Fellowship In Tricology

The first instructional building block is in Body Systems. The emphasis is on parts, locations, functions and relationships to hair and scalp for each of the major systems. Those which have a particularly close relationship are the circulatory, nervous, endocrine and immune systems.

The chemistry module begins with the basics of matter and energy and builds through atoms, ions, bonds and molecules. The principles of both organic and inorganic chemistry are explored.The primary goal of the module is to enable you to use chemistry as a tool. This use is especially relevant in other sections of the course that deal with trichological preparations, hair care processes, treatments and nutrition.

The module also leads to an understanding of the structure of the hair and skin with the section on the building of a protein.

Mechanical or chemical damage to the hair and scalp can be the consequence of such activities as brushing, braiding, shampooing, perming, tinting or bleaching. The latter chemical processes can be particularly hazardous, especially if administered by an inexperienced or careless person. The trichologist must recognize and deal with these problems and understand why they are caused in the first place.

Trichologists will be asked to act as expert witnesses in cases involving hair damage, breakage and loss. Hence, it is essential that an understanding be gained of how chemical processes affect the hair.

The chemistry and physiology of the hair and scalp are examined in great detail. This unit begins with the skin, its structures and functions and extends outward to the hair, which is an appendage of the skin. After discussing the hair and skin, the module proceeds into the area of other vital support systems such as glands, circulation and nerves. The processes of keratinization and pigmentation are explained.

In this module, we try to emphasise the relevance of what you have already studied to what you will be studying in the remainder of the course.

Trichological articles that have previously been published in the “Information Updates” put out to members by the International Association of Trichologists are added to this module.

A trichologist will use a variety of methods to find out more about the client’s hair or scalp. One of the most important of these is the use of the microscope. This module explains the theories of light and magnification and the benefits of using a simple or compound microscope.

Hair and scalp problems often relate to nutritional problems. It is therefore essential to have a comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of nutrition and you will be asked to undertake some of your own research in answering some of the questions for this module.

The nutritional requirements of the body are covered in detail and the consequences of nutritional imbalances on our health are discussed.

This module introduces you to the basic concepts underlying the identification of disorders of the hair or scalp.

It discusses the identification and classification of physical signs and the collection of pertinent details on family background and personal history. This information is then organized into the individual profile.

The latter part of the module deals with hair shaft problems, genetic and acquired.

Loss of hair is the main problem that trichologists see. Many of these problems can be helped; some correct themselves, and others have no known solution.

The various types of alopecia (hair loss) are dealt with in this module; their causes and treatment and how you recognize them. Disorders are classified according to their distribution on the scalp and the extent of hair loss.

The conditions specifically affecting the scalp are discussed in this module. Major categories include those problems characterized primarily by itching or scaling, excessive oiliness, and glandular disorders.

Eruptions and inflammatory conditions of the scalp are covered as well as bacterial and fungal infections. For reference, this module also includes a section on scalp involvement with neoplasms (warts, nevi, cysts and tumors).

Some of the preparations used to treat scalp problems can be made up by the trichologist. In order to do this, it is necessary to acquire some pharmaceutical skills as well as a knowledge of ingredients and the proportions used in various compounds and solutions.

This module also has sections on shampoos, amino acids, steroids, and oral contraceptives and their effects on hair and hair loss.

A trichologist will sometimes use such electrical devices as ultra-violet or laser. This module deals with an understanding of how these machines function and how they are used correctly and safely.