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If you’ve purchased a human hair topper, you already know it’s an investment: these toppers don’t come cheap, and the last thing you want is to see your investment wear out before its time.
Here at Daniel Alain, one of the most common questions we hear is: “How do I make my human hair topper last longer?” Whether you’re new to toppers or a seasoned wearer, understanding how to properly care for one can dramatically extend its lifespan and keep it looking natural and feeling luxurious for years.
In this article, we’ll walk you through six simple tips that will help you maintain your topper’s quality, protect your investment, and get the most wear out of it. If you’ve been worried about tangles, dullness, or damage, keep reading—we’ve got you covered.
Tip 1: Wash Your Topper with Care
Washing your human hair topper the right way is one of the easiest ways to keep it looking fresh and fabulous. But here’s the key: you need to treat it with extra TLC, just like you would your natural hair—or maybe even more gently!
Start by choosing the right products. Look for a cleansing shampoo and hydrating conditioner designed specifically for human hair.
How to Wash Your Human Hair Topper
- Detangle First: Before washing, gently comb through your topper with a wide-tooth comb or detangling pin brush to remove any knots. This helps prevent tangling during the wash.
- Shampoo Gently: Add a small amount of cleansing shampoo to a basin of warm water and swirl it around. Then, submerge the topper and gently swish it through the water. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the hair, as this can cause tangles or breakage.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse with clean, warm water until all the shampoo is gone.
- Condition with Care: Apply conditioner from mid-length to the ends and let it sit for a few minutes. Then rinse thoroughly.
Pro Tip: Don’t Over-Wash!
Washing your topper too often can dry it out and make it lose its softness and shine. Depending on how often you wear it, washing every 7–10 wears is usually enough.
Tip 2: Detangle Your Topper
Ignoring tangles can lead to damage over time, so it’s important to stay on top of it. The good news? A gentle detangling routine can keep your topper looking smooth, soft, and beautiful.
Start with the right tools for the job. A wide-tooth comb or a detangling pin brush is your best friend when it comes to detangling. Avoid regular hairbrushes with rough bristles, as they can pull on the hair and cause breakage.
How to Detangle the Right Way
- Start from the Ends: Always begin combing at the ends of the hair, where most tangles form. Work your way up toward the roots in small sections. This prevents pulling or tearing the hair.
- Be Gentle: Take your time and avoid yanking on knots. If you hit a tough tangle, gently work it out with your fingers before using the comb or brush.
- Detangle Before Washing: Always detangle your topper before washing it to avoid creating an even bigger mess when the hair is wet.
Make detangling part of your daily routine. A quick comb-through before and after wearing it can make a big difference in preventing knots from forming.
Tip 3: Avoid Heat Damage to Your Topper
Heat tools like straighteners and curling irons can do wonders for styling your topper, but too much heat can take a toll. Over time, frequent use of high temperatures can weaken the hair strands, causing dryness, breakage, and a loss of that natural shine. But don’t worry - you don’t have to give up styling your hair topper altogether!
Always Use a Heat Protectant
Before using any heat tools, spray your topper with a heat-protectant spray. This creates a barrier that helps shield the hair from damage. Think of it as sunscreen for your topper—it’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Keep the Heat Low
When using tools like curling irons or flat irons, set them to a medium temperature. High heat can cause long-term damage. Stick to the lowest setting that gets the job done for your style.
Try Heat-Free Styling
If you want to minimize heat use altogether, try alternative styling methods:
- For Curls: Use foam rollers or braid the hair while it’s slightly damp and let it air-dry.
- For Volume: Use velcro rollers or set the topper on a wig stand to dry in the desired shape.
These methods are gentler on the hair and still give you beautiful results.
Save Heat for Special Occasions
If you really love using heat tools, save them for special occasions rather than everyday styling. Your topper will thank you for it!
Tip 4: Store Your Topper Properly
When it comes to keeping your human hair topper in great condition, proper storage is key. Storing it the right way helps prevent tangling, keeps its shape intact, and protects it from unnecessary damage.
The best way to store your topper is on a mannequin head or a wig stand. These help the topper hold its shape and avoid flattening or creasing. If you don’t have much space, you can also use a silk or satin bag to protect it from tangles and frizz.
Avoid tossing your topper into a drawer or leaving it exposed on a surface where it can get tangled, dusty, or damaged. And always keep it away from direct sunlight—UV rays can fade the color and dry out the hair over time.
If you have multiple toppers or wigs, consider labeling your storage bags or stands so you can quickly find the one you need. It keeps everything neat and makes your daily routine easier.
By taking just a few extra steps to store your topper properly, you’ll help maintain its shape, shine, and overall quality. Plus, it’ll be ready to wear whenever you need it!
Tip 5: Protect Your Topper from the Elements
Your human hair topper faces the same challenges as your natural hair when it comes to the weather. Over time, UV rays, wind, and humidity can take a toll, leaving it dry, brittle, or even faded. But with a few simple steps, you can keep your topper looking fresh and healthy no matter the forecast.
Just like your skin, your topper needs protection from harsh UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure can fade the color and dry out the hair. On windy days, hair can tangle easily, which can lead to breakage. To protect your topper, wear a hat or wrap it in a light scarf when you’re outdoors for long periods. Not only does this keep it safe, but it can also add a stylish touch to your look!
To counteract the effects of the elements, treat your topper to an occasional deep-conditioning treatment. This helps restore lost moisture, leaving the hair soft, shiny, and healthy. You can use a deep conditioner specifically for human hair and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
Tip 7: Invest in Professional Maintenance
Sometimes, your topper needs a little extra TLC that only a professional can provide. Regular professional maintenance can help keep your topper looking its best and extend its lifespan. Think of it like taking your topper to the salon—it’s a great way to refresh its look and tackle any issues.
Just like your natural hair, toppers can develop split ends over time. A quick trim by a professional can help prevent the ends from fraying and keep the hair looking smooth and healthy.
If you wear your topper often, the clips or base might loosen or wear out. A professional can replace clips, tighten the base, or adjust it to ensure it stays secure and comfortable. These small fixes can make a big difference in how your topper looks and feels.
What Are the Best Human Hair Toppers?
The best human hair toppers are the ones that suit your needs and last a long time - and that longevity comes down to how well you care for them. By following these simple tips you can keep your topper looking stunning and feeling luxurious for months or even years.
A high-quality topper is a confidence booster and a way to take control of your hair journey.
If you’re still wondering which toppers are right for you, why not learn more from others who’ve been where you are? Check out our inspiring stories of real women who’ve taken control of hair loss with human hair toppers and discover how they found the perfect solution for their needs. Their journeys might inspire the next step in yours!