Medical Trichology

This module provides a structured introduction to the anatomy, physiology and function of the hair and scalp, establishing essential foundations for understanding health and disease. Participants will examine the follicular unit and pilosebaceous anatomy together with vascular supply, innervation and the concept of immune privilege that protects follicles from autoimmune attack. The module also explores the hair cycle with its anagen, catagen, telogen and exogen phases and the key signalling pathways that regulate growth and shedding. By linking microscopic anatomy to clinical relevance, learners gain insight into how disruptions in follicular physiology contribute to conditions such as alopecia, folliculitis and scarring disorders. Designed for health professionals, the program combines academic theory with clinical application, preparing participants to apply knowledge in diagnostic reasoning and patient care. This foundation builds confidence in recognising pathology, guiding management and supporting further specialised learning in medical trichology.

This module explores the structure and function of the hair shaft, variations in hair types, determinants of pigmentation, and the anatomy of the scalp. Building on Part I, participants will examine the composition of keratins, the organisation of cuticle, cortex and medulla, and how bonds within the shaft influence strength, elasticity, and curl pattern. The module highlights how chemical and heat treatments alter these bonds and may contribute to shaft fragility, split ends, and acquired disorders such as trichorrhexis nodosa. Learners will also study human hair classifications including terminal, vellus and lanugo hair, with emphasis on racial and ethnic variations that affect clinical presentation and disease risk. Finally, the module addresses the unique features of scalp skin, its innervation and blood supply, and the wide spectrum of inflammatory, infectious, autoimmune and neoplastic disorders that commonly present in this region. By integrating microscopic anatomy with clinical relevance, the program equips participants with essential skills for recognising, diagnosing, and managing hair and scalp conditions.

This module provides a structured approach to the recognition, assessment, and management of hair and scalp disorders. Participants will explore the classification of alopecias, differentiating between scarring and non-scarring conditions, and apply principles of pre-test probability to clinical reasoning. Through case-based learning, the module covers comprehensive history taking, systematic scalp and hair examination, and the use of diagnostic tools such as trichoscopy and biopsy. Learners will develop the skills to enhance diagnostic accuracy, formulate holistic management plans, and integrate supportive, medical, surgical, and camouflage strategies tailored to patient needs. Emphasis is placed on patient-centred care, psychosocial considerations, and the ability to communicate findings effectively. By the end of the module, participants will be able to recognise major hair disorders, conduct targeted assessments, and approach management with confidence, improving clinical outcomes for diverse patient populations.

This module provides a structured foundation in trichoscopy – the dermoscopic examination of the hair and scalp to help primary care practitioners and skin specialists confidently assess and manage common hair disorders. Participants will learn to identify key trichoscopic patterns in conditions such as androgenic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, traction alopecia, trichotillomania, and scarring alopecias. Through high-quality clinical images, case-based content, and diagnostic flowcharts, the module explores hair shaft abnormalities, follicular unit changes, vascular signs, and pigment patterns. By applying these visual diagnostic criteria, practitioners will be better equipped to distinguish between scarring and non-scarring hair loss, improve diagnostic accuracy, and make informed decisions about treatment or referral in general practice. 

This module provides a comprehensive exploration of male pattern hair loss (MPHL), the most common cause of hair loss in men. Participants will develop an understanding of the genetic, hormonal, and pathophysiological mechanisms driving follicular miniaturization and patterned baldness. The module reviews epidemiology, risk factors, and systemic associations, while equipping learners to recognise clinical features and apply severity assessment tools such as the Hamilton–Norwood scale. Differential diagnoses, including alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, and scarring alopecias, are examined to enhance diagnostic accuracy. Emphasis is placed on the psychosocial and psychosexual burden of MPHL, acknowledging its impact on quality of life. Evidence-based management strategies are presented, covering topical and oral agents, 5α-reductase inhibitors, procedural therapies, transplantation, and cosmetic camouflage. By the end, learners will be able to diagnose MPHL confidently, assess its impact, and tailor treatment plans to patient needs.

This module provides primary care practitioners with an evidence-based framework for diagnosing and managing female pattern hair loss (FPHL). Participants will learn to differentiate FPHL from common mimickers such as telogen effluvium, traction alopecia, and lichen planopilaris. The module reviews epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, and psychosocial impact, highlighting the role of history, examination, and appropriate investigations in diagnosis. Current treatment strategies are outlined, including topical and oral minoxidil, spironolactone, finasteride, photobiomodulation, and platelet-rich plasma, with emphasis on efficacy, safety, and patient selection. Through case-based learning and guideline integration, practitioners will strengthen their ability to counsel patients, set realistic expectations, and deliver tailored management plans that improve quality of life and patient outcomes.

This module introduces telogen effluvium (TE), the second most common cause of hair loss after androgenic alopecia. It provides a structured approach to understanding the condition through eight key units: introduction to the hair cycle, pathophysiology, triggers, history taking and clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, differential diagnosis, management strategies, and clinical case correlations. Participants will learn to recognise acute and chronic TE, identify common triggers such as stress, systemic illness, medications, and nutritional deficiencies, and distinguish TE from other forms of alopecia using clinical, trichoscopic, and laboratory tools. Evidence-based management is emphasised, covering patient reassurance, lifestyle and nutritional interventions, medical therapies, and newer treatment modalities. Case studies illustrate real-world applications, supporting critical thinking and practical decision-making. By completion, learners will confidently diagnose TE and implement tailored, patient-centred management plans.

This module provides an in-depth exploration of alopecia areata (AA), a common autoimmune form of non-scarring hair loss with significant clinical and psychosocial impact. Participants will examine the underlying pathophysiology, including immune privilege disruption, genetic susceptibility, and inflammatory cytokine pathways. The module reviews epidemiology, comorbid associations, and prognostic factors, with attention to the varied clinical subtypes from patchy AA to alopecia universalis. Diagnostic approaches will be covered in detail, including trichoscopy, clinical examination, and the use of validated scoring systems such as SALT and ALODEX. Learners will assess key differential diagnoses, such as tinea capitis, trichotillomania, and early scarring alopecias, to enhance diagnostic accuracy. Evidence-based management strategies are discussed, from topical and intralesional corticosteroids to systemic therapies, JAK inhibitors, and adjunctive supportive measures. By the end, participants will be able to diagnose AA confidently, assess severity, and tailor treatment plans to optimise outcomes.

This module introduces trichology as a paramedical science of hair and scalp health, bridging dermatology, endocrinology, nutrition, psychology, and cosmetic science. Participants will learn the trichologist’s scope of practice, including scalp analysis, hair loss evaluation, management of common scalp disorders, and guidance on hair care, nutrition, and lifestyle. The module highlights key consultation techniques such as trichoscopy, hair pull and wash tests, and trichogram analysis. Emphasis is placed on non-medical treatment advice, patient education, and the psychosocial aspects of hair concerns. Learners will also explore effective doctor–trichologist collaboration, cultural competency in Afro-textured hair care, and the importance of personalised hair care advice. By the end, participants will understand trichology’s clinical relevance, recognise hair and scalp concerns beyond dermatologic disease, and apply multidisciplinary, patient-centred approaches to improve care and communication.