Miss USA Contestant with Alopecia Inspires by Removing Wig in Preliminaries

Mary Sickler, the current Miss Nevada USA, made headlines during the Miss USA preliminaries on October 22. The 22-year-old contestant, diagnosed with alopecia universalis, made a bold statement by removing her wig on stage.

Significant Moment at Miss USA Preliminaries

At the preliminaries held in Reno, Nevada, Sickler wore a stunning silver bejeweled gown. She complemented her outfit with a bejeweled head covering, stepping confidently beside fellow contestant Mona Lesa Brackett, who donned a hijab.

Alopecia Journey

Sickler’s journey began in December 2024 when she first noticed patches of hair loss. Initially suspected of having alopecia areata, her condition progressed, eventually causing her to lose all her hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows. This diagnosis significantly impacted her self-image and modeling career.

Overcoming Adversity

For months, Sickler grappled with her confidence while keeping her condition hidden. She believed that losing her hair would hinder her modeling opportunities. “I thought, ‘How can a model have no hair?’” Sickler shared, reflecting on her fears of being perceived as less beautiful.

Despite challenges, Sickler returned to pageantry, competing for the Miss Texas USA title in May 2025, where she placed as first runner-up. Shortly after, she entered the Miss Nevada USA competition in July.

Embracing Authenticity

Before the Miss USA finals, Sickler chose to publicly disclose her condition through social media, becoming the first woman with a public alopecia diagnosis to earn the Miss Nevada USA title. “It took me a long time to finally see myself as beautiful,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance.

Looking Ahead

The Miss USA finals are set for October 24, where Sickler will strive for the crown as a symbol of strength and resilience. Her journey illustrates a powerful message about beauty, confidence, and authenticity in the face of adversity.