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Seasonal scalp itching and flaking are common in autumn and winter. Board-certified trichologist Penny James explains why cold weather, stress, and microbial imbalance trigger dryness, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis—and how to soothe and restore your scalp’s health naturally and effectively.
The future of hair care goes far beyond aesthetics. As science and cosmetology converge, trichologist Penny James believes the focus has shifted toward longevity, scalp biology, and whole-person wellness. From DNA-based personalization and microbiome mapping to addressing oxidative stress and lifestyle factors, hair health is now rooted in evidence-based innovation. With better stylist education and informed consumers, the industry is redefining beauty—transforming it into a reflection of health, resilience, and long-term vitality.
September is Alopecia Awareness Month, a time to raise visibility for a condition that impacts millions. Penny James, an expert trichologist and member of the Scarring Alopecia Foundation, combines scientific expertise with personal experience of hair loss to shed light on both the emotional and physical realities of alopecia. Through her practice, she emphasizes the importance of community, peer support, and holistic care in navigating this journey. Drawing on research and advocacy from organizations like the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF), Penny highlights how education, conversation, and compassion can transform isolation into empowerment and resilience for those experiencing hair loss.
Hair loss affects over 80 million Americans, and August is the perfect time to raise awareness. In this blog, certified trichologist, Penny James, dives into the causes, signs, and treatments for hair loss. From genetic conditions like androgenetic alopecia to lifestyle factors like stress and diet, it explores the importance of early intervention. Penny also shares how a holistic, whole-body approach to treatment can help manage and even prevent hair loss. Learn how to take charge of your hair health today!
Hair biohacking claims to offer fast fixes for hair growth and health—but does it really work? In this blog, NYC trichologist Penny James breaks down the appeal and limitations of biohacking and explains why true hair health requires a full-body, science-informed approach. From hormones and nutrition to stress and the scalp microbiome, discover what really influences your hair and how a trichologist can help you find lasting solutions.
Choosing the right shampoo isn’t about trends, it’s about science. NYC trichologist Penny James shares what really makes a shampoo “trichology-approved,” breaking down surfactants, ingredients, and formulations that support scalp health. From pH-balanced cleansers to botanical oils and microbiome-friendly ingredients, this guide helps you move past the marketing and understand what your hair and scalp actually need. Whether you’re dealing with oiliness, dryness, or sensitivity, Penny offers research-backed insights and expert tips for selecting the right products.
Hair loss during perimenopause is more than just a cosmetic concern—it’s often a sign of deeper imbalances in the body. From hormonal shifts and nutrient deficiencies to stress and underlying health conditions, this blog explores the root causes of perimenopausal hair changes and offers trichologist-recommended solutions for healthier hair and scalp.
If you’re experiencing thinning, dryness, slower growth, or increased shedding, know that these changes are not random—they’re part of a broader biological shift. But that doesn’t mean they’re inevitable or irreversible. With the right knowledge and tools, you can support your hair and scalp through the aging process—starting with collagen.
As a trichologist, Penny James has spent years dedicated to understanding the science of hair and scalp health. Her passion has always been to help people achieve the healthiest hair possible. That’s why her partnership with Oribe Hair Care to develop the Serene Scalp Densifying Collection has been so important. It’s a product line that bridges the gap between science and beauty, empowering people to take control of their hair and scalp without sacrificing luxury. This partnership marks the first time a trichologist in the U.S. has worked directly with a luxury haircare brand to bring scalp science to the forefront of product development.
Have you ever noticed your hair feeling dry, brittle, and lifeless no matter how much conditioner you use? If so, there’s a good chance it’s burnt. Yes, burnt. Overusing heat tools like flat irons and blow dryers can cause serious internal damage to your hair, leaving it weak, frizzy, and prone to breakage and maybe beyond repair. But how does this happen? And more importantly, can you fix it? As a trichologist and master stylist, Penny James breaks down exactly what burnt hair is, how to tell if your hair is suffering from heat damage, and what you can do to prevent and repair it.
Struggling with unexplained hair loss, scalp irritation, or changes in your hair's texture and growth is more common than you might think. But finding the right expert to help can often feel overwhelming. A trichologist is a specialist trained in the science of hair and scalp health, offering targeted solutions for these issues. Find out what a trichologist is, what we do, and why you should consider visiting one for your hair and scalp issues.
Understanding the science behind hair frizz can empower you to address its root causes instead of relying on quick fixes. That’s where a trichologist’s expertise comes into play. At Penny James Trichology Center, we specialize in personalized, science-backed solutions to tame frizz and restore your hair’s natural beauty—no memberships required.
Scalp care is often overlooked in self-care routines, yet it plays a significant role in both physical and mental well-being. The phrase “feeling good” is often used without much thought, but how often do we actually prioritize our well-being on a deeper level? In this blog, double board-certified trichologist, Penny James, breaks down the best scalp treatments for relaxation, rejuvenation, and optimal scalp health, especially around the holiday season.
Get insights from double board-certified trichologist, Penny James, IoT, AoT, to help you achieve optimal hair health and elevate your hair care routine. All hair types, even those with hair or scalp conditions like alopecia, deserve to feel confident when treating, coloring, or styling their hair. With over a decade of trichology experience and a long-standing career as a master stylist, Penny combines beauty and science in this blog.
At Penny James Trichology Center, double board-certified trichologist, Penny James sees firsthand how clients facing alopecia often feel overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure of how to cope with the emotional toll. That's why she took it a step further and completed specialized CPD training focused on the psychological effects of hair loss, ensuring she can provide compassionate, well-rounded care that supports both your hair and your emotional health. In this blog, she discusses the science behind different forms of alopecia, how stress impacts hair loss, and the emotional toll it takes.
Double board-certified trichologist, Penny James, discusses her findings on keratin after the 2024 TRI Conference with leading scientists and specialists. She discusses its significance, sources, impact on hair care products, and effectiveness in controlling frizz for you to understand keratin and how it can benefit your hair.
Triple washing, as the name suggests, involves washing your hair three times in a single session. While this may seem excessive, it could be an effective hair care strategy for certain hair types. However, many factors determine if this method is suitable for you. As a double-board-certified trichologist, Penny James knows the value of finding a healthy hair care regime that works for you. For some, this might include triple washing. But what are the pros and cons of engaging in this routine? Let's explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of triple-washing your hair along with best practices.
Noticing more hair falling onto your brush recently? Do not be alarmed. Seasonal shedding, common during spring and summer, is a natural process where hair falls out more than usual and typically resolves on its own. If you have concerns about seasonal shedding vs. hair loss, double-certified trichologist, Penny James, is breaking down the facts about seasonal shedding, how to care for your hair and how to tell if you might have an underlying condition, like alopecia.
As a board-certified trichologist with a practice in New York City for over a decade, Penny James been asked countless questions from clients about their hair and scalp health. That’s why she’s sharing the top five questions she most frequently encounters at her center—so we can keep learning together. Through these inquiries, you get simplified answers that jumpstart your journey and a glimpse into the meticulous approach Penny takes as a trichologist to address hair and scalp concerns.
The shampoo market is competitive, flooded with brands and specialists offering their distinct formulas that all intend to offer people some variation of healthier hair or scalp. So, what are the primary ingredients in your shampoo and how are they helping (or hurting) you? As a board-certified trichologist, I am especially passionate about educating people on hair and scalp product knowledge, including shampoo. That’s why I’m telling you all about the primary active ingredients in shampoo you should know about: surfactants.
Navigating hair loss conditions is complex. There is an interplay of various elements that contribute to the health of hair and the functioning of hair follicles. It can be influenced by a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Inadequate nutrition, especially deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, can also contribute to hair loss. Board-certified trichologist, Penny James, is offering her nutritional insights for preventing hair loss.
In her daily practice at Penny James Trichology Center, leading board-certified trichologist, Penny James, witnesses clients feeling isolated and overwhelmed due to their hair loss. Recognizing the enormity of this issue, she consistently strives to enhance her knowledge to better support those who need it. In this blog, she’s offering the top homeopathic solutions she recommends to her clients who experience some form of alopecia.
Going gray is a common experience for most people, and it occurs due to changes in melanocytes, the cells responsible for hair and skin color. Most people think it’s inevitable and irreversible, but is it? New York City trichologist, Penny James, is breaking down the causes of hair pigmentation changes, like stress, hormones, and diet, and her findings regarding the reversibility of gray hair.
Expert NYC trichologist, Penny James, is sharing all about the complex relationship between hormones and hair health. Hormones are super important in how your hair growth cycle flows, and the overall condition of your hair. It is a topic of intrigue for trichologists and individuals who struggle with hormonal imbalances.
Expert New York City trichologist, Penny James, is sharing key elements that define hair types 2-4. From wavy to curly to kinky and coily hair, understanding your hair type will help you better care for your hair and scalp.
Expert board-certified Trichologist, Penny James, shares the most common hair loss conditions including Telogen Effluvium, Anagen Effluvium, Androgenetic Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Trichotillomania, and Traction Alopecia. Reporting from New York City, she’s giving us insight into the common causes of hair loss and how a trichologist can help.
Your scalp is a thriving ecosystem with diverse microbial life that profoundly impacts the health and vitality of your hair. These microscopic organisms that live on your scalp are known as microbiomes. Expert trichologist and stylist, Penny James is telling you all about how to care for your scalp microbiome.
Are you tired of dealing with lackluster hair, itchy scalp, or those pesky flakes that just won't go away? Well, I've got news for you! From tackling dull and lifeless hair to soothing that incessant itch and banishing those stubborn flakes, I've got you covered with my tried-and-true solutions based on my experience as a certified trichologist with my own center in New York City.
Let's revive your hair and scalp! Read about the key scalp symptoms to pay attention to that may help you understand what your scalp is trying to tell you, and how you can remedy it with advice from expert trichologist, Penny James.
Are you experiencing hair loss or curious about normal hair fall patterns? This blog, written by the experts at Penny James Trichology Center in NYC, shines a light on seasonal hair loss, particularly in women, and offers effective strategies to manage it. Let us help you maintain healthy, luscious hair all year round.