The editor, recognizing the indisputable interrelation between cosmetology and dermatology, has prepared a textbook designed to bridge the gap between these two disciplines. Physicians, in particular dermatologists, primarily provide such care as it relates to the treatment of diseases of the scalp and hair; cosmetologists are primarily concerned with enhancing the beauty of hair and scalp and improving hair hygiene.
For many years a distinct line separated the types of care rendered by these professionals to their patients or clients. For obvious reasons, a fundamental understanding of scalp and hair pathology by cosmetologists and of the various hair-grooming and hygienic techniques by dermatologists is imperative, so that each group may render optimum care. However, the editor does not propose that cosmetologists administer treatment for diseases of the scalp and hair, nor does he intend for physicians and dermatologists to become proprietors of hair-care salons.
I suspect such a textbook as