One in three women over the age of 25 suffers from hair loss, a study revealed today. 

A survey found that 37 per cent of women have experienced hair loss to some degree, and serious thinning is a problem for 4.8 million women in the UK.

Almost all of the 3,000 women polled by Vitabiotics Wellwoman Tricologic said they would be ashamed to say they were losing their hair.

Berkhamsted is home to the only trichology clinic in the Hertfordshire area. Operated by Trisha Buller, salon director at Ciente, the clinic offers a holistic approach to scalp problems and hair loss.

Trisha says: "More and more people are coming to me for help with hair loss and thinning hair, which is frequently related to stress or a nutritional deficiency.

"In Berkhamsted alone, I have a waiting list of up to three weeks for people wanting consultations. I have had people travel from as far as Sussex to get professional advice.

"The people who come to me range from girls as young as 13 worrying about exams and peer pressure, to older women with problems as a result of a nutritional deficiency or pregnancy, to post-menopausal ladies.

"Young girls seeking the perfect figure think that stopping eating or cutting out essential food groups is the answer. That coupled with binge drinking and a lack of exercise all contributes to hair shedding, which shows in decreased hair density.

"But there is generally more than one reason why you might be experiencing hair shedding, and I take a holistic approach to diagnosing the problem."

Trisha's passion for trichology comes from a very personal battle during her college days. 

She says: "When I was studying to be a hairdresser, I was fascinated by the science of the scalp and hair. My science teacher, trichologist Philip Hatton, made the subject so interesting that I was determined to develop my interest further.

"Ironically, I developed hair loss myself. My college days became difficult, as I was ridiculed by my peers due to their ignorance about hair loss, but this only strengthened my character and determination to understand the subject.

"I was diagnosed with Alopecia Areata. I consulted dermatologists and experts in this field and was subjected to all sorts of treatments, including injections in the head. 

"Their awful approach and lack of knowledge made me feel like a freak. They certainly did not give me any confidence or encouragement. From that moment on, I resolved to do everything I could to educate myself about trichology in order to help others."

Trisha visited the Philip Kingsley Clinic in Mayfair, where she was given advice and guidance from Philip Kingsley and Glenn Lyons. She began studying at the Institute of Trichologists, and graduated in October 2008.

She says: "Now, after almost 35 years in hairdressing, I have a far more in-depth knowledge of hair and scalp disorders, and have succeeded in producing some excellent results for patients.

"At present, I operate a clinic in a private room at Ciente. The treatments I offer, including electrotherapy, have produced some amazing results.

"Consultation is by appointment, and takes at least one hour. The time is spent collating information relating to the person's lifestyle and medical history to arrive at an initial diagnosis.

"In most cases I am able to identify the problem, and I sometimes refer patients to their GP when a blood test is essential to confirm a diagnosis.

"But just as important as the science side is having an understanding of the emotional stress the patient is going through. Being able to help rebuild their self-confidence is imperative."

For more information about Trisha's trichology clinic or to book a private and confidential appointment, call Ciente on 01442 877273 or e-mail Trisha on trisha.tricotherapy@hotmail.co.uk.

You can also read Trisha's top tips on detoxing your hair and scalp during the festive season.