Straight Human Hair Crown Topper

A topper is a targeted solution for adding volume at the crown and covering thinning areas while blending with your natural hair. Because it works together with your own hair rather than replacing it, proper care of both the topper and the integration with your natural hair is essential.

Understanding How Your Topper Works

Unlike a wig that covers your entire head, a topper clips onto your existing hair and covers only the top portion of your head. The base sits against your scalp with your natural hair pulled through or around it. This means the topper is exposed to your natural scalp oils and needs regular cleaning, but it also means you'll be styling the topper and your natural hair together.

Daily Wear

Clip your topper onto clean, dry hair for the most secure hold and longest-lasting style. The clips should attach to small sections of your natural hair about an inch from your scalp - close enough for security, but not so close that there's tension on your roots. If you notice discomfort or pulling, adjust the clip placement.

Throughout the day, your topper may shift slightly, especially if you're active. This is normal - just excuse yourself and readjust. Keep a small mirror in your bag for quick checks.

Washing

Wash your topper every 10-15 wears, or sooner if you notice product buildup or oil from your scalp. Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of sulfate-free shampoo. Gently swish the topper through the water for a minute or two, paying attention to the base where it sits against your scalp.

Rinse under cool running water until clear. Apply a lightweight conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends - avoid the base entirely, as conditioner can make the attachment area slippery and affect how securely the clips grip your hair. Leave the conditioner on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Drying

Gently press excess water out with a clean towel. Place your topper on a small wig stand, upside-down cup, or balled-up towel to allow air circulation around the base. Let it air dry completely before wearing - a damp base against your scalp can cause discomfort and isn't good for your natural hair underneath.

If you're in a rush, you can blow dry on a low heat setting, but avoid directing heat at the base for extended periods.

Styling for a Seamless Blend

The key to natural-looking topper wear is blending. After securing your topper, use hot tools to style your natural hair and the topper together. Run a flat iron through sections that include both your natural hair and the extension hair. Use a curling iron to create matching curl patterns. This melts the line between where your hair ends and the topper begins.

Choose styles that let you customize the blend point. Soft layers and face-framing pieces styled together look most natural. Avoid styles that create a harsh line where the topper edge sits.

If your topper and natural hair have slightly different textures when dry, styling them together with heat typically solves this. If there's a color mismatch, a colorist can tone either your natural hair or the topper to match better.

Caring for the Clips

Check your clips regularly for any bending or damage. Clips that don't close fully won't grip your hair securely. Most toppers allow you to replace individual clips if needed - contact us if you need replacements.

Keep the clips clean by wiping with a damp cloth periodically. Product buildup on the clips can make them slippery.

Storage

Never toss your topper loose in a drawer. The clips can get bent, and the hair can tangle. Store it on a small stand to maintain the base shape, in its original packaging, or laid flat in a clean drawer with the clips fastened to prevent bending.

For travel, pack your topper in a hard-sided case or place it in a protective pouch inside your suitcase where it won't get crushed.

Maintaining Your Natural Hair

Wearing a topper shouldn't damage your natural hair if you take some precautions. Move the clip placement around slightly between wears so the same sections don't bear the stress constantly. Keep your natural hair healthy with regular trims and conditioning treatments. If you notice any breakage or thinning at the clip areas, talk to your stylist about adjusting placement or trying larger clips that distribute weight better.

Deep Conditioning

Once a month, treat your topper to a deep conditioning mask. Apply to damp hair from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the base. Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. This keeps the hair soft and prevents the dry, straw-like texture that can develop over time.

When Your Topper and Natural Hair Need Different Things

If your natural hair needs a wash but your topper doesn't (or vice versa), care for them separately. You can wash and style your natural hair, let it dry, then add your clean topper. Or wash your topper while giving your natural hair a break.