Steven Goldsworthy, Goldsworthy’s Swindon
Pursuing a career in trichology involves a blend of practical training and theoretical study. I dedicated one day per week away from the salon to focus on coursework, making sure I met my deadlines for each monthly module. This academic component included subjects such as genetics, chemistry, microbiology and nutrition, all with extensive textbook study during my personal time.
Monthly visits to the Institute of Trichologists in London provided hands-on practical training and deeper insights into the scientific principles. While I aimed to minimise disruptions to my salon responsibilities by allocating a specific day for study, occasional overlaps were unavoidable.
However, this integration has its benefits, as it allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge directly to real-world cases within the salon, leveraging my existing expertise in haircare. In truth, the training was more challenging than anticipated. However, the curriculum is thoughtfully divided into manageable modules, allowing for focused study of one topic at a time.
It has yielded significant benefits, both financially and in enhancing our professional reputation. We have attracted new clients seeking trichological services, many of whom have become regular salon clients too.
Initially, I attempted to operate the trichology practice as a separate entity, but this approach led to duplicated administrative efforts and expenses. After a year, we consolidated the services, designating a dedicated room and specialist within the salon.
Darren Fowler, Fowler35, London
Building a trichology business isn’t just about offering treatments; it’s about trust. Having spent 30 years at Fowler35, I’ve naturally built strong relationships with clients who trust my expertise. That trust extends to my work at London Hair and Scalp Health, where I take a specialist approach to hair and scalp issues. A big part of attracting new clients is education, both in-salon and online. I regularly share insights about hair loss and scalp conditions through social media, blogs and newsletters. This helps potential clients see the value in trichology and understand how it differs from traditional hairdressing.
Collaboration is also key. Partnering with medical professionals, beauty clinics and wellness spaces brings in new referrals. Plus, offering initial consultations allows people to ask questions before committing to a full treatment plan.
Around 40% of my trichology clients were first salon clients at Fowler35. That connection helps, but it’s important to remember that not every hair client immediately sees the value in trichology.
The best way to introduce the subject is without pressure. If a client is experiencing hair thinning, excess shedding or scalp irritation, I simply ask whether it’s something they’d like to explore further. It’s about having a conversation rather than making them feel self-conscious.
Rob Eaton, Russell Eaton, Leeds and Barnsley
The investment in both learning the skills of a trichologist and in the space I created within the salon was definitely long term. I combine the trichology services with my salon work and now I have the freedom to decide which area I most want to focus on as my career develops. Right now, I feel equally passionate about them both. I love that changing hair for a client can make such a big impact, in both the areas of trichology and hairdressing.
The actual process was two years of education at the Institute of Trichologists, followed by two years of mentorship with the Institute while I implemented the services and submitted case studies to be checked. After that, it has been an organic growth of the services in the salon.
It has had a really positive impact. Our clients love the fact that we have an in-salon trichologist, and the added level of expertise helps in so many areas of consultations and advanced hair knowledge. In a competitive world where there are so many options for clients, our point of difference in our area has been enhanced by the addition of trichology services.
