Dealing With Hair Loss? How To Find a Natural-Looking Hair Topper That Adds Volume for Less

If you’ve noticed your hair thinning since turning 50, achieving the fuller looks you love may feel like a challenge these days. That’s where hair toppers, trending on TikTok and Instagram, come in. Everyday women and celebrities alike are using them to create the appearance of thicker hair with little effort. But with prices easily reaching thousands of dollars, are affordable options available—and most importantly, are they worth it? We asked top dermatologists and celebrity hairstylists to find out.

Why your hair may be thinner after 50

“It’s usually a combination of factors,” explains  Joanne Jacob, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Epiphany Dermatology. “Hair loss can be from different conditions including inflammatory scalp conditions, hormonal changes or genetic factors. The most common cause of density change and hair loss after 50 is that as we age, follicles shift from more time in the growth phase to more time in the resting and shedding phase. Hairs can miniaturize and become finer as well.”

Menopause may also play a role in these changes. Alan J. Bauman, MD, ABHRS, IAHRS, FISHRS, says menopause can impact both hair thickness and density. “Estrogen and progesterone fall around menopause, and that reduces the protective effect these hormones have on follicles,” explains Dr. Bauman.

Dr. Bauman says other factors include issues that are largely treatable, such as:

• Low iron 
• Too little protein
• Thyroid imbalances 
• Low vitamin D

“All of these can disrupt the hair growth cycle,” continues Dr. Bauman. “Styling habits matter too: overdone color, chemical and heat straightening and hair extensions can all harm how the follicle works.”

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What are hair toppers?

So you’ve heard of wigs and extensions, but what exactly are these hair toppers everyone is talking about? “Hair toppers are hairpieces designed to add coverage and fullness to areas where someone may be experiencing thinning or hair loss, particularly around the top and crown of the head,” says Sandy Cannon, celebrity hairstylist and a master hairstylist specializing in hair extensions, hair replacement and healthy hair growth. “Unlike a traditional wig, a topper only covers a portion of the head and is designed to blend with your natural hair. They come in different sizes, lengths, colors and textures and can be attached using clips or more permanent attachment methods like adhesive or sewing.”

And they have everyone talking for good reason. Although Dr. Jacob says it won’t treat your thinning or hair loss, it’s great to help camouflage things. “They can boost confidence, give you an immediate result and are noninvasive,” adds Dr. Jacob. 

What to look for when buying a hair topper

If you want to jump on the hair topper trend but aren’t sure where to start after browsing the many options on TikTok Shop and Amazon, we asked Dr. Jacob and Sarai Martinez, celebrity hair stylist at Sarai By Day, what to look for.

• Start with the right hair topper base: Opt for a monofilament [ultra-thin and almost transparent] base or lace-top base for your hair topper to achieve a more natural look, recommends Dr. Jacob.
• Pick the right size for your thinning area: A hair topper that’s too small puts you at risk of revealing your thinning hair, while a piece that’s too large can appear bulky, adds Dr. Jacob.
• Find a hair topper that matches your hair texture: A texture match, or a match to the way you style your hair, will provide a more natural look, explains Dr. Jacob. “Human hair blends the easiest and can be styled,” says Dr. Jacob. “An affordable alternative is heat-friendly synthetic [hair topper], but make sure to avoid listings that don’t specify whether you can use heat.”
• Look for lightweight clips: The clips in your hair topper should be smooth, not too strong and padded to avoid pulling or snagging your already fragile hair, continues Dr. Jacob.
• Check the care instructions: Martinez recommends reading the label on the hair topper you purchase to make sure you fully understand how to care for it and are willing to commit to doing so, especially before investing in a more expensive brand.

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Two hair toppers that add volume for less

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With these tips in mind, you can shop for a hair topper at the retailer of your choice. But if you’re looking for expert-approved picks, Cannon recommends these two options for under $200—an investment, but still more affordable than many hair toppers that cost upwards of $800:

• Topunique Hair Toppers for Women: “This topper is a great option,” says Cannon. “I love the placement of the clips. It has a silk base, which creates a very natural looking and realistic scalp. It’s also 100 percent human hair, which is very important for longevity.”
• AIRAO Injected Thin Skin PU Base Silk Top Base: “This is another great option,” adds Cannon. “The PU base means that not only can you use it with clips, but you could also have the clips removed and have a professional apply it with adhesive.”

The bottom line on hair toppers

Know that you don’t have to live with thinning hair. From nutritional changes to proven medications like minoxidil, you have options. And in the meantime, hair toppers can help restore your confidence or simply help you switch up your look in a fun way. So give our experts’ tips a try, and happy shopping!

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