Miss Nevada USA 2025, Mary Sickler, made a powerful statement during the Miss USA preliminary round on Wednesday by removing her wig onstage and revealing her alopecia universalis diagnosis. The 22-year-old contestant walked the stage in Reno, Nevada, wearing a dazzling silver gown and jeweled headpiece, earning thunderous applause from the audience.
Standing beside Miss New Hampshire Mona Lesa Brackett, who competed wearing a hijab, Sickler embodied strength and inclusivity on the national stage.
Embracing Beauty Beyond Hair
In a previous interview with People magazine, Sickler reflected on her journey of self-acceptance. “I lost all my hair, and I definitely didn’t think that I would be walking on the Miss USA stage without any hair, but I am,” she said. “It took me a long time to finally be able to see myself as beautiful, and I think that’s the first step. If you see yourself as beautiful and you own it, then other people will too.”
Overcoming Fear and Redefining Strength
Sickler began losing her hair in patches last December before being diagnosed with alopecia universalis — a condition causing complete hair loss. At the time, she was modeling for top fashion brands, including Louis Vuitton, but withdrew from the industry fearing her condition would end her career.
“I remember coming home and looking in the mirror. My hair was gone, my lashes were gone, and I couldn’t recognize myself,” she recalled.
A Triumphant Return to Pageantry
Despite her struggles, Sickler returned to the pageant world, finishing as first runner-up at Miss Texas USA before winning the Miss Nevada USA crown in July. She publicly revealed her condition shortly before Miss USA, becoming the first contestant with alopecia to represent Nevada at the national competition.
The Miss USA 2025 finals will take place on Friday, October 24.
