensions to temporarily change the color of your hair.
- Add texture to your hair: If you have fine or thin hair, you can use hair extensions to add texture and volume.
- Create a special occasion hairstyle: If you’re going to a special occasion, you can use hair extensions to create a glamorous hairstyle that will turn heads.
Hair toppers can also be used for a variety of creative applications, such as:
- Create a faux bob: If you want to try a bob hairstyle without cutting your hair, you can use a hair topper to create a faux bob.
- Add highlights or lowlights: If you want to add highlights or lowlights to your hair without bleaching or coloring it, you can use a hair topper.
- Create a braided style: If you want to create a braided style without having to braid your own hair, you can use a hair topper that comes with pre-braided hair.
Conclusion
Hair extensions and hair toppers are both great options for adding volume and length to your hair. However, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a temporary solution that can be easily removed and reapplied, then clip-in hair extensions or a clip-in hair topper may be a good option. However, if you’re looking for a more permanent solution that will give you more volume and coverage, then tape-in hair extensions or a keratin hair topper may be a better choice.