Choosing the Perfect Hairpiece: A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re new to hairpieces, enhancers, and toppers, you’re about to discover a world of possibilities for enhancing your look. These versatile hair solutions are perfect for adding volume, covering thinning areas, or simply creating a new style without committing to a full wig. However, choosing the right piece can be daunting, especially when it comes to matching your natural hair and ensuring a perfect fit. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best choice, including potential pitfalls and tips for measuring your head.
The image is of Fill In Mono Human Hair Enhancer with Lace Front Ellen Wille Top Power Collection in colour Champagne Rooted.
Understanding Hairpieces, Enhancers, and Toppers
Before diving into the selection process, it’s essential to understand what these terms mean:
- Hairpieces: These are general terms for any hair additions that attach to your existing hair to enhance volume or cover specific areas.
- Enhancers: Designed to add fullness and volume to your natural hair, enhancers blend seamlessly to create a fuller look.
- Toppers: Toppers are a specific type of hairpiece that covers the top of the head, perfect for those experiencing thinning or hair loss in the crown area.
Pitfalls to Avoid When Choosing a Hairpiece
Selecting a hairpiece isn’t just about picking one that looks good in the package—it’s about finding one that integrates seamlessly with your natural hair. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Mismatched Hair colour: One of the biggest challenges is matching the hairpiece colour to your natural hair. Even slight differences in shade or tone can be noticeable, so it’s crucial to get as close a match as possible. Consider the undertones of your natural hair, whether warm or cool, when selecting a colour.
We offer loans of colour swatch rings, if you would like to see the colours first hand, here are details:
https://www.valentinewigs.co.uk/pages/colour-ring-loan-programme
- Incorrect Texture: Hair texture is another factor that can make or break the natural look of a hairpiece. If your hair is fine and straight, choosing a curly or coarse hairpiece will likely stand out. Similarly, matching the level of shine and thickness is vital for a cohesive look.
- Improper Fit: A poorly fitted hairpiece can be uncomfortable and obvious. Ensuring that the base of the hairpiece covers the right area and stays secure is critical for comfort and confidence.
- Unrealistic Expectations: Hairpieces are fantastic for enhancing your look, but they aren’t a miracle solution. Understanding the limitations of what a hairpiece can do will help you make a more satisfying choice.
The Challenges of Matching Your Natural Hair
Matching a hairpiece to your bio hair is one of the trickiest aspects of the selection process. Here are a few strategies to help you get it right:
- Colour Matching: When selecting a colour, it’s best to do so in natural light, which gives the most accurate representation of both your hair and the hairpiece. Many retailers offer colour swatches or samples, which can be helpful when making your decision.
Here are details of our colour swatch ring loan programme.
- Consider Highlights and Lowlights: If your natural hair has highlights or lowlights, look for hairpieces that offer similar variations. Many toppers and enhancers come with blended colours that mimic the natural variations in hair.
- Consult a Professional: If you’re struggling to find the right match, consider consulting with a hairstylist who specialises in hairpieces. They can provide expert advice and may even custom colour a piece for you.
Here is a guide to attaching your hairpiece.
How to Measure Your Base Cap Size
Getting the right fit for your hairpiece is crucial. To ensure your hairpiece covers the desired area and stays in place comfortably, you’ll need to measure the area on your head that you want to cover. Here’s how:
1. Identify the Area: Start by identifying the specific area you need the hairpiece to cover, whether it’s the crown, top of the head, or a section along the sides.
2. Measure the Width: Using a soft measuring tape, measure across the widest part of the area from one side to the other. This is usually done at the back of the head for toppers and enhancers that cover the crown.
3. Measure the Length: Measure from the front of the area to the back, or from where you want the hairpiece to start and end.
4. Add a Margin: Add about half an inch to an inch to these measurements to ensure full coverage and to account for the base of the hairpiece. This additional space ensures the piece sits comfortably and securely.
Here is how to attach your hairpiece with adhesive instead of clips.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hairpiece
With the basics covered, here are some additional tips to guide your selection:
- Start Small: If you’re new to hairpieces, it may be wise to start with a smaller enhancer or topper that’s less noticeable. This will allow you to get used to wearing and caring for the piece before moving on to larger or more complex options.
- Choose the Right Attachment Method: Hairpieces can be attached in various ways, including clips, combs, tapes, and adhesives. Clips are the most common and easiest to use, but if you have sensitive skin or fine hair, you may want to explore other options.
- Invest in Quality: A well-made hairpiece not only looks more natural but also lasts longer and is more comfortable to wear. Consider investing in a higher-quality piece if you plan to wear it regularly.
Caring for Your Hairpiece
Proper care will extend the life of your hairpiece and keep it looking great. Synthetic hairpieces require special care products, while human hairpieces can be treated much like your natural hair. Regular washing, gentle brushing, and careful storage will all help maintain the piece's condition.
Here is a washing guide for synthetic wigs and pieces.
Here is a washing guide for human hair wigs and pieces.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect hairpiece, enhancer, or topper takes some time and consideration, but the results are well worth the effort. By understanding the potential pitfalls, taking accurate measurements, and carefully matching your natural hair, you can find a piece that enhances your look and boosts your confidence. Remember, the right hairpiece should feel like an extension of yourself—comfortable, natural, and beautifully you.
