The hair on your head is a protein filament that grows from a follicle found in the skin’s dermal layer. This complex structure is a subject of dedicated scientific inquiry. The specialized study of the hair and scalp is formally known as Trichology.
The Scientific Name for Studying Hair
The term Trichology is derived from the Ancient Greek word thrÃx, meaning “hair,” combined with the suffix -logia, meaning “the study of” or “science.” This specialized branch of cosmetic and medical study focuses on the health, function, and diseases of the human hair and scalp. Professionals examine the hair structure and its surrounding environment, often looking at how internal factors like diet, stress, and hormones affect its condition. The discipline was formally established in the early 20th century, notably with the founding of The Institute of Trichologists in 1902.
Investigating Hair Anatomy and Growth
The study of hair begins with its fundamental biological components: the hair shaft and the hair follicle. The hair shaft is the part visible above the skin, composed of non-living, hardened keratinized cells, which are the same structural proteins found in fingernails. The living part of the hair is the follicle, a complex organ beneath the skin’s surface responsible for regulating growth.
Hair generation follows a continuous, cyclical pattern composed of three main phases. The Anagen phase is the active growth period, where cells at the root divide rapidly to form the new hair strand, typically lasting two to six years. Approximately 80 to 90% of a person’s hair is in this growing phase at any given time.
The Catagen phase follows, serving as a brief transitional stage that signals the end of active growth, lasting about two to three weeks. During this time, the hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the blood supply, with only about 1% of hairs being in this phase. The final stage is the Telogen phase, a resting period lasting around three months. The hair remains anchored in the follicle before naturally shedding, allowing a new Anagen hair to begin its growth cycle.
Common Conditions Examined
The practical application of this science involves diagnosing and addressing a variety of hair and scalp irregularities. The most common issues involve hair loss, which may manifest as various forms of Alopecia. These include Androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) and Telogen effluvium, a temporary shedding often triggered by stress, illness, or nutritional deficiencies.
The field also concentrates on disorders affecting the scalp, which is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Conditions routinely examined include Seborrheic Dermatitis (persistent dandruff) and Psoriasis, an autoimmune condition causing patches of thickened skin. Furthermore, hair fiber disorders like Traction alopecia (caused by chronic pulling or tension) and general hair shaft damage from chemical processing or heat styling are frequent areas of focus.
Professionals in the Field
When seeking help for hair and scalp concerns, the distinction between practitioners is important, as their training and scope of practice differ. A Certified Trichologist is a specialist focused exclusively on hair and scalp science, often taking a holistic view that incorporates lifestyle, diet, and topical treatments. They undergo specialized certification programs and are experts in non-medical management of hair health, recommending specialized products and nutritional support.
A Dermatologist, by contrast, is a licensed medical doctor who specializes in conditions of the skin, hair, and nails. Because of their extensive medical training, Dermatologists can diagnose complex disorders, prescribe medications, and perform surgical procedures like scalp biopsies. For severe or medically complex conditions requiring prescription-strength treatment, a Dermatologist is the appropriate professional. A Trichologist provides non-medical support and corrective care for early-stage or cosmetic issues.