When hair loss starts to worry you, it is not always clear who to see. Trichologists, dermatologists, primary care doctors and telehealth providers all play different roles. This guide explains the differences so you can choose the right starting point.
Trichologists
Trichologists specialize in hair and scalp health. In the United States, trichology is not a licensed medical profession, and trichologists are not medical doctors. They cannot diagnose medical conditions or prescribe medication. They can offer education, hair and scalp care advice, and referrals.
Dermatologists
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in skin, hair and nails. They can diagnose all types of hair loss, perform scalp biopsies, and prescribe and perform treatments, including injections and procedures. They are the right choice for complex, unusual or rapidly changing hair loss.
Primary care doctors
Your primary care doctor can check for common underlying causes, such as thyroid problems or iron deficiency, with blood tests and refer you on if needed. See thyroid hair loss.
Telehealth providers
Licensed telehealth providers can review common, gradual hair loss from a health history and photos and, when appropriate, prescribe treatment. See how an online consultation works. Telehealth is not the right route for everything.
See a dermatologist in person if you have
- Sudden or rapidly progressing hair loss
- Patchy, round bald spots
- Scalp pain, burning, pus, or thick scaly plaques
- A smooth, shiny area of hair loss or a receding band at the hairline, which can signal scarring
- Eyebrow or body hair loss
- Hair loss in a child
Scarring hair loss can be permanent, so early specialist care matters.
Next step
For gradual thinning without the warning signs above, a licensed provider can review your situation. Start your online consultation.
Prescription required for prescription treatment. A licensed provider decides whether treatment is appropriate. Individual results vary. Prescribed Essence currently serves patients in California, Colorado, Florida and New York.
