Both men and women suffer from hair loss. The most common causes are genetics, hormones, aging, and lifestyle. Men usually experience receding hairlines. Women, on the other hand, suffer from PCOS hair loss resulting in thinning hair.
Fortunately, different hair restoration methods exist to help alleviate hair loss issues. One of the easiest available options is scalp micropigmentation.
What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is an advanced cosmetic hair loss solution. It does not require surgery, unlike other hair transplantation methods. SMP has gained popularity and is seen on different celebrities like Jamie Foxx and Vin Diesel.
SMP is also known as hair tattooing or hairline tattoo. It is different from a traditional tattoo, yet the basic method is the same. SMP excellently mimics natural hair follicles resulting in a very natural look.
Scalp micropigmentation is an option for people with hair loss problems. These include thinning hair, alopecia, and male and female pattern baldness. It can effectively conceal hair loss.
Who Is It For?
Men and women who suffer hair loss from the following causes may benefit from SMP:
cancer
alopecia
thinning hair
male pattern baldness
female pattern baldness
scars on the scalp caused by accidents
uneven hair from hair transplants
correcting hair transplant treatments that have gone wrong
How It Works
First, we would suggest having an initial consultation to help you prepare. Make sure to research for an SMP expert or a reputable clinic. Multiple treatments are recommended depending on the scalp condition.
After the assessment, the treatments will be scheduled a few weeks apart.
Preparation for SMP
Your technician may recommend the following guidelines for preparation:
Take a shower before treatments.
For men, shave before the first session.
Women who want to enhance existing hair do not need to shave.
Take medication such as Tylenol or paracetamol for pain management.
Avoid alcohol intake.
One of the most frequently asked questions during preparation is how painful the procedure is. This depends on your pain tolerance but the pain is usually minimal. It is significantly less than traditional tattooing.
During the preparation stage, the SMP practitioner can also guide you on choosing the best style for you.
Procedure
Micropigmentation is performed using a specialized electric device with very thin needles with the following procedure.
The first treatment is done to set the foundation of your look. A topical numbing cream will be applied to your scalp.
Very fine needles are used to penetrate the outer layer of the scalp’s skin.
Through the needles, specialized pigment is deposited in the skin. SMP uses a special pigment that is formulated for the scalp. This is different from regular tattoo pigments.
Pigment deposits are repeated until the scalp looks like it has hair follicles. It is a very detailed procedure, and one session usually takes 2-4 hours.
A second treatment is done to add more definition to the scalp. This is to also to make sure that the correct density and shade is achieved. In this session, the final look is achieved.
The third treatment is optional. It depends on the final look you want to achieve. It is usually arranged for those who want a darker shade.
The gap between treatments is between 1 – 2 weeks. The pigment needs to set naturally into the skin.
Results
Scalp micropigmentation results look like a newly shaved hair appearance. The pigment deposits form a “shadow” on your scalp. The shadow looks like natural hair follicles.
Men will have a newly shaved hair look that conceals balding and receding hairlines. Women will appear to have more hair to skin ratio, resulting in thicker-looking hair.
Aftercare
Here is how you can take care of your scalp after the treatment.
Some redness may be experienced after the treatment. Avoid touching the scalp, it may be tender and uncomfortable to touch. This usually subsides in 1-2 days.
Pigment deposits will form scabs. Avoid removing these by yourself and just allow them to naturally fall off and heal.
Avoid applying products and moisturizers. Allow the pigment to set in.
In-between treatments, avoid having hot showers and going to saunas. Wear a hat to avoid sun exposure especially in the first four days.
If you need to go outdoors, wear protective gear such as a cap and use sunscreen. After your final treatment, avoid heavy exercise and excessive sun exposure. Although SMP is permanent, these can cause pigments to fade faster.
How much does scalp micropigmentation cost?
SMP is more cost-effective than other popular hair treatment methods. It starts at $99 for a touch-up session. The average cost for repairs for bad hair treatments is $1000.
The treatment will generally cost around $1200 – $4500. Your SMP expert will take into consideration factors such as your hairline and the density needed.
Advantages of SMP
Scalp micropigmentation has many benefits:
It is one of the easiest hair loss options.
SMP is the least expensive treatment compared to other popular hair transplant methods.
It is safe for both men and women, young and old.
It is an option for those suffering from hair loss due to health conditions.
SMP can also conceal scars on the scalp such as those from accidental burns.
The healing process is faster compared to hair transplants.
The results are almost instant and can last for 3 to 6 years.
No downtime, you can easily go back to work after a session.
It can also result in a very stylish shaved look for men.
For women, it can conceal scalp skin to enhance existing hair. Resulting in thicker hair that looks natural.
People who have hair transplant scars can opt for SMP to cover spots.
As an Alternative for Hair Transplant
Although hair transplantation methods are also a popular hair loss solution, these may not be an ideal option for everyone. When done improperly, people may suffer from side effects such as bleeding, infection, scalp pain, and scars. These can lead to more damage instead of treating hair loss.
SMP is a great and safe alternative for hair transplants. It yields more natural even results compared to a hair transplant that has gone wrong resulting in uneven hair patches on the scalp. SMP can also repair bad hair treatments by effectively concealing scars and uneven patches.
Conclusion
Scalp micropigmentation is a highly advanced semi-permanent procedure for hair loss. It is a great hair restoration option for both men and women. SMP is cost-effective and easier compared to other treatments.
With SMP, you can now achieve the look of a fuller head of hair without surgery. It is important to only hire scalp micropigmentation experts to achieve the best, most natural results.