Hair-loss assessment and trichoscopy in the UK

Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026

Start with medical assessment

See a GP before buying treatment from a commercial hair clinic, as recommended by the NHS ↗. Hair loss has different causes, so a promise of one universal remedy is a poor basis for choosing treatment.

Record when it began, the areas affected, scalp changes, recent illnesses or operations, diet and medicines. Bring older photographs of your parting and hairline if available. Mention pain, inflammation or rapidly developing patches when booking.

What trichoscopy contributes

Trichoscopy examines the hair and scalp under magnification. It helps a specialist assess the pattern of changes but does not replace a clinical history and examination. Specialist services such as Imperial's hair-disorders clinic ↗ select investigations according to the presentation; other tests may be appropriate.

Ask which specific question the examination should answer, whether you receive a report and how the findings affect treatment. Computerised analysis without an explanation of the findings is not an established diagnosis.

Choosing a professional

For a medical diagnosis, look for a dermatologist experienced in hair disorders. The label trichology alone does not tell you whether the consultant is a doctor: check qualifications and the GMC register ↗.

NHS referral depends on clinical need and local services. For private care, establish whether trichoscopy and a written plan are included, plus the cost of reviews and necessary investigations.

Before purchasing treatment

Ask for the diagnosis, treatment objective, review date and alternatives, including observation. Establish whether continued use is necessary and what happens after stopping.

Avoid starting supplements, injections and devices simultaneously without understanding the cause. The NHS explains that no hair-loss treatment works for everyone. Keep baseline photographs and agree how improvement will be measured.