Note: Completion of a TAFE SA course does not guarantee an employment outcome. Formal requirements other than educational qualifications (eg licensing, professional registration), may apply to some occupations.
| Job Prospects | Average |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $30,000 to $70,000 |
| Brief | An itchy or scaling scalp, excessive hair loss and other scalp problems don't have to cause you discomfort or embarrassment because a trichologist can help. Originating from the Greek word, trichos, which means hair, trichology involves the diagnosis, treatment and care of human hair and scalp. |
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TAFE SA courses that may be relevant for: Trichologist
Introduction
Trichologists diagnose, treat and care for human hair and scalps. Trichologists perform the following tasks: they discuss the problem with the client; examine the scalp and identify the problem; work out the cause of the problem; and decide on appropriate therapy. Problems treated include scalp problems such as dandruff; itchiness of the scalp; hair loss; baldness; and excessive oiliness. The work of a trichologist may include carrying out a microscopic examination of the hair; applying ointment or lotion to the scalp; massaging the scalp; using electrotherapy machines and/or infra-red lamps; advising on the correct use of hair colouring, permanent waving and straightening products; and treating damage sustained by the hair or scalp as a result of the misuse of hair colouring, etc. Where necessary a trichologist refers clients to a medical or paramedical practitioner.
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Not quite the career you are looking for? Please try the related course profiles below:
Helping and Community Services
Nutrition Assistant (Dietary Aide), Police Officer, Aged or Disabilities Carer, Counsellor and Community Worker, Aboriginal and Torres Islander Health Worker, Trichologist, Child Care Worker, Landcare Officer, Customer Service Officer, Park Ranger, Tourist Information Officer, Kitchen hand, Medical Administrative Officer, Interpreter, Reflexologist, Youth Worker or Disability Worker, Patient Care Assistant, Massage Therapist, Fitness Instructor, Occupational Health & Safety Professional, Financial Planner / Financial Investment Advisers, Librarian
Influencing and Personal Contact
Designers for Theatre, Performance and Events, Receptionist (Tourism), Accountant, Police Officer, Event Coordinator, Restaurant and Catering Manager, Hotel Manager, Counsellor and Community Worker, Aboriginal and Torres Islander Health Worker, Trichologist, Travel Consultant (Domestic and International), Child Care Worker, Film, Stage, TV and Radio Director, Bank Officer, Musician, Butcher, Nursing (enrolled), Sports Coach, Legislators and Government Appointed Officials, Personal Trainer, Private Investigator, Landcare Officer, Human Resources Manager, Veterinary Nurse, Ecotourism Guide, Park Ranger, Author/ Book Editor, Tourist Information Officer, Beauty Therapist, Florist, Actor, Project and Program Administrator, Cellar Door Salesperson, Reflexologist, School Services Officer, Youth Worker or Disability Worker, Conveyancer, Copywriter, University - VET Lecturers and Tutors, Patient Care Assistant, Aromatherapist, Fitness Instructor, Hairdresser, Occupational Health & Safety Professional, ICT Network Administrator, Market Research Analyst, Sales Consultant (IT), Credit and Loans Officer, Marketing and Advertising Specialists, Retail Sales Supervisors and Assistants, Management Consultant, Real Estate Agents & Property Managers
Scientific
Laboratory and Science Technician (Laboratory Workers), Geologist and Geophysicist, Trichologist, Electronic Engineering Associate, Viticulturist and Vineyard Hand, Aquaculture Farmer and Technician, Veterinary Nurse, Beauty Therapist, Food Processing Technician, Computer Systems Engineering Associate, Market Research Analyst, Environmental Scientist / Environmental Project Officer
Education Requirements
Most trichologists tend to have a hairdressing background, however, other professionals, usually with a health background, have also qualified as trichologists. Entry to this occupation requires the completion of the nationally accredited Certificate IV in Trichology.
TAFE SA offers the following courses to help you find employment in this occupation: Certificate IV in Trichology and the Hairdressing, Beauty and Retail Careers Training Program. For further information about these courses please check the TAFE SA website, www.tafe.sa.edu.au. Still Unsure! Then contact the TAFE SA Information Line on 1800 882 661 to enquire about the availability of related short courses.
Career Path
There's a growing awareness about trichology, and more people want to be treated for their particular hair condition. Many working trichologist have also noticed this shift.
This is a very small occupation. People who want to broaden their understanding of the scientific side of hair can qualify as trichologists.
Industries
Health and Community Services, Retail Trade
Nature of the Job
When a client first consults a trichologist, the problem is discussed and the trichologist will examine the scalp and compile a full health profile. The health profile looks at the person's diet, bodily functions, what's happening in their life and any medication they may be using. From there the trichologist can usually narrow down where their scalp or hair problem began.
One trichologist says that if the hair or scalp issue is possibly due to a medical problem, such as diabetes, or a psychological problem such as tricotillomania (where a person pulls their hair out intentionally), they would recommend that the client see a medical practitioner or, in more extreme cases, a psychologist.
Otherwise, it's time for the trichologist to decide on an appropriate course of action. This may involve applying a cream to treat a scaly problem or an itchy scalp, or a revision of the client's diet plus nutritional supplements if the condition is the result of nutritional imbalances or a physical condition, such as stress.
In cases where a trichologist is unable to determine the cause, they may suggest blood tests or carry out a hair analysis where a hair sample is sent to a laboratory. Trichologists use nutritional therapy, when appropriate, for hair loss problems, and creams for scaly problems.
Typical Physical Working Environment
You need to be mindful that the customer may be embarrassed and a helpful discrete manner is essential.
Typical Occupational Example
All of the qualified trichologists employed in South Australia work in hairdressing salons and provide both services. People interested in this occupation should have an interest in science and enjoy working with people.
For further information, contact:
International Association of Trichologists
Suite 919, 185 Elizabeth St Sydney NSW 2000
Ph: (02) 9267 1384
Fax: (08) 8296 8450
Email: dsalinger@ozemail.com.au
Website: www.trichology.edu.au
Services Industry Skills Council (National Office)
GPO Box 4194 Sydney NSW 2001
Ph: (02) 8243 1210 or 1800 626 335 (FREECALL)
Fax: (02) 8243 1299
Email: info@serviceskills.com.au
Website: www.serviceskills.com.au
Earning Potential
The starting salary for a full time trichologist is about $30,000 per year and may go higher than $70,000. Self employed trichologists tend to earn at the top end of this salary range.
Further Information
For further information about all TAFE SA Courses, phone 1800 882 661 or email tafeinfo@saugov.sa.gov.au
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This Career Profile information was last modified: 29/04/2010 4:27:17 PM
The information was accurate at the time of publication. TAFE SA and their agents reserve the right to make any changes necessary
