What is Scalp Micro Pigmentation and does the New Hair Procedure Work?

Scalp What?

Yes, you read that right! The beauty industry has found yet another way to finesse those struggling hairlines. We have all kinds of product like growth oils, tinted edge controls, and pills to grow and thicken our hair but here is something we can all get done in the meantime. I’m spilling all the tea on this new procedure and what it may mean for those thinning edges and hairline.

What Is Scalp Micro Pigmentation?

Scalp Micropigmentation is a hair follicle replication procedure which helps individuals who are experiencing hair loss, or who may have scarring on their heads that they wish to cover up. Highly-trained practitioners utilize meticulously designed colors and a unique application method to mimic hair follicles in the scalp. The procedure is an entirely non-intrusive treatment and requires no surgery whatsoever. The procedure is lower cost and much lower risk compared to alternative hair replacement medications and practices.

What Tool Do They Use?

The needle that practitioners use 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 shade or fill that gives the illusion of hair. Our needle can make the dot of a small pin. If you look closely at the impressions, it is impossible to tell the difference between the hair and the impressions. When we talk to our clients, they say they would rate the pain level at 2 out of 10. Both women and men who have scarring from hair transplants will often have a little more discomfort due to the sensitivity of the area.

How Long Does It Take?

Treatments will take roughly 3-4 hours for the first session, then around 2-3 hours for the second session. Some clients may request or require a third session to complete their treatment, and session time is about 1 – 2.5 hours, depending on the amount of work needed.

How Much Does It Usually Cost?

Micropigmentation is a very intricate procedure, however. On average, there are over 100,000 follicles on the human head; this means our skilled practitioners—guided by cutting-edge technology—must carefully implant pigments by hand upwards of 1,250 times per square inch. The price to accomplish this feat at Hairline Ink falls between $1,800 to $3,200 for what we would consider our average client’s needs and treatment plan. However, the exact price of scalp micropigmentation treatment may be higher or lower depending on many factors.

Who Can Get This Procedure?

• That is looking for that perfect shaven look
• Too young for a hair transplant
• That has a bad donor area, thus not allowing for hair restoration
• Looking to increase the optical density of a hair restoration without a follow-up hair transplantation
• Looking for a fast result
• Oppose surgical procedures
• Oppose hair pieces

How Is It Different From Microblading?

There are quite a few differences between scalp micropigmentation and microblading even though they are similar processes. The most significant difference is the type of tool used. For microblading, the practitioner will use a handheld device with a slanted needle. For scalp micropigmentation, the practitioner uses a digital device with a single needle, which creates a single dot of pigment versus a line. Both procedures also have different Aftercare processes to ensure proper results. Lastly only a certified tattoo artist can perform scalp micropigmentation. Accredited cosmetologist or esthetician can perform microblading but cannot perform SMP.

What Are The Other Uses For SMP?

SMP is excellent not only for creating the appearance of all of the hair follicles, but it is also great for concealing scars from accidents and surgeries. Typically when a person undergoes hair transplant surgery, the individual is left with a large SCAR or two. Regardless of how they grow hair grows afterward the scar is noticeable. People tend to use scalp micropigmentation create the illusion of hair follicles along the scar so that it's no longer noticeable.

What Should You Expect During Your First Session?

Your first session with your practitioner is super important, not only because the initial interaction will determine the quality of your SMP but also because you'll have to go back a second time. If you don't enjoy your first session, you definitely won't enjoy your second so be sure you're sitting down with someone you like. Here is a list of some other things you should be aware of before you begin your procedure.

Tip #1

Make sure that your practitioner is a licensed tattoo artist. As I stated before, only a licensed tattoo artist can perform scalp micropigmentation. If your practitioner cannot point to their certificate on the wall of the shop, That's a red flag, and you should find somewhere else to receive your procedure.

Tip #2

Ask about how long they've been performing scalp micropigmentation. The person performing your procedure should have experience. Let's be clear having a license does not mean they have experience.

Tip #3

Be very clear that you only want one artist working on you in the session. It is very common for two or three artists to work on a client at one time in shops where they teach. The downside to this is the quality of work will not be consistent and could potentially lead to an unsightly result.

Tip #4

Discuss any fears or hang-ups you have about the procedure. A professional should be able to put your mind at ease and make you feel confident in the service your getting.

Tip #5

Your practitioner should also give you a form to sign. This form not only protects you but protects the artist. It should ask you all the fundamental questions that they do at a tattoo shop. For your protection be honest. If you don't receive a form to fill out, that's another red flag that you should find another place to undergo your procedure. Your artist should ask you what your desired look is and also create a color match ink to your natural hair color before they start the procedure. After the procedure, you should receive a pamphlet or another form detailing the aftercare.

What Is The Aftercare Process?

Every procedure has a particular aftercare process, and your practitioner should always go over them with you before you leave. Scalp micropigmentation involves breaking through the skin on the scalp, which means that infection is a potential risk, so the area has to stay clean. Besides keeping the area clean, it should also stay sweat free. You'll be advised to not participate in any activities that cause your head to sweat because the sweat can push the pigment out of the skin. If by chance you do begin to sweat take a towel and dab at your scalp to remove the sweat. You're also advised not to wet your head in the shower or go swimming. After your procedure, the scalp will be a little red and swollen, so you can wear a hat to conceal it.

How Soon Will I See Results?

Scalp micropigmentation is incredible because results are visible immediately! The placement and depth of color make these tiny follicle-like dots look flawlessly natural. After five days the swelling and redness are entirely gone, and you can go back to your routine.