She said she started going bald when she was 10 years old.
Martell says she doesn't wear a wig during everyday life, but she does use a wig during competition.
"People are so surprised to see a bald woman, let alone a bald beauty pageant contestant," Martell said. "You want to have a Miss America that you are comfortable walking up to and talking to and not worrying 'Oh, should I mention this? Should I ask her about her hair?'"
Martell entered her statewide competition five times before being crowned Miss Delaware.
She feels she's making history.
The Miss America Pageant will air at 9 p.m. Jan. 15 on ABC7.
