Join us on Sunday 10/12/25 for the APT's 3rd Unity Summit

Unified Roots: A Global Dialogue Driving the Next Era of Trichology

This year we are going Virtual!

This year, we’re dedicating our efforts to one of the most critical developments in our field, which is establishing credentialing standards for trichologists. To ensure transparency and inclusion, this day-long event will open the conversation to the public, practitioners, educators, scientists, medical professionals, and nutrition experts from around the world.

This is a chance for you to contribute to shaping the future of trichology worldwide by learning from the 4 dynamic panel discussions with 25 distinguished speakers and the 3 sponsored talks from industry experts we have curated.

You will also have a chance to participate by submitting your questions upon registration to the Summit or during the Summit itself. For those who are not able to watch it live, replay will be available.

You’ll gain insights into:

• The need for and logistics of third-party credentialing

• Perspectives from practicing trichologists on professional challenges

• How educational entities shape future standards

• Opportunities for collaboration with cosmetic science

• Medical and nutritional considerations for hair and scalp health

Click on the picture below to see the full schedule & to register

Until we "see you" at the meeting, meet our 25 panelists:

The Path to Credentialing

Fireside chat with Tracy Petrillo, EdD, CAE, RDN

Chief Learning Officer California Association of School Business Officials

Dr. Petrillo is a nationally recognized leader in learning innovation, credentialing, and executive management with over two decades of experience across non-profit, higher education, healthcare, and corporate sectors. She currently serves as Chief Learning Officer (CLO) at the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO), a role she has held since November 2021. In this capacity, she oversees professional learning strategies that support thousands of education professionals statewide, leveraging technology and talent development to strengthen organizational impact. She served as Executive Director for the Commission on Dietetic Registration at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, where she guided national credentialing programs for dietetics professionals. She also held consulting roles with BOMI International, contributing expertise in strategic planning and professional certification. Earlier, she was CLO at the Construction Specifications Institute and at EDUCAUSE, where she built award-winning professional development and online learning programs. Her leadership is marked by innovation and measurable results, earning her recognition with honors such as the Leadership Technology Award and the Professional Performance Award. As a thought leader, she has authored influential publications, including The New Era of Leadership in Nonprofits and The Tipping Point of Association Learning. Dr. Petrillo earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management, specializing in Human Resource Development, from Drexel University. She also holds a master’s degree from Marywood University and a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University. In addition to her credentials as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), she is a Certified Association Executive (CAE). Through her executive leadership, scholarship, and volunteer service, Dr. Petrillo continues to shape the future of learning, credentialing, and organizational growth.

Rooted in Knowledge: Shaping the Foundational Standards of Trichology

Trichology Educators Panel Discussion

Iain Sallis (Moderator)

International Trichology Congress (ITC) co-founder / Trichologist

Iain Sallis is one of the UK’s leading trichologists with over 20 years of experience diagnosing and treating hair and scalp problems. He is the founder of Hairmedic Ltd, a nationwide network of eight clinics offering personalized, ethical solutions for hair and scalp concerns. A recognized figure across dermatology, cosmetic science, and hair transplant communities, Iain co-founded the International Trichology Congress (ITC) in 2017, now a global hub for education in hair science. He also chairs the British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery’s Trichology Sub-committee, where he champions higher standards and professional integrity in the field. He also serves in the Board of Directors of the Association of Professional Trichologists (APT). Passionate about raising the profile of trichology, Iain continues to push for better practice, stronger evidence, and greater awareness of hair science ensuring patients and professionals alike benefit from his expertise. In 2024, he co-authored the book Strands of Science, a comprehensive guide that brings together insights from 50 leading hair experts to debunk social media myths and provide clear, evidence-based answers on hair and hair loss. Alongside his clinical and educational work, Iain created Hairmedic, an award-winning product line, designed to target common hair issues and improve scalp health with a practical, results-driven approach.

Tabitha Fredricks

Naturopath Practitioner / Trichologist

Tabitha is a Trichologist, hair loss specialist, and educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. As the CEO of TrichoEDU, she blends hairstylists techniques for thinning hair with trichology to help professionals transform lives by addressing hair loss and scalp concerns. She also provides continuing education credits to established health professionals especially naturopaths looking to expand their expertise in hair loss and scalp health to help them recognize the deeper messages hair is sending about internal health. She provides science-backed education and practical tools to help professionals address hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and stress-related hair loss so professionals can support their clients from the inside out.

David Kingsley, Ph.D.

Founder & President World Trichology Society (WTS)

Internationally recognized as a leading expert in hair loss prevention, Dr. Kingsley has treated thousands of patients, including notable actors, musicians, and dignitaries. He holds the unique distinction of being the only trichologist in North America with a Ph.D. in hair loss research, which he earned from the University of Portsmouth in the U.K. Additionally, Dr. Kingsley is an adjunct member of the American Academy of Dermatology, the only trichologist worldwide granted membership to this prestigious organization. He serves as the President of the World Trichology Society (WTS) and is an active member of the American Hair Research Society, the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, among others including the Association of Professional Trichologists (APT) Advisory board and Educational committee since its inception. As a professor of trichological studies at both the World Trichology Society and World Trichology Academy, and an honorary faculty member at Hair.University by Bauman Medical, Dr. Kingsley is deeply committed to advancing education in trichology and sharing his expertise with the next generation of professionals.

Bill Blatter

Founder & Chairman of US Trichology Institute (USTI)

Mr. Blatter is known internationally as a speaker, trainer, and educator in the hair loss, hair care, laser, and Low-Level Light device industry. He graduated from Siena College with a Bachelor of Science and completed postgraduate work at the University of Miami School of Dermatology. He is founder and chairman of US Trichology Institute (USTI®) and serves on the board of the Global Dermatology Institute, and in the Association of Professional Trichologists (APT) advisory board since its inception. As the founder of USTI, he has helped train a new generation of Trichologists, doctors, and hair loss professionals on lasers and product technology. His extensive research has led to several published clinical studies on combination hair loss treatments and groundbreaking Growth Factors+. Since 1987, he’s been the president of Hair Loss Control Clinic (HLCC®), a network of 1,000 affiliated clinics in more than 35 countries serving individuals looking to revitalize their hair and for global businesses aiming to offer their clients top-notch, effective solutions for hair loss and hair care, all within a structured and consistent framework. He has been interviewed on TV shows, including Fox News' 'Focus,' ABC's 'Good Morning Dallas,' and CBS New Orleans News, as well as on national health radio shows and podcasts. He annually features as a speaker at the Premiere Orlando Beauty Show and has presented at American Beauty Shows and the American Hair Loss Council. Blatter has appeared in or written pieces for National Hair Journal, Aesthetic Trends & Technologies, Med Esthetics, The Journal of the American Hair Loss Council, The National Hair & Skin Journal, The Hair Industry Connection, HOT by Hair’s How, Modern Salon, Salon Today, and Beauty LaunchPad.

Trichologists Speak: Elevating Practice Through Honest Dialogue

Practitioners of Trichology Panel Discussion

Kimberly Jenkins (Moderator)

Cosmetologist / World Trichology Society (WTS) Certified Trichologist / Bauman Certified Hair Coach

Ms. Jenkins is a licensed cosmetologist, a World Trichology Society (WTS) Certified Trichologist, and a Bauman Certified Hair Coach. Since 2015, her leadership and vision have been evident in her role as manager of SalonB and spearheading its transformation into the Bauman Head & Med Spa at Bauman Medical in Boca Raton, FL. At Bauman Medical, she provides comprehensive trichology assessments and therapeutic scalp treatments, helping patients achieve optimal scalp health through personalized consultations, scalp and hair treatment education, and tailored product recommendations. Before her tenure at Bauman Medical, Kimberly owned and operated a beauty salon in Boynton Beach, FL, where she honed her entrepreneurial skills and deepened her expertise in cosmetology. Kimberly’s skill set is extensive and includes a strong proficiency in nonsurgical hair replacement techniques. She is renowned for her routine performance of HydraFacial Keravive treatments, a specialized service that significantly improves scalp health and hair growth.

Kimberly Jenkins passion for hair care is a driving force in her life. This commitment is evident in her continuous pursuit of advanced education and training in the field. Her dedication to the industry led her to become an educator, a role in which she shares her knowledge and inspires future cosmetologists. She earned her certification in Microscopy with Polarized Light from the Italian Academy of Hair Microscopy (IAHM) in 2022. She is currently a fellow in the Evidence-Based Hair Fellowship with Dr. Donovan, further solidifying her status as a leader in trichological science.

Dorian White

United States Trichology Institute (USTI) Certified Trichologist & Haircare Educator

Dorian White is a United States Trichology Institute (USTI) Certified Clinical Trichologist, Haircare Educator, and Educator for the United States Trichology Institute. With a foundation as a former Research Scientist, she specializes in evidence-based scalp and haircare education, combining advanced trichology training with scientific research to support both professionals and clients in optimizing hair and scalp health.

As a USTI Educator, Dorian trains students in the Scalp Health and Haircare Educator Certification Program, providing research-backed curriculum and practical tools for evaluating scalp and hair conditions, recommending effective solutions, and elevating professional standards in the industry. She also holds certifications in hair loss, hormonal health, environmental toxins, cellular aging, and functional blood chemistry, and is an active member of the Association of Professional Trichologists (APT) and the American Hair Research Society.

In addition to teaching, Dorian serves as a Consulting Expert and Lead Trichologist for haircare brands, guiding product formulation and development with a science-driven approach. Since 2020, she has supported hundreds of clients through her clinical practice and reached millions worldwide through her digital education, resources, and programs.

Martine Langsam

Cosmetologist / International Association of Trichology (IAT) Certified Trichologist / owner of Trichology Clinic

Martine has been an established senior hair stylist and licensed cosmetologist in California for 40 yrs. Martine received both a Certificate in Nutritional Coaching and a bachelor of science in natural health from Kingdom College of Natural Health in 2023. Her interest in healthy hair and lifestyle led her to trichology in 2014 becoming a Certified Trichologist through the International Association of Trichology (IAT). She earned her certification in Microscopy with Polarized Light from the Italian Academy of Hair Microscopy (IAHM) in 2022. She is a member of World Trichology Society (WTS) and Association of Professional Trichologists (APT). She is owner of an intimate trichology clinic in San Rafael, California (San Francisco Bay Area) called Trichology Clinic. She helps people achieve healthy scalp and fuller thicker hair using a holistic approach in a quiet comfortable space where she treats all kinds of scalp problems and hair issues including hair loss, psoriasis, alopecia, scalp scaling, and seborrheic dermatitis. She is past owner of two award-winning salons, Renaissance House of Beauty and Harlequin Hair Designs in California. With her current Trichological practice, she stays very busy and is rarely caught sitting down.

Kuda Mupawose, Ph.D.

Pharmacologist / Certified Trichologist / Owner of Feso Hair Clinic

Dr. Leticia Kuda Mupawose is a researcher and cosmetologist, holding a Masters & Ph.D. in Pharmacology and Toxins. She is the founder & Trichologist at Feso Hair Clinic in Rochester, NY. As an entrepreneur, she founded Injinga Holdings Pvt Ltd and Curtley's International Inc. in Africa, and Feso Africa LLC in the U.S. bringing her scientific and clinical foundation to her mission of advancing scalp and hair health across the U.S., and Africa.

She specializes in evidence-based approaches to hair loss and scalp conditions being recognized for her pioneering work with Feso, a traditional African medicinal plant, which has positioned it as a natural and effective treatment for scalp inflammation and hair growth in the modern trichology practice. Her research and formulations bridge indigenous knowledge and contemporary science, offering sustainable solutions that address both health and beauty.

Dr. Mupawose is passionate about education, regularly speaking to diverse audiences such as cosmetology students, healthcare professionals, and community groups on the importance of accurate hair diagnosis, integrative care, and protective hair practices. She is a key opinion leader on hair loss, women's health, and the need for collaboration across disciplines such as dermatology, endocrinology, and gynecology. As a leading voice in Trichology, she’s praised for her ability to simplify complex science.

Her professional journey is a testament to resilience and vision. Born in South Africa and raised in rural Zimbabwe, she challenged cultural and religious barriers by earning a scholarship to study in the U.S. to pursue her education. Currently, she’s establishing a manufacturing hub of Feso Africa in the U.S. for worldwide distribution and positioning Africa as a center of knowledge through community education initiatives and media engagements to raise awareness about healthy hair practices.

Jacky van Driel-Nguene

Medical Biochemist / CEO of Trichology Europe in Amsterdam the Netherlands

Jacky van Driel-Nguene is a certified trichologist and medical biochemist, with professional membership in the Association of Registered Trichologists (ART), the Association of Professional Trichologists (APT), and the International Trichology Congress (ITC). She is the founder and CEO of Trichology Europe, where she combines clinical practice with international education. With a degree in Medical Biochemistry from Royal Holloway, University of London, Jacky brings a strong foundation in cell biology, human physiology, and chemistry. She trained in Trichology with both the Institute of Trichologists and TrichoCare Education, and has since developed specialist interests in genetic hair disorders, trichoscopy, nutritional influences on hair loss, photobiomodulation, and textured hair pathologies.

Jacky has over 15 years of experience as an international science educator and is widely recognised as one of Europe’s leading trichological educators. She continues to teach both school-level science (GCSE, A-Level, IB) and trichology through her educational platforms. Her trichology practice serves a diverse global clientele, with consultations spanning the UK, Netherlands, France, Germany, Belgium, Romania, Ukraine, Argentina, Colombia, the USA, Honduras, and West Africa.

Expanding the Roots of Research & Public Education: Essential Attributes for Bridging Research & Service

Cosmetic Science Panel Discussion

Natalie King, Ph.D. (Moderator)

Neuroscientist / Founder of Florae Beauty

As the daughter of 1st & 2nd generation immigrant parents and raised in the US south, Dr. King has always lived at the center of ‘Equity’ as an imperative, not a nice to have. At 26, she became one of the youngest, and first Afro-Latina, to receive a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Illinois at Chicago, creating a platform for others to go on and do the same. During that time, her work was focused on studying the biophysics of depression and autism and she subsequently became a double-licensed emergency medicine technician. As a patient care provider, current Medical Affairs professional, and integrated beauty and health company Founder (Florae) her passion continues to include expanding the lens of equity & access for her community.

Dr. King has the energy and passion to give back to the community through leadership, mentorship, and STEM advocacy and has served on a range of STEM advisory boards. She’s an International TEDx speaker and has served on numerous committees and advisory boards for national and international organizations, including UNICEF Next Gen, Women in Bio, and Make-A-Wish Illinois. She has served in the Association of Professional Trichologists APT’ advisory board since inception.

Ronak Rughani, Ph.D.

Assistant VP Advanced Research Group North Americas & Head of Hair Sciences & Technologies L’Oreal Research & Innovation

Ronak Rughani, PhD, is the Assistant Vice-President in Advanced Research and the Head of the Hair Science & Technologies at L’Oreal Research & Innovation Group. He has over 15 years of research and innovation experience in hair science, leading biophysical and chemical characterization, structural and functional research, and new technology development to address our consumer needs on hair care. He received his PhD in Chemistry from the University of Delaware and led research and discovery projects at Procter & Gamble prior to joining L’Oreal. Ronak leads a team of scientists with a focus on understanding the unique structure of curly hair and developing innovative solutions specifically to address the key tensions of curly hair consumers of all diversities. To-date, he has filed more than 30 patents, co-authored multiple scientific publications and book chapters, and strongly contributed to critical product launches to improve consumer’s hair health.

Ronak, a native of Tanzania, is a strong believer that “Learning is a never-ending process – it starts in the womb and ends in a tomb,” and continues to apply his learning to innovate, educate, and advocate for healthy products that improve wellness and quality of life.

Ali Syed, Ph.D.

Founder of Avlon Industries and Salon Commodities

Dr. Ali N. Syed is an expert chemist, with several impressive letters following his name (BSc Honours, MSc, MBA, and PhD). Science has always been entrenched in his philosophy and remains at the forefront of his U.S.-based business after four decades and well into the future. For Dr. Syed, healthy hair invariably begins with scientific knowledge, and scientific knowledge inevitably leads to innovation.

Dr. Syed is the founder of Avlon and Salon Commodities. He heads a research and development laboratory dedicated to the study of curly hair and its associated scalp. Identifying physical and chemical differences between different types of curly hair and straight hair, Dr. Syed uses his research to create premium hair and scalp care products. Serving an international audience, he holds numerous patents that are applied in his products under the brands of As I Am, Affirm, KeraCare, Uberiss, and Texture Release.

Osahon Ojeaga

Co-Founder and CEO of Aja Labs

Osahon Ojeaga is the co-founder and CEO of Aja Labs, a company pioneering the future of hair fibers through science and innovation. Aja Labs is redefining what’s possible in braiding hair by creating solutions that prioritize both scalp health and performance, setting a new standard for the industry.

Ernesta Malinauskyte, Ph.D.

Chemical Engineer / Director Hair Research, TRI Princeton

Dr. Ernesta Malinauskyte is an academic and researcher with a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Kaunas University of Technology (Lithuania) with 10 years of experience in food engineering and hair sciences. She currently serves as the Director of Hair Research at TRI Princeton in New Jersey where she leads a team of results-driven researchers investigating how hair chemistry influences hair mechanical properties and fiber interactions with hair care, chemical & physical treatments, and environmental insults. Her team at TRI Princeton helps develop testing methodologies for hair care products, hair substitutes, and devices while also expanding TRI's research capabilities beyond hair. She strives to enhance TRI's work environment by unlocking the true potential of interns, technicians, junior, and senior scientists. In the ever-evolving landscape of hair care technology, the hair research team pushes boundaries, developing claims substantiation methods that set new standards for the industry. Active in the research community, she contributes within academic, industry, and hairdresser communities through publications and presentations on research and hair science topics. She currently serves on the editorial board of the International Journal of Cosmetic Science.

The Intersection of Patients and Clients: The Ideal Co-Management of Care

Medical Panel Discussion

Nancy Echefu, M.D. FACP (Moderator)

Hair transplant surgeon / Owner of Havilah Hair Restoration

Dr. Echefu is a hair transplant surgeon and owner of Havilah Hair Restoration, a hair loss clinic specialized in medical, surgical and non-surgical hair restoration with a focus on Afro texture hair loss treatments located in in Peachtree City, GA. With over a decade of experience in the medical and hair loss field, Dr. Echefu has led the development of Hair loss shows. Dr. Echefu has also successfully implemented complex hair restorative treatments. She holds a medical degree from the Avalon University School of Medicine and trained as a resident at Morehouse University School of Medicine-Residency and Grady Hospital (Level 1 trauma center) in Atlanta, Georgia. She is also a fellow of the American College of Physicians (ACP) trained as an Aesthetic Physician with experience in facial and scalp aesthetics. She has a background in Trichology and evaluation of scalp diseases. She is skilled in FUE, FUT, TED hair restoration and other hair restorative procedures for scalp and face. She is a fellow of the association of college of physicians, an active member of ISHRS, a member of American Board of Aesthetic Medicine, a member of American Medical Association and a member of International Trichoscopy Society. Outside of work, Dr Echefu is married with 3 boys and enjoys cooking for family, dancing, sleeping, cracking jokes and travelling with friends.

Canessa Craigo Leeflang MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Medical Director / Consultant at Renew Hair Loss Center

Canessa has been a family nurse practitioner (FNP), accredited by the AANP for over 14 years and a registered nurse (RN) for 20 years. Born and raised in Utah, Canessa graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Brigham Young University and received her Bachelor in Nursing Science (BSN) from the University of Utah. Canessa works as a family and pediatric nurse practitioner as well as a medical director. Canessa was first introduced to trichology 3 years ago and has been collaborating with Jamie Snelson trichologist/cosmetologist at Renew Hair Loss since inception in 2022. By focusing on client safety and best practices, Canessa is able to help empower patients and the trichologists in Utah by offering advanced services. Canessa enjoys working as a nurse practitioner/medical director because she likes learning, teaching and talking! Canessa is grateful to be a wife, mother of 4 (including twins), chauffeur, chef and lover of perennial shade plants.

Victoria Barbosa, MD MPH MBA

Dermatologist / Associate Professor of Dermatology at The University of Chicago Medicine

Dr. Barbosa is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist, educator, and leader in dermatologic research and care. She currently serves as Associate Professor of Dermatology at The University of Chicago Medicine, where she has been on faculty since 2019. In this role, she has advanced both clinical and academic dermatology while directing the institution’s Hair Loss Program, a center of excellence dedicated to diagnosing and treating complex hair and scalp disorders. Over the last seven years, Dr. Barbosa has strengthened her national reputation as an authority in dermatology, particularly in skin of color and hair loss. Her clinical expertise is supported by extensive research contributions, including publications such as Skin of Color: A Practical Guide to Dermatologic Diagnosis and Treatment and studies on facial aging in Afro-American women. Through her leadership, the Hair Loss Program has become an important resource for patients while also contributing to medical education and clinical research.

Before her current role, Dr. Barbosa founded and led Millennium Park Dermatology, an independent practice she successfully ran for nearly a decade. Earlier in her career, she served as Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Rush University Medical Center and spent more than seven years at L’Oréal USA, where she was Vice President of R&D and established the L’Oréal Institute for Ethnic Hair and Skin Research. Dr. Barbosa’s academic background includes a Bachelors in Biology from Harvard University, an M.D. from Yale School of Medicine, an Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, and a Masters of Business Administration from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management. With over two decades of leadership across academia, clinical practice, and industry, she continues to shape the field of dermatology through innovation, education, and patient-centered care.

Dr. Alan Bauman, MD, ABHRS

Medical Director, Bauman Medical

Dr. Alan J. Bauman, MD, ABHRS is a full-time board-certified Hair Restoration Physician who has treated nearly 34,000 patients and performed over 13,000 hair transplant procedures since starting his medical hair loss practice, Bauman Medical, in 1997 in Boca Raton, FL. Dr. Bauman received his M.D. degree from New York Medical College and surgical residency training at Mt. Sinai Medical Center and Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. Dr. Bauman is one of approximately only 200 physicians worldwide to achieve certification from the esteemed American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS), become an accepted member of the International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons (IAHRS), and also be recommended by the American Hair Loss Association. Dr. Bauman has achieved the coveted Fellow status within the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), is a frequently invited faculty member at numerous international scientific meetings and live surgery workshops, and has published numerous articles and textbook chapters in the field of hair restoration and hair transplantation. Dr. Bauman has consistently been shortlisted for numerous Top Hair Transplant Surgeon recognitions and awards worldwide. He has been named #1 Top Hair Restoration Surgeon in North America by Aesthetic Everything for nine years running and recently named by Forbes as one of Ten CEOs Transforming Healthcare in America. As a respected global expert in hair loss and hair restoration and a pioneer of many techniques, technologies and devices in the field, he has appeared in hundreds of feature stories and live interviews in the mass media. In addition to lecturing and consulting worldwide, Dr. Bauman sees patients personally and operates in his nearly 13,000 square foot stand-alone facility in downtown Boca Raton, FL.

Internal Functional Support: Nutritional Considerations for Practitioners

Nutrition and Functional Medicine Panel Discussion

Candy Lewis Williams, N.D. (Moderator)

Board-Certified Naturopathic Doctor, Functional Nutritionist, and Trichologist

Dr. Lewis is the founder of The Lotus Concept, dedicated to fostering resilience and transformation, helping both women and men enhance their health and well-being for over 37 years. As a board-certified Naturopathic Doctor, Functional Nutritionist, Master Herbalist, and Master Life Coach, she seamlessly blends modern science with time-tested Eastern and Western healing techniques. Trained in trauma-informed care, Dr. Candy uses evidence-based Somatic and Energy Psychology techniques, designed to release stored up emotional stress and trauma, often a hidden cause of physical imbalance and disease. These techniques include practices such as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), Matrix Reimprinting (MR), and HeartMath®, which incorporate gentle tapping, breath-work, and heart-focused breathing exercises to support emotional healing. She is also a Certified Meditation Instructor, Trauma-Sensitive HeartMath® Certified Practitioner, offering holistic support through personalized nutrition, natural therapies, and prayer. A sought-after educator and expert in alternative medicine and trichology (hair health), Dr. Candy has appeared on The Dr. Oz Show and has traveled internationally, delivering her message to audiences in Japan, Argentina, South Africa, Mozambique, and Honduras. Her dedication to service has earned her recognition from the Better Business Bureau’s Women in Business Networking Top 25 Businesses award and the Phenomenal Woman's Award from Believers Christian Fellowship Church. She is also honored to provide free wellness services to Active-Duty Military Personnel, Veterans, and their families through The Veteran’s Stress Solution. In her free time, Dr. Candy enjoys spending time in nature, kayaking, gardening, and relaxing at the beach, cherishing moments with her family.

Samaria Garret MS, RDN, LND

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist / Owner Feeding the Root Nutrition

She received a Bachelors of Science in Dietetics, a Masters of Science in Clinical Nutrition. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Integrative Nutrition Practitioner and hair practitioner, Samaria helps women reconnect to their roots nutritionally & culturally, to support long-term healing and diabetes management. Her work lives at the intersection of metabolic health, cultural foodways, and hair as an entry point to care. Through her private practice, Feeding the Root Nutrition, she offers culturally relevant nutrition therapy to patients in TN, MS, AR & GA. Using holistic Medical Nutrition Therapies, she addresses insulin resistance and hair loss while providing positive outcomes for a variety of medical conditions including PCOS, and diabetes prevention by focusing on food sovereignty, body respect, and whole person healing. Her approach relies on using a weight inclusive, anti-diet approach that uplifts the lived experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) women. Beyond clinical care, she serves as a nutrition consultant, speaker, and strategist, partnering with nonprofits, farmers markets and food system organizations to create equity centered programs, community education and nutrition messaging rooted in heritage and healing. Samaria has participated as a corporate facilitator for Nike, HUM Nutrition, Delta Sigma Theta, Communities in Schools, along with multiple podcasts, television & radio shows. She specializes in farm to fork communication, community health program design and media work that challenges the status quo and brings cultural relevance to the table.

Bissan Debsi MS.

Functional medicine health coach / Holistic Practitioners of Trichology (HPT) Trichologist

Bissan Debsi is a Certified Trichologist and Functional Medicine Health Coach with a Master’s in Biotechnology and a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry. She is the Director of Education at the Faculty of Trichology and specializes in using functional medicine modalities to address the root causes of hair and scalp disorders. Her work integrates functional nutrition and trichology to create practical protocols that support both clients and practitioners. She is also co-founder and co-host of The Hair Wire, a platform dedicated to advancing professional education in trichology, and an educator and researcher with the Holistic Practitioners of Trichology. Through her practice, Hair & Wellness by Bissan, located in Jacksonville, Florida, Bissan is committed to raising awareness about trichology, training professionals, and bridging the gap between conventional science and holistic care. Her mission is to bring credibility, education, and higher standards to the field of trichology while helping people restore both their health and their hair.

Sonali Mistry

Board Certified Holistic Nutritionist

Sonali Mistry is a Board Certified Holistic Nutritionist (BCHN®) through Bauman College of Holistic Nutrition & Culinary Arts and a professional member of the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP). She also holds a BA in Marketing & International Business from NYU’s Stern School of Business. Her career began in the jewelry industry before transitioning into wellness, a path inspired by her passion for understanding the root causes of chronic conditions. Sonali is currently advancing her training at the Institute of Restorative Health in gastrointestinal healing, deepening her expertise in the connection between gut health, hormones, and overall well-being. At Veracity Selfcare, she works to empower individuals through personalized, science-backed approaches that integrate nutrition, lifestyle, and mindfulness. Her perspective emphasizes how gastrointestinal integrity, nutrient absorption, systemic inflammation, and hormonal regulation are central to whole-body health—and how these same factors play a critical role in the health of hair and scalp.

Giorgio Dell'Acqua, Ph.D.

National Secretary of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists

Dr. Giorgio Dell’Acqua is an accomplished scientist, innovator, and executive leader with over 25 years of experience in research and development within the personal care and dietary supplements industries. Recognized internationally for his expertise in skin and hair care, ingredient innovation, and sustainability, he has authored more than 90 scientific publications and is an inventor on multiple patents covering prebiotics, nanovesicles, and topical formulations for scalp and hair health.

Most recently, Dr. Dell’Acqua served as Chief Science Officer at Nutrafol (2021–2024), where he led product and ingredient innovation, formulation, testing, and long-term R&D strategy. He directed a team of scientists and chemists, forged academic and industry partnerships, and drove the development of patents and novel technologies. Prior to this role, he was Nutrafol’s Scientific Director (2018–2021), playing a pivotal role in the company’s growth and its position as a leader in hair wellness. In 2025, he began serving as a consultant, continuing to advise companies on innovation and sustainable product development. Earlier in his career, Dr. Dell’Acqua held senior leadership positions at Kiehl’s, LVMH Recherche, Induchem, and La Prairie, where he combined scientific research with product development and technical marketing. His work has consistently bridged innovation with consumer needs, focusing on natural, sustainable solutions. Currently serving as National Secretary of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (2025) and past Chair of the New York Chapter (2022), Dr. Dell’Acqua continues to advance the field through scientific leadership, innovation, and education.

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