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
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
What I thought was going to be a very emotional and perhaps teary experience turned out to be uplifting and empowering. After losing over half of my hair, husband and I visited Tammy to see what my options were. Tammy was very helpful with not only mine but my husbands 1000 questions, she listened to what I had in mind and ran with it with no judgment, but offing professional advice. The personalised and customised service was extremely impressive.
I strongly believe you get what you pay and in my opinion you can not skimp on something that has the potential to completely make or break your confidence.
Will definately be recommending and returning.
Thank you
Brit-toni - Thank you note
Tammy Lobato is where I go for my hair systems and maintenance. Tammy is professional, empathetic, and friendly. I really appreciate Tammy, Lani, Elvira, and all the staff. I always feel comfortable and looked after when I come. They always fit in all my appointments and I would highly recommend them. I have been a regular customer for over a year now, and it's the only place I will go. Lots of different Wigs and toppers and hair systems to choose from. So glad I found Tammy ☺️
Michelle Gissara - Thank you note