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
In February 2021 I was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer. Having had long hair all my adult life I was very anxious about loosing my hair with the upcoming chemotherapy regime that was planned for me. Fortunately my daughter had researched wigs and had suggested Tammy Lobato wigs in Heidelberg. I’m so glad that she found Tammy Lobato. My initial consult at Tammy’s was sympathetic, respectful reassuring and calming - despite it being a hugely traumatic period in my life. Before I began chemotherapy I was able to show Tammy what my hair was before beginning chemo treatment and I’m so glad I did this. Tammy matched my hair to my human hair wig perfectly! Going through chemo was difficult both physically and mentally and I felt that buying a human hair wig that was tailored for me actually made me feel like ‘me’ when I was feeling so unwell. Over the past 18 months I have visited Tammy a number of times to buy further wigs and to also have styling done. I always get alot of compliments about my wig and I always look like and feel like I’ve just been to the hairdresser! Revisiting Tammy’s salons both in Heidelberg & Narre Warren have always been positive experiences for me and coming from regional Victoria Tammy and her staff are always very mindful of travel and do their best to fit me in for appointments. I will always be very grateful to Tammy and her team for offering such a wonderful service at such a difficult stage in my life - Thank you.
Thank you Kerrie for your beautiful feedback, we value it immensely and are so thankful that you did select us for your realistic alternative hair. The team have always enjoyed looking after you and your wigs. We are so pleased that our wigs were able to help with restoring some dignity for you during a very undignified experience. xx
Kerrie from Bendigo - Thank you note
I have suffered from hairloss for many years now. After I had chemotherapy my hair never returned to its original texture and density so I was left with very fine and wispy hair that didn’t even cover my scalp. That led to major depression and isolation for me. I got up the courage to try on a wig with Tammy. I started wearing it, was thankful for the volume and started socialising again. But I was still missing the freedom of not having hair on my head at all times. So Tammy suggested that my lifestyle could be improved by having a bonded topper. I tried it and absolutely loved it, now I have hair on all day and night, I shower with my new hair, I swim with my new hair and now I even go away on girls trips, because I’m not embarrassed by my hair anymore. My topper blends in with my fine hair and I can wear it up or down, curl it or straighten it. I no longer focus on my hair and am no longer sad about my appearance. I am confident now which has made me so happy. And I love going to Tammy’s salon every four to six weeks for my bonded topper service which is actually a bit of a pampering session for me. I then walk out with my fresh clean, styled hair ready to catch up with the girls! Tracey Shannon
Thank you Tracey it is wonderful to hear that you have had such a great and liberating experience with our bonded toppers - they really are life changers and I am so pleased your lifestyle has improved because of them. Thanks so much for sharing this to help others. Tammy x
Tracey Shannon - Thank you note
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