About Trichology
The word Trichology is derived from the Greek word trikhos, meaning hair (singular). In the general and broadest sense, Trichology is the science of the structure, function and diseases of the human hair.
In a clinical sense, Trichology is the diagnosis and treatment of disorders and diseases of the scalp and hair.
A qualified trichologist is trained to recognise all common disorders and diseases of the hair and scalp. This includes pattern hair loss, diffuse hair loss, scarring hair loss, itching and scaling conditions, bacterial and fungal problems, hair texture issues and psychological concerns.
REASONS TO CONSULT A TRICHOLOGIST
THINNING CROWN
PATCHY ALOPECIA
WIDENING PARTING
DIFFUSE SHEDDING
SCALY/FLAKY SCALP
INFLAMED SCALP
CONDITIONS & CONCERNS
Trichologists, qualified through the Institute, study solely the science of hair and scalp health over several years, allowing for deep clinical specialism. This focused training, combined with extensive patient exposure, means trichologists often assess and manage a wider range of hair loss and scalp disorders than is typically seen within general medical practice.
GENETIC THINNING
Male pattern hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia, is a prevalent form of hair loss in men characterised by a predictable pattern of receding hairline and crown thinning due to the genetic sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. Female pattern hair loss (FPHL), is a common condition characterised by the gradual thinning of hair, particularly on the top of the head and along the part. Unlike male pattern baldness, which often results in a receding hairline and bald spots, female hair loss typically manifests as diffuse thinning.
TRICHOTILLOMANIA
Trichotillomania (often shortened to Trich) is a hair-pulling disorder characterised by recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other parts of the body. It is classified as a body-focused repetitive behaviour (BFRB) and is often linked to stress, anxiety, or a need for sensory stimulation. While the condition affects each person differently, it can lead to visible hair loss, discomfort, feelings of guilt or shame, and difficulties with self-esteem. Verve has been supporting individuals managing trichotillomania for many years in our specialist hair loss salon through private hairdressing to colour unpigmented regrowth or through alternative hair.
PSORIASIS
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that accelerates the life cycle of skin cells, causing a rapid buildup of cells on the surface of the skin. Psoriasis can affect the scalp, leading to the formation of thick, red patches covered with silvery scales. This results in the formation of thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches that can be painful. Psoriasis is not contagious and can vary widely in severity, with some individuals experiencing mild, localised symptoms and others having more extensive involvement. Although psoriasis is chronic, a trichologist can help you manage the condition by removing plaques on the scalp.
TRACTION ALOPECIA
This type of hair loss most commonly develops as a result of ongoing stress or trauma to the hair and scalp. When excessive tension is applied repeatedly, such as through tight braiding, extensions, or pulled-back styles, patchy hair loss may develop. Contributing factors can include heat styling, chemical treatments, and mechanical stress. Once the damaging practice has been identified and stopped, regrowth is usually possible, provided no lasting damage has occurred. However, recovery can take time. In rare cases, prolonged tension or chemical irritation may cause inflammation of the hair follicles.
ALOPECIA AREATA
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the hair follicle that causes sudden and unpredictable hair loss. There are many different sub-types of alopecia areata such as patchy alopecia (well-defined, round or oval patches on the scalp), alopecia areata incognita (diffuse widespread thinning), alopecia ophiasis (band-like pattern at the back and sides of the scalp), alopecia totalis (total hair loss to the head), alopecia universalis (complete hair loss to the head and body). The exact cause of autoimmunity is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers such as stress, infection etc.
SCARRING ALOPECIA
Scarring (cicatricial) often presents itself as an irregular area of shiny bald skin, which can be a darker or lighter colour than that surrounding it. No hair follicles are present and the skin can be atrophied, or even raised and thickened (Keloid). A scar is formed when a wound heals itself after deep tissue damage. Commonly seen scarring conditions are frontal fibrosising alopecia, lichen planopilaris, discoid lupus erythematosus, and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia. Early identification is necessary and we will liaise with your GP for a referral, and may be able to offer topical treatment in the interim.
SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS
Scaling conditions of the scalp refer to skin disorders characterised by the presence of scales or flakes on the scalp. They can range from mild dandruff (pityriasis capitis) to more severe conditions. Seborrhoeic eczema (dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory scalp condition, which occurs to the areas of the skin that have more sebaceous glands. It is a common condition seen by trichologists and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp, hormonal changes, and dietary factors etc. It can differ for each individual with symptoms ranging from mild to excessive. This condition can be managed well in-clinic with treatment and flare ups can be brought under control.
HAIR SHAFT DISORDERS
Fragile or rough-textured hair can result from genetic factors, lifestyle influences, and everyday hair care practices. Common hair shaft disorders include: monilethrix, pili torti, bamboo hair (trichorrhexis invaginata), trichonodosis, hair casts, trichorrhexis nodosa, trichoptilosis (split ends), and pili annulati. Some disorders are congenital whilst many are acquired. For those with longer hair, some degree of weathering and breakage is common. Hair is particularly vulnerable when wet, so gentle handling during washing, drying, and detangling is essential to minimise damage.
TELOGEN EFFLUVIUM
Telogen effluvium is a diffuse hair loss that is characterised by the widespread and even thinning of hair across the scalp rather than distinct patches or localised areas. This is often noticed when washing and brushing the hair, sometimes a reduction in the ponytail size is what alerts you to the loss of density. This type of loss is often referred to as reflective loss, due to its occurrence from many differing factors, such as metabolic disorders, illness, stress and nutrient deficiencies. These can interfere with our hair growth cycle creating more shedding than usual.
AFRO-HAIR CONCERNS
Afro-textured hair is naturally more fragile due to its tightly curled structure, making it more prone to dryness, knotting, and breakage, particularly in dry climates. Some scalp conditions also appear differently on darker skin tones, meaning specialist knowledge is essential for accurate diagnosis. Inflammatory scalp disorders such as folliculitis and Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA) are more common in people of colour and are frequently misdiagnosed due to limited clinical awareness. CCCA is a scarring form of hair loss that usually begins at the crown, and advances gradually destroying the hair follicle and leading to permanent hair loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to preserve remaining hair.
PITYRIASIS AMIANTICEA
Pityriasis Amianticea is a scaly condition that produces a heavy sticky scale, which builds up along the hair shaft. It can affect one or more areas of the scalp, this type of scale firmly attaches to the scalp and can build up significantly without treatment. It follows an eczematous reaction to the scalp from trauma. It often follows a period of intense emotional stress or a localised infection. This condition can be treated well in a clinic with trichological preparations. It is important to note that on rare occasions this condition can cause hair loss especially if there is secondary infection.
FOLLICULITIS
Folliculitis is a common skin condition characterised by bacteria in the follicle. It can affect any part of the body where hair grows, including the scalp. Folliculitis is typically caused by bacterial or fungal infections, although it can also result from non-infectious factors such as friction, shaving, or certain skin conditions. Common signs and symptoms of folliculitis include red or inflamed bumps or pustules around hair follicles, itching, tenderness, and sometimes pain. Prompt treatment and correct guidance on causative factors is required to settle the infection to avoid creating permanent scarring and potential hair loss.
TRICHOLOGY FAQs
Currently trichology is not recognised as an NHS service. Trichologists do work closely with dermatologists and regularly refer patients for prescribed treatments that are outside the treatment competence of the Trichologist. There are some hair loss conditions that are scarring and progressive which can be treated with prescribed medications whilst the symptoms felt on the scalp can be treated with trichological scalp treatments.
Most private medical insurers do not cover trichology as an approved service. However, it is always best to check with your insurance provider to be sure of what is and is not covered under your policy.
They all indicate that the person is a fully qualified and registered member of The Institute of Trichologists. AIT is an Associate Member of the Institute, RIT is a Registrant of the Insitute and FIT is a Fellow of the Institute. All members who are registered are bound by a strict code of professional practice and ethics.
To qualify via the Institute of Trichologists education programme, a trichologist must have undertaken 3 years of study, and 2 further years of clinical mentorship to become a full member. It is the only organisation to offer certified Level 5 trichology education and to maintain a Professional Standards Authority-accredited register of Trichologists.
Yes - we treat patients from all backgrounds. Trichologists who studied with the Institute of Trichologists are trained in Black, Caucasian and Asian skin and hair types. Some hair and scalp conditions are more common in black hair and skin which often get mis-diagnosed by those who do not specialise in the hair and scalp.
