Editor’s note: I’m a breast cancer survivor. The surgeries and chemotherapy were bad enough but, honestly, one of the worst parts of the experience was losing most of my hair. After all, a woman’s hair is her crowning glory. And yes, I sought out a wig.
A full head of hair gives us confidence and makes us shine. Having a good hair day can boost our confidence, as well as our mood. But if you suffer hair loss, it can affect you physically and emotionally.
“Your hair doesn’t define you, but it’s a big part of who you are. It’s not about vanity. When I started losing my hair, I was determined to do something about it because I’m a fixer,” explained Lisa Merritt, manager of the Wig and Topper Boutique at Trendz Salon.
Merritt was diagnosed several years ago with Addison’s disease, a chronic condition in which your adrenal glands don’t produce enough of the hormones, cortisol and aldosterone. It can affect your blood pressure, cause extreme fatigue, low blood sugar, weight loss, and hair loss.
Moving to Evans from the frozen tundra of New Jersey several years ago, has been a blessing. Merritt has found a balance with her health that has allowed her to get her life back.
“Now, I get to spend every day doing what God plans for me. I feel like I went through my health challenges to better understand how to help others be happy.”
Merritt was one of those women in tears about hair loss when she first visited owner and hair stylist, Robyn Kelley at Trendz Salon located at 3670 Riverwatch Parkway in Martinez. She was able to help, but also had a bigger goal in mind.
“Robyn wanted to open a wig and topper boutique and it was just an amazing opportunity for me. We opened at the end of April.”
There are many reasons for hair loss including Merritt’s own diagnosis of Addison’s, but alopecia, menopause, aging, autoimmune diseases, pregnancy, and nutritional deficiencies may be responsible.
“I’ve seen it all in terms of hair loss from women in their 20’s to their 60’s and beyond. Sometimes, they are afraid of being seen with thinning hair and sometimes, they are afraid of having a wig or topper. My main goal is to help them feel comfortable with more hair.”
Merritt’s sessions with each client usually last about an hour. Her boutique features wigs from nine different manufacturers. The cap construction is comfortable, and the styles cater to different amounts of hair loss.
“The styles and colors for wigs and toppers are endless. You can also cut a wig or layer it just like you would your own hair. A topper clips into your hair and both can look very natural. Women come into the shop in tears because of hair loss, but they leave with a smile.”
Because Merritt has been where they are, she knows their dilemma and she is dedicated to being a “fixer.”
Trendz Wig and Topper Boutique offer 20% off for cancer patients undergoing treatment. What might be “alternative hair” for some could be considered a necessity for others.
For more information on Trendz Salon Wig and Topper Boutique or to schedule a consultation, visit their website, drop Lisa a line, or call 706-496-7629.
Editor’s Note:
Mitzi Oxford is a veteran broadcaster and features writer who also worked at the same television station in Columbus, Georgia as Augusta’s Brad Means!
If you have a South Carolina story idea for Mitzi, please email her at mitzioxfordcreative@gmail.com.
