At a Glance: Scalp Micro Pigmentation from SMP Cardiff

For many people, hair loss is an embarrassing condition to deal with, but surprisingly, it’s far more common than you think. According to the NHS, we lose around 50-100 hairs every day, mostly resulting from brushing or washing our hair. Although this kind of hair loss is normal, in some cases, it could be a sign of an underlying condition such as stress, illness, cancer treatment, pregnancy or iron deficiency.

One of the most common issues Alopecia Areata, which affects two in every 1000 people in the UK. The conditions cause bald patches in the scalp, which usually resembles a large coin. Some people even go on to experience complete hair loss (Alopecia Totalis). Deficiency in certain vitamins such as vitamin D and vitamin B12 can also lead to hair loss. While there is still no cure for complete hair loss, there are several treatments and procedures available to treat the condition. One such treatment is Scalp Micro Pigmentation.

What is Scalp Micro Pigmentation or Hair Tattoo Treatment?

Often referred to as SMP, Scalp Micro Pigmentation is a contemporary, aesthetic treatment, which helps to conceal the damage left by hair loss. Unlike hair transplants, which requires surgery to remove hair follicles from one part of the body to another, SMP implants natural pigment under the outer barrier of the skin, leaving a mark that resembles a tiny hair follicle. As a result, clients with a case of pattern baldness or complete hair loss would have the look of a closely shaved haircut. For those with diffuse thinning, SMP adds strength and density, creating the look of stronger and thicker hair.

How is SMP applied by SMP Cardiff?

Put simply, the natural pigment is implanted to the scalp using an exceptionally fine needle, which is attached to a special machine. The pigments are placed in tiny dots underneath the outer barrier of the skin, giving the impression of a buzz-cut. This procedure can take up to four hours, and clients often only need two sessions to complete treatment – but this is dependant on the individual’s needs.

Three differences between SMP and tattoos

You may be thinking that SMP is simply a fancy form of tattoo that’s applied to the scalp, but there are three fundamental differences. Firstly, needles used in SMP are much more smaller and precise than tattoo ones. This makes the application of the implants more concise and helps create a more authentic look and feel of tiny hair follicles.

Secondly, only natural pigment is used in SMP treatment, whereas a number of tattoos use non-organic inks, which can cause irritation, or damage to the skin.

Thirdly, there is a difference in how deep the pigment is implanted. SMP only goes below the outer barrier of the skin, whereas a tattoo penetrates five layers into the skin. This can often result in pigment spreading out and losing it’s round shape. The pigment used in SMP is kept shallow in order to maintain its shape and permanence.

The benefits of SMP

SMP treatment can help with a wide range of hair loss conditions, so it’s not surprising that there are various benefits of using it. One advantage is that it offers a long-term solution to hair loss. Some treatments require several follow-ups, which can be a bit of a pain. However, a successful SMP procedure can last between 2-4 years, saving you time and money.

You also won’t need to take any additional medication. Even though there is slight discomfort, the procedure is relatively painless and doesn’t leave any scarring, so you can be up and about in no time after the treatment. Although, for the first few days after treatment, you should avoid washing or shampooing your scalp; or taking part in any activities that causes you scalp to sweat.

It also requires little maintenance. Applying oil or wax on the scalp is sometimes all you need to keep the pigment’s lustre. In addition, it can help retain your natural hair colour, allowing you to feel confident and comfortable.

Speaking of comfort, SMP treatment doesn’t require practitioners to make any incisions in the scalp. Your technician will work with you to choose a pigment that matches seamlessly with your natural tone and simply implant the pigment using small needles.

Perhaps the biggest benefit is that SMP is a universal treatment. Whenever you consider a new procedure, you find yourself wondering if it’s right for you. Hair transplants can look amazing if they’re done properly, however, there are times when it just doesn’t work, and you’ll find yourself out of pocket and frustrated. The good news is that because SMP is customised to your own hair and skin colour, as well as your hairline, it works with all genders and ethnicities.

How much does it cost?

The short answer is, it depends on what treatment you require and how many sessions you need. Routine treatments will cost less than more complex ones.

Possible risks of SMP

Like all treatments, there may be side effects from using SMP. A possible risk is that you could be allergic to the pigment used. The general feeling is if you’ve had a tattoo previously and know that you didn’t react to the ink used, you should be fine. However, if you’re worried, ask your practitioner to do a test on a small area of your scalp or other part of the body first.

Of course, after a couple of years you may experience SMP fading, so you will need to return for a follow-up session. For women, fading is usually due to exposure to the sun or artificial UV rays (commonly used in tanning beds). If you reduce the amount of exposure your scalp gets by wearing a hat or using SPF 30-50 sunscreen, fading will slow even further.

SMP offers those suffering with hair loss a convenient, non-surgical method to treat the condition with minimal risk. But to ensure it’s the right treatment for you, you should seek advice. Book a free consultation today.