What is Trichology?
Trichology is the para-medical science of hair, hair loss and associated scalp problems. It is a set of cosmetology services that promote healthier hair growth; more specifically, it is the science of the structure, function and diseases of the human hair. Specialists working in this field help people with hair loss, hair breakage, oily scalp, and dry scalp concerns such as psoriasis.
A Trichologist will complete a hair and scalp analysis, gather information on the client’s personal history, lifestyle, means of dealing with hairs and preferred hairstyles, etc. Then taking into consideration information and results of tests, the trichologist suggests treatment and will advise how to stimulate hair growth and maintain healthy hair.
The word “trichology” comes from the Greek word, ‘Trikhos’, meaning ‘hair’, and was first conceived as a specialty branch of study in Britain in the late 19th century. It then became a specific para-medical discipline in 1902.
Is a trichologist the same as a dermatologist?
Dermatology is the study of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases. A dermatologist treats skin diseases in the broadest sense and cosmetic problems of the skin, scalp, hair, and nails. Dermatologists are highly trained in skin issues, and though you can find a dermatologist with experience dealing with hair loss and scalp conditions. You can find Dermatologists, Physicians, Nutritionists, Coemstologists, and affiliate level professionals who have studied Trichology.
Reasons To Consult a Trichologist:
Hair Loss: There are many types of hair loss; excessive hair loss can often be a symptom of an underlying problem such as stress or abnormality in the metabolism of the body. A Trichologist will assess the condition and recommend a solution to remedy the situation; in some cases, they may determine if more medical professional work is needed. In some instances, co-operation between the patient’s doctor and the trichologist may be necessary.
Problems of The Scalp: Problems of the scalp can range from dandruff to inflammation, leading to oiliness and itchy scalp, and can most often be treated by a Trichologists. As with the hair, these problems can be symptomatic of some other metabolic abnormality, stress, diet, medications, or allergies. Often an overly oily scalp can be responsible for the build-up and shedding of dead skin cells.
Hair Texture Problems: Problems with hair texture such as dull hair or hair lacking lustre can be caused by overexposure to heat and strong chemicals or other stressors to which we subject our hair, such as our diets.
Hair Replacement: Where appropriate, the trichologist can advise those patients wishing to be referred to a Hair Transplant Doctor for hair grafting (hair transplants). Or for those seeking to gain added hair (cosmetic hair replacements) in the form of wigs, extensions, or hairpieces, guidance and appropriate application or a referral can be offered.
Scalp-Micropigmentation: Scalp Micropigmentation (also known as SMP) is more than just a hair tattoo. It’s a popular non-surgical hair loss treatment during which natural pigments are applied within the dermal layer of the scalp, replicating a natural shaved head look, or cross stitch pattern to give the illusion of fullness.