Last Updated on: 19th June 2023, 03:47 pm
Hair and scalp problems can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, hormones, stress, diet, and certain medical conditions. While some hair problems are simply cosmetic concerns, others can be indicative of a more serious underlying condition. Therefore, it’s important to see a specialist if you’re experiencing any changes in your scalp or hair health.
There are two common types of specialists who can help with hair and scalp problems: dermatologists and trichologists. However, do you know the difference between a dermatologist and a trichologist? Many people are not sure what the distinction is, but they play very different roles in hair and scalp health. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between these two professions and help you decide which one is right for you!
What is a dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a skin doctor. They are medical doctors who have completed additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases and disorders. They also offer surgical hair loss treatments and can prescribe topical treatments for hair and scalp problems. Dermatologists can treat conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, and skin cancer. Psoriasis is a skin disorder that causes red, flaky patches on the skin. It can also cause hair loss.
During the consultation, a dermatologist will ask about your medical history and any medications you are currently taking. They will also perform a physical examination of your skin, hair, and nails. Based on this information, they will make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
A typical treatment plan may include topical medications, oral medications, light therapy, and/or surgery. Topical medications are applied to the skin, while oral medications are taken by mouth. Light therapy involves exposure to specific types of light that can help improve certain skin conditions. Surgery is only recommended in severe cases that have not responded to other treatments.
What does a trichologist do?
A trichologist is a specialist in the study of hair and scalp problems, but is not a medical doctor. However, they have extensive knowledge about human hair, hair follicles and hair growth. They may also be able to recommend herbal hair treatment Singapore is known for, or other alternative treatments for some hair problems. Trichologists can help with conditions like hair loss, hair thinning, hair breakage and alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is a type of male and female hair loss condition that can cause patchy hair loss or complete baldness.
During the consultation, a trichology Singapore specialist will first ask you about your full hair history. This includes information about your hair loss, diet, medications, stress levels, and any scalp problems you may have. They will then examine your hair and scalp. They may use a microscope to get a closer look at your hair follicles. After the examination, they will develop a treatment plan for you. This may include changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medications. You may also be prescribed topical treatments or given referrals for other therapies.
Trichologists may even partner with other doctors and specialists to provide comprehensive care for their patients. This can be beneficial if you have a complex hair or scalp condition that requires both medical and non-medical treatment. Some trichologists are also licensed to perform scalp treatments, such as hair transplants. Scalp treatments are usually only recommended for severe cases of hair loss that have not responded to other treatments.
How are the two professions different?
The most obvious difference between dermatologists and trichologists is that dermatologists are medical doctors while trichologists are not. This means that dermatologists can prescribe medication and perform surgery, while trichologists cannot. Dermatologists also tend to focus more on specific types of skin diseases and disorders, while trichologists focus more on hair problems.
So, which one should you see?
If you are experiencing hair loss or other hair problems, you may want to consult with a trichologist. If your hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms like itching, redness, or scaly patches on the scalp, you may want to see a dermatologist. Either way, it is recommended that you visit your regular doctor first to get a referral.
Do dermatologists and trichologists only treat different conditions?
No, both dermatologists and trichologists can treat hair loss. However, dermatologists may be better equipped to handle cases that are accompanied by other symptoms like itching, redness, or scaly patches on the scalp. If you are experiencing hair loss, it is always a good idea to consult with your regular doctor first to get a referral. Either way, both types of doctors can help you with your hair loss!
What should you consider when choosing between the two professions?
There are a few key things to consider when trying to decide whether you need to see a dermatologist or trichologist. The first is the nature of your hair problem. If you are experiencing hair loss, breakage, or thinning, then you will likely need to see a trichologist. On the other hand, if you have scalp problems like dandruff or an itchy scalp, then you should consult a dermatologist.
Another thing to keep in mind is the severity of your condition. If your hair problem is mild and can be treated with over-the-counter products, then you may not need to see either type of doctor. However, if your condition is severe or does not respond to home treatment, then you should make an appointment with either a dermatologist or trichologist.
Finally, consider your budget when deciding which type of doctor to see. Dermatologists are usually more expensive than trichologists, so if you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider seeing a trichologist first. However, if money is not an issue, then you can choose whichever type of doctor you feel comfortable with.
Closing thoughts
If you are still unsure whether you should see a dermatologist or trichologist, talk to your regular doctor and they can help refer you to the right specialist. Whatever route you decide to go, make sure to do your research so that you can find the best possible treatment for your hair problem.
