Hair tattoo treatment, or scalp micropigmentation (SMP), is a minimally invasive technique used to treat hair loss. SMP involves depositing pigment into the scalp to create the appearance of hair stubble. It can be a solution for those looking to camouflage hair loss with minimal maintenance required. Here is more information about what a hair tattoo procedure involves:
How Does Scalp Micropigmentation Work?
Scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic procedure that provides realistic, customizable results. You can choose the look and shape of your hairline with advice from an experienced SMP artist. The pigmented dots are then deposited in a natural-looking pattern to replicate the appearance of hair follicles. Practitioners use blending techniques and customizable pigment shades to help complement the scalp and hair color. Depending on the extent of the hair loss and the final look you want to achieve, multiple SMP sessions may be needed. Once the SMP treatment is finished, a completely bald scalp can have the appearance of a full buzz cut.
Who Can Benefit From Scalp Micropigmentation?
This treatment is suitable for men and women experiencing a range of hair loss or baldness, including receding hairlines, thinning, and bald spots. Individuals suffering from alopecia, a medical condition that causes hair loss, may find improvement through SMP treatments. Scarring from past hair transplant procedures can also be covered with a hair tattoo.
What Do I Need To Know Before the Procedure?
Before scalp micropigmentation can occur, a consultation is required to assess your degree of hair loss. During this consultation, the practitioner will discuss the procedure and your desired hairline look. They will take note of your hair and skin tone, head shape, level of hair loss, and the size of the treatment area. This information can help the hair tattoo practitioner create a customized SMP hairline. The practitioner will also offer guidance on pre-treatment scalp preparation.
Prior to your hair tattoo appointment, you’ll need to wash your hair and scalp with a mild shampoo. It may also be recommended to shave or trim your scalp to a short length. This can depend on the hair loss pattern and degree of thinning.
What Happens After the Procedure?
After the scalp micropigmentation procedure, you can go back to your normal routine of attending school or going to work. Slight redness on the scalp is common and should subside within a few days. Remember to use a hat or scarf to protect the treated area from direct sunlight throughout the healing process. Additional post-treatment recommendations, such as avoiding swimming, saunas, and water-based activities for several weeks, may be provided by your SMP practitioner.
You may require two to four SMP procedures to complete the treatment process. Each treatment will be spaced apart based on the practitioner’s instructions, typically ranging between 10-20 days. The results of scalp tattooing can last for four to six years. A quick touch-up session can be scheduled to help maintain or adjust your hair tattoo, depending on how your skin heals.
What Are the Advantages of Scalp Micropigmentation?
Getting a hair tattoo is an innovative way to achieve a defined hairline without surgery. Unlike surgical procedures, SMP has no recovery time and doesn’t require an extended break from work or other obligations. There is also minimal risk involved for most clients.
SMP is considered a low-maintenance treatment. You won’t need to purchase special hair care products or invest in expensive medications following your procedure. No additional steps are added to your morning routine when getting ready for the day. The only potential maintenance required is if you notice any slight fading after four to six years, which can be fixed with a brief touch-up SMP treatment.