This story is predicated on an interview with Nicole Ethridge, 39, a Southern Marylander who works in finance and can be an influencer. It has been edited for size and readability.
My hair had at all times been skinny, however I first observed it popping out quickly after the delivery of my daughter, now 19.
It was primarily on the entrance, which made it noticeable. I used to be self-conscious and notably hated going to hairdressing salons, the place it was not possible to cover the issue.
The dermatologist recognized me with traction alopecia, generally brought on by tight hairstyles and different issues that pull in your hair.
I began carrying wigs
I began wearing wigs that mimic your hairline. They have been costly, starting from $300 to $700, however they do not final ceaselessly. I would undergo as many as 9 a yr.
Courtesy of Nicole Ethridge
The expense motivated me to start making my very own wigs, which I began to promote to different ladies in the identical place.
Nevertheless, I nonetheless did not really feel like myself as a result of it wasn’t my actual, pure hair.
I attempted each therapy below the solar, corresponding to lotions and ointments. They included an FDA-approved over-the-counter hair progress complement. I did not have excessive hopes that it will work, however it truly introduced a few of my hair again.
Nonetheless, I felt it wasn’t sufficient. My consideration turned to getting a hair transplant.
I discovered a clinic in Istanbul
I appeared into having the process within the US. The costs have been upward of $13,000, and I did not have the finances.
I knew some individuals traveled overseas to get it completed way more cheaply, and I considered Mexico. I used to be postpone as a result of once I did my analysis, I did not discover many testimonials from African Individuals.
Turkey appeared like a greater choice, and I noticed that plenty of sufferers who appeared like me have been going to a selected clinic in Istanbul.
Courtesy of Nicole Ethridge
I collaborated with a world facilitator called Doctours, who linked me with the clinic and organized my therapy and lodge lodging. As an influencer, I paid 50% of the quoted $2,600 price.
My flights have been further at $1,250, and I traveled in August 2025. Though I used to be excited, I used to be nervous on the airplane as a result of my pals instructed me I used to be taking a danger going to Turkey.
Nonetheless, I used to be keen to take that danger. I needed to be freed from the wigs and hair wraps for good.
My head was shaved
The one components of the method that harm have been the injections to numb my scalp. I used to be absolutely awake, mendacity down, both listening to music or being alone with my ideas.
The medical workforce extracted particular person follicles from the again of my head and moved them to the issue space. It is non-compulsory, however I selected to have my head absolutely shaved beforehand as a result of I needed the expertise to be extra sterile.
Courtesy of Nicole Ethridge
I got here again the next day for a specialised hair-washing therapy. They suggested me on repairs. All in all, I spent 4 days in Istanbul.
My hair began to develop again inside 4 months, however there wasn’t a wow issue at that stage. There was an enormous distinction on the six-month mark.
I am getting married subsequent yr
I began going out with a wig — one thing I hadn’t completed for almost 20 years — and felt assured about my look. Now my hair is pixie size, which I really like.
My fiancé and I are getting married subsequent yr. It makes me pleased to suppose I am going to have a pleasant head of hair for the wedding.
Possibly I am going to have a bob by then. It does not matter, although. I lastly really feel proud of how I feel and look.
