Your Trichology Consultation
THE CONSULTATION PROCESS
The clinic was established to treat hair and scalp conditions with an evidence-based approach, offering open and supportive guidance to help patients make informed choices. Because we recognise hair and scalp concerns can feel incredibly overwhelming, we’ve broken down our consultation process from the start so you know exactly what to expect from a trichology consultation.
Step 1: Book your consultation
You can book a consultation through Fresha, via email or by phoning the clinic. A deposit will be required to confirm the consultation. Once paid, confirmation will be sent via email, including our cancellation policy, directions to the clinic, and instructions for the day.
Step 2: Preparing for your consultation
Prior to your consultation, you will receive instructions via email on how to prepare for your appointment. This includes when to wash your hair in preparation for your appointment, and what to bring with you. We have prepared a pre-consultation checklists below.
Step 3: Your Initial consultation
During your private one-to-one hour long consultation, a comprehensive case history is taken, covering your medical background, lifestyle, and hair care practices The hair and scalp are then examined in detail, including the use of a trichoscope for a close-up assessment of their health.
Step 4: Following your consultation
Charlotte will email you a summary detailing your diagnosis, treatment plan, along with a referral letter – if applicable. Any recommendations Charlotte makes, will be made ethically on researched and evidence-based products and services that have shown to be effective over time.
Step 5: On going support
Additional tests or referrals can be arranged if appropriate. Charlotte will always endeavour to work closely with the relevant specialists or GP’s. Where necessary, referrals can be made directly to a private dermatologist. You can email Charlotte at any time with questions or updates.
Step 6: Follow up consultation
A shorter 30 minute follow up consultation is recommended 3-6 months after your initial consultation, so we can review progress. Hair and scalp conditions can take a while to improve and sometimes we may need to adjust your plan. I do ask you to notify me of any changes.
the initial consultation
During your one hour private consultation, a full case history will be taken, given particular attention to key factors like lifestyle, diet, medical history, hair care practices, as well as other factors which may contribute to a patient’s condition. The hair and scalp will be thoroughly examined with the addition of a trichoscope to fully assess the health of the hair and scalp, along with clinical photography if needed for monitoring and referral purposes.
A diagnosis will be formed, and Charlotte will talk you through your hair or scalp condition, explained along with your treatment options and recommendations for managing the condition. Any recommendations will be made ethically on researched and evidence-based products and services that have shown to be effective over time. Sadly, some patients we see can have limited options depending on the condition.
If required, tests can then be arranged to confirm or complete the diagnosis, with any possible referrals. This may include referrals back to your GP or dermatologist for blood tests and further investigations.
An initial trichology consultation costs £150.
Consultation checklist
Please can you do the following before your consultation:
- Please bring a copy of any recent blood tests with you (past 6 months).
- Wash your hair the day before your appointment - not on the day of.
- Please do not add any camouflage treatments to your hair before the consultation (sprays, fibres).
- If you wear a semi-permanent hair system then please ensure your technician has removed this prior to your consultation.
- Please bring with you a list of the medication you are currently taking, and a list of any previous medications.
- Please bring any supplements you are currently taking, or have taken previously (past 6 months).
TRICHOLOGY CONSULTATION FAQs
Trichology is the scientific study of the hair and scalp, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of hair loss, hair disorders, and scalp conditions. A trichologist, therefore, is a trained specialist who assesses the underlying causes of hair and scalp concerns.
Initial consultations typically last 60-90 minutes, allowing enough time for a thorough assessment and detailed discussion. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter, around 30-45 minutes.
A trichologist can help diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions, including alopecia areata, male and female pattern hair loss, central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), frontal fibrosing alopecia, scalp psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, dandruff, hair breakage, traction alopecia etc.
You do not need a GP referral to see a trichologist. However, if medical investigation or treatment is required, your trichologist will liaise with your GP or a specialist. Trichology is not currently an NHS service but it does play a supportive role in the diagnosis and treatment of hair and scalp concerns.
In some cases, blood tests may be recommended following your consultation to investigate potential underlying causes such as iron deficiency, thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies.
Treatment success depends on the cause, duration, and severity of hair loss. Many conditions can be successfully treated, or be significantly improved or stabilised. There are some conditions that cannot be treated but your trichologist will provide realistic expectations based on your individual diagnosis.
