ISHRS Membership

[denrose361]

Hello all,

I’m curious about the International Society of Hair Restoration and how its membership works. Is it open for just any physician, or are there safeguards in place to keep out bogus fakers, cowboys, and even butchers from misrepresenting themselves? Moreover, if a physician is accepted into the society, does that membership actually elevate their reputation or clout compared to doctors who aren’t registered? I’d love to get some honest opinions on whether this membership is a true mark of quality or just another marketing tool.

 

[OziyWeb]

From what I’ve seen, the society is pretty selective. Membership generally requires board certification and a solid track record in hair restoration. While no system is foolproof, their guidelines do help weed out the less reputable practitioners. That said, membership does tend to add a bit of extra credibility—but it shouldn’t be your only criterion when choosing a doctor.

 

[Skaylet]

I’ve done a bit of research on this, and it appears that the International Society of Hair Restoration sets strict standards. Still, there have been debates over whether some members are more about marketing than actual expertise. In my view, while it can elevate a physician’s profile, it’s wise to look at reviews, before-and-after galleries, and overall experience too.

 

[asege]

Hi Denrose,

ISHRS isn’t just a pay-to-play club—it has real safeguards. Only licensed physicians actively involved in hair restoration can join, keeping out unqualified techs and scammers. Higher levels like Fellowship and Diplomate status require even more proof of expertise.

Unlike some organizations, ISHRS actively fights unethical "black market" clinics through its "Fight the FIGHT" campaign, exposing dangerous practices. While membership alone doesn’t make a surgeon the best, it adds credibility and shows commitment to ethical, professional standards.

 

[Paranoid]

I remain a bit skeptical. Even with rigorous membership criteria, some members seem to use the society as a badge to boost their image, regardless of true results. It’s important for patients to dig deeper than just the society affiliation, check their patient outcomes and professional history to really gauge their legitimacy.