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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Trichology?

The study of diseases or problems related to the hair and scalp. It derives from the Greek word “Trichos” meaning hair and the suffix “Ology” meaning the study of.

Is Trichology a branch of medicine?

Trichology is a branch of medicine and cosmetic study and practice concerned with the hair and scalp as it relates to other physiological aspects of the human body- it’s referred to as para-medical profession.

Is Trichology a part of Dermatology?

Although a trichologist has vast knowledge of the inner-workings of the integumentary system, they also are well studied in all other systems of the body as to gain insight into why a person is experiencing hair loss or scalp a malady Trichologists are certified professionals who cannot legally provide a prescription or a diagnosis. Trichologists generally access the body as a whole to discover the underlying issue(s) causing the problem, and they typically use a holistic approach to address the medical and cosmetic side to reactivate the hair growth cycle.

A dermatologist on the other hand is the licensed medical professional who has a specialty in hair, skin and nails. This professional can diagnose a condition and prescribe medication. In certain cases Trichologists and Dermatologist partner to increase the recovery rate for people with hair loss and scalp conditions. Dermatologists cannot legally use herbs or a holistic approach to reactivate the hair growth cycle, therefore all protocols will be prescription base.

Trichologists and Dermatologists are two separate professions that have a common goal in mind using two different approaches.

What is a Trichologist qualified to do?

A Certified Trichologist can work as a liaison between the patient and the doctor to help get to the root cause of hair loss by accessing the hair, skin and nails as well as other symptoms in body systems to address the medical and cosmetic aspect of things. The integumentary system is an incredibly sensitive barometer of a person’s health that a highly trained Trichologist can use to interpret the internal and external workings of the body. This specialized knowledge is what distinguishes a Trichologist from a Hairstylist. Trichologists can suggest and make recommendations that will support bringing the body into balance based on their knowledge of physiology and other sciences, they can also perform topical treatments to support the scalp, hair follicle and fibers of the hair to promote growth.

Can a Trichologist stop all hair loss?

No, a trichologist can’t stop all hair loss. It is unfortunate but in certain cases a person has waited too long to get help and hair follicles may no longer be available to regrow hair.

What is the average annual income for a Trichologist?

The income depends on the individual professional, a person can make anywhere from $20,000 – $100,000 plus. There are many beauty professionals who have transitioned or retired from hairstyling to working in Trichology full-time. The success rate for this sub-specialty is exponential.

Do I have to be a licensed beauty professional to become a Certified Trichologist?

No, you do not have to have any other credentials to become certified, however AAHSD had reserved it’s curriculum for licensed beauty professionals only. If you do not have a state cosmetology and/or barbering license you cannot enroll in this certification course.

How long is the certification course?

The certification course with AAHSD is 18-months. It is not a go-at-your-own-pace program, it’s a guided program that students must matriculate through with a specified start and stop date. If students fall behind and haven’t completed the course within the specified time-frame they have an option to pay a prorated tuition fee to continue until certified.

Can students take a break during the 18 – month course?

No, this is not a go-at your-own -pace program. Students must adhere to the schedule of the guided time-sensitive program.

Can recent graduates of cosmetology/barber school take the certification course?

It is never too soon for a beauty professional to seek a trichological education. As long as you have a license you are eligible for enrollment.

Can Non-Certified Hair Loss Practitioners benefit from the 18 – month certification course?

Yes, because our 18 – month certification course is very robust and is centered on physiology and its symptoms. Most Hair Loss Practitioner courses have a shorter time span and don’t have an emphasis on this area, which can hinder the protocol – building process and lead to sub-par results. Taking this course will support bridging the gap between abstract science and your execution.

Can a student of trichology transfer from another school/organization?

Yes, students can transfer from another program. Proof of registration from the other program is requires, and all students will take a basic trichology aptitude test to measure their knowledge. Based on the results from the test students will be placed accordingly. Tuition costs will not be reduced based on these circumstances.

How much time should a student expect to commit to coursework?

All students should keep in mind that this program is filled with science and the complexities of the subject matter may dictate more time. You can expect to study a minimum of 10 hours per week to experience success in the program.

Can Trichologists take insurance for payment?

No, trichologists can’t accept insurance for consultation fees, you can accept Health Saving’s Plans (HSP), Care Credit and other Flex Pay Plans if your hair loss clinic is set up administratively to accept these forms of payment.

If you are certified as “Medical Wig” provider you can accept insurance for prosthetic services.

Is there support post certification?

Yes, AAHSD provides support via annual membership services and individual coaching programs to enhance your trichological business.

Do Trichologists need more education after certification?

Yes, as with all industries its recommended to take continuing education courses to remain on the cutting edge of your craft. As science evolves protocols change and as a trichologist you should always offer the latest technology and practices.

Does equipment and products come with the 18 – month certification course?

No, this is a curriculum- based course that does not include product or tools. Students will be educated on the proper usage of tools for specific maladies as well as informed about products and other resources to support their future as a trichologist.

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