Join us on Sunday 4/19/26 for the APT's 4th Unity Summit

Virtual Global Trichology Summit:

Advancing Microscopy Credentialing

The Association of Professional Trichologists brings together global thought leaders to define the core competencies of microscopy in trichology and help shape the future of professional standards in the industry. As the trichology field continues to evolve, the need for clear professional standards has become increasingly important.

The Association of Professional Trichologists has been working with practitioners, educators, researchers, and allied professionals to identify the skills that define competent practice. Through this collaboration, microscopy has emerged as the most essential technical skill since microscopy allows practitioners to observe and interpret the structural and biological characteristics of hair and scalp conditions before treatment decisions are made.

This summit represents a major step toward establishing credentialing standards that will support professional credibility, improve client outcomes, and strengthen the future of trichology.

This is a chance for you to contribute to shaping the future of trichology education worldwide by learning from 2 dynamic panel and sponsored talks from industry experts.

By bringing together trichologists, trichology educators, microscopists, scalp researchers, and professionals involved in microscopy equipment, the summit aims to bridge collaborations that reflect scientific rigor and real-world practice.

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 for up to 3 months.

During this summit we will explore:

• How Trichoscopy will become the first credentialing assessment module

• The role of microscopy/trichoscopy in the professional trichology practice

• Advancements in scalp microbiome research and integration with scalp imaging

• Core competencies required for accurate hair and scalp analysis

• Global perspectives on microscopy education and training

• Current innovations in scalp & hair microscopy equipment

• How AI is being integrated into applications for the hair salon & trichology practice

• Regulatory considerations around AI and client-generated data

LIMITED TIME OFFER

BECOME AN APT MEMBER TODAY AND GET COMPLIMENTARY ACCESS TO THE APRIL 2026 VIRTUAL SUMMIT ON MICROSCOPY & DOZENS OF EDUCATIONAL WEBINARS AVAILABLE ON OUR MEMBER'S ONLY PORTAL

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Membership application link included

Until we "see you" at the meeting, learn more about our panelists

and sponsored talks below

Introduction to the Trichoscopy Credentialing Program

Crystal Porter, Ph.D.

Founder & Executive Director APT / Owner of Mane Insights

Crystal E. Porter, Ph.D. is a hair scientist and owner of Mane Insights, Inc, a company that conducts research to further understand the specific needs of the hair and scalp of people of African descent. She is also the founder and executive director of the Association of Professional Trichologists, a nonprofit organization that aims to support the needs of practitioners of trichology. As a recognized contributor in the world of hair science, she provides knowledge about hair to individuals, professionals, and industry leaders. She is passionate about debunking myths and empowering others to properly care for their hair. Her patented process uses science to help professionals understand their clients’ hair so they can provide customized solutions.

Dr. Porter began her career in cosmetic science at Unilever in the year 2000. While there, she was part of a measurement science group and conducted research for aid-to-formulation. She spent most of her corporate career at L’Oréal, USA where she managed the Physics Laboratory and Consumer Insights teams studying the biophysical characteristics of hair and pigmented skin within different global ethnic groups and to understand behaviors that are related to consumers’ experiences. She has shared knowledge about ethnic hair with fellow scientists and the public sector at global venues. She has also contributed to L’Oréal’s global classification of curl in hair and has authored scientific journals, presentations and book chapters on various topics such as hair straightening and ethnic hair.

The History of Trichoscopy and its role in hair follicle science

Andrea Echeverry, Ph.D.

Skin & Scalp Microbiome Researcher

Andrea Echeverry holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology & Immunology with an expertise in environmental Microbiology and microbial pathogenesis. She is a KOL in skin & scalp microbiome health and a practitioner of Trichology. She entered the scalp and Trichology field by becoming one of the first people in the world to master the art of Scalp Micropigmentation & Scar Camouflaging after developing a number of semi-permanent cosmetic techniques used to recreate hair lines on completely shaven heads, on people with diffuse thinning, and on people with depigmentation and hyperpigmentation disorders. After more than a decade of camouflaging scalp scars from botched hair transplantation clients, Dr. Andrea switched gears to focus on scalp microbiome education, hair loss research advocacy, and non-profit work. She is a founding member of The Association of Professional Trichologists (APT) where she served as President & Treasurer (2024-2025). She currently serves on the Educational and Advisory Board Committees of the APT and on the Advisory Board of Milieu. Her recently published book chapter titled: Skincare for All Ages: The Science, Advances and Future of Skincare from Infancy to Adulthood, presents a unique perspective regarding the role of skin care product usage, grooming practices and water quality on the development of skin disorders and the extinction of skin microbial diversity due to modern living conditions. She currently resides in her native Colombia where she's producing a documentary summarizing her insights from the hair loss industry, her passion for soil microbes and the current fresh water crisis.

She can be reached through LinkedIn or Instagram

Elevating Hair Science Through Microbiome and Image Analysis

Judy Malas, Ph.D.

Postdoctoral Research Associate at University of Illinois Chicago

Judy Malas is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Illinois Chicago, where her research focuses on the intersection of microbiology, environmental sciences, and human health. She merges wet lab microbiology, microbial ‘omics, bioinformatics, and machine learning to study microbial communities as they interact with diverse systems, including human hosts and natural environments.

She earned her PhD in Geological and Earth Sciences from the University of Illinois Chicago, where her research focused on interdisciplinary investigations at the intersection of astrobiology, planetary science, geoscience and environmental science. Her work includes contributions to major grant-funded projects such as the study of habitability on hydrocarbon-rich worlds, including Saturn’s moon Titan, and comparative microbiology in landfill environments. Through this research, she explores potential biosignatures in extreme environments, with implications for both Earth systems and extraterrestrial life.

In addition to her research, Judy has experience in teaching and mentorship, having served as a teaching assistant for undergraduate Earth science courses. She has also contributed to sustainability initiatives, ecological restoration, and environmental outreach through roles with organizations such as the Delta Institute, Openlands, and the National Audubon Society.

Judy’s interdisciplinary background is complemented by her commitment to science communication and education. Fluent in Arabic and English, with working knowledge of French, she brings a global perspective to her work. Her research and professional activities reflect a strong dedication to advancing scientific understanding of environmental and planetary systems.

Trichoscopy: The Foundational Skill in Trichology

Panel Discussion by Trichoscopy Educators & Practitioners

Sergio Cardona

Trichology educator / Owner of Trikhos Clinic in Bayamon, Puerto Rico

Sergio Cardona is an experienced trichologist with over two decades of expertise, having been certified since 1998. As a second-generation practitioner, he continues the legacy of his father, one of the first certified trichologists in the Caribbean in the late 1950s. This heritage informs his deep commitment to advancing the science and practice of hair and scalp health.

In addition to his clinical work, Sergio is an accomplished educator and international speaker, recognized for his ability to translate complex trichological concepts into practical insights. He has served as an Advisory Board Member, Trichology Professor, and Director of Communications for the World Trichology Society, contributing significantly to professional education and global awareness in the field.

Sergio is also the host of The Hair Wire, a YouTube platform dedicated to public education on hair and scalp conditions, where he shares evidence-based guidance and emerging solutions. His clinical approach is highly individualized, emphasizing customized formulations developed during patient consultations to address specific needs. Beyond his practice, he actively mentors and trains aspiring trichologists through seminars and coaching programs. Sergio Cardona is widely regarded for his dedication to innovation, education, and excellence in trichology.

Martina Candido

TricoItalia Coordinator, co-founder and instructor at I.A.H.M. (Italian Academy of Hair Microscopy)

Martina Candido holds a degree in International Biotechnology (Job Creation Oriented Biotechnology) and began her career in 2012 as a Molecular Biology researcher at the University of Florida, Gainesville, and in 2013 as a Biochemistry researcher at the University of Toronto. In 2014, she was diagnosed with ophiasis (alopecia areata) and met Dr. Marliani as a patient. From there, she began to develop an interest in the world of trichology for personal reasons. She began studying and developed a passion for the subject, completing the Advanced Training Course for Hair Aestheticians at TricoItalia and immediately after, a Master's Degree in Trichological Sciences at the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery of the University of Florence, and a course in Polarized Light Microscopy. Since 2014, her studies have been constantly focused on Trichological Sciences; she is a member of the scientific committee of TricoItalia. She is a co-founder and teacher at I.A.H.M. (Italian Academy of Hair Microscopy) and in training courses for hairdressers. She receives consultations at her studio in Lamezia Terme, Italy.

Johanna Amarante

Certified Trichologist/ Licensed Cosmetologist/ Holistic Hair Loss Practition/ Educator

Johanna Amarante is a Certified Trichologist, Non-Surgical Hair Replacement Specialist, Holistic Health Practitioner, and Educator with over 15 years of experience bridging clinical insight and real-world application in the beauty and wellness industry. She is the founder of Fabulously Made Salon & Hair Loss Solutions and Fabulously Made Education, where she delivers results-driven solutions for hair loss while training professionals to elevate their standard of care.

As the lead educator of Fabulously Made Education and an educator with Holistic Practitioners of Trichology (HPT), Johanna develops practitioners to confidently assess complex hair loss cases, strengthen client communication, and implement structured, long-term treatment strategies. Her approach integrates trichology, holistic health, and non-surgical hair replacement into a practical system focused on client outcomes.

Her background includes serving as a trichologist for Shakira’s haircare line, Isima, and as a color educator for Goldwell and Schwarzkopf Professional. A 2025 100 Successful Women in Business honoree and recipient of multiple industry awards, Johanna is recognized for her leadership, integrity, and commitment to advancing the field of trichology. She is also a proud mother of two young adults.

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.

The Next Era of Scalp & Hair Analysis: Artificial Intelligence, Bias & Breakthroughs in Trichoscopy
Panel Discussion by scientists & developers of Microscopy technology

Michael Wong

Founder & CEO HairCoSys

Michael Wong is the Founder of HairCoSys, a technology leader dedicated to the AI transformation of the hair care industry. Driven by the philosophy that hair health should move from "guessing" to "knowing," Michael has pioneered the development of AI-driven diagnosis tools that empower the general public to understand their scalp health through data. His mission is to democratize access to first-stage hair analysis, providing users with instant, objective insights that serve as a vital bridge to professional care. By utilizing advanced digital imaging and machine learning, HairCoSys helps the public accurately identify their needs and seamlessly matches them with the right professionals for expert intervention. Michael is committed to standardizing digital trichoscopy to ensure that every client, regardless of their background, starts their hair health journey with clarity and confidence.

Michal Kasprzak

Founder & CEO Tricholab

Dr. Michał Kasprzak is a physicist, entrepreneur, and CEO and co-founder of TrichoLAB, a leading company specializing in advanced hair and scalp analysis through quantitative trichoscopy. Since founding TrichoLAB in 2013, he has been instrumental in driving innovation at the intersection of imaging technology, artificial intelligence, and dermatological research.

Under his leadership, TrichoLAB has developed a suite of tools that enable highly accurate, non-invasive assessment of hair and scalp conditions. These include automated image analysis systems, AI-powered diagnostic support such as TrichoScale, and specialized solutions for clinical practice and hair transplantation, including Transplanner. The company plays a significant role in clinical trials and research, providing standardized, reproducible methodologies for hair imaging and data analysis.

Dr. Kasprzak’s contributions to the field include over 10 scientific publications focused on quantitative trichoscopy and novel measurement techniques, as well as multiple EU and US patents. His work has advanced objective assessment methods in conditions such as androgenetic alopecia and frontal fibrosing alopecia, contributing to improved diagnostic precision and treatment monitoring.

Prior to founding TrichoLAB, Dr. Kasprzak had a distinguished career in physics and information technology. He earned his PhD in physics from the University of Warsaw and conducted research in particle physics at DESY, co-authoring over 100 scientific publications. He later co-founded several successful IT companies, bringing extensive experience in software development and data systems. Dr. Kasprzak’s multidisciplinary expertise continues to shape innovation in trichology, with a strong emphasis on scientific rigor, technological advancement, and clinical applicability.

Alejandra Camacho, Ph.D.

Chemical Engineer / Hair Microscopist / Patent Prosecutor

Alejandra Camacho is a Technical Specialist at Marshal, Gerstein and Borun working in patent prosecution. In her current role at Marshall, Gerstein & Borun, Alejandra helps scientists and engineers protect their innovations, particularly in the areas of materials science and characterization, and consumer products. These include biomaterials, imaging techniques, materials synthesis and processing, and cosmetic formulation amongst others.

A chemical engineer by training, Alejandra pursued a Doctoral degree in Materials Science and Engineering with focus on applying electron microscopy techniques to the structural characterization of materials and materials interactions. Her background and interests led Alejandra to engage in research projects including hair and skin and their interaction with some cosmetic actives, and the understanding of failure mechanisms of hair under repeated stimuli associated with grooming.

Upon graduation, Dr. Camacho worked in several industries including microelectronics, personal care, and specialty chemicals companies, where she held roles in R&D, sales and marketing. Her accomplishments have resulted in her inclusion in leading peer-reviewed and industry publications and presentations at multiple conferences.

Alejandra is passionate about learning new technologies and writing stories of scientific nature, which she combines to support innovation in her role as patent prosecutor.

Fatou Sourang

Founder & CEO VARL Hair

Fatou Sourang is a French entrepreneur and founder of VARL Hair, a beauty technology company dedicated to advancing innovation in hair and scalp care. With a multidisciplinary background spanning data science, business strategy, and customer experience, she brings a forward-thinking approach to the intersection of technology and the beauty industry.

Fatou is a graduate of HEC Paris, where she completed a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and was selected for the highly competitive Startup Launchpad program as an Entrepreneur in Residence. She also holds a Master’s degree in Data-Driven Business Management and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science from the Université de Lille, equipping her with strong analytical and technical expertise that informs her work in beauty tech.

Prior to founding VARL Hair, Fatou held diverse roles across leading organizations, including serving as a Project Head at Bonduelle, where she managed strategic initiatives, and as an Event Manager at Orange Outan, where she led large-scale event operations and brand activations. Her early career experience also includes customer advisory work at EDF, strengthening her foundation in client relations and user-centered thinking.

Through VARL Hair, Fatou is focused on developing technology-driven solutions tailored to diverse hair needs, with a particular emphasis on personalization, inclusivity, and data-informed care. She is also an active member of Le Cercle des Femmes de la Coiffure, contributing to a growing network of women leaders shaping the future of the hair industry.

Fatou Sourang represents a new generation of entrepreneurs redefining beauty through innovation, combining scientific rigor, business acumen, and a deep commitment to inclusivity in hair care.

Alpecin Caffeine 2.0 - The Science of Caffeine + Dimethylglycine Innovation

Carlo Cortez

Business Development Manager for Dr. Wolff USA Distribution Inc.

Carlo Cortez represents the United States office of Dr. Wolff, a German family owned pharmaceutical and cosmetic company founded in 1905. With a long standing commitment to research driven development, Dr. Wolff has contributed to advances in topical scalp and hair formulations grounded in dermatological science. Carlo works closely with scientific and commercial teams to support education around follicular biology, active ingredient research, and evidence informed approaches to hair and scalp health. He is a proud member of the APT since 2025.

In this ALPECIN sponsored talk, Carlo will present Dr. Wolff's group recent advancements in the synergistic impact of caffeine and dimethylglycine on follicular health stimulation.

Members of the APT can access FREE of charge, Carlo's recent Educational Webinar titled: Understanding the Science of Targeted Topical Products Using Caffeine, Follicular Biology, and Scalp Physiology through their member's portal for an introduction to this talk.

LIMITED TIME OFFER

BECOME AN APT MEMBER TODAY AND GET COMPLIMENTARY ACCESS TO THE APRIL 2026 VIRTUAL SUMMIT ON MICROSCOPY & DOZENS OF EDUCATIONAL WEBINARS AVAILABLE ON OUR MEMBER'S ONLY PORTAL

CLICK BELOW TO REGISTER

Membership application link included

Thank you to our Sponsors for their support!