What is trichoscopy done with?

The clinician moves the trichoscope over selected scalp areas to view follicle openings, hair shafts and surface changes under magnification and suitable lighting. Some devices contact the skin; others work at a short distance. A liquid or gel may be used when needed to improve the view.

The device can capture still images or video for comparison. The pictures are interpreted with your symptoms, medical history and scalp examination, so the equipment supplies evidence rather than a diagnosis by itself.

Before the appointment, ask whether to leave the scalp clean and avoid styling products, fibres, oils or camouflage powders. Tell the clinician about recent hair dye, chemical treatments, medicines, shedding, itching and tenderness.

During the session, remain comfortable and still while different areas are examined. You can ask which regions are being compared and whether the images will help monitor a treatment response.

Seek a medical assessment for sudden hair loss, painful scalp swelling, crusting, pus, bleeding, intense inflammation or a changing scalp lesion. Urgent help is appropriate for facial swelling or trouble breathing. Trichoscopy may clarify surface findings, but significant symptoms still require clinical judgment.

Ask what type of trichoscope will be used, whether contact or non-contact imaging is planned, what preparation is needed, how the images will be interpreted, and whether another test may be required.