Miss USA Contestant with Alopecia Ditches Her Wig in Stand Out Moment from Pageant Preliminary Round

Miss USA Contestant Embraces Alopecia by Ditching Wig at Pageant

Miss Nevada USA, Mary Sickler, made a bold statement during the Miss USA preliminaries on Wednesday, October 22, when she removed her wig on stage. Diagnosed with alopecia in December 2024, Sickler kept her condition private until after winning the state title in July.

The 22-year-old showcased her beauty in its entirety by walking the stage with alopecia universalis, stunning the audience in Reno, Nevada. Instead of her wig, Sickler wore a bejeweled head covering, making a unique statement alongside Miss New Hampshire, who donned a hijab.

Sickler’s silver bejeweled headwear complemented her shimmering gown adorned with intricate beadwork, creating a standout moment during the preliminary round of the pageant. The ultimate winner will be revealed after the Miss USA final round on October 24.

Living with alopecia since early December 2024, Sickler’s journey has been challenging. Initially losing hair in patches, she was devastated when her eyelashes and eyebrows disappeared, leading her to question her identity and beauty. Her alopecia diagnosis stripped her of her modelling career, leaving her feeling unrecognisable.

Despite the setbacks, Sickler remained committed to pursuing her dreams. After a successful modelling career was abruptly halted due to her condition, she made the bold choice to re-enter the world of pageantry, where she found solace on the stage.

By clinching the first runner-up spot at Miss Texas USA in May 2025, Sickler demonstrated her resilience. The Miss USA pageant allows contestants to compete in two state pageants per year, prompting Sickler to try her luck at Miss Nevada USA, where she emerged victorious in July 2025.

Though she initially hesitated to disclose her alopecia diagnosis, fearing the emotional toll, Sickler chose transparency before the national pageant. In a series of social media videos, she bravely shared her journey, inspiring many with her courage and self-acceptance.

Sickler’s decision to embrace her alopecia publicly marks a significant milestone. As the first Miss Nevada USA with alopecia universalis, she is breaking barriers and reshaping beauty standards. Her message of self-love and empowerment resonates with many, offering hope and inspiration to those facing similar challenges.

In a world where beauty ideals can be restrictive, Mary Sickler’s bold choice to showcase her true self serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty found in authenticity. As she prepares to compete for the Miss USA crown, Sickler’s story is a testament to strength, resilience, and the beauty of embracing one’s unique journey.