Guides, scripts, and step-by-step support for every part of your hair restoration journey.
With proper care, your cranial prosthetic can last 12–18 months or longer. Follow these guidelines to protect your investment and keep your unit looking and feeling its best.
Wash every 8–12 wears or when product buildup is noticeable. Use lukewarm water and a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo. Never rub — gently work product through in a downward motion.
Apply a leave-in conditioner after every wash. For deep conditioning, use a lightweight mask once a month. Avoid silicone-heavy products near the lace or cap — they cause buildup and breakdown over time.
Store on a canvas wig head or folded in a silk bag when not in use. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Never store damp — always allow to fully air dry before storing.
Always detangle from ends to roots using a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush. Never pull through knots. For curly or wavy units, finger-detangle while the hair is damp and conditioned.
Fill a spray bottle with water and a few drops of leave-in conditioner for a quick refresh between washes. A light mist restores shine and softness without a full wash cycle.
Your fitting appointment is a collaborative, private session between you and your Postiche specialist. Here's exactly what happens so you can arrive prepared and confident.
Your specialist will review your application, medical background, and lifestyle preferences. This is the time to share photos of your natural hair (if available), discuss your daily routine, and ask any questions.
Your specialist will measure your head circumference, front-to-nape length, and ear-to-ear width to determine the right cap size. This takes about 5 minutes and is completely comfortable.
Based on your measurements and preferences, your specialist will present units from the catalog. You'll try on one or more and discuss color, length, texture, and density until you find the right match.
Minor adjustments — trimming, styling, securing the lace — are made at the appointment. More significant customizations may require a follow-up visit within 1–2 weeks.
Before you leave, your specialist will walk you through care and maintenance specific to your unit — washing schedule, products to use and avoid, and how to style safely at home.
Photos of your natural hair or desired style · Insurance documentation if applicable · Any questions written down · A trusted person for support if you'd like company
Getting your physician on board is essential — especially for insurance coverage. Many patients feel uncertain about how to bring this up. Here's a straightforward guide for your next appointment.
Your oncologist, dermatologist, or primary care physician can write a prescription for a cranial prosthetic. Any licensed physician who has documented your diagnosis can sign off.
Use the term "cranial prosthetic" — not wig or hairpiece. Reference HCPCS code A9282 and ask for a Letter of Medical Necessity with your ICD-10 diagnosis code.
"Can you write a prescription for a cranial prosthetic under HCPCS code A9282?" · "Can you document my diagnosis with the appropriate ICD-10 code?" · "Can you write a Letter of Medical Necessity for my insurance claim?"
"I'm experiencing hair loss related to my [diagnosis/treatment] and I'd like to obtain a cranial prosthetic. I've been told my insurance may cover this under HCPCS code A9282. Could you write a prescription and a Letter of Medical Necessity that documents my diagnosis so I can submit a claim?"
Your unit can be styled, curled, and refreshed just like natural hair — with a few important precautions to protect the fibers and lace cap.
Always use a heat protectant spray before applying any heat. Keep flat irons and curling wands below 350°F. Never apply heat directly to the lace or cap area — work 1–2 inches from the root only.
Use lightweight, water-based styling products. Argan oil serums, alcohol-free mousses, and wig-specific sprays work well. Avoid heavy gels, aerosol sprays, and anything with alcohol as the first ingredient.
Avoid bleach, permanent hair color, and relaxers — these will permanently damage the hair fibers. Semi-permanent color and toning glosses can be used carefully by a Postiche Verified stylist only.
If wearing overnight, loosely braid or wrap in a silk scarf to minimize friction and frizz. A satin pillowcase is a great backup. Remove and place on a wig stand whenever possible — this extends the life of the cap.
For anything beyond basic styling — cutting, coloring, or chemical services — always use a Postiche Verified stylist. Improper services can void the unit's condition and are not covered under the program.
Even with the best care, cranial prosthetics experience normal wear over time. Knowing what type of damage you have — and who to call — is the first step to getting it fixed.
Small lace tears near the hairline are common after 6–12 months of wear. These can be repaired by a skilled wig maker using matching lace material. Do not attempt DIY repairs with household glue — it permanently damages the lace.
Some shedding is normal, especially in the first few weeks. Excessive shedding or visible thinning in areas may indicate ventilation damage. A Postiche Verified wig maker can re-ventilate individual hairs into the cap to restore density.
Stretched caps, broken combs, or loose wefting can usually be repaired by a professional wig maker. These repairs are structural and should never be attempted at home — improper fixes can make the damage worse.
Severe tangling at the nape or throughout the unit is often reversible with a professional detangling treatment. Do not cut out mats — bring it to a Postiche Verified stylist who can work through tangles safely without losing hair.
Minor things like re-securing a comb or light detangling at the ends are fine to do at home. Anything involving the lace, cap structure, wefting, ventilation, or color should always go to a Postiche Verified professional.