Written By: Mo Clark
When you first meet Omni McCluney, her presence feels like a masterclass in grace, strength, and quiet power. A Houston-based Dermatology Physician Assistant with over seven years of experience, Omni is far more than her white coat. She is a survivor, a healer, and a walking testament to resilience.
After surviving a double lung transplant due to a rare autoimmune disease, Omni didn’t let her battle define her—instead, she turned it into her purpose. The disease that attacked her lungs also caused severe skin complications, sparking her passion to help others reclaim confidence in their own skin and hair. Today, Omni blends science with empathy, offering patients not only expert treatment but also an understanding heart.
“Hair loss and skin sensitivity aren’t just cosmetic issues,” Omni shares. “They affect how people see themselves, how they show up in the world, and how they feel about their identity. I’ve been there, so I know the weight it carries.”
In a world where beauty is often filtered and curated, Omni’s story is refreshingly real. Her journey from patient to practitioner is not only inspiring but also groundbreaking—proving that expertise fueled by lived experience creates the most impactful kind of care.
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We sat down with Omni to talk about hair health, common causes of hair loss, and how to protect your crown with confidence and care.
Hair Loss Uncovered: Omni Answers Your Top Questions
What are the most common causes of sudden hair loss?
“There are many reasons someone might experience hair loss,” Omni explains. “Genetics, hormonal changes, medical illnesses, medications, nutritional deficiencies, stress, hairstyles, and even aging. The key is identifying the root cause.”
How can you tell the difference between normal shedding and a hair loss condition?
“Normal shedding means losing 50–100 strands a day, often with a little white bulb at the end—that’s just part of the hair growth cycle. But when you notice thinning density, scalp irritation, or clumps of hair falling out, that’s when it’s time to seek help.”
Does diet really play a role in hair thinning or breakage?
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“Absolutely. Hair is made of keratin, a protein. Without enough protein, hair becomes weak and breaks. Deficiencies in iron, zinc, vitamin C, B12, folate, biotin, and fatty acids can all impact growth, strength, and repair.”
What treatments are available for male or female pattern baldness?
“Options like minoxidil (Rogaine), finasteride, and other compounds have been proven effective. Some work topically, while others are systemic and prescription-only.”
Can stress really cause hair loss?
“Yes! Telogen Effluvium is when stress triggers more hairs than usual to enter the resting phase, leading to shedding. Cortisol imbalance disrupts hair growth. Usually, it begins 2–3 months after the trigger and lasts about 3 months.”
Are over-the-counter hair growth products effective?
“Rogaine is effective, but many patients prefer prescription treatments because they can deliver results more quickly.”
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How do scalp conditions like dandruff or psoriasis affect hair health?
“These inflammatory conditions can disrupt follicles, slowing growth. If untreated, long-term inflammation may cause scarring, which can permanently affect density.”
Is it possible to regrow hair after scarring alopecia?
“Unfortunately, no. Once a follicle is replaced with scar tissue, it cannot regenerate.”
Do tight hairstyles really cause permanent hair loss?
“Yes. Styles with excessive pulling and tension, like braids or ponytails, can lead to traction alopecia. If repeated over years, it can result in permanent scarring.”
Beyond the Science: Beauty with Purpose
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Omni is living proof that beauty is not just skin deep—it’s rooted in resilience, science, and purpose. By merging her medical expertise with her lived experience, she’s not only changing the way we view dermatology but also reshaping the conversations around hair and skin health in communities that need it most.
“Every scar tells a story, but so does every strand,” Omni reminds us. “Taking care of your hair and skin is self-love, and self-love is healing.”
Fierce. Fearless. Flourishing. Omni McCluney is showing us all that beauty, like resilience, grows stronger when nurtured with purpose.
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