Why is a trichoscope used in trichoscopy?

A trichoscope is a handheld or camera-based examination device with magnification and controlled light. It can show the hair shafts, follicle openings, scalp surface, scaling, redness, and areas of breakage in greater detail. Some devices use contact with the skin, while others examine it without touching the surface.

The clinician uses these visual clues alongside your history and ordinary examination. Hair density, shaft thickness, empty follicle openings, and the distribution of scale or inflammation can help distinguish patterns of hair loss or scalp disease. The device does not by itself provide a diagnosis, and it cannot replace an examination when blood tests, a scalp sample, or another test is needed.

Arrive with your hair and scalp in the condition requested by the clinic. Tell the clinician about recent colouring, chemical straightening, extensions, new products, shedding, itching, pain, or sores. During the assessment, allow the clinician to inspect several scalp areas rather than only the place that feels most noticeable. Ask which findings were seen and what the next step will be.

Arrange a medical review for sudden or rapidly progressing hair loss, painful scalp inflammation, pus, bleeding, thick adherent scale, or sores that do not heal. Prompt assessment is also sensible when itching is severe, sleep is disrupted, or a child has a new area of hair loss. Trichoscopy may guide the assessment, but urgent symptoms should not wait for a cosmetic consultation.

Ask what the observed hair and scalp pattern suggests, whether photographs will be used for comparison, and whether another test is needed. Clarify whether you should stop any scalp product before the visit and when you should expect the examination findings and treatment plan.