TRI-101 Introduction to Trichology

TRI-101 Introduction to Trichology is the gateway course for students beginning formal university-level study in the College of Trichology Science. Designed as the first course in the Certified Scalp Scientist™ curriculum, it introduces the origins and development of trichology, the profession's modern role, and the scientific and ethical foundations required for later study. Students explore core concepts in hair and scalp science, including the distinction between the hair shaft and living scalp structures, the hair growth cycle, foundational professional terminology, and the major categories of common hair and scalp concerns. The course also helps learners understand how internal and external influences such as stress, grooming practices, hormones, medications, hereditary factors, and lifestyle patterns may shape what is observed. A major focus of the course is professional practice. Learners are introduced to the purpose and structure of a trichology consultation, foundational history taking, observation and documentation skills, informed consent, confidentiality, communication, and ethical decision-making. The course also clarifies the appropriate non-medical scope of trichology and teaches students when referral to licensed medical or allied professionals may be appropriate. By the end of the course, students can explain what trichology is, use essential vocabulary correctly, recognize broad concern patterns, document introductory findings professionally, and describe how this foundation prepares them for deeper study in anatomy, disorders, assessment, microscopy, and clinical trichology support.

What you will learn

• Define trichology and accurately explain its historical development, contemporary purpose, and relationship to adjacent disciplines.
• Use foundational trichology terminology correctly when describing hair structure, scalp observations, growth phases, and common concerns.
• Differentiate the professional role of the trichologist from the roles of cosmetologists, dermatologists, physicians, and other allied professionals.
• Describe foundational concepts in hair and scalp science, including basic anatomy, the hair growth cycle, and major internal and external influences on hair and scalp health.
• Identify broad categories of common hair and scalp concerns and distinguish observation-based description from medical diagnosis.
• Demonstrate the foundational steps of a trichology consultation, including history taking, observation, professional communication, and basic documentation.
• Recognize situations that warrant referral to a licensed medical provider and justify those referral decisions within an appropriate non-medical scope of practice.
• Apply ethical principles, informed consent, confidentiality, and scope boundaries to introductory trichology practice scenarios.

Who should attend

This course is designed for beginning students entering the Certified Scalp Scientist™ program and other learners seeking a serious introduction to trichology. It is especially appropriate for those who want a structured, scope-aware understanding of hair and scalp science before progressing into more advanced technical and clinical coursework.