What to expect during a Consultation with Bowe Hair and Scalp Clinic
At Bowe Hair and Scalp Clinic, we are dedicated to providing a thorough, personalised approach to understanding and addressing your hair or scalp concerns. Our consultation process is designed to give you a precise diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after your consultation.
Before Your Consultation
To make the most of your time with us, we ask that you supply as much relevant information as possible before your appointment. This allows our specialist to review your case in advance, which enhances the effectiveness of your consultation. Although we prepare extensively, a face-to-face consultation is essential to provide advice.
Information to Provide
Prior to your visit, please email us the following details, if possible: (If not possible please try to gather this as much as you can and bring to your appointment).
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Timeline of Hair/Scalp Issues: Describe when your condition started, how it has progressed, and any treatments you’ve tried.
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Recent Stress: Note any recent or ongoing stress, major life events, or bereavements that may have impacted your health.
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Blood Tests: Share copies of recent blood tests (within the last 6-12 months), even if the results are within normal ranges.
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Medications and Supplements: List any medications, supplements, vitamins, or herbal remedies you’re currently using or have used in the last 12–24 months.
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General Health Conditions: Provide information about any medical conditions, such as hypertension, hypothyroidism, autoimmune conditions, or other chronic health issues.
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Dietary Information: Outline your dietary habits, including meal frequency, specific diets, or recent changes in weight.
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Digestion Concerns: Note any issues like bloating, indigestion, IBS, or constipation.
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Nail Health: Mention any signs of weak, pitted, ridged, or crumbly nails.
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Recent Health Changes: Document any recent illnesses, surgeries, fevers, or accidents.
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Family History: Note any family history of similar hair or scalp issues.
Preparing for Your Consultation
Hair Preparation: Wash your hair a day or two before your appointment (avoid washing it on the day itself) and refrain from using cosmetic camouflage products.
Bring Any Relevant Items: Please bring any medications, supplements, or hair/scalp products you’re currently or previously using. This will help us gain a complete picture of your treatment history.
During Your Consultation
Your initial hair loss consultation will last up to 90 minutes and involves a comprehensive discussion and examination of your hair and scalp. It will also include any wet treatment that may be necessary on the day.
Detailed Assessment
Our trichologist will discuss various aspects of your health and lifestyle that may be influencing your hair and scalp health, including:
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Timeline and History of Hair Loss: Details on how your condition began, how it has evolved, what you’ve tried, and what has or hasn’t worked.
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General Health: Information on chronic health conditions that may impact hair health, including hypertension, thyroid issues, or autoimmune conditions.
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Unusual Symptoms: Report any unusual symptoms, like fatigue, dizziness, or palpitations, that may signal underlying issues.
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Recent Health Changes: Share any recent acute illnesses, surgeries, or health changes.
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Medications and Supplements: A full list of all medications and supplements will be discussed in detail.
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Diet and Digestion: Your dietary habits, any specific diets or exclusions, and digestive health concerns will be considered.
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Family History: Any genetic links or conditions shared with family members.
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Nail Health: Observations on nail health can give clues about nutritional status and potential deficiencies.
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Stress Levels: Stress plays a significant role in hair health, so we’ll discuss any major life stressors that may be contributing.
Examination
The trichologist will conduct a thorough examination of your hair and scalp, often using specialised tools such as a scalp microscope or magnifying glass to assess the condition in detail. This helps us detect subtleties that may not be visible to the naked eye.
Diagnosis and Recommendations
By the end of the consultation, our trichologist will typically provide a diagnosis or likely cause of your condition. In some cases, further information (e.g. additional blood tests) may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
We’ll offer specific recommendations for your treatment plan, including:
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Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments: Personalised advice on changes to enhance hair and scalp health.
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Supplement Recommendations: Suggested vitamins or supplements, if appropriate.
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Topical and Scalp Treatments: Recommendations for specific topical treatments or in-clinic scalp treatments.
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Advanced Treatments: Options like laser therapy or referrals to other specialists if additional support is required.
After Your Consultation
If further tests are required, we can correspond with your GP to arrange for necessary blood work or referrals. Additionally, if treatment products are recommended, you may purchase these from the clinic or obtain them on your own.
The consultation is a vital part of the diagnosis and treatment process, ensuring that every detail of your health and lifestyle is taken into account. Our clinic strictly adheres to the ethical code of the Institute of Trichologists, and no treatments are prescribed unless they are considered essential or beneficial.
By choosing Bowe Hair and Scalp Clinic, you’re opting for a patient-focused, ethical, and thorough approach to hair and scalp health. We look forward to helping you regain healthy, thriving hair.