Trichologist Vanessa Bailey MIT FRSPH Explains Trichology

What is Trichology?

Trichology is the scientific study of the human hair and scalp and is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of hair loss, hair damage and scalp disorders. The word Trichology was taken from the Greek word “tricho” which means quite simply “hair”. Trichology is a paramedical field as trichologists may liaise with medical practitioners and other health professionals when a particular hair problem maybe a symptom of an underlying medical condition.

Individuals who specialise in diagnosing and treating hair and scalp problems are known as trichologists and must have completed a program of study with The Institute of Trichologists. The Institute of Trichologists was founded in the UK by a group of hair professionals and medical doctors in 1902 and remains the official training and qualifying body for trainee trichologists and governing body for all qualified and registered trichologists in the UK and worldwide. Trichological training involves extensive study of chemistry, biology, anatomy and physics. Practical training and clinical hours are involved extensively to expose the trainee trichologist to as many types of hair loss and scalp conditions as possible over a three year period. Clinical learning programs are very similar to that of a dermatologist in learning to read clinical signs to diagnose skin disorders of the scalp.

Once qualified with The Institute of Trichologists, a trichologist will become an associate and recognised by the initials A.I.T. Following a further three years successful clinical experience, full membership of the institute is awarded and these trichologists are recognised by the initials M.I.T. All qualified trichologists follow the professional code of ethics as set out by The Institute of Trichologists.

Trichology covers all aspects of cosmetic hair care, the formulation of hair and scalp products and the diagnosis and treatment of hair loss problems (such as alopecia and female pattern baldness) and scalp conditions (such as psoriasis and folliculitis). Microscopy is an element of Trichology whereby plucked hairs can be analysed closely. Hair mineral analysis is another test a trichologist may carry out that concerns purely the structure of the hair whereby nutritional deficiencies or chemical over-processing of the hair can be easily assessed.

Initially a trichologist will aim to diagnose the case of hair loss or scalp problem put to them before discussing treatment to help put things right. Most of the time a diagnosis is reached through close examination of the scalp and through taking a detailed history that includes medication taken, natural vitamin supplements taken, recent health problems and operations. Hair care routines are also discussed as well as family hair histories outlined. A diagnosis is usually made on the first visit but further blood tests may be required in certain cases, where appropriate.

Resident Trichologist at The Hair Clinic is Vanessa Bailey MIT FRSPH author of The Good Hair Guide: All Your Questions Answered.

All wording by Vanessa Bailey MIT FRSPH author of The Good Hair Guide: All Your Questions Answered.

www.amazon.co.uk/Good-Hair-Guide

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