I have the kit from Ecklers that does just on the sides of the hood bump on the my C4...It was easy to install, but we went really REALLY slow to get all the bubbles out...that was about 4 years ago and I have had no issues...other than it says "L98" and now I have a ZZ4 motor.
If the kit you are looking at is the whole center portion of the hood, you probably should get it installed by someone so its nice and even with no creases/bubbles.
As far as washing, etc. I do my best to avoid the edges so that nothing gets pulled up...just in case.