ScalpCheck®: In-Depth Hair & Scalp Evaluation in Cleveland
If you are dealing with itchy scalp, dandruff, oiliness, shedding, or early thinning, it can be hard to know where to start. Is it shampoo? Hormones? Stress? Hard water? Something else?
ScalpCheck® is our in-depth hair and scalp evaluation in Cleveland that uses microscopic imaging, digital measurements, and trichology principles to uncover what is really happening on your scalp. Instead of guessing or trying one more product, you leave with a clear understanding of your scalp environment and a customized plan to correct it.
ScalpCheck® is ideal if your scalp does not feel right and you are noticing early changes in your hair. If you are already seeing more scalp than hair, you may benefit from our Hair Loss: Causes, Symptoms & Solutions guide and a Hair Solution Consultation.
Who Is ScalpCheck® For?
ScalpCheck® is designed for women and men who:
- Feel that their scalp is not “normal” — itchy, tight, oily, flaky, or burning.
- Notice shedding in the shower, on the pillow, or in the brush.
- See a gradual loss of volume but no obvious bare spots yet.
- Have tried over-the-counter dandruff shampoos or home remedies with limited success.
- Want to prevent a minor scalp issue from becoming a long-term hair problem.
ScalpCheck® is often the best first step when your scalp feels off, but you are not sure why. If you are already seeing visible scalp and need coverage, a Hair Solution Consultation may be more appropriate.
What Is ScalpCheck®?
ScalpCheck® is a structured, 90-minute evaluation that combines:
- Microscopic imaging to see the scalp and follicles at high magnification.
- Digital measurements of oil, hydration, and pH.
- Trichology-based assessment of shedding, density, and hair quality.
- A review of your story — health history, stress, hormones, and products.
Instead of treating just the hair fiber, ScalpCheck® focuses on the scalp environment that supports hair growth.
What Happens During ScalpCheck®?
Your ScalpCheck® visit is private, comfortable, and highly educational. A typical appointment includes four key phases:
1. Your Story & Goals
- We talk about what you are experiencing, when it started, and how it affects your daily life.
- We review health history, stress, hormones, medications, and lifestyle factors that may be relevant.
- You share your hair goals — comfort, appearance, density, or a combination of all three.
2. Measuring Your Scalp Environment
Next, we use non-invasive digital tools to understand what is happening on the scalp surface:
- Sebumeter: Measures oil (sebum) levels on the scalp and hair.
- Corneometer: Evaluates hydration in the scalp skin — even subtle changes are detected.
- Skin pH Meter: Measures the scalp’s pH balance, which influences barrier function and comfort.
These measurements help identify oil imbalance, dehydration, and barrier disruption that can contribute to itching, dandruff, or shedding.
3. Physical Scalp & Hair Evaluation
- We gently assess scalp pliability (how easily the scalp moves over the skull).
- We look for redness, flaking, buildup, or visible irritation.
- We observe shedding, elasticity, and porosity to understand hair strength and behavior.
4. Microscopic Imaging You Can See
Using a video scope with multiple magnifications, we examine your scalp together on a screen:
- 200x magnification: Shows oil, dandruff, and buildup that is not visible to the naked eye.
- 50x magnification: Evaluates density, miniaturization, and hair groupings per follicle.
- Blue light lens: Highlights different types of oils and dandruff.
This imaging creates a visual baseline so you can clearly see what is happening now and compare changes after treatment.
What Happens After ScalpCheck®?
After your evaluation, we combine your story, the digital measurements, and microscopic images to create a personalized scalp plan. This may include:
- Targeted scalp treatments performed in our center.
- At-home protocols using trichology-based products and routines.
- Recommendations to adjust shampooing, styling, and product use to support a healthier scalp.
- Suggestions for lifestyle or routine changes that may reduce ongoing triggers.
Most plans include a follow-up ScalpCheck® after several months to reassess your scalp, compare images, and refine your protocol as needed.
ScalpCheck® vs Hair Solution Consultation — Which Do I Need?
ScalpCheck® is part of our two-path approach to hair loss and scalp concerns:
ScalpCheck® Is Usually Best When:
- Your scalp feels wrong — itchy, tight, oily, flaky, or burning.
- You notice shedding or early thinning but no obvious bare spots yet.
- You want to correct the underlying scalp environment and support healthier growth.
Hair Solution Consultation Is Usually Best When:
- You are seeing more scalp than hair in the mirror or in photos.
- Your part or crown looks sparse, or density is significantly reduced.
- You are ready to explore custom toppers, wigs, or hair replacement systems.
If you are not sure where to begin, start with our Hair Loss: Causes, Symptoms & Solutions page or contact us — we can help you determine the best first step.
ScalpCheck®: Common Questions
How long does a ScalpCheck® appointment take?
A typical ScalpCheck® appointment lasts about 90 minutes. This allows enough time for measurements, microscopic imaging, discussion of your history, and a clear explanation of your results and next steps.
Is ScalpCheck® a medical exam?
No. ScalpCheck® is a non-medical, trichology-based evaluation. We do not diagnose disease or prescribe medication. If we see signs that suggest a medical condition, we may recommend that you also consult with a dermatologist or physician.
Will ScalpCheck® tell me why my hair is thinning?
ScalpCheck® helps identify contributing factors such as oil imbalance, dehydration, buildup, irritation, or early thinning patterns. While no single test can explain every type of hair loss, most clients leave with a much clearer understanding of how their scalp environment and habits are affecting their hair.
Does ScalpCheck® hurt?
No. ScalpCheck® is non-invasive and comfortable. The tools we use rest gently on the scalp surface and do not involve needles or scraping.
Can ScalpCheck® help if I already have a topper or hair system?
Yes. Many guests with toppers, wigs, or hair systems still benefit from ScalpCheck®. A healthier scalp can improve comfort, odor control, and long-term hair quality in the areas where growth is still active.
Do I need to prepare for my ScalpCheck® appointment?
For the most accurate results, we generally recommend:
- Avoid washing your hair for about 24–48 hours before your visit (unless told otherwise).
- Skip heavy oils, leave-ins, or styling products on the day of your appointment.
- Bring or photograph the products you currently use on your hair and scalp.
Ready to See What Is Really Happening on Your Scalp?
You do not have to keep guessing about dandruff, itch, oiliness, or shedding. ScalpCheck® gives you a clear picture of your scalp environment and a realistic plan to improve it.
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