What is Trichology?

In the simplest terms, Trichology is the science of the structure, function and diseases of the human hair. Trichology originates from the Greek word “trichos” meaning hair, and was first recognised as a specialised branch of medicine in the late 19^th century. In 1902 the College of Diseases of the Hair was founded and Trichology had its first recognised home. The College of Diseases of the Hair was founded by a group of doctors, scientists and hairdressers with the sole aim of furthering their knowledge and the available treatments. In 1925 this became the Institute of Trichologists.

A trained Trichologist will be a specialist in all matters relating to hair and scalp health. Trichologists are not medically trained, but trained in life sciences. Sometimes known as “Hair Doctors” it is important to remember that they are not doctors and are therefore limited in the scope of treatments they can administer. A Trichologist will therefore use more holistic measures to treat hair and scalp related issues. Evaluating factors in your lifestyle will commonly be used to help identify the cause of the issue and the correct treatment to improve the condition.

When necessary a Trichologist will refer you to a GP or Dermatologist receive medical treatment. While a trichologist is often best placed to identify the cause of your hair and scalp condition, they are not always able to administer or prescribe the treatment themselves. That being said, in most causes a consultation is the best first step to treating your hair or scalp. Many GPs and Dermatologists are dismissive of Hair Loss in general and may not diagnose you correctly.

Some of the most common issues that a Trichologist will encounter are:

• Alopecia:
  • Areata
  • Totalis
  • Universalis
• Telogen Effluvium
• Infectious Hair Diseases
• Itchy Scalp
• Painful Scalp
• Scaly Scalp

Excessive dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis are all common enough scalp issues that a Trichologist will see and help to treat and work through. The management of a greasy scalp is another area that a well trained Trichologist will be able to assist.

In a number of cases, once the condition has been correctly identified a trichologist is likely to recommend a cream, shampoo or scalp wash to control and treat the condition. In a lot of cases the Trichologist themselves will manufacturer these treatments. Outside of this Trichologists will usually recommend a dietary supplement to help support healthy and quick hair growth. Other treatments that could be recommended are usually Low Level Laser Treatments and Minoxidil.

To find your nearest registered Trichologist, visit the Institute of Trichology website - https://trichologists.org.uk/