Orthodox Hair Sciences & Hair Specialisms

The Trichological Society was founded in London (1999) as 'the professional body for the advancement of hair-science throughout the world' by a consortium of 24 patrons and professionals, which comprised:

Academics, Chemists, Lawyers, Physicians, Pharmacists, Scientists,
Surgeons and Trichologists.

The Trichological Society is a fully independent professional body. It neither receives nor seeks corporate sponsorships. The Society lists many of the world's reputable high profile professionals and scientists with a specialist interest in scalp and hair in health, disease and distress.

The Society is an invited member of the UK 'All Party Parliamentary Group on Skin'.

The Society's website, www.hairscientists.org has been described as an ‘Information Portal due to its size and academic content. This Portal contains articles of general interest and research papers on all kinds of hair and scalp abnormalities.

if you are looking for specific hair or scalp related information a visit to this site is highly recommended.

Sally-Ann Tarver and The Trichological Society

Sally-Ann Tarver was invited to join the Trichological Society as a Licentiate (LTTS) in 2005 and later elected to the Society's Governing Council.

In 2006 she was elected To Vice President of The Trichological Society by the Society’s governing council and members. In May this year she will take over as reigning president for two years.

She is the youngest member to be elected to this prestigious position as the face of the Society.

What is Trichology and What Does a Trichologist Do?
Many people have never heard of Trichology and are not aware of what a Trichologist can do. Most would be surprised to learn that the profession initially began in the UK in 1902 and has slowly spread to the rest of the world. The name for the profession originates from the ancient Greek word Trikhos meaning hair.

The definition of Trichology is 'the science of scalp and hair in health and disease' therefore a Trichologist is a specialist of the scalp and hair in health and disease. However, people should be aware that there are no laws or rules to stop an unqualified, untrained person calling themselves a Consultant Trichologist. If you are considering visiting a Trichologist, check they are qualified with a legitimate organization.

The role of the practicing Trichologist is often far more than 'hair and scalp specialist'. We often also wear the hats of councillor, detective, friendly ear, shoulder to cry on, teacher, mentor, advisor, life coach are to name but a few. Trichologists are trained by private organisations much like Homeopaths, Chiropractors, Acupuncturists and Herbalists. Once trained and registered, practitioners are then expected to practice in accordance with a codes of ethics and professional practice guidelines.

Trichologist’s are trained to deal with conditions such as: Alopecia Areata, Totalis & Universalis, diffuse Hair Loss, Male and Female Pattern Baldness, Telogen Effluvium, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, Scalp Eczema & Psoriasis, Seborrhoea, Scalp Itching, Hair Breakage & Damage.

Trichologists are not restricted to one particular form of treatment and have the flexibility to choose between orthodox or complementary medicine. There are natural compounds, herbs, oils and nutrients often having a greater effect on certain conditions than orthodox methods, with little or no side effects.

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Trichology As A Career
There are many who have qualified as Trichologists but few who have embraced the profession as a full time career. A career as a Trichologist offers a highly rewarding sense of satisfaction. For those who embrace the profession with dedication and high standards, an opportunity to build a long term, stable business exists.

Currently, the majority of full time practises are located in the London area. Birmingham, the UK's second largest city, does not have a fulltime Trichologist. Students considering training as Trichologists should consider there are few 'jobs' available in this profession. Most Trichologists operate their own independent practises, part time or full time.

As with any business, it takes years to build a reputable, ethical practice. Word of mouth, the best form of advertisement, is hard in this industry, as patients rarely 'shout from rooftops' regarding sensitive issues such as hair loss or scalp conditions.

There are various types of Trichology practices, some like my own are purpose designed, in its own building in a business location. Some practises operate from a room, area or separate floor within other businesses, such as natural health clinics or hairdressing salons.
Many Trichologists convert part of their home, garage or build extensions to work from. Providing there is a dedicated entrance, this kind of practise works well.

Members of The Trichological Society Governing Council offer advice, guidance and support for newly qualified Trichologists in setting up and marketing their practices.

The Trichological Society's Pure Trichology Course

Overview
The Trichological Society's faculty in Pure Trichology offers this unequalled distance learning course to students with appropriate ability. Applicants considering trichology as a profession should be aware that course standards offered by the various state and private educational bodies differ widely. Most courses require no entry qualification and are designed primarily for hairdressers or persons with hairdressing backgrounds seeking extra knowledge.

As The Trichological Society regards the practice of trichology as a paramedical discipline (but exclusively of the hair and scalp), it provides high level education in the speciality via its 'Open University' style faculty in Pure Trichology (UK degree level).

Student admission standards: 'Advanced Level' school leaving certificates (or equivalent) and above. Currently 94% of students have first degrees and above.

The Society may also consider mature students on individual merit.

This course currently attracts mature students from Africa, America, China, Denmark, India & UK.

English speaking students - worldwide are welcome.

Further Information

A full description of the Society's Trichology course, syllabus, standards and qualification can be
found on the Society's Trichology education page.

If you are considering a career in Trichology a visit to the Trichological Society's web site www.hairscientists.org
is highly recommended.