Working with the ambition of achieving across board education, knowledge and skill share – Professor Ncoza Dlova, who is the Head of the Dermatology Department & immediate past Dean of the University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, has set a global precedent through hosting a three day hair masterclass like no other.

The very first to be brought home and hosted on African Soil. In a statement shared by Dr. Mhlanga, a recently qualified dermatologist, expressed that this hair masterclass was not just aimed at educating dermatology specialists but additionally general practitioners who deal specifically with hair loss recovery and transplant. The objective was to provide a platform of knowledge and skill share amongst the professionals, not just theoretical knowledge but for the first time, taking an evidence based and hands on approach.

Dr. Mhlanga continued to state that ‘Hair is very important as it contributes to a person’s image, whilst hair loss drives many into depression and loss of confidence. Thus it is important to train and knowledge share regarding procedures, considerations and options available to provide a lifeline to patients.’ 

This hair masterclass was the first of its kind, the very first dermatological masterclass hosted in the African Continent. Prof. Dlova who is the mastermind behind this event shared that “The whole point was to bring the skillset, knowledge and networks home. I’ve always wanted to host this type of event as I feel that we have a lot of expertise in Africa, what is needed is that we unite with international colleagues in bringing knowledge to our people. This is opposed to our professionals spending money traveling abroad.”

“We must skill share and democratize knowledge” – Prof. Dlova.

Hosted at the Premiere Hotel, Umhlanga – the hair masterclass was attended by over 80 global medical professionals which filled the conference center, all expressing a desire to connect and learn skills shared through the masterclass. The content covered within the 3 days included addressing all types of hair loss and treatment approaches in all ethnicities, extensively covering practical hands on examination tips, trichoscopy, medical treatment, regenerative treatment, hair transplant, cosmetic hair camouflage and healthy hair care routines. Each topic covered extensively by well-versed experts within the field.

 

Traveling from Kansas City (USA) – Dr. Meena Singh shared that it was an honor for her to be invited to speak and participate within the masterclass. Dr. Singh expressed that her reason for specializing in dermatology and hair was due to seeing the impact that hair loss has on many black women in the states. She expressed the importance in training doctors and hairstylists about the nuances of what affects black hair and how to best treat it. Although Dr. Singh has been practicing medicine for 17 years. She shared that international meetings are important as they give her tips and tricks from different professionals on how to practice and perform different services and trials.

Ghanaian born Dr. Achiamah Osei-Tutu defined her experience of the hair masterclass as transformative and phenomenal. “This is the first time we’ve had a hair masterclass on the continent. I travel a lot to multiple conferences around the world and frequently black and afro hair topics are very small and blurred in the workshop agenda. But this was the focus of this workshop. With Prof. Dlova being a world renowned hair loss expert – bringing all of us together has been tremendous.” Dr. Osei-Tutu continued to share.

 

Prof. Dlova concluded by stating that this event has been a year in planning and preparation. “The turnout exceeded my expectations, I am grateful to all our colleagues and sponsors who made this event possible.”