Trichologist or dermatologist: who do I see?
It depends on what is going on. A dermatologist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and prescribe for conditions of the skin, hair and scalp. A trichologist is a hair and scalp specialist who looks at your hair and your habits and offers advice and support, but is not a doctor. If your hair loss is sudden, patchy, painful or comes with other symptoms, start with your GP, who can check for medical causes and refer you on.
What each one does
- A dermatologist is a doctor who has specialised in skin, hair and nails. They can diagnose conditions, order tests and prescribe medicines or other medical treatments.
- A trichologist specialises in hair and scalp. They usually look closely at your hair and scalp, ask about your health, diet, routine and stress, and suggest ways to care for your hair and what to try next. They do not prescribe medicines.
Trichologist is not a protected title in the UK, so training and experience vary. A dermatologist is a doctor and is on the medical register.
Which should you see first?
- Start with your GP if hair is falling out suddenly, in patches, or in large amounts, if your scalp is sore, red, scaly or itchy, or if you feel unwell in other ways.
- A trichologist may suit you if you have noticed gradual thinning or more shedding, want to understand your scalp and hair care, or have been checked by your GP and would like more support.
- A dermatologist is usually reached by GP referral on the NHS, or privately if you prefer to book directly.
Many people see their GP, then a trichologist or dermatologist, or use both for different reasons.
Or see someone: find trichologists near you
Search the Practitioner directory by town or postcode for trichologists near you.
Or by what you would like help with: hair loss and thinning
What a trichology appointment is like
You will usually be asked about your health, medicines, diet, family history and hair routine. The trichologist then looks at your scalp and hair, sometimes with a magnifying camera, and talks through what they see. You can expect advice on gentle hair care, scalp care and lifestyle, and sometimes a suggestion to get blood tests or see your GP. A good trichologist will tell you if another route is better first.
How many sessions will I need?
Hair grows slowly, so changes take months rather than weeks. Many people have an initial consultation and then a few follow-ups spaced weeks apart to review progress. Some find one visit gives them what they need. It is fair to ask at the start how many visits they would expect.
Roughly what does it cost?
A private trichology consultation commonly costs from £60, and often more in big cities. Follow-up visits are often cheaper. A private dermatology appointment usually costs more than that, and on the NHS it is free but normally needs a GP referral and may involve a wait. Check what is included and the cancellation terms before you book.
Where it fits alongside NHS care
Your GP is the doorway to NHS care for hair and scalp problems. They can examine you, arrange tests such as blood tests for causes like low iron or thyroid problems, and refer you to a dermatologist if needed. A trichologist can work alongside this, but please don't stop or change any medicine or treatment on the strength of a visit.
When to see your GP first
Please see your GP before booking a trichologist if your hair loss is sudden or in patches, if it follows illness, new medicine, childbirth or major weight change, if your scalp is painful, inflamed or has sores, or if you also feel very tired, cold or unwell. A good trichologist will ask about these at the first appointment.
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have symptoms that haven't been checked, or you are under medical care, please talk to your GP as well.
More questions
Can a trichologist prescribe medicine?
No. Trichologists are not doctors and cannot prescribe. A GP or dermatologist can prescribe where it is appropriate.
Do I need a referral to see a trichologist?
No. You can book a trichologist directly. For a dermatologist on the NHS you normally need a referral from your GP.
Is trichologist a protected title?
No. Anyone can use it, so ask about their training and whether they belong to a professional body. A dermatologist, by contrast, is a registered doctor.
Can I see both?
Yes. Many people see their GP first, then a dermatologist for diagnosis and a trichologist for hair and scalp care and support.
How long before I notice a difference?
Hair grows slowly, so it is often several months before you see changes. Take photos in the same light each month to track it.