How to Choose a Trichologist vs a Dermatologist

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Hair fall can be stressful, and what often adds to the worry is not knowing which expert to turn to for help. Many people feel stuck choosing between a trichologist and a dermatologist, especially since both are often referred to as ‘hair doctors.’

While their work overlaps in some ways, their qualifications, expertise, and treatment approaches are very different.

Trichologist vs Dermatologist: Are They Different?

Both professionals deal with hair and scalp issues, but their training, education, and treatments differ. By knowing the distinctions, you can make a confident choice.

Dermatologist: A licensed medical doctor (MBBS + MD in Dermatology) who can diagnose, run tests, prescribe medications, and treat complex scalp conditions.
Trichologist: A non-medical specialist with a diploma/certification in trichology, focusing on hair and scalp health through lifestyle, diet, and care routines.

Who Is a Trichologist?

A trichologist is a specialist in the science of hair and scalp.
They are not doctors, but they:

Assess factors like nutrition, stress, hormones, hygiene, and environment.
Recommend diet changes, supplements, and topical routines.
Use trichoscopy (scalp magnification) to analyze hair condition.

Trichologists are especially helpful for:

Telogen effluvium (temporary shedding).
Stress-related or nutrition-related hair fall.
Contact dermatitis (scalp irritation from products/chemicals).

⚠️ They cannot prescribe medications or treat systemic illnesses.

Who Is a Dermatologist?

A dermatologist for hair is a fully licensed medical doctor specializing in hair, skin, and nails.

They are best suited when hair loss is linked to medical conditions, such as:

Thyroid disorders
Iron deficiency anemia
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
Autoimmune diseases (like lupus)

What a Dermatologist Can Do

Run diagnostic tests (bloodwork, biopsies, trichoscopy).
Prescribe medications (minoxidil, finasteride, spironolactone).
Offer advanced treatments:
- PRP therapy
- Microneedling + growth serums
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
- Hair transplant surgeries (FUE/FUT)

✅ Early intervention by dermatologists helps prevent irreversible conditions like scarring alopecia.

What to Expect in a Consultation

With a Trichologist

Scalp & hair analysis (using trichoscopes/digital scanners).
Lifestyle, diet, stress, and sleep evaluation.
Recommendations for non-prescription shampoos, herbal serums, supplements (biotin, zinc, amino acids).

⚠️ If signs point to scarring alopecia, hormonal imbalance, or autoimmune causes → referral to a dermatologist.

With a Dermatologist

Physical examination of scalp (patterns, inflammation, scaling).
Medical history review (thyroid, PCOS, stress, family history).
Tests:
- Blood (thyroid, iron, vitamin levels, hormones).
- Scalp biopsy (for scarring conditions).
- Pull test/trichoscopy.

Treatment options may include:

Medications (minoxidil, finasteride).
Corticosteroid injections.
PRP or laser therapy.
Hair transplant surgery.

Can Trichologists and Dermatologists Work Together?

Yes. They complement each other:

Dermatologist → Treats root medical causes.
Trichologist → Guides ongoing scalp care, nutrition, and lifestyle.

This collaboration is useful for:

Post-treatment recovery (e.g., chemo, postpartum hair loss).
Long-term maintenance for genetic baldness.
Cosmetic/scalp care advice.

When Does a Dermatologist Refer to a Trichologist?

Dermatologists may refer patients when:

The medical issue is resolved, but supportive care is needed.
Patients want product guidance, scalp hygiene tips, or preventive care.
Focus shifts to lifestyle, nutrition, and maintenance.

Should I See a Trichologist or a Dermatologist?

Here’s a quick comparison:

See a Dermatologist if…	See a Trichologist if…
Sudden bald spots (alopecia areata).	Hair is brittle, dull, or breaks easily.
Persistent inflammation, redness, or itching.	You want advice on scalp hygiene or products.
Scarring bald patches or infected follicles.	You were referred for supportive/preventive care.
Family history of baldness, thyroid issues, PCOS.	Hair loss is mild, linked to stress, postpartum, or seasons.
Hair loss linked to medical conditions or medication.	You want long-term maintenance & lifestyle guidance.

👉 If unsure, start with a dermatologist. They can confirm if medical treatment is needed and refer you to a trichologist if not.

Hair Loss Treatments by Each Specialist

What a Trichologist May Recommend

Non-prescription shampoos & herbal serums.
Nutrition support (biotin, zinc, amino acids).
Scalp hygiene routines.
Stress & lifestyle management.

What a Dermatologist May Recommend

Minoxidil – topical/oral, boosts growth phase.
Finasteride – oral, blocks DHT, slows thinning.
PRP therapy – platelet-rich plasma injections.
LLLT – non-invasive laser therapy.
Hair Transplants:
- FUE – extracts individual follicles.
- FUT – strip method with grafts.

FAQs

Q. Which blood tests are required for hair loss?

CBC, Ferritin, Thyroid (TSH, T3, T4), Vitamin D, B12, Hormonal profile.

Q. Which vitamin deficiency causes hair loss?

Vitamin D, B12, Biotin (B7), Iron, Zinc.

Q. Which doctor is best for hair treatment?

Dermatologist → medical/scalp diseases.
Trichologist → lifestyle, scalp care, prevention.

Q. What does thyroid hair loss look like?

Diffuse thinning across scalp, brittle & dry hair.

Q. Can stress cause hair loss?

Yes, it triggers telogen effluvium.

Q. How much hair fall is normal per day?

50–100 strands/day. More = possible concern.

Takeaway

Hair loss can be overwhelming, but the right specialist makes all the difference.

Trichologists: Great for lifestyle, scalp care, and preventive routines.
Dermatologists: Essential for diagnosing & treating medical causes.

✨ The best results often come from both working together—medical treatment + long-term care.

Still unsure where to begin?
👉 Book a consultation with Kibo Clinics for guided diagnosis and a personalized plan.