Trichology is the scientific study of the hair and scalp, and trichologists are medically trained in the anatomy and physiology of hair disorders. “We have an understanding of how all the body’s systems, as well as disease, diet and lifestyle can impact the hair and scalp - and we’re able to diagnose and treat a range of hair and scalp conditions,” explains Ricardo Vila Nova.
If you’ve put off seeing a trichologist out of fear that you’ll never be able to heat style, dye, or wear a tight pony ever again – you’re in for a pleasant surprise – at least where Vila Nova is concerned. “I’m not going to tell people to stop styling or colouring their tresses. Hair must be enjoyed, otherwise what’s the point!” he says. In fact, regular visits to a trichologist for treatments like the ones Vila Nova offers will make for stronger, healthier hair that can withstand the stresses of styling, colouring, and perming far better than if you left your tresses to their own devices.
Here’s exactly what you can expect from a trichology consultation…
1. Analysis
At 212.2 Ricardo Vila Nova Hair Doctors, new clients are encouraged to undergo a Hair DNA Scan, a form of hair analysis that less than a handful of people in the world are able to perform. “By magnifying and analysing a single strand of hair, I can identify the emotional, nutritional, hormonal, environmental and genetic factors affecting the health and condition of the hair and scalp,” shares Vila Nova. “First, I look to determine hydration and toxin levels to see if the scalp is getting the vitamins and minerals it needs. Then I check for bacteria and measure the pH level. I also examine cellular activity, and reproduction. The former is responsible for the production of cuticle cells and the latter determines the thickness of the hair. Together, all of these elements contribute to the density, strength and growth rate of the hair,” adds Vila Nova.
2. Hair-life balance
The analysis doesn’t stop there, alongside inspecting your hair, any trichologist worth their salt will do a deep dive into your medical history, your diet and lifestyle practices and of course discuss any concerns you may have about the condition of your hair and scalp.
“I believe that to treat hair you first need to understand each person’s individual genetic vulnerabilities, and their daily habits.” says Vila Nova, who encourages his clients to take a hair-life balance approach when it comes to looking after their hair. So, what you can expect from trichologists like Vila Nova is lots of lifestyle, diet and haircare advice personalised to your unique needs. Alongside active packed in-clinic and at-home treatment and haircare offerings that tackle anything from thinning, dryness, and hair prone to breakage, to alopecia, and scalp conditions.
3. Treatment options
A man of science, Vila Nova is a big fan of growth factors, peptides and exosomes in bio-identical formulas, which imitate the hormones that aid cell proliferation, ultimately boosting hair growth. Vitamin injections, micro-needling and laser light therapy are also go-to hair health enhancers employed by Vila Nova.
But what if you don’t have any major hair concerns, is seeing a trichologist worth the effort. “Absolutely yes. There’s one thing we can all be sure of and that’s ageing. It’s a privilege to age, but as we age, so does our skin and our hair. Treating your hair and scalp like you do your skin, by starting preventative treatments early will ensure your hair remains healthy and beautiful for longer,” believes Vila Nova.
To discover how your genetics and lifestyle habits are influencing your tresses book in for a Hair DNA Scan.
