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.
Remove the GST from Medical Wigs
We are campaigning to change GST legislation to remove it from medical wigs in line with other prostheses.
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
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
I'm so happy I came to see Tammy for help. I have an unusual situation where this is only a small bald spot (due to skin cancer) in an awkward area and Tammy offered a trial to see if a small hairpiece would work for me. It did! I am so happy, and have so much more confidence now. They offer great service, and it is a pleasure to visit. Thank you Tammy for helping me overcome a problem I have lived with for over 20 years. You are wonderful.
Karina - Thank you note
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