What should you know about Fotofinder trichoscopy?

A trichoscopy camera captures enlarged images of the scalp and hair without cutting the skin. The clinician can review follicle openings, hair-shaft thickness, scaling, redness, broken hairs, and areas where hairs are absent. Fotofinder systems may store images so later visits can be compared more consistently.

This is an assessment tool, not a treatment. The findings can help distinguish patterns of shedding, miniaturisation, inflammation, or scalp disease, but they are interpreted alongside your history, examination, medicines, and sometimes blood tests or biopsy.

Bring a list of medicines, supplements, hair products, and recent changes in shedding or scalp symptoms. Mention family hair-loss patterns, illness, weight change, stressors, and recent procedures. Follow the clinic’s instructions about washing or styling the hair before imaging.

During the visit, keep the scalp still while images are taken from selected regions. Ask which findings are significant, whether the pattern suggests shedding or follicle damage, and what follow-up interval would make comparison useful. A hair transplant should only be considered after the cause and stability of loss are assessed.

Arrange prompt medical review for sudden patchy loss, painful or tender scalp, pus, heavy scaling, bleeding, or rapidly progressing loss. Urgent care is appropriate for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a severe allergic reaction after a scalp product or procedure.

Ask what the images show, whether the follicles appear inflamed or miniaturised, which tests may be needed, and whether treatment should begin before repeat imaging. Ask how photographs will be stored and how progress will be judged.