HAIR TOPPERS

Colors can look very different in photos and videos, so choosing the right shade can be tricky.

I do my best to photograph each piece in natural lighting and capture the color as accurately as possible, but please remember:

Lighting, screen settings, and angles can all affect how a color appears.

Here’s how to get the best color match:

1. Browse the website or Instagram. I have lots of photos and videos that show different shades in natural light. Try to find one that closely matches your own hair.
   

2. Send photos of your hair. You’re welcome to email me pictures of your hair in natural lighting. Just keep in mind that even good photos can be a little deceiving due to lighting and camera differences, so this method isn’t always perfect.
   

3. Mail me a hair sample. For the most accurate match, you can send in a physical sample of your hair. I’ll match it as closely as possible.

Please note

It’s impossible to capture a hair color 100% accurately on camera. Outdoor vs. indoor light, direct sun vs. shade, and screen type (phone vs. computer) can all change how a color looks. Some variation is completely normal and to be expected.

The lifespan of your wig or topper depends on how often you wear it, the base construction, and how well it’s cared for.

With proper maintenance, most pieces will last between 1–2+ years, and in some cases, even longer.

Factors that affect longevity

• Read and follow the care instructions carefully, don’t apply products directly to the base or attachment.

• Daily wear vs. occasional use.

• Heat styling frequency.

• Product buildup and washing habits.

• Color upkeep and sun exposure.

• Whether you sleep, swim, or exercise in your piece (not recommended).

💬 Real-life experience

I usually switch out my own piece once a year, but I have clients who wear their lace top wigs daily for over two years and they still look like new, good care truly makes a difference.

If possible, I recommend owning two pieces:

1. As a backup (in case something happens), and

2. To alternate between them, this helps extend the life of both.

✨ Base constructions & durability

• Silk base: The most durable option. The knots are protected under a silk layer, minimizing shedding and making it last up to 2 years or more with gentle use.

• Lace top: Ultra-realistic and breathable, but more delicate because of the fine lace and tiny knots. Handle gently when washing, styling, or wearing. I usually suggest replacing your lace top after 8–12 months if worn daily, though with careful maintenance, it can last much longer.

• Skin/lace hybrid (SL): Beautifully realistic and ultra-flat, but the ultra-thin PU/skin layer and hand-injected hair make it a little more fragile, expect 8–12 months depending on wear and care.

If your piece starts to thin, you can always look into professional repair services that can add hair or extend the lace (this is not a service I provide, but it is available through wig specialists).

💛 Color & upkeep

Just like when we visit the hairdresser with our own hair, colors will need touch-ups over time, they don’t last forever.

Lighter blondes are naturally more processed and will need a little extra love and hydration to stay healthy.

A professional color refresh from time to time keeps your piece vibrant and fresh.

🧴 Care tips for longevity

To help your piece stay in beautiful condition:

• Use only gentle, sulfate-free, wig-safe products (such as Davroe or Color Wow).

• Avoid scratching the base — this can weaken lace, silk, or PU areas.

• Keep oils, conditioner, and hairsprays with alcohol away from the base, as they can loosen knots or damage the material.

• Never soak your wig or topper; wash gently following the care guide.

• Store it safely on a stand, away from sunlight and heat.

• Rotate your pieces if you wear them daily.

🪶 A note from Valerie

I’ve personally worn & tested all my topper constructions for a long time and have never had a bald spot, even after 3 years of wear.

The color may soften slightly (which is completely normal), but the base and hair stay in great condition when treated with care.

Definitely! A professional haircut will make the wig /topper truly yours. I always recommend having it customized by a professional hairstylist for the best fit and look.

Going darker

Absolutely! Human hair wigs and toppers can be safely dyed darker. If you have a specific color in mind, it's often best to start with a light brown or dark blonde shade and have your hairdresser color it to match your bio hair.

Going lighter

Lightening is trickier. If the color is labeled “natural” (like natural dark brown or natural soft black), then yes, you can usually lift it lighter, as it’s virgin, unprocessed hair.

However, if the wig or topper is already a lighter color, it’s likely been processed. Bleaching this type of hair can result in greenish, greyish, or uneven tones, so proceed with caution. If you do attempt to lift, always do a strand test first in a hidden spot.

Hairdresser tips

1. Test strand, always Wig and topper hair tends to be porous, so it takes color quickly. A test strand helps avoid surprises.

2. Protect the silk or lace top at all costs.

3. Never let color, toner, or pigmented shampoos touch the silk top or lace area. It can stain or even cause bald spots if the knots are damaged.

Can any hairdresser do this?

Any professional hairdresser should be able to customize a wig or topper. If they’re unsure or inexperienced, it’s best to look for one who works with hair extensions. The hair used in wigs and toppers is processed in a similar way to extension hair, and tones, lifts, and behaves the same when coloring. The techniques and products are virtually identical.

That said, it’s very important to stay away from the base of the wig or topper with any dye, toner, or product. The lace or silk areas are delicate, and damage can lead to staining or knot loss, which may cause shedding or bald spots over time.

If you're unsure where to go, I’m happy to recommend stylists who are familiar with working on Hair by V pieces.

Pacino kapper

• Sint-Trudoplein 4

• 3530 Houthalen-Helchteren

• BELGIUM

• https://www.instagram.com/pacinokapper/

• +32 472 69 31 90

GAEA Organic Hair Saloon

• Kongostraat 5

• 8300 Knokke-Heist

• BELGIUM

• +32 497 29 72 16

The Hair Goddess

• Hasseltsestraat 60

• 3290 Diest

• BELGIUM

• info@thehairgoddess.be

• https://www.thehairgoddess.be/

• +32472 08 15 14

Hair by Michelle

• GERMANY

• https://www.instagram.com/hair_by_michelle___/

You can also send your piece directly to Hair by V for a wash/treatment or color service.

Note: This service is only available for Hair by V pieces.

Processing Time

• Wash & treatment: approx. 1 week

• Color service: up to 4 weeks

Pricing

• Based on length and time required

• All prices include 21% VAT, excluding shipping

• Every piece is hand-colored. Results may vary due to base color, texture, and application

​

How it works

• Email us clear photos of your piece

• You'll receive shipping instructions and a payment link (including return shipping)

If your piece starts to thin, you can always look into professional repair services that can add hair or extend the lace (this is not a service I provide, but it is available through wig specialists).

You can find many through Instagram, but I’d be happy to recommend a few:

Pruikenreparatie

• Het Firmament 76 7325 EG Apeldoorn

• THE NETHERLANDS

• https://pruikenreparatie.nl/

• +31 6 141 805 53

Passend haarwerk

• Emmalaan 3

• 4101JN Culemborg

• THE NETHERLANDS

• info@passend-haarwerk.nl

• +316 20564948

A wig offers full coverage, meaning it covers your entire head and does not require any blending with your natural hair. If you have bio hair, it is typically put into a low ponytail and tucked underneath the wig. Because it offers full coverage, you can choose any color, length, or style, no matter what your natural hair looks like.

Can be worn by people with & without bio hair.

A topper, on the other hand, provides partial coverage. It’s designed to cover only the top or crown area and is meant to blend with your own hair for a seamless look. It attaches with clips to the top of your head and adds volume exactly where you need it, kind of like a crown coverage extension.

Since a topper blends with your natural hair, the color, texture, and length should match your bio hair as closely as possible. Ideally, the topper should be a similar length or a few inches longer - not shorter - to maintain a natural blend.

Toppers are a great option for those who still have enough hair for clips to hold onto, and hair in the front to blend. If you wear bangs, blending becomes even easier and more forgiving.

I always recommend checking out the comparison pages. First you’ll find all the pros, cons, and detailed info to help you choose what fits your needs best.

Both lace tops and silk tops offer a natural look, but they differ in feel, appearance, and styling flexibility.

Silk tops tend to mimic the look of a real scalp when you're looking directly down at the part. If you're after that ultra-realistic “scalp effect,” silk is a great option. However, silk tops are often a bit denser, have less natural flow and the hair tends to fall forward into the face, which can limit how easily you style it away.

Lace tops, from a normal eye-level view, tend to look more natural and seamless. Lace tops are also lighter, less dense and have more movement, which allows for more styling freedom, especially if you like to push the hair back and away from your face.

Don’t worry, unless someone is uncomfortably close and inspecting your scalp, you won’t be able to tell it’s lace.

In the end, it really comes down to personal preference and how you like your hair to look and move.

Make sure to read the comparison page.

Yes, they can be styled just like your natural hair. However, just like with bio hair, heat can cause damage over time, so it’s important to be gentle.

Here are a few tips to protect your wig while styling:

1. Keep the heat under 180°C (around 350°F). High heat can damage the hair and loosen the knots over time.

2. Style in small sections. This allows you to apply heat more quickly and evenly, reducing exposure.

3. Use a good heat protectant. It’s a simple step that goes a long way in preserving the quality of the hair.

4. Limit how often you use heat. Wigs/toppers hold curls and waves really well, often for a week or more, so daily styling usually isn’t necessary.

Keep in mind: Just like your natural hair, frequent heat styling may cause the color to fade faster.

No, I don’t offer full cuts, but I do provide face-framing layers from the chin down if requested. The reason I don’t do full haircuts is because I always recommend having your piece cut while you're wearing it, ideally by a hairdresser. Every face shape, hairline, and forehead is different, so the most natural result comes from tailoring the cut directly on you.

Technically, yes but I don’t recommend it. Sleeping in a wig can reduce its overall lifespan and lead to tangling and dryness over time. For toppers, the clips may cause friction or discomfort on the scalp during the night.

If you do choose to sleep in your piece occasionally, try to use a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction and protect the hair.

When choosing a hair topper, the size of your head isn’t what matters most, it’s the area you want to cover. Measure from front to back and side to side to determine how much coverage you need. Most Hair by V toppers come in 8x8, or 9x9 inch bases. Other sizes (like 7x7 or 10x10 inches) are available upon request.

• The larger the base, the more coverage you get. The smaller the base, the higher the clips will sit on your head.

Smaller caps mean the clips are placed closer to the crown, which is often where hair is most fragile. It’s very important not to place clips directly on thin or sensitive areas, as this can cause discomfort, tension, and even lead to bald spots over time.

That’s why all Hair by V toppers are designed with:

• A large front comb (instead of clips)

• Clips placed around the sides and back for secure but gentle hold

Personally, I’m not a fan of clips in the front, because that’s exactly where most women have the least hair. The large front comb is meant to be gently slid into the hair - not just placed on top. And don’t worry: you don’t need a lot of hair for it to stay put. That comb, together with the surrounding clips, keeps the topper secure and comfy all day long.

Comfort tip:

The bigger the base, the more evenly the pressure is distributed, and the more comfortable it feels. Always close the clips gently - never too tight - to avoid tension or pulling.

Style tip

Want to wear a ponytail? The smaller the base, the higher you can position the ponytail.

Every lace top wig, closed lace topper, and SL topper has return hairs. That’s what helps create more natural flow, movement, and volume. If you don’t like return hairs, a silk topper may be a better choice, silk toppers tend to lay flatter and do not have return hairs.

Return hairs (also called "short return hairs" or "inverted hairs") are short pieces of hair, usually 2 to 3 inches long, that are a natural byproduct of the knotting or hand-tied weft process.

When a single strand of long hair is tied onto the lace or base, it forms a loop, meaning there’s one long side and one short side. That short side is what we call the return hair.

They’re not a flaw or damage, return hairs exist in all hand-knotted wigs and toppers and are often more noticeable in high-density pieces or light-colored hair, where contrast and layering make them stand out more.

Why do return hairs exist?

• They are unavoidable in hand-tied or knotted construction.

• They add texture, movement, and volume near the roots, helping the piece look more natural, especially when styled with lift or wave.

• They also help secure the knot, which improves durability. Without return hairs, the strand wouldn’t stay tied to the base.

Are they visible?

Sometimes, especially in:

• Very straight hairstyles

• Light blonde colors (due to more contrast)

• Sleek, flat styles without root volume

How to tame return hairs

They’re easily managed with a few tricks:

Heat styling: Use a flat iron or blow dryer. Lift the hair with a brush, then blow dry the shorter hairs downward for a smoother look.

Serum or smoothing cream: A tiny bit of anti-frizz product or leave-in serum helps keep them lying flat.

Hair spray (used lightly): Spray a bit on your fingers or a comb, then smooth down return hairs at the part or crown.

Important tip

Avoid using too much heat directly on the base of the wig or topper, always focus on the hair strands, not the knots, especially with lace materials.

Yes, you can use a hot brush to add volume at the roots, just make sure it's not too hot and always dampen the base slightly beforehand. Never apply heat directly onto the base, as this can damage the material or loosen the knots.

Yes, but less is more. Always opt for alcohol- and sulfate-free products to prevent drying out the hair. Avoid spraying hairspray directly onto the base, as it can weaken the knots/attachment and lead to shedding or bald spots.

Knots and tangles in the nape area are very common with wigs and toppers. The warmth of your body, friction from clothing (collars, scarves, coats) and the natural movement of the hair make this area more prone to tangling than the rest. Especially with longer hair, this is simply part of wearing a piece.

👉 How to prevent and manage tangles:

- Gently detangle daily with a wig-safe brush or comb. Always start from the ends and slowly work your way up.

- Use leave-in conditioner or detangling spray, preferably sulfate- and silicone-free. This adds slip and prevents breakage.

- Be mindful of clothing: long hair rubs against collars, scarves and coats. On such days, gentle detangling may be needed more often.

- Extra care: a touch of leave-in conditioner or lightweight oil on the ends helps to keep them smooth.

Knots in the nape are a normal part of human hair wigs and toppers, but with the right care routine you’ll keep your piece soft, shiny and beautiful.

Hair grade doesn’t just affect price, it determines how the hair feels, how it moves, how it air-dries, and how much daily effort it needs to look good.

European grade

Look & feel

• Naturally fine to medium strands

• Soft, realistic movement

• Blends well with European hair types

How it air-dries

• Air-dries soft, straight with a very soft natural wave

• Not pin-straight when left to dry naturally

• Looks effortless, but not “sleek-salon straight” without styling

Good to know

• Very natural-looking

• Requires light styling if you prefer a polished or very straight finish

• Great balance between realism and manageability

⸻

Brazilian grade

Look & feel

• Thicker strand diameter

• Holds style very well

How it air-dries

• Air-dries with more body and texture

• Can appear slightly coarser if left completely untouched

• Benefits from blow-drying or light styling, straightening iron

Good to know

• Very durable and strong

• Ideal if you like volume or frequent styling

• Less “fine and airy” than European or Slavic grades

⸻

Slavic / Russian grade

Look & feel

• Ultra-fine, silky strands

• Extremely soft and light

• The most natural and delicate appearance

How it air-dries

• Air-dries very smooth, soft and straight with a slight wave.

• Minimal frizz, minimal effort

• Very natural looking. Often looks styled even when it’s not

Important to know (very important)

• Slavic hair can sometimes feel slightly tangled or “grabby” while wet

• This is normal for ultra-fine hair and does not indicate poor quality

• Once gently brushed and fully dry, the hair becomes smooth and silky again

Good to know

• Rarest and most expensive hair grade

• Not all lengths or colors are always available

Why shedding can occur and how to slow it down

If you are new to wigs or toppers, it’s important to understand one thing upfront: a high-quality human hair wig or topper is not a permanent product.

Understanding how a wig or topper is constructed helps set realistic expectations and makes a big difference in how long you can enjoy your piece.

⸻

How a wig or topper is constructed

Human hair wigs and toppers are constructed by securing individual hairs into a lace or base using very small knots. Thousands of these knots together create a natural hairline, realistic parting and soft movement.

This delicate construction is what makes a wig or topper look realistic — but it also means the base requires gentle handling.

⸻

What shedding really means

Shedding occurs when a knot loosens or breaks, allowing a hair to come free.

This is not hair “falling out randomly” and is almost never caused by poor hair quality.

A small amount of shedding is normal, especially:

• during the first wears or washes

• when loose hairs from production are released

• during gentle brushing or washing

This is comparable to natural hair fall.

⸻

Why some wigs and toppers are more delicate than others

Very natural wigs and toppers often use:

• fine lace

• small, low-visibility knots

• sometimes lightened (bleached) knots for a softer hairline

These features improve realism but can make the knots more fragile over time.

It’s a balance between a very natural look and long-term durability.

⸻

Common causes of increased shedding

Shedding is most often caused by mechanical stress rather than a defect.

Examples include:

• brushing or pulling while the hair is wet

• pulling from the roots instead of the ends

• rubbing, scrubbing or scratching the lace or base

• twisting or wringing the hair when wet

• soaking the wig or topper in water

• applying conditioner, masks or heavy products on the base

• high heat near the knots or part

• tight hairstyles or frequent part changes

• friction from scarves, jackets, seatbelts or sleeping in the piece

⸻

How to slow down shedding with proper care

Shedding cannot be fully prevented, but proper care can significantly slow it down and extend the lifespan of your wig or topper.

DO

• Brush gently, starting at the ends and working upwards

• Brush only when dry or slightly damp

• Support the lace with your hand while brushing

• Detangle before washing

• Let water and shampoo flow through the hair

• Apply conditioner to mid-lengths and ends only

• Gently squeeze out water with a towel

• Use moderate heat and low tension near the roots

• Remove your wig or topper when resting or sleeping

• Reduce friction whenever possible

DON’T

• Brush or pull on the hair when it’s wet

• Rub, scrub or scratch the lace or base

• Soak the wig or topper in water

• Twist or wring the hair

• Apply conditioner, masks or oils on the base

• Scratch the lace if it feels itchy

• Use very high heat near the knots or part

• Wear tight ponytails or frequently change the part

• Sleep, swim or shower with your wig or topper

⸻

Wigs and toppers don’t last forever

Even with excellent care, wigs and toppers have a limited lifespan.

Over time:

• knots naturally loosen

• the base experiences wear

• shedding may gradually increase

This is normal and part of wearing a delicately constructed hairpiece.

The lifespan depends on wear frequency, styling habits and overall care.

⸻

If shedding increases

Increased shedding does not automatically mean the piece is ruined.

In many cases, professional maintenance such as reinforcing knots or adding hair to thinning areas can help extend wear and restore balance. Addressing changes early often makes a significant difference.

⸻

Final note

Human hair wigs and toppers are created to look natural — and that natural look comes with a delicate construction. Understanding this helps explain why shedding can occur, why gentle care matters, and why realistic expectations are important.

With the right care and awareness, you can enjoy your wig or topper with confidence and get the most out of your investment.

Appearance, durability, longevity & shedding

Knots are the tiny points where individual hairs are tied into the lace.

When these knots are bleached, they become lighter in color, making them less visible and creating a softer hairline appearance. While this can look beautiful, it also comes with important trade-offs that directly affect durability, shedding and lifespan.

⸻

✅ Pros of bleached knots

More invisible hairline

• Knots blend more easily into the lace

• Creates a soft, realistic look, especially at the front

• Often preferred for close-up or photo-focused styling

Immediate aesthetic result

• The hairline looks lighter and more “finished” without additional customization

⸻

⚠️ Cons of bleached knots

Reduced durability

• Bleaching weakens the hair at the knot itself

• Hair is more prone to breakage and shedding, especially at the hairline

Shorter lifespan

• Bleached knots do not hold up as long with frequent or daily wear

• Friction from styling, brushing, hats or glasses accelerates wear

Higher shedding risk

• Shedding usually starts at the hairline, where knots are most exposed

• This is a structural effect of bleaching, not a defect

Potential color shift over time

• Bleached knots can turn warm or slightly brassy due to oxidation, UV exposure, washing and product buildup

⸻

Longevity: what to realistically expect

Bleached knots are not designed for maximum longevity.

They are best suited for:

• Occasional wear

• Clients prioritizing an ultra-soft hairline over durability

• Situations where aesthetics matter more than lifespan

They are less ideal for:

• Daily wear

• Long-term use without frequent maintenance

• Clients who prefer a low-maintenance solution

⸻

Invisible vs durable — the real choice

There is no “better” option, only a different priority:

• Bleached knots → more invisible, but less durable

• Unbleached / stronger knots → slightly more visible, but significantly more resistant to shedding and wear

Bleached knots should never be seen as a quality upgrade, they are a stylistic decision with consequences.

⸻

Can I order bleached knots on any Hair by V wig?

Yes. All Hair by V wigs can be ordered as a custom order with bleached knots.

Because bleached knots affect durability and longevity, this option is only advised when clients fully understand and accept the trade-off between appearance and lifespan.

⸻

How does Hair by V create a natural hairline without bleached knots?

For regular lace top wigs, Hair by V offers an alternative method.

Instead of bleaching the knots, wigs can be ordered with light front hair (often lighter or blonde hair at the hairline).

I then hand-paint and custom color this front area to match the rest of the wig.

This technique:

• Creates a soft, natural-looking hairline

• Keeps the knots stronger and more durable

• Reduces shedding at the hairline

• Improves overall longevity

This is a preferred option for clients who want a natural result without compromising lifespan.

⸻

Which Hair by V wigs come standard with bleached knots?

The Low Density Hairline Collection (standard) comes with:

• Bleached knots

• Brazilian hair grade (single drawn hair, thinner towards the ends)

Exception:

• The color Demi is made with double drawn European hair grade

Because of the bleached knots, this collection is best suited for clients who prioritize an ultra-soft hairline and have realistic expectations regarding durability and maintenance.

⸻

Care tips for bleached knots

• Handle the hairline gently

• Avoid excessive brushing or pulling at the lace

• Limit heat and friction at the front

• If knots become warm or brassy over time, a blue or purple &shampoo can help neutralize unwanted tones

• Use sparingly

• Focus on the hairline area

• Overuse can dry out the hair

Proper care helps maintain appearance, but it cannot reverse structural weakening caused by bleaching.

⸻

Final note

Bleached knots affect:

• Hairline appearance

• Shedding behavior

• Longevity

• Maintenance level

Understanding this before ordering is essential.

All related comparisons and care guidance are available on the Hair by V website and should be read thoroughly before purchasing.