Hair loss- we're breaking the stigma!
When it comes to hair loss, we each have our own story to share. Through this series, get to know the stories of women from all over the world.
Madeline is such a treasured part of our community ❤️ Read her story!
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Where are you from?
Houston, Texas
When did you start experiencing hair loss? What has your experience been since then?
I've always had fine, thin hair. I started noticing a true change and more significant hair loss when I was a senior in college. I was diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia shortly after.
I spent (and sometimes still do spend) way too much emotional energy worrying about my thin hair. I felt like I was losing one of the best parts of my identity. As a natural redhead, being a "ginger" was a huge part of who I was! Hairstylists would always ask me if my hair color was natural - and would beg me, "never dye your hair, you can't get this color in a bottle!" . The thought that my red hair was getting thinner and thinner made me feel like I was losing what made me unique and beautiful.
Who was the first person you told about your hair? How did it go?
My husband has been there for me throughout my hair loss journey, and has been so supportive. He thinks I'm beautiful with or without my topper - what matters is if it makes me feel confident! Besides that, two of my best friends encouraged me to take the plunge and #BuyTheHair.
I was so nervous to tell them about this area of my life that until then, I had kept very private. They didn't skip a beat. Their support, love, and encouragement was everything I needed. The biggest relief to me was the first time they saw me with my new hair, it wasn't a big deal! They didn't make me feel like wearing hair had to be the new center of my identity. I am so much more than just my hair. Since starting to wear my topper, I've told more and more friends (and strangers!) that I wear hair. When someone compliments my hair, I find it INCREDIBLY easy to say "thanks, most of it isn't mine!" You'd be pleasantly surprised that people truly don't think differently of you at all once they know that you're wearing hair.
How did you find out about Lusta?
I found Lusta almost three years ago through @HairLossBoss, when I was in my early days of doom-scrolling instagram for thin hair remedies. It took me almost all that time to gain enough courage (and come to the point of acceptance) to buy my first topper. I think a part of me was in denial about my hair loss, and another part of me thought - NO WAY could I find a piece that matches my natural color! I'm so glad I had friends and family that encouraged me to take the plunge and buy my first piece.
What do you love about wearing hair?
When I'm wearing my topper, I forget about my hair completely!! Before wearing a topper, when I was out in public I was constantly fretting about how my hair looked and if people noticed how thin it was. The true joy of wearing hair for me has been the freedom it's given me to just be present in the moment. How amazing it is to not be worried about how my hair looks when the life I'm meant to enjoy is unfolding!
How has Lusta been part of your journey?
When I found Lusta, I loved how transparent they were about what goes on behind the scenes. I think the alternative hair world can seem big, scary, and very illusive. I immediately was drawn to Kim and Holly's authenticity.
I loved that it was a woman-owned business created by a young woman with the same challenge I was facing. Lusta's online presence allowed me to trust them entirely, and helped me accept my hair loss. The community they've created helped me heal and realize I am not alone! Not to mention that they absolutely NAILED my custom color. It is seriously identical to my bio hair color. It's the first thing friends and family comment on when I tell them it's a topper, they can't believe the color match!
What would your advice be to other women with hair loss?
No one notices your hair loss as much as you do. And, your worth isn't defined by your hair. But feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin is so important and if wearing hair makes you confident, by gosh, do it!
The people you love and care about won't think any differently of you when you tell them - and it becomes strangely liberating to tell the friendly stranger or coworker who compliments your hair that it "isn't my real hair!"! Guess what, people don't think any differently of you either way. Do what makes you feel good. Gaining confidence and healing from hair loss is a journey.
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