Going to a scalp consultation? Ask these.

What to ask before you agree to anything

These questions help you understand who you are dealing with and what you would be signing up for.

• Who performs the assessment and any procedure, and what qualifies them to do it?
• Are you able to prescribe, or do you work with a doctor who can?
• What will you look at during the assessment?
• What are the options for someone in my situation, and what does each one involve?
• How long does it usually take before you can judge whether something is working for me?
• Can you give me all the costs in writing, including follow-up visits?
• If I stop, what happens to my hair or scalp, and is there anything to pay?

Before you go

Spend a few minutes before your consultation gathering what you know. Think back to when the change began and how it has developed. Look through your phone for photos that show your hair over the past few years. List your medicines and supplements, and note any recent illness, hormone change or stressful period. Write down the hair and scalp products you use, how often you wash, and any heat or chemical treatments. Then add your own questions at the end of the list.

When to pause before you agree

Most providers explain things clearly and let you decide in your own time. If yours does not, that is worth noticing. Be careful if you are pushed to sign up for a package before you leave, or told a treatment will bring your hair back. Be careful, too, if no one looks at your scalp before suggesting something, or if it is unclear who would actually carry out a procedure. It is reasonable to ask for everything in writing and walk away to think.