Down Syndrome Hair Loss & Other NDIS Clients
Hair loss can affect anyone, but individuals with Down syndrome may experience it more often due to a combination of genetic, autoimmune, and hormonal factors. At Tammy Lobato Wigs, we understand the sensitive nature of hair loss and offer a safe, compassionate environment where every client — and their family or carer — feels respected, understood, and supported.
Understanding Hair Loss in Down Syndrome
Research suggests that 10–15% of people with Down syndrome experience some form of hair loss. The most common cause is alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to patchy or complete hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, and/or eyelashes.
Common Causes of Hair Loss in Down Syndrome
Alopecia Areata
The most frequent cause of hair loss in people with Down syndrome. This autoimmune condition results in smooth, round patches of hair loss and may affect multiple areas of the body.
Autoimmune Conditions
Alopecia areata is often linked with other autoimmune disorders such as hypothyroidism, which itself can contribute to thinning hair and slower regrowth.
Tinea Capitis
A fungal infection of the scalp that can cause hair breakage and bald patches. This condition may be more prevalent among individuals with Down syndrome.
Folliculitis
Inflammation of the hair follicles that can lead to small, localised bald spots or irritation.
Trichotillomania
A compulsive hair-pulling behaviour that can co-occur with alopecia areata or stress-related conditions.
While the causes vary, the emotional and social effects of hair loss are often significant — which is why our approach goes beyond treatment, focusing on confidence, comfort, and connection.
A Safe and Supportive Environment
Tammy’s salons offer a private, sensory-considerate environment, designed to make every visit as comfortable as possible. Each client is treated as an individual, with appointments tailored to their pace, communication style, and comfort level.
Whether it’s a first consultation or a regular maintenance appointment, we take the time to ensure clients — and their families — feel secure, respected, and cared for.
We also provide guidance and emotional support to parents, carers, and support workers, ensuring they have the knowledge and confidence to assist with wig care, scalp hygiene, and at-home maintenance.
Personalised Hair Solutions
We offer a range of hair solutions designed to restore confidence and enhance comfort for clients with Down syndrome and other NDIS clients, including:
Human Hair Wigs
Lightweight, breathable, and completely natural-looking
Clip-in or Bondable Hair Toppers
For partial coverage or added volume
Customised fittings
To suit scalp sensitivity, lifestyle, and comfort preferences
Ongoing Care
To make ongoing care accessible, we provide:
Complimentary education session
For the parent, carer, or support worker to learn safe wig care and handling
Wash & Style Appointments
From $110 to $150, including a professional wash, condition, and blow-dry in a supportive, calm environment.
Monthly Servicing
For Bonded Hair Systems — 15% discounted rate for clients with Down syndrome.
Empowering Confidence Through Care
Every client is unique — and at Tammy Lobato Wigs, we take the time to understand each person’s needs, preferences, and abilities. Our focus is always on comfort, dignity, and empowerment, helping clients look and feel their best at every stage.
What Our Clients Have to Say
Tammy is an angel on earth. I can’t recommend the services which Tammy provides highly enough. I was made to feel at ease during my first consultation and felt no pressure or obligation to buy a wig. However I did purchase two and have had nothing but amazing comments from friends and family and most importantly they make me feel like me. In particular my human hair wig, people can’t believe it’s a wig. The service is personal and private in a very welcoming environment. I love that you can come back for a wig wash and style by booking in with one of the hair dressers. Special mention to Patricia who made me feel beautiful with the lovely waves she put through my hair during my last visit. For someone going through chemo and loosing your very long hair, this little outting gives you such a lift as it’s just like going to the salon. Thank you Tammy and see you soon.
Danielle your feedback is so generous - I am forever grateful and so pleased you are doing so well x
Danielle Hill - Thank you note
I just wanted to say a huge "thank you" to Tammy for the empowering experience and exceptional support my husband and I received when attending her bespoke salon. Tammy is gentle, caring, understanding and has first hand experience, which are just a few of the traits that make her service exceptional. With great attention to detail, a great ear to listen to and facilitating a purchase within your budget. Tammy was able to help me find what was not only a gorgeous wig, but was able to help me feel better about myself and feeling more comfortable about wearing not just a wig, but my new hair. She ensured that I knew how to care for my wig to get the most out of it and is available for ongoing support…. I wouldn't go anywhere else and I would highly recommend to others to not go anywhere else either… Thanks Tammy xx
Kellie - Thank you note
It's hard to find the words to describe how I feel about the team at Tammy Lobato..... They were all such a fantastic support from the moment I met them. Being diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma was such a shock and losing my hair through chemo was awful. Tammy and the team gave me the confidence and ability to be able to continue working, to go to the supermarket and out for social occasions both during and after my treatment. Even the Nurses at Peter Mac couldn't believe it wasn't my real hair! They took the stress out of the maintenance away from me with regular washes and blow drys too. At the worst time, I met the best people and I'm forever grateful.
Cheryl we are all so thankful that you chose us - we understand just how important your wig was to retaining your dignity which actually helped you cope with your chemo journey and continue to participate 'normally'. Your very regular wash and blow drys really helped in keeping your wig so beautifully for the duration of your treatment and post treatment and we all loved having you with us xx
Cheryl Brown - Thank you note