All You Need to Know About Scalp Micropigmentation

What is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation, also known as a hair tattoo or SMP for short is a natural hair loss treatment where the pigments are applied to the scalp in order to replicate the appearance of real hair follicles. The treatment is similar in nature to microblading for eyebrows, but instead of minor slits being created with a knife, a tattoo pen is used in a pointillistic manner, creating small dots of varying size and colour to mask alopecia, visual impact scarring and burns. This is because the blades do not provide an adequate level of power to reach the upper epidermal required for the procedure.

The process can also be conducted on men and women with thinning hair, giving the illusion of a full head of hair with visible density to oblivious friends, family and strangers. Although predominantly for men, the treatment’s versality allows for any length of hair to be worked with, meaning that it may be a solution for females suffering from hair loss too. The procedure acts as a camouflaging solution to clients with pattern balding, effectively shading in the missing hair and decreasing the contrast between the colour of the visible skin and the remaining hair.The procedure is cosmetic, non-surgical and best of all is available for any skin-type or hair colour. So, whether you are White, Latino, Afro-Caribbean or Asian - scalp micropigmentation could be exactly what you are looking for.

So, how does it work?

The process begins with a consultation, after researching and booking your practitioner they will invite you to their surgery for a few pre-procedure questions. A high-quality practitioner will have a certificate in SMP training, a body art practitioner license and will display a bloodborne pathogens certification. Despite being commonly known as ‘hair tattooing’, tattoo artists are not qualified to conduct the SMP procedure. However, like a tattoo, scalp micropigmentation is an investment, so it is important to check the background of your selected specialist and their portfolio of work.

Once your consultation has been completed, you will return for the first day of treatment. It is important to shower and thoroughly cleanse your scalp before each treatment, as the area can not become wet or be washed for four days following treatment. This is to remove any hair fibres, gels or moisturiser that could potentially contaminate the procedure. We also recommend shaving your head prior to each appointment, however if preferred many clinics supply this option immediately before the first session begins. Each appointment can last anywhere from three to five hours each, for up to three appointments. The length of time required is the same for smaller areas like widow’s peaks as well as larger ones. This is because scalp micropigmentation is a gradual laying of colour, base layers need to be applied and healed before another can go on top of it. This is process that cannot be rushed but compared to other methods of hair loss concealment it is much faster and less costly than a hair transplant.

Before the procedure begins, the practitioner will apply a numbing agent to your scalp. This is to decrease any discomfort from the procedure; however, it should still be expected to be uncomfortable. The process involves placing plant-based pigment into the upper epidermal layer of skin. This layer is deeper than the epidermal where traditional tattoos are placed. Placing the ink into this layer ensures longer lasting colour and quality, increasing the amount of time needed before a touch-up is required. The SMP specialist should check for allergic reactions before beginning the procedure by performing a patch test. An inconspicuous area of the scalp is chosen to test the patient’s reaction to the pigment. If the skin reacts poorly to the pigment the procedure will be forced to stop, and other treatment will be considered. When cleared, the procedure will commence. It is important to note the procedure does not equate to increased hair loss, it merely increases the illusion of hair.

In the initial days after the procedure, patients are strongly advised to relax and avoid wetting the scalp – allowing time for the skin to heal properly is paramount. In the weeks following, patients can begin returning to their normal routines, now able to wash their scalps, exercise and shave their heads. Patients should also avoid swimming, saunas and steam rooms for the first three weeks after treatment. Once all the sessions are complete, daily moisturising of the skin is important for both the healing process and longevity of the treatment – which while not compulsory, it is advised to use an anti-shine solution. We recommend not exposing your scalp to sunlight until 21 days after the final appointment and even then, with high SPF sunscreen. Before then it is advised to wear a hat if there is a possibility of direct sunlight.

What are the benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation?

SMP is a guaranteed way of concealing pattern baldness, alopecia or chemotherapy hair loss that provides a natural looking cosmetic hairline with depth and definition. Better yet, the hairline can be adjusted and freshened up easily in the future, providing flexibility to an already attractive option. In comparison to other techniques such as hair transplants, SMP is a quick, holistic and affordable option that does not attempt to rectify hair-loss but conceal it. The benefit of this is that the procedure is non-surgical, meaning there is no scarring. If anything, SMP is highly beneficial post-hair transplant to cover up the potential scarring from that operation. As this method conceals hair-loss and potential operational scars, another benefit is the improvement in confidence that it provides for patients. Scalp micropigmentation will remain realistic looking for up to five years following the final appointment. Best of all, the procedure is maintenance free following appropriate aftercare. For a safe, vegan solution for hair loss – look no further than SMP. Join the likes of Andros Townsend, Jamie Foxx and Vin Diesel and change your life today.