Case Study: Michelle Christle
“It’s given new life to my career, and given me so many more opportunities. I love what I do. To anyone thinking about studying trichology, I can only say ‘Go for it!”
Michelle works as a colour specialist at Cheveux salon in the town of Tullamore, County Offaly in the heart of Ireland. She originally trained with the celebrated Peter Mark Irish salon chain, and then ran her own salon in County Laois for several years.
Michelle says she was always interested in the science of hair, but hadn’t been able to take her interest further: “I love hair science, but running my own salon, and having small children, meant I really couldn’t find the time to follow my passion. It was frustrating because I kept seeing clients with hair and scalp problems, and I didn’t have the knowledge or confidence to help them”
When she decided to close her own business, Michelle seized the opportunity she’d been waiting for. She first studied the TrichoCare Introduction to Trichology Course, enjoyed it and moved straight on to the Level 4 Course. “I’m thrilled I did it. It was hard work – you have to commit several hours a week to it – and I’m not a natural bookworm. But I’ll never regret doing it, it’s all been worthwhile.”
Michelle found the support from the Course tutors especially helpful: “Becoming a student again is bit of a challenge, so it’s great to get regular encouragement from them on Zoom calls and emails, and also get insights into practical issues on the Course videos.”
Cheveux is now a thoroughly integrated salon business, offering a full range of services, together with a hair prosthesis clinic, run by salon owner Annmarie Comerford, and the trichology practice managed by Michelle: “There are very few trichologists in Ireland. So having the Level 4 qualification, and the ability to give private consultations and treatments, really sets me apart.”
Michelle is now on a mission to spread the word about trichology in Ireland. She and Annmarie are planning to expand the business, and inspire hair professionals in other salons to understand more about the science of the hair and scalp, and have the confidence to advise clients about common hair and scalp conditions.
On a personal level, it’s clear that studying the Level 4 Course has had a huge impact on Michelle: “It’s given new life to my career, and given me so many more opportunities. I love what I do. To anyone thinking about studying trichology, I can only say ‘Go for it!”.
