We’ve been seeing a trend lately: more scalp issues in our guests who wear toppers and hair systems. One of the biggest culprits? Not shampooing often enough.
Your topper may look amazing, but it doesn’t come with a “self-cleaning” button (we wish!). The truth is, your scalp still sweats, produces oils, and sometimes goes into overdrive thanks to stress, diet, or hormones. Add in the styling products we all love to use — hairspray, texture spray, gels, or mousse — and you’ve got even more residue sitting on both the topper hair and your scalp.
If this scalp buildup isn’t washed away, it can leave the hair looking dull, cause tangling, and irritate the scalp. Left unchecked, scalp buildup can snowball into oily dandruff, itchiness, and even cause your topper attachment to slip.
At the bare minimum, shampoo once a week. But for a healthier scalp (and a topper that looks fresher for longer), we recommend washing two times per week or more with the right products.
❓ Why Does Shampooing Matter If I Wear a Hair Topper?
Even with a topper, your scalp is still producing sweat and oil daily. Combine that with styling products, and you’ve got a recipe for scalp buildup. Shampooing clears that buildup, keeping your scalp healthy and your topper secure.
❓ What Happens If I Don’t Wash My Topper Often Enough?
- Oily dandruff and irritation
- A topper that slips or doesn’t adhere as well
- Hair that looks dull or tangled
- A shorter lifespan for your hair system
❓ How Do I Shampoo a Hair Topper the Right Way?
- Don’t delay — never go longer than a week between shampoos.
- Shower power — always shampoo in the shower for a thorough rinse.
- Foam it up first — emulsify shampoo in your hands before applying.
- Condition carefully — keep conditioner on mid-lengths to ends only. Avoid the base to prevent knot loosening and scalp buildup.
- Dry completely — leaving a topper damp can trap moisture, leading to scalp issues.
❓ What Products Should I Use for My Topper and Scalp?
Not all shampoos are topper-safe. Store-bought products may leave residue or damage knots. We recommend products formulated specifically for hair systems and sensitive scalps.
Shop our recommended products here
Services That Make It Even Easier
- Wash & Style Service: Need a break? Book a quick wash and style between reattachments. We’ll deep clean your topper and leave you feeling fresh.
- Scalp Treatments: Got itch? Our reapplication scalp treatments soothe irritation, reduce buildup, and keep your attachment secure.
Learn more about our full tricological scalp treatments
FAQ: Shampooing With a Hair Topper
How often should I shampoo my topper?
At least once per week, but twice per week is better for scalp health and topper longevity.
Can styling product buildup damage my topper?
Yes. Products like hairspray, texture spray, gels, and mousse can leave behind residue that dulls the hair and irritates your scalp.
What’s the best way to dry a topper after washing?
Always dry it 100%. Leaving moisture trapped in the base can cause scalp issues and reduce attachment security. Using a microfiber towel to gently blot or wrap the hair is a huge plus, since it helps absorb water without roughing up the hair. You can also use styling tools like a blow dryer — just be sure to ALWAYS use a heat protectant.
The Bottom Line
Shampooing regularly isn’t just about staying fresh — it’s about stopping scalp buildup before it causes problems. Oils, sweat, and styling products all collect faster than you think. With the right shampoo routine, you’ll stay comfortable, keep your topper attachment secure, and extend the life of your hair system.
A few extra minutes in the shower = less scalp buildup, more comfort, and a much happier scalp.