Hair Toppers vs Extensions: Which is Right for You?

If you’re new to the world of alternative hair, you may be struggling to wrap your head around the range of options available and which might best serve you in your hair loss situation. With so many options out there, it's easy to get overwhelmed. But don't worry, we've got you covered!

At Daniel Alain, we understand the unique challenges of hair loss and are dedicated to helping you find the perfect solution to restore your confidence and enhance your natural beauty.

This article will break down the differences between hair toppers and hair extensions to help you understand which option might be best for your needs. We'll explore the basics, highlight the benefits and drawbacks of each, and guide you through choosing the right one for you.

By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of what each option offers and be well on your way to making a confident choice that suits your hair goals and lifestyle. 

What Are Hair Toppers?

Unlike a full wig which covers the entire head, hair toppers provide partial coverage to the top of the head to give a fuller and more voluminous look. They come in different base sizes; the smallest toppers cover just a small section along the part line to add coverage to a widening part, and the largest toppers cover more of the head and address more extreme hair thinning.

Hair toppers are made from human hair or synthetic fibers, and are designed to blend in color and length with your natural hair. Human hair toppers generally have a more realistic look than synthetic toppers, especially if they’re made from high-quality human hair. Human hair can be cut, colored, and styled just like your natural hair and this helps to create a seamless look.

Bonded hair toppers are applied to the scalp with adhesive and are removed and reapplied every month. Alternatively, clip-in toppers simply clip into parts of your natural hair. These hair toppers can easily be taken on and off daily, while remaining comfortable but secure on your head.

What are hair extensions?

Hair extensions are strands of hair that can be added to your natural hair to increase its length and volume. Extensions are great for people who want to achieve a dramatic transformation without waiting for their hair to grow out. They come in various styles, including clip-in, tape-ins, sew-ins, and fused, and, like toppers, can be made from real human hair or synthetic fibers. 

Whatever the attachment method used, hair extensions are designed to lie flat against the scalp which makes them very discreet. They can also be used to add highlights or color without coloring your natural hair.

Differences Between Hair Toppers and Hair Extensions

Coverage and Volume

Hair Toppers
Hair toppers are fantastic for adding coverage and volume to thinning areas or bald spots on the top of your head. They're ideal if you have thinning hair around the crown and along the part line, as they provide a natural look and boost your hair’s fullness where you need it most. 

Hair Extensions
Hair extensions are great for adding length and volume to your existing hair. They can transform your look by making your hair appear thicker and longer, which is perfect if you’re looking to add a dramatic change to your hairstyle.

Application and Installation

Hair Toppers
Clip-in hair toppers are super easy to apply as they come with clips that you attach to your natural hair. They’re a quick solution that only takes a few minutes to put on. Clip-in toppers can easily be removed before sleeping or showering. Bonded toppers require more maintenance and upkeep and once they’re on, stay on. Bonded toppers need to be removed and reapplied by a stylist.

Hair Extensions
Hair extensions come in various types like clip-ins, tape-ins, and sew-ins. Clip-ins are easy to use and can be applied at home, while tape-ins and sew-ins will require a visit to a stylist. 

Maintenance and Care

Hair Toppers
Maintaining a clip-in hair topper is straightforward. Regular washing, conditioning, and brushing keep them looking silky and tangle-free. They’re quite durable, especially if you invest in a high-quality topper, and with proper care, they can last a long time. Our Follea human hair toppers, for example, will last between 2 - 4 years and often even longer. 

Hair Extensions
Hair extensions also need regular care to stay in good condition. This includes washing, conditioning, and sometimes special treatments, depending on the type of extensions. They can be durable if well-maintained, but synthetic ones might need more frequent replacement compared to human hair extensions.

Cost

Hair Toppers
The cost of hair toppers can vary widely based on the quality and type of hair used. On average, they might be a bit pricey upfront, especially for high-quality human hair toppers. However, their longevity often makes them a worthwhile investment.

Hair Extensions
Hair extensions also come in a range of prices. Clip-ins are usually more affordable, while tape-ins and sew-ins can be more expensive, particularly when factoring in professional installation. The overall cost depends on the quality and type of hair, with human hair extensions being more expensive than synthetic ones.

Versatility and Styling

Hair Toppers
Hair toppers are versatile and human hair toppers can be styled just like your natural hair. You can curl, straighten, and even color them, making them a flexible option for everyday wear and special occasions.

Hair Extensions
Hair extensions also offer versatility. They can be styled in various ways; whether you want a sleek ponytail, bouncy curls, or extra volume, extensions make it possible without waiting for your hair to grow.

Pros and Cons of Hair Toppers and Hair Extensions

Hair Toppers Pros and Cons

Pros

Easy to Apply Hair toppers are simple to put on. It usually takes just a few minutes to apply a clip-in topper. Bonded toppers require more time to apply and are a more involved process.

Full Coverage They provide excellent coverage for thinning areas or bald spots, especially on the top of your head.

Natural Look High-quality hair toppers blend seamlessly with your natural hair to give you a natural and fuller appearance.

Cons

Higher Initial Cost Investing in a good quality hair topper can be expensive upfront, but they often pay off in the long run.

Potential Hair Damage While hair toppers are designed to be a non-invasive solution, a poorly fitting topper or one that’s not attached correctly can cause damage to your existing hair. It's crucial to ensure a proper fit and secure attachment to avoid this issue.

Hair Extensions Pros and Cons

Pros

Adds Length and Volume Hair extensions add instant length and volume to your hair.

Various Styles Available They come in many styles and types, giving you lots of options to match your desired look.

Less Expensive Initially Clip-in extensions can be a budget-friendly option compared to other hair solutions.

Cons

Potential Hair Damage Some types of hair extensions can cause damage to your natural hair, especially when worn for long periods. If you already have weak, damaged, or thinning hair, extensions are likely to exacerbate the problem because they put continual stress or tension on the hair.

Professional Installation Methods like tape-ins and sew-ins often require professional installation, which can add to the overall cost and maintenance.

Which is Right for Me – Hair Toppers or Hair Extensions?

It can be overwhelming to find the right alternative hair solution that meets your needs without causing further damage to your natural hair.

In this article, you’ve learned about the key differences between hair toppers and hair extensions. Hair toppers are great for covering bald spots and adding volume to thinning areas on the top of your head. They are easy to apply and provide a natural look. Hair extensions, on the other hand, are perfect for adding length and overall volume but can damage natural hair with long-term wear.

If you have thinning hair on the crown of your head, a hair topper might be your ideal solution. To ensure the best fit, consider consulting with a specialist who can provide personalized advice.

Hair toppers can be truly transformative and restore the confidence you may feel you’ve lost. To make sure you choose the right option for your lifestyle, it's essential to do your research and see how a hair topper can fit into your daily routine.

We also recommend exploring the benefits of choosing a human hair topper over a synthetic one to help you understand why many people prefer human hair toppers for their natural look and feel.

If you’re leaning towards a hair topper, we’re here to help you achieve the look you desire with confidence!