Treatment FAQ

what is scalp micropigmentation treatment

by Gideon Stokes MD Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Scalp micropigmentation, also known as a hair tattoo, can cover bald spots or thinning hair without surgery. Providers use thin needles to deposit tiny dots of pigment (color) on the scalp. This treatment can cover bald spots or create a shaved head look. Appointments 216.444.5725.Apr 14, 2022

Full Answer

How much does scalp micropigmentation usually cost?

The price of scalp micropigmentation is determined according to the size of the area treated. The cost of treating the whole scalp is around $4000. The average cost of covering smaller patches or scar camouflage is around $2000.

Does scalp micropigmentation cause any side effects?

With the increasing popularity of scalp micropigmentation, there are a lot of questions and concerns over the same. One such question is, does it have any side effects. SMP is a non-invasive hair loss treatment and usually does not entail any major or long-term side effects, one of the reasons why this treatment is so popular.

How to avoid risks of scalp micropigmentation?

The things to avoid 3 to 4 weeks following the SMP treatment are the following:

  • Swimming in a chlorinated pool
  • Scalp exposure to extreme heat or sunlight
  • Use of steam rooms or saunas

What is the best treatment for scalp?

  • Best for Itchy Scalps: Living Proof Restore Dry Scalp Treatment
  • Best for Scalp Psoriasis: Kérastase Initialiste Advanced Scalp & Hair Serum
  • Best for Scalp Eczema:Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair and Scalp Treatment
  • Best for Dry, Flaky scalps: L’anza Healing Remedy Scalp Balancing Cleanser
  • Best for Dandruff:Oribe Serene Scalp Soothing Leave-On Treatment

More items...

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How long does scalp micropigmentation last?

Micropigmentation is considered semipermanent. While the effects may last up to eight years, the treated area will fade over time since all skin naturally exfoliates itself. While the color may lighten, it'll only change if an incorrect pigment is used.

What does scalp micropigmentation cost?

$1,800 to $4,000The total scalp micropigmentation cost will depend on the practitioner and the extent of the treatment. Cost estimates range from $1,800 to $4,000 for a typical treatment for balding. Meanwhile, scar treatment can run less—between $1,200 to $2,500—since it is usually covering less area.

Is scalp pigmentation a good idea?

Scalp Pigmentation is also great for those with only minor thinning or recession. By accurately replicating your own natural hair follicles and hair color, scalp pigmentation can help strengthen and add density to thinning areas, creating an undetectable illusion of thicker, stronger hair.

Does scalp micropigmentation damage hair?

Thankfully, scalp micropigmentation does little to no harm in existing hair. SMP is similar to tattooing and the pigments themselves present no side effects to hair follicles. You can expect hair regrowth to be as normal as possible when you undergo scalp micropigmentation.

Does scalp micropigmentation look fake?

So does scalp micropigmentation look fake? No, it doesn't – not even slightly. However, there are caveats if you want to achieve a hairline that is indistinguishable from that of a real one. When all said and done, any scalp micropigmentation treatment is as good as the technician who has administered it.

Does scalp micropigmentation look natural?

Scalp micropigmentation can look incredibly real when done correctly. Most clients tell us that their co-workers or family members say they look younger or ask if they got a new haircut but they won't be able to pinpoint the exact change.

What are the side effects of scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation offers no exception to this rule, with many of the most prominent physical side-effects similar to those associated with standard tattooing. You may experience soreness for a period following each treatment session, while your scalp may also be susceptible to continued bleeding and scabbing.

What are the cons of scalp micropigmentation?

There are only two real “downsides” to having SMP, which involve the procedure itself. The first being the experience of having your scalp tattooed, and the second relating to the slight inconvenience of aftercare for the week after your procedure.

Do you have to shave your head for scalp micropigmentation?

Although a fully shaven head is most common for Scalp Micropigmentation, many clients receive treatment to add density to thinning hair or bald spots, in which case shaving is not necessary. For this kind of treatment to have a natural appearance, it is actually necessary to have hair distributed all over the head.

Can you grow your hair out after scalp micropigmentation?

You can grow your hair out if you have scalp micropigmentation and you don't have to be totally bald in order to have scalp micropigmentation, there are no hard and fast rules with this treatment. Most people can use it in some capacity, if not a complete capacity.

Can I tattoo my bald spot?

Can You Tattoo A Bald Spot? The short answer is yes. Scalp micropigmentation can work on any amount of thinning and if you only have one bald spot (or a few), the technique can create the illusion of more density underneath the existing hair you have.

Does hair grow over scalp tattoos?

There are people who are considering scalp micropigmentation but are hesitant because they worry this procedure may inhibit hair growth. In reality, scalp tattoos have no impact on the hair follicle and its ability to grow.

What Is Scalp Micropigmentation?

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Scalp Micropigmentation For Alopecia

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Scalp Micropigmentation For Women

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Scalp Micropigmentation For Diffused Hair Loss

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Scalp Micropigmentation Revision and Reversal

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What is scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation, commonly called SMP, is a nonsurgical treatment that uses microneedles (sometimes called nano needles) to embed dots of pi...

What are the pros and cons of SMP?

Pros If you’re fully bald or partially balding, the procedure can provide definition for full front, side, and rear hairlines or restore a front ha...

How much does scalp micropigmentation cost?

Your cost will depend on the size of the area being treated and the number of sessions you need, as well as your provider’s practice location, leve...

How does scalp micropigmentation work?

Dr. Gary Linkov, a facial plastic surgeon in New York City, says that most people will need a consultation, followed by at least two to three treat...

Does scalp micropigmentation hurt?

A scalp tattoo reportedly not painful when your provider uses numbing cream. However, even with an anesthetic, the treatment will feel like your sc...

What is SMP recovery like?

There’s no downtime afterward, so you’ll be able to return to work the next day. Your scalp will be slightly red for up to three days after your ap...

How long does scalp micropigmentation last?

Scalp micropigmentation is permanent, like most tattoos, according to Dr. Pak. Much like tattoos or microblading, results can fade after several ye...

Sources & studies

Osnato, Jaime. “Scalp Microblading Is the Newest ‘It’ Treatment for Hair Loss.” Shape, 24 Oct. 2019.Pak, Jae P. “Scalp Micro Pigmentation (SMP): No...

How to treat a scalp?

For example, here are some general guidelines: 1 Shower before each treatment. You won’t be able to wash or wet your scalp (this includes sweating excessively) for four days after each appointment. 2 Each treatment typically takes between four and five hours. 3 How many treatments you need will depend on the amount of scalp getting SMP. Even if it’s only for a small area like a widow’s peak, Cohen says three to four treatments are still needed for long-term retention since SMP is a process of layering color. 4 Treatments will be scheduled a few weeks apart.

How long does it take to get SMP treatment?

Each treatment typically takes between four and five hours. How many treatments you need will depend on the amount of scalp getting SMP.

What is microblading tattoo?

While microblading is typically done with a manual blade, micropigmentation is performed using an electric tattoo device. This is because more power is needed to penetrate the skin on your scalp, which is thicker than the skin under your eyebrows.

What is SMP eyebrows?

The goal of SMP isn’t to create hairlike lines as you would when microblading eyebrows, but instead to use tiny, layered dots in different hues of black to replicate the look of a shadow on your scalp. This style, referred to as pointillism, is done to create natural-looking depth and definition.

How many treatments for SMP?

How many treatments you need will depend on the amount of scalp getting SMP. Even if it’s only for a small area like a widow’s peak, Cohen says three to four treatments are still needed for long-term retention since SMP is a process of layering color. Treatments will be scheduled a few weeks apart.

Can you get SMP if you have acne?

People with scalp acne or other skin sensitives like psoriasis should avoid getting SMP during a breakout or flare-up, as it will be difficult to apply pigment to the inflamed areas. If you’re prone to developing keloids, which are more common in darker skin, you may also not be a good candidate for SMP.

Can you use topical numbing agent before SMP?

The short answer is, it depends. Before the procedure, your SMP practitioner will apply a topical numbing agent to your scalp. That said, it’s good to keep in mind that there may still be some discomfort. However, how much discomfort largely depends on your pain tolerance.

What is scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp Micropigmentation is a life changing hair loss treatment where natural pigments are applied to the scalp to replicate the natural appearance of real hair follicles, giving you the look of a full head of hair that you have decided to shave or to add density to thin hair.

Where is the best scalp micropigmentation clinic?

Our London, Manchester, New York, Los Angeles, Edinburgh and Dublin Scal p Micropigmentation clinics have built the reputation as the best Scalp Micropigmentation clinics in the UK and USA by making sure every single client get’s their perfect hairline.

Why do people use micropigmentation?

Alopecia can vary hugely in severity from one person to the next and the flexible targeted process of Scalp Micropigmentation allows us to help restore self-esteem in many alopecia sufferers.

How is pigment spacing determined?

Pigment spacing is determined by replicating the remaining natural hair follicles.

Is crown balding a degenerative condition?

Crown balding is one of the most common types of degenerative hair thinning and balding, usually making sufferers look older than their years and affecting self-confidence. Our treatment will rejuvenate the look of the crown, giving a completely realistic hairline and the ease of top-up treatment makes it ideal for the slowly developing crown thinning and balding process.

Can micropigmentation help with balding?

When thinning occurs, it can be a depressing time, stigmas attached to balding & premature ageing in both men and women can affect confidence and mood. Scalp Micropigmentation can restore even a completely bald head to look like a full head of well-groomed hair, restore your confidence and let you forget about hair loss.

What is scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp Micropigmentation is a non-invasive treatment that uses detailed micro-needles to deposit pigment into the scalp. The result creates the appearance of tiny hair follicles that help thicken and restore the look of fuller hair. If you are starting to thin, recede, or if you are completely bald, we can give you the look of a short buzz cut.

Is scalp micropigmentation good for hair?

Scalp Micropigmentation is also effective for those suffering from minor hair thinning or recession. By accurately replicating your own natural hair follicles and hair color, scalp micropigmentation can help strengthen and add density to thinning areas, creating an undetectable illusion of thicker, stronger hair.

Does scalp pigmentation help with hair loss?

Scalp Pigmentation is also great for those with only minor thinning or recession. By accurately replicating your own natural hair follicles and hair color, scalp pigmentation can help strengthen and add density to thinning areas, creating an undetectable illusion of thicker, stronger hair. See Results.

Fast facts

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What is scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation, commonly called SMP, is a nonsurgical treatment that uses microneedles (sometimes called nano needles) to embed dots of pigment into the scalp, to mimic the appearance of real hair follicles that have just been shaved.

What are the pros and cons of SMP?

If you’re fully bald or partially balding, the procedure can provide definition for full front, side, and rear hairlines or restore a front hairline. The result is the look of natural hair follicles with a close shave or buzz cut.

How much does scalp micropigmentation cost?

Your cost will depend on the size of the area being treated and the number of sessions you need, as well as your provider’s practice location, level of experience, and certification status.

How does scalp micropigmentation work?

Dr. Gary Linkov, a facial plastic surgeon in New York City, says that most people will need a consultation, followed by at least two to three treatment sessions. At your consultation, you'll determine the treatment area, pigment color choice, and number of sessions needed.

Does scalp micropigmentation hurt?

A scalp tattoo reportedly not painful when your provider uses numbing cream. However, even with an anesthetic, the treatment will feel like your scalp is being pricked with a pin over and over again, which can be mildly uncomfortable.

What is SMP recovery like?

There’s no downtime afterward, so you’ll be able to return to work the next day. Your scalp will be slightly red for up to three days after your appointment, but this depends on how your particular skin type reacts. If you’re concerned, you can have the treatment on a Friday and return to work Monday.

What Is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical, non-invasive scalp grooming technique that is performed by a licensed and experienced technician. During the procedure, the technician will use micro-needles in order to inject tiny amounts of natural pigment into the scalp, giving the illusion of hair follicles.

What Conditions Can Scalp Micropigmentation Address?

Due to the precise, detailed application process as well as the ability to customize the procedure to meet your needs, scalp micropigmentation can address a wide variety of conditions.

What is the best treatment for hair loss?

These options sometimes include painful corticosteroid injections, topical corticosteroid creams and lotions, minoxidil, dithranol creams, and surgeries.

What is the needle used for permanent makeup?

The needle that is used is a quarter of the size of a 3-round needle used by companies that implant pigments using permanent makeup guns. This gives us the advantage of creating actual follicles that look the same as hair. Other companies have no choice but to create a shade or fill that gives the illusion of hair.

How long does it take to get hair transplant results?

With regular hair transplant procedures, particularly FUE, most hair-density will be lost within the first few months, so it can often take up to a year to get the best results out of those procedures.

What is the permanent edge up?

The Permanent Edge Up. The “Edge Up”, which is also known as the “Jamie Foxx”, is an extremely popular choice. With this particular procedure, it is very important to begin conservatively with the hairline. There is a lot of preparation required before starting to create the hairline and a side temple area first.

Does hairline ink cover scars?

The technique we use at Hairline Ink doesn’t just cover the scars , but also gives the appearance of a fuller head of hair by adding density to places on the scalp where the hair restoration was not effective, giving you the renewed sense of confidence you were looking for at your initial hair restoration surgery.

Can you go back to work after micropigmentation?

Scalp Micropigmentation will give you a look of a full head of hair, just after a fresh – close cut hairstyle. No one will notice that it is an ink treatment, you can return to work the day after your procedure and people will think you look great, but they will have no idea that you underwent treatment.

Can you have scars after a hair transplant?

If you have had a hair transplant, you may have been left with scars as a result of this procedure. Some of our clients have come to us after having as many as FIFTEEN hair transplants!

What is micropigmentation for?

Micropigmentation, also called permanent makeup, is especially helpful if you are a person who wants to look their best while avoiding the physical challenges of applying makeup. Eyebrows, eyelashes, eyelids, lips are common treatment areas. Considerations include number of treatments needed, complications and out-of-pocket costs.

Why do people micropigment?

Micropigmentation procedures are also considered for purely personal reasons, such as: You don’t like applying makeup on a daily basis. You’d like to have fuller looking or better defined eyebrows or eyelashes. You’d like better defined or richer colored lips. You have scars you’d like to improve with tattoo pigment.

What medical conditions make makeup difficult?

Some medical conditions that make applying or using makeup challenging include: Conditions that result in unsteady hands, such as severe arthritis, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease. Conditions that result in poor eyesight, such as cataracts or macular degeneration.

Can micropigmentation be done in an office?

Most procedures only require a topical anesthetic to numb the skin and keep you comfortable during the procedure. Typically, micropigmentation can be performed in an office setting. The procedure is performed with a pen-like instrument or standard tattoo gun.

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