Tree thinks trichology is tricky: I have see-through thin, fine hair. Recently I was advised to see a “trichologist” because “hair loss is easy to prevent, impossible to reverse.” A tri-wha-huh? I’ve been talking to my dermatologist. Is a trichologist likely to have better information than a dermatologist, or is “trichologist” mostly a fancy name for “gentrified snake oil seller”? While we’re at it, what’s your take on that “hair loss is easy to prevent” statement– have I missed out on some modern miracle while experimenting fruitlessly with supplements and coating treatments?
The Right Brain responds:
A trichologist is one who studies trichology, and according to that bastion of knowledge Wikipedia:
Trichology is the branch of medicine that deals with the scientific study of the health of hair and scalp. Trichologists themselves are not normally medically qualified although members of the medical profession can undertake courses and/or careers within trichology. Trichology can be used in forensic studies of hairs to find suspects. Forensic trichology can determine the approx. age, body mass, race, and other important traits of the hairs owner.
There are several major associations of trichologists including the International Association of Trichologists (based in Australia) and the Trichological Society (out of the UK).
Is a trichologist better informed than a dermatologist? That depends. The qualifications for being a trichologist do not require a medical background. They only require you to complete a 3 to 5 years of course work. Even then, as the IAT points out:
[our] graduates are academic trichologists. They should not be confused with others masquerading as experts whose sole ‘qualification’ has been a basic introduction to hair science during a hairdressers/beauticians course, or via a course of study in elementary trichology, or the many with no formal training whatsoever. Whilst trichology remains unregulated, charlatans will continue to prosper.
As an example, UK hairdresser Phillip Kingsley identifies himself as a trichologist and while we’re sure he’s a capable hair stylist, we wouldn’t want him giving us medical advice! Stick to advice about Ojon.
The Beauty Brains bottom line
Since just about anyone can claim to be a trichologist, be careful which one you pick. Your best bet is to find a dermatologist who specializes in hair treatment. And be especially wary of a trichologist who tells you that hair loss is easy to prevent! That’s a new one to us! (You could always try Toppik Hair Building Fibers!)
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Hmm..is anyone aware that the title of this website reads the Beauty Brians?
I wish there were more Dermatologists that specialized in hair loss. I have yet to find one! I’ve been to probably 6 Dermatologists (including one at UCLA who supposedly was a hair loss expert), probably 5 OB/GYNs, 4 General Practice doctors, and an Endocrinologist. None of them were exactly helpful when it comes to hair loss.
I did go to a Trichologist in LA, and that was actually the most informative hair loss appointment I have had. My theory is that since Trichologists are the only people that actually spend a lot of time learning about hair loss, they are probably more qualified than most doctors to understand hair loss. But there aren’t exactly a lot of them out there.
In the meantime, I’m still trying to find a Dermatologist that really knows about hair loss!
I’m sure some trichologists are specialists that really can help with hair loss (I am currently considering seeing one recommended by my doctor when I have the time).
Hair loss may be relatively easy to stop if a medical reason for hair loss is identified and taken care of.
Kripata: you raise a good point. There certainly are medical reason for hair loss that can be prevented. But regular alopecia can’t!
As I get older I am keenly aware that hair loss isn’t confined to guys. So far my hair has held up but the information you have given here helps a lot. Now I know where to lok for help, if need be, and I won’t ask my beautician for any advice!
I am a woman with the unfortunate gene that causes hair loss. Both my mother’s and grandmother’s hair became baby fine and almost non-existent way too early in their life. In light of this known genetically-caused disorder, I began using minoxidil the first time I washed my hair and realized way too much was coming out and landing on the shower floor! Happily, since I started at the very first signs, I am 57 and have mid-back length hair which is healthy, normal and almost thick!!! I’m sure Trichologists are very knowledgeable, but I know for certain minoxidil has had excellent results for me.
Ok I usually don’t get into blogging however considering the topic I think its only fitting that I join you in this one!
I’ve read each of your replies to the topic of Trichology and I understand that each of you have your own reasons for your skeptisims. But most people respond negatively to things they are unsure about. Trichology is an old practice, it began in 1909. Unfortunatly most hairdesigners don’t practice it for many reasons (not to mention it hasn’t been recognized in the states as it has in UK or London).
Like Jeni,I along with many others have consutled dermatologist, physicians & even the Director of Education over one of the most highly reqarded medical Schools/Hospitals in NC, neither had a solution that could was designed to identify the problem or address the cause. They offered me products that I already used.
The question then becomes what caused your particular hairloss in the first place? Do you have hairloss or hair breakage (and there is a difference)
Is it hereditary,systemic or mechanical?Now you tell me what Dr/Dermatologist has the time to sit with you and do the type of consultation required to answer those simple questions?
I admit I am both Cosmetologist & Trichologist, and it only made since for me to further my study into Trichology because of the needs of people that have been referred to me along with things I’ve personally experienced with hairloss.
And who would be better qualified than a hairdesigner, considering we specialize in HAIR!!!
My advice would be for you to first understand each practice and its focus:
Dermatology- is the branch of medicine that deals with diseases and disorders of the SKIN.
Physician- is a person licensed to PRACTICE MEDICINE; a medical doctor.
Trichology – is the branch of medicine that deals with the scientific study of the HEALTH of the HAIR & SCALP.
Cosmetology- refers to the beautifying or treatment of skin, hair and nails.
I just consulted a Trichologist this morning and gave me a free trial treatment. You know what? I think it will work 100% for me if I continue sessions for 10 weeks. Yeah it costs a lot but what the hell!! If it’s going to giver me back my hair, money is nothing. And Besides, you can earn back your money, but your hair, no way (Without professional help that is). Well, I noticed that none of the people here who left a comment, didn’t add technical informations about the COST of having Trichological help. Let me share some to you :
Here’s the cost of one complete session:
30 corrective treatment for 2 and a half month – Php 28,880 or about $750
if you pay in cash, you they will give you free treatments (Boosters) for free, which costs for about Php11,000, just derive from above the conversion. =) free hair analysis and consultation for your first visit by the way. God bless you all!
Sorry guys I gave some misinformation
Trichology was founded in 1902 not 1909.
Congrats Saint for taking time to consult with a Trichologist before passing judgement. I’m sure you’ll be pleased with the results.
Understand its takes years for the process of hairloss to begin and it also takes time to reverse the process.