Who should treat hair loss: dermatologists vs hair-restoration clinics? Most people only start researching hair loss when they’ve reached the point of real worry. They notice shedding that doesn’t seem to stop, thinning that changes how their hair sits, or a patch that looks a little too visible under certain lighting. And then comes that sinking feeling – “Who do I even go to for this?”
I see this every week. Someone arrives at their consultation after spending nights on Google trying to figure out whether they should see a dermatologist, a trichologist or a hair-restoration clinic first. It’s confusing because hair loss isn’t just one condition. It has dozens of causes, and without understanding the root of it, choosing the right door to walk through feels overwhelming. So let’s make this much easier for you.
Who should treat hair loss: dermatologists vs hair-restoration clinics?
A dermatologist (or trichologist) is the right person to see if you’re looking for a medical diagnosis. They investigate why the hair is thinning or shedding, and they can run the necessary medical checks. This can include scalp examinations, blood tests, hormone screening, ferritin levels, thyroid panels and so on.
A dermatologist identifies whether the hair loss you’re experiencing is:
- androgenetic (pattern thinning)
- alopecia areata
- telogen effluvium
- hormonal imbalance
- autoimmune-related
- nutrient deficiency
- inflammation of the scalp
- something triggered by medication or stress
They confirm the why. A proper diagnosis helps you understand what you’re dealing with and makes treatment far more effective.
This is why many of our own patients come to us with a dermatologist’s report in hand.
When you should see a Hair restoration clinic?
A hair restoration clinic specialises in treatment, not diagnosis. Once you know what type of hair loss you’re dealing with, or even if you simply suspect thinning and want expert guidance, a hair restoration clinic is the place that creates your plan for actual improvement.
This is where real transformation begins.
Hair restoration clinics focus on:
- stimulating dormant follicles
- strengthening existing hair
- slowing or reversing shedding
- improving scalp circulation
- rebuilding a healthy environment for growth
- carrying out in-clinic procedures safely and consistently
At Skin Perfection, this includes Microneedling with Exosomes, targeted LED therapy, scalp detoxing, and personalised at-home routines. It’s the kind of tailored protocol you just don’t get in general dermatology settings.
So the simplest way to think about it is this: Dermatologists diagnose the cause. Hair restoration clinics treat the cause. And in many cases, the best outcome comes from using both.
Why people get stuck between the two, and how we help?
Most people researching hair loss are not only dealing with the physical symptoms. They’re dealing with fear. Fear of it getting worse. Fear of doing nothing or fear of choosing the wrong treatment and wasting precious time that they can’t get back.
Hair loss isn’t just a cosmetic concern. It also affects your identity, confidence and daily interactions. Many patients tell me they avoid certain hairstyles, photos, bright lighting or windy days because they’re worried about how visible their thinning areas look.
This is exactly why our approach is so personalised. Some clients already have a dermatologist’s report, so we build their plan around it. Others come without a diagnosis, so we guide them through what may need investigating, what can be treated immediately and what steps will make the biggest difference fastest.
How we treat hair loss at Skin Perfection London?
Once we have clarity on your hair loss type, we create a treatment plan designed specifically for you, not a copy-and-paste protocol.
Our most effective approach combines:
- Microneedling & Exosomes
This is the most advanced treatment in hair restoration today. By using Dermapen’s ExoGrowth formulas, we deliver messenger cells that stimulate repair, reduce inflammation and wake up dormant follicles. - LED Light Therapy
This improves circulation, encourages healing and boosts the effects of microneedling and exosomes. - At-home hair care protocols
We help you build a routine that supports the work we do in clinic, because healthy hair needs consistency from all angles.
The goal isn’t just to stop shedding. It’s to create a stronger, healthier, denser head of hair using the most effective innovations available today.
Are you unsure where to begin your hair restoration journey?
Hair loss feels heavy, especially when you’re trying to make the right decision quickly. If you’re stuck between booking a dermatologist or starting with a hair restoration clinic, you’re welcome to begin with us. We’ll review your symptoms, discuss what may need diagnosing and guide you through exactly what to do next.
If you’d like to take the first step, you can book a consultation with our team. We’ll talk you through everything, answer your questions and build a plan that gives you confidence in getting your hair back on track.
