Wigs vs. Toppers

I see this questions asked a lot and for a good reason. Let’s break it down by reviewing what each one is, the similarities and differences, and how to decide which is best for you. 

Toppers

Toppers sit on the top of your head and are secured with clips, combs, and sometimes glue. Becasue they do not cover you whole head, the hair on the sides and at the back will be visible. Toppers are sized by amount of coverage and can range from a small strip of hair to barely smaller than a wig.  They can be made out of synthetic or human hair. Toppers have less material and hair, so they tend to cost less compared to wigs. 

If you choose a topper, you will need to match the wig to your own hair color as it will show on the sides and back under your topper. You also need to get a topper that is about the same length as your bio hair, or a little shorter if you would like a layered look. Also be prepared to style your hair similar to your topper - for example, if you have curly hair try to find a curly topper, or if you can’t be prepared to straighten your bio hair to match the topper or curl the topper to match your hair. Toppers can either be work in frnt of your hairline or behind your hairline with your own hairline pulled out in front of it, depending on your pattern of hair loss. It may be difficult to get the lace to lay flat if you choose to wear the topper in front of your natural hairline, which is where the glue comes in (these are called bendable toppers).

Wigs

Wigs, on the other hand, cover your entire head. They are also secured with clips, combs, and sometimes glue and can also be made out of synthetic or human hair. Sizing is based on your head circumference rather than the amount of coverage. Wigs tend to cost more compared to toppers because they require more hair and other materials In their construction. 

Because wigs cover your entire head and any hair that you may have, it’s less important that they math your bio hair… unless it lacks eartabs, in which case you do need it to match your bio hair like a topper. As long as the root color is relatively close to your eyebrow color it should look natural. You don’t have to worry about mathcing your hair texture or style because any hair that you have will be hidden under the wIg. 

How to choose

Overall, wigs tend to be more versatile and easier to secure than toppers, but they also cost more. If you want some or most of your bio hair showing, or you want to save money and you have the bio hair for it, consider going with a topper. If you are missing hair from athe sides and back/nape of your head or you want a color that is different from your own, you’ll need a wig..