Is your hair falling out?
A catalyst for change: If your hair falls out in fistfuls, you need to go to the doctor. Seriously. I’m not joking. Something strange is happening that you most likely need a medical professional for, and since I am not that, I recommend you go to one ASAP.
Now that we have gotten that out of the way, let’s get into the reasons why some of us will need to consult with a trichologist at least once in our lifetime.
If you have been reading my CURLS 101 editorial series, you may have familiarized yourself with this type of medical professional at my behest. For those of you who are unfamiliar, that is why I am writing a separate editorial for you to learn just how important these medical professionals are when it comes to the overall health of your scalp and curls.
Why Trichologists Are Curls’ Your Best Friends
If you are experiencing hair growth challenges, scalp problems, and/or hair fall, I recommend that you set up an appointment with a trichologist, especially if/when medicated hair growth products either stop working or exacerbate the problems you’re facing.
“What do you mean you don’t need a doctor’s help?” Image via GIPHY
As the experts at WiseGeek.com state, “A trichologist studies the hair and scalp to provide information about disorders of the hair and scalp as well as care of the hair and scalp.” Since many Trichologists are not apart of the medical profession, it is up to you whether or not you would like to seek the consultation of a dermatologist that offers trichology services or a salon-resident trichologist.
“…a dermatologist who focuses on hair and scalp disorders exclusively may offer services as a trichologist. He or she can offer medical treatment ranging from taking samples of ulcerations in the scalp to look for infectious agents to prescribing medications to manage hair and scalp problems.” –WiseGeek.com
No matter which type of trichologist you choose, you will be better for it having left their consultation with the knowledge and tools necessary to face your hair growth and loss challenges.
When Hair Growth Products Don’t Work
You’ve seen them all before and eaten up their claims: hair growth vitamins, hair oils, treatments, and the like. You’ve given them all a shot. You’ve even combined a few of them with home remedies and DIY herb-infused treatments. And still, nothing has worked.
“I’ve been using hair growth products at home. Hair falling out is still an issue!” Image via GIPHY
Now, on the surface, these products and at-home-remedies can work if your hair follicles are producing healthy hair strands. The problem becomes burdensome when the hair follicles are not healthy or are closing. This is a hard call to make because let’s face it: we are not scalp and hair doctors.
When hair growth products do not work for you, it is time to open that Google app and seek a trichologist in your area that can help you determine what is going on and how you can take care of your scalp and hair.
“Hmmm… Maybe I DO need a medical professional to help me out.” Image via GIPHY
Be Proactive For the Sake of Your Curls and Your Health
I know that you do not want to go to the doctor or salon professional to discuss hair loss.
You want to buy a few over the counter, off the shelf treatments and vitamins, and follow your own hair growth regimen discreetly. But let me tell you, curl friend, it is absolutely in your best interest to seek the help you need from a trichologist. You will end up saving time (and, hopefully, money”> by going to a medical professional who can get to the source of what is creating your growth challenge.
I understand that it can feel embarrassing to seek out this kind of consultation, but you will feel better once you know what is going on with your hair. If your concern is cost, simply look up rates online and determine how you can add an appointment to your monthly personal care budget.
Dearest curl friends, I hope that you are feeling inclined to face your hair growth challenges with the help of a trichologist. I want to hear about your success, your struggles, and continue giving you answers surrounding your concerns. You know that you can always chat me up in the comments section. And I’m online via @gerilynhayes for you, as well.
Seize the Curls! Image via GIPHY
