If you’re among those that take good care of their hair and scalp, you’ve most likely come across the word ‘trichology’ while scoping high-end products or conducting internet research on healthy hair.
Increasingly used in the industry, the word ‘trichology’ refers to the science that diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders of the human hair and scalp. In other words, a trichologist is a hair and scalp health expert. A combination of the Greek word tricho, meaning hair, and logy which stands for science, trichology remains an undiscovered field at the junction between dermatology and cosmetology.
When would you consult a trichologist? Well, in several instances. For example, if your hair seems lacking in vitality, you’ve noticed abnormalities on the scalp or if you’re concerned with unexpected hair loss. You’d even talk to a trichologist if you simply want to inquire about preventive treatment that would keep your hair vibrant and healthy.
You may wonder how someone becomes a trichologist. While certain organizational efforts are made in the US in order to promote the field—the World Trichology Society is an example—no such group currently exists in Canada. There are, however, several training programs available to those who wish to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for practicing expert trichology. Depending on the expertise acquired, a person will call themselves a trichology technician or a trichologist. During a first consultation, we encourage you to always ask about your specialists training, skills and expertise. You’ll want to make sure you’re in the hands of a professional that’s supervised and guided by a formal, recognized group.
The Capilia Group, for example, is a North American leader in the field and has been training and supporting trichology specialists since 2005. Today, we have experts in over 90 centers across Canada and the United States. Aside from our vast, professional experience in the industry, our group distinguishes itself by its structure and organization. We can confidently say that all our affiliates benefit from a structured launch program, supervised development and ongoing coaching and support. All professionals that make up the Capilia network are trained experts that were qualified through a common, global program. Further, they’re constantly updated on the industry’s latest techniques and findings, plus have access to industry experts in fields such as hair transplants, laser therapy, PRP treatments or micropigmentation. Choosing to consult a Capilia specialist means quality assurance, standardized, premium care, support and monitoring.
A trichologist is not necessarily trained in hairstyling. Often times, he’ll work with stylists and color experts for maintenance or adjustments on a hair piece but his speciality is hair and scalp health. A trichologist will evaluate your state of health through thorough analysis that may be combined with the expertise of a physician or a dermatologist. Once the source of your pathology is defined, the trichologist will direct you to the best solution that meets your needs. Current hairstyling courses skim through hair and scalp health. It’s just not their focus. Hairstylists can, however, acquire additional training that helps them better understand and increase their overall knowledge of hair and scalp health.
An expert trichologist will have the appropriate, required tools that enable him to conduct an in-depth analysis of your scalp. A digital microscope and analytical software allow for hair and scalp health evaluation, help clearly identify afflictions and target solutions that will balance your hair’s life cycle. A trichology expert is also trained to apply treatments with technology that’s specific to the field. Lasers for hair density optimization and professional hair piece placement, are fine examples.
Please note that certain treatments recommended by a trichologist must be handled by an expert physician. Hair transplants, for example, are performed by Dr Pierre Duguay, the expert surgeon responsible for all of Capilia Medical’s transplants in Quebec.
To consult a hair health specialist, find a Capilia center near you or simply fill out the online form available to you. Either way, we’ll get back to you quickly.
If you already work in the hair industry and would like information on trichology training, contact a Capilia representative. We’ll explain the various opportunities available to you, be it joining an already existing team or opening your own center.
