WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT A TRICHOLOGIST?
Medically Reviewed and Updated by Dr. Sony Sherpa (MBBS) - September 11, 2024
Trichology deals with the scientific study of hair and scalp health. While the term itself is relatively modern, the pursuit of understanding and treating hair-related issues dates back millennia. Trichologists can provide valuable insights and treatments for various hair and scalp problems; however, their professional status and scope of practice may vary depending on the country or region. In some areas, trichologists are considered allied health professionals with specific training and qualifications, while in others, they may operate as independent practitioners. It is important to note that trichologists are generally not licensed medical professionals and may have limitations in prescribing medications or performing invasive procedures. However, they can offer valuable advice, diagnose hair and scalp conditions, and recommend appropriate treatments.
What is a Trichologist?
A trichologist specializes in diagnosing and treating various hair and scalp disorders. Unlike dermatologists, who handle a broad range of skin conditions, trichologists are experts specifically trained to address issues like hair loss, thinning, and scalp conditions. Their role often involves understanding the complex relationship between hair health and other factors like diet, hormones, and stress.
What Does a Trichologist Do?
Trichologists assess hair and scalp problems by examining symptoms and underlying causes. They may prescribe tests such as blood work to check for nutritional deficiencies, thyroid imbalances, or scalp biopsies for deeper analysis. Trichologists often recommend treatments that include lifestyle changes, topical solutions, and specialized hair care products and may refer you to a dermatologist or other specialists for advanced treatments like hair transplants or medical interventions.
Now that we understand what a trichologist is, let's discuss some of the reasons why you may want to visit one.
Hair Loss And Thinning
The average daily hair loss ranges from 50 to 100 strands, reflecting the natural hair growth process. This loss can increase with age as hair growth slows down, leading to noticeable thinning. Small amounts of hair fall while brushing your hair is expected, but if hair loss exceeds the normal range or leads to bald spots, consulting a trichologist can help identify the cause and determine an appropriate treatment plan.
Losing Facial Hair
Hair loss is not limited to your scalp. Sometimes, you may notice that your eyebrows and eyelashes are thinning. In such cases, it is advisable to visit a trichologist to determine the underlying cause.
Scalp Issues
Dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) are common scalp conditions that can affect hair health and require specialized care. If you experience scalp itching, burning, or pain without a clear cause, consulting a trichologist can help determine the underlying health condition.
Hair Loss or Scalp Issues Post-Pregnancy
Many women experience hair loss after pregnancy due to hormonal changes. A trichologist can help restore hair health by addressing hormonal imbalances and recommending appropriate treatments.
Hair Loss After Hysterectomy or Due to Thyroid Disorders
Surgical procedures and medical conditions like thyroid disorders or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can trigger hair loss. A trichologist can provide insights and guidance on managing these effects.
Excessive Facial Hair Growth in Women
Women experiencing hirsutism (excessive hair growth) due to hormonal imbalances, PCOS, or other conditions can benefit from a trichologist’s expertise in managing and reducing unwanted hair.
Conditions Treated by Trichologists
Trichologists treat various hair and scalp disorders, including:
- Androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness)
- Alopecia areata (autoimmune hair loss)
- Telogen effluvium (stress-induced hair loss)
- Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)
- Psoriasis (scalp inflammation)
- Folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles)
- Trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder)
- Parasitic infestations like ringworm
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
A trichologist may start with a detailed medical history, hair care routine, diet, and lifestyle analysis. They might advise blood tests to check iron and thyroid levels, scalp biopsies, or perform hair pull tests for diagnosis. Treatment plans can range from:
- Topical Treatments: Creams, lotions, and medical hair care products.
- Laser Hair Therapy: Low-level laser therapy for stimulating hair growth.
- Lifestyle Changes: Stress management techniques and dietary adjustments.
- Hair Restoration Advice: Recommendations for hair transplants or other medical procedures, often in collaboration with dermatologists.
Tips for Hair and Scalp Health
Taking Care Of Hair
Regular hairwashing can help keep the scalp clean. Furthermore, regular scalp massages with oil or conditioner can improve blood circulation and keep hair healthy. Avoid tight hairstyles, as these can lead to traction alopecia. Be aware of environmental factors as well. According to the American College of Dermatology, here are some simple precautions you can take.
- Be careful in the sun, and wear a hat when you go outside.
- Be wary of chemicals such as chlorine in pools. Always wash your hair after you go swimming.
- Limit products and treatments that make hair curly or straight or change its color, as they can damage your hair.
- Take care when styling your hair. Gadgets such as curling irons, flat irons, and hair dryers can cause hair to break if used excessively, especially when your hair is already dry.
Healthy Diet
Dietary choices can affect hair health. Hair is made from hardened protein, which you can get from eating a protein-rich diet. Other essential elements essential for growth are Biotin, Omega 3 acid, Zinc, and Iron. Eating food rich in these nutrients can promote hair growth and build immunity. In short, a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is vital for maintaining strong and healthy hair.
Don't Accelerate the Greying Process
Greying is a natural process that affects individuals differently depending on their genes. However, sometimes, an unhealthy lifestyle and escalating stress levels can result in premature greying. Try to ensure you consume the right vitamins, such as Vitamin B, and limit your stress levels to prevent premature greying. Furthermore, protect your hair from excessive sun exposure and avoid overuse of harsh chemicals or heat treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between a Trichologist and a Dermatologist?
While both trichologists and dermatologists deal with hair and scalp conditions, trichologists are specialists focused exclusively on hair and scalp health, whereas dermatologists handle broader skin-related issues, including hair and nails. For more complex medical conditions, a trichologist may refer you to a dermatologist or other healthcare professionals.
Why Am I Experiencing Hair Loss After Pregnancy?
Postpartum hair loss is common and can occur due to the hormonal changes involved. During pregnancy, higher estrogen levels often keep hair in the growth phase longer, leading to thicker hair. After childbirth, estrogen levels drop, causing hair to fall out more rapidly than usual. This condition is temporary, and hair typically returns to its normal growth cycle within a few months. If hair loss persists, visiting a trichologist can help manage the condition with specialized treatments.
Can a Hysterectomy Cause Hair Loss?
Hair loss can be a concern following a hysterectomy, particularly if the procedure also involves the removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy). Several factors are responsible for the hair loss that can occur following a hysterectomy, including hormonal changes, stress from the surgery, and other pre-existing conditions.
- Hormonal changes: A hysterectomy that involves the removal of the ovaries can significantly alter the hormonal balance. The ovaries produce estrogen, which is an essential hormone for hair health. Removal of the ovaries prior to menopause can lead to a sudden fall in the levels of estrogen, resulting in hair loss. Estrogen keeps the hair in its growth phase, so its reduction can cause hair to enter the resting phase prematurely, leading to increased shedding of hair.
- Telogen effluvium: Stress associated with major surgeries such as a hysterectomy can trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium. This form of hair loss happens when a significant stressor causes a large number of hairs to shift from the growth phase to the resting phase. Typically, hair loss from telogen effluvium starts to occur two to three months after the stressful event.
- Female pattern baldness: Hysterectomy with oophorectomy can lead to premature menopause. In women with pre-existing female pattern baldness, early menopause can exacerbate or worsen this condition. This is because female pattern baldness, also called androgenic alopecia, is largely influenced by hormonal imbalance. Removal of the ovaries leads to a shift in the normal hormonal balance, with a rise in androgens or testosterone, which further aggravates the thinning of hair.
How Do Thyroid Disorders Contribute to Hair Loss?
Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can trigger hair loss by disrupting the normal hair growth cycle. Thyroid disorders affect the body's metabolism, which can lead to thinning hair or hair loss. A trichologist may work alongside your healthcare provider to make sure that your thyroid condition is properly managed and recommend treatments to help restore hair health.
How Does PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) Affect Hair Growth?
PCOS, a hormonal disorder, can lead to excessive hair growth (hirsutism) or hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). The imbalance of androgens (male hormones) in women with PCOS often results in these hair issues. A trichologist can help manage these symptoms by recommending hair care treatments and lifestyle changes and collaborate with other healthcare practitioners to address the underlying hormonal imbalance.
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