THE INSTITUTE OF TRICHOLOGISTS

Trichologists provide expert advice and treatment for:

• Hair loss
• Scalp problems
• Hair texture problems
• Hair Restoration
• Wigs - see below
• Extensions
• Weaving
• Chemotherapy hair loss
• ...and many more hair and scalp related issues.

Trichologists are not medically qualified but they are highly trained and specialised in their discipline.

For details of registered trichologists in your area, or to check that your trichologist is a member of The Institute of Trichologists, and thereby bound by the Institute’s Code of Professional Practice and Ethics, either click here or contact the Institute of Trichcologists.

The Institute of Trichologists is the foremost professional association for trichologists in the world, the largest provider of trichology training in Europe, and the longest established body of its type (it was founded in 1902).

For the protection of patients, The Institute of Trichologists publishes a Code of Professional Practice and Ethics, by which all practising trichologists who are registered members of the Institute are expected to abide.

In today’s society many people do not like to use the word ‘wig’ so “hair replacement systems or units" have become the more sophisticated term.

These systems, of which there is a vast variety, can cover small patches to whole scalps depending on the severity of the patients own personal needs. Wigs or false hair can be purchased from departmental stores, shopping malls or even market stalls to name but a few.

As most people find it difficult to talk about hair loss or scalp problems which may result in the need for a wig it is then essential that the individual has the knowledge of where to go for confidential, private and expert advice.

Nowadays it can be virtually impossible to detect wigs/hair pieces such is the improvement in quality.
However, whether a wig is noticeable or not will depend on, not only the quality but the price you pay, and prices can vary considerably.

A Trichologist, who is specially trained in hair & scalp disorders, is probably one of the most understanding professionals when it comes to dealing with either temporary or permanent hair loss. They will understand the patients need for total privacy and confidentiality at all times.

Some Trichologists also specialise as wig-makers (A list is available on request from the Institute of Trichologists) who will advise and make wigs to fit the individual. This allows you, the patient, the privacy and confidentiality required to make you feel comfortable when discussing this sensitive and sometimes upsetting subject.

In comparison a visit to a drug or department store for a wig, where the shop floor may be ‘open-plan’, will not give you the privacy nor the necessary expertise needed when having a wig fitted. The sales personnel will not always be qualified and therefore not be able to give much needed assistance to the customer who requires not only correct advice but in some cases a sympathetic ear. In fact you would probably purchase an off-the-shelf wig that may not fit correctly; being either too loose or too tight (if your wig is too tight this may result in traction hair loss), the colour and style may not suit you and depending on the price you pay may be noticeable as a wig. Would you then feel confident or self-conscious?

It is essential that you feel comfortable and have privacy when you are having a fitting of your wig/ hairpiece. You may find it helpful to take a friend for an opinion on colour, length and style. For your wig to be discreet or no different to your own natural hair, you will need to choose not only the same shade of colour but also the same amount of volume. If you vary these things too much then it will probably be noticeable.

The life of hairpieces is approximately 12 months, so when purchasing one you will need to take into consideration the price as you may need to replace the wig/hairpiece.
This replacement may depend on how long you need to wear it, is it a permanent solution or a temporary one? If it is long term then it will have to be replaced and as prices vary it can work out quite expensive if you have initially gone for a higher priced wig.

Not all wigmakers will have qualifications in the subject; many of them are experienced rather than qualified. The highest qualification would be C.G.L.I (City and Guilds of London Institute advanced certificate or City and Guilds wig-making certificate).

In essence a wig-maker would have the edge on a Posticheur and a Board-worker because they would be highly qualified and experienced in all aspects of wig-making.

A Wig-maker;- should have theoretical and practical knowledge of all expects of false hair which should include: completing order forms, measuring patients/taking casts and moulds, be proficient in costing, designing and fittings, be capable of styling including cutting/colouring (human hair only) and cleaning and maintenance.

A Posticheur; - should be able to; complete order forms and costings, measure and/or take casts and moulds and the fitting and styling (including cutting) and cleaning.

A Board-worker; - is a person who has trained in the art of making false hair from a pin-curl to a full head wig. They are not necessarily hairdressers; their work may be solely to make postiche (postiche is derived from the French language and means false). Postiche is universally accepted as any type of added hair.