Charlyn Harris-Allen, owner of The Beauty Parlor Salon and Boutique on Napier Avenue in Macon, is making a significant impact by assisting veterans dealing with hair loss. As a Certified Hair Loss Specialist, Harris-Allen helps veterans manage conditions like Alopecia by facilitating their access to medical wigs and hairpieces through VA Benefits.
One such beneficiary is Vontressa Salaam, a disabled Army veteran currently in the process of acquiring a medical wig through this program.
“I didn’t know anything about it and it feels like it’s just a gift from God, honestly. To have a service for veterans with hair loss, I mean, I couldn’t ask for anything more,” Salaam expressed gratefully.
Salaam initially noticed hair loss and hoped it would regrow over time. When it didn’t, Harris-Allen stepped in to assist.
“I enjoy seeing the smiles on their faces when they leave. I love helping people and boosting their confidence and self-esteem,” shared Charlyn Harris-Allen. “Hair loss is a sensitive subject, and compassion is crucial because many clients suffer silently.”
To ensure veterans find the right hairpiece, Harris-Allen guides them through a detailed consultation process.
“During the consultation, I take measurements and conduct a thorough hair and scalp analysis. Veterans have access to catalogs to choose styles, and there are displays of different units and hair samples to feel textures and see colors,” explained Harris-Allen.
Salaam, anticipating her upcoming wig, expressed deep gratitude for the support.
“It makes me feel like they are honoring what they told us when we enlisted, that once you serve your country honorably and you’re discharged, Uncle Sam will take care of you. That’s what they told all of us, so this feels like Uncle Sam is taking care of us,” Salaam remarked.
The initiative by Harris-Allen underscores the importance of community support and specialized care for veterans facing hair loss challenges.
