Wigs. Wiglets. Toppers. Falls. Hairpieces come in a variety of styles, colors, sizes, and names. But here’s one name you may not have heard of: Postiche.
What is a Postiche?
Sounds kind of fancy, right? That’s because the word postiche (pronounced paw-steesh) has French and Italian origins, with the word itself dating back to the mid-1800’s.
While a postiche generally refers to a hair topper, it can also be applied to any false hair that covers the scalp or face. Technically a postiche could refer to even full cap wigs, hair extensions, or even facial hair, such as human hair eyebrows! However, the word postiche almost always refers to wiglets (ie hairpieces that clip into biological hair to cover thinning or balding spots on the head, and add volume to the hair.) The postiche attaches to the wearer's biological locks using pressure clips and are designed to attach to the crown, hairline, or hair part areas.
Now come the real questions: Who would benefit from using a postiche? And if you fit the bill, where do you even start? We’ve included a quick guide below to help you determine if a postiche would be ideal for you and a brief summary of how to select the perfect postiche.
Who Needs a Postiche?
If you’re experiencing thinning hair, especially within the beginning (light) to progressive stage, a postiche/hair topper is an excellent choice. Thinning hair can occur for many reasons including but not limited to aging, illness, medications, chemotherapy, vitamin deficiencies, or hormonal fluctuations.
Postiches can also be used by those not experiencing hair thinning but just seeking to increase the volume of their hair.
Picking the Perfect Postiche for You
Choosing just the right postiche depends on several variables such as the location and extent of the hair loss. To determine your exact needs, follow the steps below:
- Begin by measuring the area where you need coverage. As you’re searching for a postiche, you’ll notice the base size listed on the product - You’ll want to ensure the postiche you select has a base size about an inch larger than the measured width and height to give you an extra ½ inch on each side. This allows the pressure clips to easily attach to your biological hair.
- Next, you’ll want to determine if the monofilament or classic base would be a better fit for you. The monofilament base allows you to easily part the hair and provides a more realistic appearance while the classic base features wefts of hair sewn by machine. The classic base does give you the option to weave your own hair through the topper for a more blended appearance.
- Once you select your base, you’ll want to determine whether synthetic hair, heat-friendly synthetic, or human hair is right for you.
- Lastly you’ll choose the desired length and color.
And that’s it! Once you receive your postiche, check to verify the base size, color, and length suit your needs. For a more in-depth look into each step, we recommend checking out our Hair Toppers Buying Guide for more tips.
Where to Buy a High Quality Postiche
When it comes to purchasing a postiche, you have two main purchase venues to choose from:
- Online: You can shop for a postiche at a credible online wig store. Shopping online means you will have a greater selection of products to choose from and be able to shop at your own pace. Buying toppers online is also often cheaper than buying toppers in a brick-and-mortar store. Headcovers offers free color matching consultations with our certified wig expert to help you find the perfect postiche color remotely and easily from the comfort of home. We also have lots of resources available to help you find the right hair piece for you. Headcovers is always just a phone call (1-800-264-4287) or email away if you have questions or need assistance!
- In-Store: Shopping in a wig store allows you to try on different products and have in-person help selecting a postiche from a sales associate.
Postiche Recommendations
With so many different toppers to choose from, it can be hard to know which postiche is "best." Here are a few of our favorite postiche options to give you a starting point!
Best Part-Coverage Postiche: easiPart by Jon Renau Wigs
The easiPart by Jon Renau Wigs is available in several different lengths, as well as two different hair types, to allow you to find the right postiche for part-coverage.
Best Crown-Coverage Postiche: easiCrown by Jon Renau Wigs
The easiCrown by Jon Renau is available in several different lengths, as well as two different hair types, to allow you to find the right postiche for crown-coverage.
Best Hairline-Coverage Postiche: Faux Fringe Hairpiece by Raquel Welch Wigs
The Faux Fringe Hairpiece by Raquel Welch Wigs is an affordable monofilament postiche made from lightweight synthetic hair. A realistic, piecey fringe effortlessly hides thinning on the hairline.
Best Fuller-Coverage Postiche: Milan by Noriko Wigs
Milan by Noriko Wigs is a great postiche for fuller coverage. The monofilament top provides a lightweight feel, while the realistic synthetic hair is lightweight and comfortable. This postiche effortlessly and naturally provides ample coverage and volume.
To Sum Up…
An elegant word for an elegant product, the postiche may not be a common word today but is still a very prominent item within the world of wigs. With today’s advancements, postiches are now constructed with the utmost ingenuity, comfort, and style. What other words have you heard for wigs or hair toppers? Tell us in the comments section below!