The following conditions are just some examples of the most common hair and scalp problems that can be diagnosed and treated by a trichologist:

Male and female pattern baldness

Gradual type of hair thinning experienced predominately throughout the upper part of the scalp.

Alopecia areata

Sudden loss of hair in a patchy formation either from the scalp, face or body.

Scalp psoriasis

Distinct heavy plaques of scale, tightly adhered to the scalp in patchy formation with pronounced inflammation und sometimes bleeding.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Inflammation covering most or all of the scalp with whitish yellow scales visible

Afro-Caribbean hair problems

Allergic scalp disorders, localised scalp infections, hair loss and hair breakage are all common concerns with this hair type.

Anagen effluvium

Sudden loss of hair during the active growth phase of the hair follicle, often resulting in widespread hair loss.

Telogen effluvium

Excessive hair shedding condition that results in an overall reduction in hair quantity.

Hair damage through cosmetic processing

Highlighting and blow-drying are just some examples of what can eventually damage the cuticle layer of the hair shafts leading to weak, dull and lifeless hair.

All photographs courtesy of Dr R. P. R. Dawber MA FRCP

Further information on these conditions and other disorders of the hair and scalp can be found in The Good Hair Guide: All Your Questions Answered by Vanessa Bailey.