Mariah Richards : Cranial Prosthesis Specialist, Chicago, Illinois

Mariah Richards is a certified Cranial Prosthesis Specialist and professional braider based in Chicago, Illinois. Mariah's journey in hair began long before it became a career — growing up, she experienced firsthand how deeply hair is tied to confidence and self-worth.

In 8th grade, she decided to take matters into her own hands and began teaching herself how to do hair.

That passion carried her through high school, where she majored in cosmetology, and into a full-time professional braiding career that she has built since 2014.

What started as a personal journey to build her own confidence has grown into a career dedicated to helping others feel their absolute best.

What do you enjoy as a Cranial Prosthesis Specialist?

Mariah is at the beginning of an exciting new chapter as a Cranial Prosthesis Specialist — and she could not be more enthusiastic about the journey ahead.

She understands deeply, from her own lived experience, how much hair can impact the way a person sees themselves. Seeing the transformation in someone — not just in their appearance but in their confidence — is what truly makes her happy.

That same joy that has driven her braiding career for over a decade now fuels her commitment to serving clients experiencing medical hair loss.

How do you want to help your clients?

Mariah wants every client to feel whole, confident, and seen.

She knows that hair loss — whether caused by medical conditions, treatments, or trauma — can be a deeply emotional experience, and she wants her clients to know they are not alone and that they still deserve to feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin.

Through personalized cranial prosthesis solutions and a genuinely caring approach, her goal is to create a safe, supportive space where every client feels heard, valued, and uplifted. Learn more about insurance coverage for medical wigs here.

What do you love about the community you work and live in?

Mariah loves the sense of connection, support, and resilience that defines her Chicago community.

She is inspired by its diversity — by the many different people, backgrounds, and stories that make up the fabric of the city she calls home.

For Mariah, being rooted in a community that is strong, connected, and full of life makes her mission as a Cranial Prosthesis Specialist feel all the more meaningful. She is committed to showing up for Chicago the same way it has always shown up for her.

Connect with Mariah Richards in Chicago, Illinois

Instagram — @stylesbymariah__