Speaking to Dr. Kingsley, with his charming English accent and his amazing ability to educate was a true learning experience. Dr. Kingsley is a natural born teacher and an esteemed member of the Hair Loss Profession. Dr. Kingsley is not only a member of many prestigious organizations but the first and only adjunct member of the American Academy of Dermatologists. As if that weren’t enough to make him stand out in his profession, he is the only Trichologist with a PhD in Hair Loss in North America.
On a chilly New York morning, Dr. Kingsley took the time to sit down with The Hair Society to answer our questions and to enlighten our membership about the field of Trichology and it’s importance to the Hair Loss Industry. He is President of the WTS (World Trichology Society), a member of the North American Hair Research Society, International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, among several other boards and organizations.
H.S.: Where you born?
D.K.: I was born in England but have been in the United States since 1982.
H.S.: Tell us about your education.
Dr. David Kingsley, PhD, FWTS, FIT
D.K.: I attended The University of Portsmouth and obtained a PhD in the Psychology of Hair Loss. My goal is to never stop the educational process so I am continually expanding my knowledge in my field of Trichology as well as teaching others via lectures, publications in various medical journals, media articles and various courses through the WTS (World Trichology Society). I have also written a book called “The Hair Loss Cure” which can be purchased on Amazon.com and it is also available on Kindle.
H.S.: What is your book “The Hair Loss Cure” about?
D.K.: It is a self help book to help individuals understand the reasons and causes for hair loss and to improve their lifestyles. As a Trichologist I look at the whole picture when it comes to hair and scalp treatment. There is a link on my website where the book can be purchased.
H.S.: When did you open your own practice?
D.K.: Although I worked in the Hair Loss Industry after completing my education my wife and I began our first Family practice in 1994 in the basement of our home in New York. In time it grew and we now operate two centers. One is in Staten Island and one in Manhattan.
H.S.: Tell us about your Staff.
D.K.: I have a total of ten Staff members which consists of Treatment Technicians (Licensed Cosmetologists,) Trichologists and Receptionists.
H.S.: How do you make sure that they all work as a team?
D.K.: Ongoing education, awareness of patients lifestyle, current methods of hair restoration and a hands on, positive approach to our patients is key. We always work as a unit and approach everything in an extremely positive manner giving the patient hope, encouragement and knowledge. My wife and I try to lead by example.
H.S.: Where have you lectured on the subject of Trichology?
D.K.: I have traveled to the Middle East; (Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates), Europe and throughout North America.
H.S.: How many people have you educated regarding the field of Trichology?
D.K.: Thousands and still counting!
H.S.: Before I ask you to explain why Trichology is important to the Hair Loss Profession can you explain what it means and what it entails?
D.K.: Trikhos is Greek for hair, hence the word Trichology. It is the study of the hair and scalp but goes way beyond that and encompasses a person’s entire lifestyle where it relates to the care of the hair and scalp and hair loss treatment. It examines the causes for hair and scalp problems.
H.S.: What does a certified Trichologist do and how does it relate to the rest of the hair loss industry?