Miss Nevada’s Historic Alopecia Stance Redefines Beauty at Miss USA

Mary Sickler, Miss Nevada USA, made history at the Miss USA 2025 competition. She removed her wig during the preliminary round in a powerful act of visibility. The emotional moment, reported by People, received a standing ovation from the audience in Reno, Nevada.

Her bold move celebrated diversity and self-acceptance on a national stage. It created a resonant moment alongside another contestant, Miss New Hampshire, who wore a hijab. The finals are set for October 24.

Diagnosed with Alopecia and Redefining Beauty Standards

Sickler was diagnosed with alopecia in late 2024. The condition rapidly progressed from small patches to alopecia universalis. This resulted in the complete loss of all body hair.

She described feeling unrecognizable after looking in the mirror. Her eyelashes and eyebrows were gone. Her hair was falling out in patches.

The physical change triggered a deep emotional struggle. Having modeled and competed in pageants for years, she felt her identity was stripped away. Her modeling contract with Louis Vuitton was eventually revoked.

From Self-Doubt to Self-Confidence

Sickler initially retreated from the public eye. She questioned how a model with no hair could be perceived as beautiful. The industry’s focus on appearance made her future seem uncertain.

Her resilience, however, proved stronger than her doubt. She returned to pageantry, placing as first runner-up in Miss Texas USA. She later won the Miss Nevada USA crown.

She initially kept her diagnosis private during the competition process. She feared becoming emotional in interviews. She wanted to project strength above all else.

Becoming the First Miss USA Contestant with Alopecia

Sickler publicly shared her story on social media weeks before the national pageant. The outpouring of support was immediate and overwhelming. This newfound visibility gave her a renewed sense of purpose.

She told People that she never imagined competing on the Miss USA stage without hair. She said learning to see herself as beautiful was the crucial first step. That self-acceptance, she believes, allows others to see it too.

Her participation makes her the first publicly identified contestant with alopecia in Miss USA history. She is redefining beauty standards with undeniable courage and grace.

Info at your fingertips

What is alopecia universalis?

Alopecia universalis is an autoimmune disorder. It causes complete hair loss on the scalp and body. This includes the loss of eyebrows and eyelashes.

How did Mary Sickler prepare for the Miss USA stage?

She competed in and won the Miss Nevada USA pageant. She also shared her diagnosis publicly to raise awareness. Her preparation focused on inner confidence and her platform.

Has a contestant with alopecia competed in Miss USA before?

Mary Sickler is the first contestant to compete with a public alopecia diagnosis. Her participation is considered a historic moment for the competition. It marks a significant step toward greater inclusivity.

What was the reaction to her wig removal?

The live audience in Reno gave her a standing ovation. The moment was widely celebrated on social media. It was seen as a powerful statement of self-acceptance.

Why is this moment considered significant?

It challenges long-held, narrow beauty standards in pageants. It provides visibility for people with autoimmune conditions. It emphasizes that beauty is rooted in authenticity and strength.

Trusted Sources

People, Associated Press