What Is a Trichologist? Training, Role and When to See a Doctor

A trichologist is a hair and scalp specialist, but the term doesn't always mean a medical doctor. In some places, trichologists are trained outside medicine, and dermatologists who focus on hair use other titles. Knowing the difference helps you choose who to see for hair loss.

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Key Takeaways

• Trichology began in 1860 in a London barbershop. A 2018 paper says trichologists are generally not physicians, unlike "trichiatrists" or dermatotrichologists, who are.
• A 2002 article by a trichologist argues that clinical trichology is a specialty with a scientific base, and that the public needs to tell trained trichologists from unqualified practitioners.
• A 2007 editorial title urges: "Check if your trichologist is a doctor."
• If you are losing hair, a medical diagnosis comes first.

What Is A Trichologist?

Trichology is the study of hair and scalp. Trichologists may help with hair and scalp concerns, but training and regulation vary.

Trichologist Or Dermatologist?

For sudden, patchy or persistent hair loss, a doctor can diagnose the cause. A trichologist may help with hair and scalp care, depending on their training.

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Choosing A Specialist

• Ask about qualifications and whether they are medically trained.
• Be wary of "miracle" hair loss products sold on the visit.
• Get a diagnosis from a doctor for hair loss, and ask what they suggest.

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What The Research Shows

Terminology

A 2018 paper explains that the term trichology originated in 1860 in a London barbershop, and that in 2010 the term dermatotrichologist was proposed for board-certified dermatologists who study the hair and scalp, in contrast to the trichologist, who is rather associated with laity and cosmetics. It proposes "trichiatrist" for the strictly medical professional, and notes that phony hair loss solutions continue to be marketed (Trüeb et al., 2018). This is a viewpoint from dermatologists.

A Trichologist's View

A 2002 article written to establish clinical trichology as a specialty argues it is not an alternative or complementary therapy, emphasizes the scientific base of training, and admits that most trichologists are not medically qualified. It calls for the public and the medical profession to differentiate properly trained trichologists from unqualified practitioners (Mason, 2002).

Checking Credentials

A 2007 editorial in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology is titled "Check if your trichologist is a doctor: need for educating the public." PubMed doesn't include an abstract, so we can only report its title (Mysore and Khopkar, 2007).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a trichologist a doctor?

Often not. Two of the sources note that most trichologists are not medically qualified.

Should I see a trichologist or a dermatologist for hair loss?

A doctor can diagnose medical causes. Ask any specialist about their training.

What does a trichologist do?

They focus on hair and scalp care. Practices vary.

References

1. Trüeb RM, Vañó-Galván S, Kopera D, et al. Trichologist, Dermatotrichologist, or Trichiatrist? A Global Perspective on a Strictly Medical Discipline. Skin Appendage Disord. 2018. PubMed
2. Mason J. The role of the trichologist. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2002. PubMed
3. Mysore V, Khopkar U. Check if your trichologist is a doctor: need for educating the public. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2007. PubMed