A Trichologist Is A Specialist Who Specializes In The Study Of Diseases Or Issues Affecting The Hair And Scalp, As Well As The Therapies For These Issues.
The Greek word trikhos, which means hair, is where the term trichology derives its origin. Trichologists can offer advice to those who are experiencing issues with their hair, such as hair loss or scalp ailments, despite the fact that they are not doctors.
What Is A Trichologist?
A trichologist is a specialist who specialises in the study of diseases or issues affecting the hair and scalp, as well as the therapies for these issues.
The Greek word trikhos, which means hair, is where the term trichology derives its origin. Trichologists can offer advice to those who are experiencing issues with their hair, such as hair loss or scalp ailments, despite the fact that they are not doctors.
What Does a Trichologist Do?
People with problems including hair loss, breakage, an oily scalp, and psoriasis of the scalp receive assistance from specialists in this field. Alopecia and the hair-pulling disorder trichotillomania are two conditions that some trichologists can also help with.
Trichologists inspect the hair and scalp to determine your condition’s severity and to make treatment recommendations.
They are unable to administer medication or carry out medical or surgical procedures, however, as they are not medical professionals.
Training and Education
To be qualified to treat problems affecting the hair and scalp, trichologists must complete specific training.
Depending on the type of certification the trichologist obtains, the procedure entails a number of steps, although all certifications call for:
- Observations and mentorships
- Hands-on training
- Academic coursework
- Exams
Typically, training takes 3 months , while some less reputable schools advertise certification in as little as a few weeks.
Trichologists frequently join a professional organisation associated with the discipline after receiving certification through a programme approved by a state board, such as the International Association of Trichologists or the World Trichology Society.
Why Consult a Trichologist
A variety of problems with the hair and scalp are treated by trichologists:
Hair loss in both men and women (Pattern Baldness):
A prevalent type of hair loss, or alopecia, in both men and women is pattern baldness. Men lose hair in a certain pattern that begins above both temples and subsequently recedes to resemble a “M” shape. Without a receding hairline, women are more prone to have general hair thinning.
Pattern baldness in men has been linked to a number of major medical disorders, including coronary heart disease, prostate enlargement, diabetes, and high blood pressure, in addition to the psychological effects of hair loss.
Women who experience hair loss are more likely to have PCOS, a hormonal imbalance that can lead to irregular menstruation, acne, and weight gain.
Hair Falling
Telogen effluvium, often known as hair shedding, happens when substantial amounts of hair fall apart from the scalp. Numerous factors, such as stress, surgery, high fevers, blood loss, hormonal changes, and childbirth, might contribute to this. One typical side effect of various chemotherapy medications is hair loss.
A trichologist might be a good place to start if you’re shedding hair. They ought to be able to point you in the direction of a doctor who can assist you with underlying issues.
Scarring Alopecia
In the case of scarring alopecia, hair follicles are damaged, resulting in permanent hair loss. You might be able to get this issue treated by a trichologist. Early treatment of patients with scarring alopecia may occasionally result in hair growth. Other times, hair loss is irreversible.
Inflammatory illnesses, chemicals such hair relaxers, and a number of fungi are the causes of scarring alopecia.
Women’s Excessive Hair Growth
Women who have hirsutism, or excessive hair growth, may have extra hair on their body or face. Women frequently experience hair development in areas like the upper lip, chin, chest, and back where men generally have hair but women do not. An overabundance of the male hormone androgen is what causes hirsutism.
A common cause of hirsutism in women is PCOS. It may also be caused by pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, or drug side effects issues. Depending on the underlying cause of the illness, a trichologist may be able to treat it or assist you in finding the appropriate doctor to receive a diagnosis.
What to Expect at the Trichologist
You may anticipate a thorough evaluation of your hair and scalp when you see a trichologist.
The trichologist may quiz you on a number of topics, including your diet, lifestyle, and hair care practises. Your responses can aid the trichologist in deciding whether to treat you themselves, refer you to another specialist, or both
Hair analysis is occasionally done by trichologists to look for structural damage, lice, or fungal infections.
On rare occasions, your primary care physician will be asked to order a blood test by a trichologist.
The best course of action will be suggested by the trichologist once they have made a diagnosis. This could include:
- A recommendation for hiring another expert, a specialist, or a primary care physician
- Lotions or creams for the skin
- Dietary suggestions
- If your problem appears to be stress-related, consult a mental health specialist.