Scalp Micropigmentation: An Innovative Solution for Hair Loss

Almost everyone, at some point in their lives, would experience some form of hair loss. Whether caused by the natural aging process (heredity), hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications and supplements, radiation therapy, stress, or even certain hairstyles or hair treatments; bald spots present a widespread aesthetic problem. 

In today’s world, hair loss solutions range from relatively simple scalp massages and hormonal therapy to complex technologies such as hair transplants and hair replacement systems. The list continues to grow. Good scalp micropigmentation clinics like scalp micropigmentation clinics offer this readily available and long-lasting solution to the cosmetic hurdle that is hair loss.

The Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Process

Think about micro-blading, which creates an illusion of thicker brows, but for the scalp. Now, SMP is a non-surgical procedure that involves the use of organic inks which are applied to the scalp’s dermal layer to create the natural look of a fresh haircut. 

Unlike micro-blading which is usually done manually with a blade, SMP is performed with an electrical tattooing device that provides sufficient power for the SMP ink to go through the skin of the scalp. The result is the replication of the natural hair follicles, which effectively disguises any form of hair loss. It is a “scalp tattoo” and as with all tattoos, it is smudge-free and can last several years.

Read this article to learn more.

Who Can Have Scalp Micropigmentation?

Individuals with any form of hair loss can benefit from scalp micropigmentation. The loss could be caused by one or more of the following:

1. Natural balding/receding hairline: This is usually hereditary and occurs as part of the aging process. This condition is called androgenic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness).
2. Hormonal changes and medical conditions: Thyroid conditions and hormonal changes during pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause can lead to hair loss. Other medical conditions include alopecia areata, scalp infections such as ringworm and trichotillomania.
3. Radiation therapy to the head region: This may affect hair growth rate and pattern.
4. Medication and supplement: Some medications can cause hair loss as part of their side effects. For example, cancer medication.
5. Excessive physical or emotional stress. The loss in this case is usually temporary.
6. Hairstyles that cause excessive pulling.

Benefits of a Scalp Micropigmentation Treatment

In addition to the increase in the client’s confidence level, scalp micropigmentation helps to cover up burns or scars from previous surgical procedures, such as complications from a hair transplant surgery. SMP can help to mask any marks and scars on the skin.

When it is done at a good SMP center, this procedure is also effective, relatively faster to complete, and is stress and worry-free. 

The SMP Process

The SMP process employs the pointillism technique of using a fine needle to place several thousands of pigments on the skin’s outer layer. This technique will then produce a pattern that closely resembles natural hair follicles. This is why the characteristic look of an SMP treated scalp is that of a fresh haircut.

In cases where SMP treatment is used to cover scars, colors are introduced into the scars so that they can blend seamlessly with the scalp. The technician will often select colors that match your skin tone.

Scalp Micropigmentation is a process that is done carefully and with much attention to detail. And based on the amount of pigmentation that is required, this process can take as many as 5 hours. The entire treatment is usually spread over 3 sessions with up to 2 weeks between each of the sessions. 

The total healing process can take up to 7 days with variations depending on the individual client.

Is SMP Painful?

Before the SMP procedure, the technician will apply anesthesia to the scalp to relieve the pain. But it is not unlikely for you to still feel a little bit of discomfort during an SMP treatment. However, the level of discomfort that you may experience depends on your average pain threshold.

During the initial consultation, your SMP specialist will give you all the information you need to have before the procedure. So, you will know what to expect during and after the sessions.

Here are a few of the precautions you may need to take after your treatment:

• Avoid swimming.
• Avoid steam and sauna baths for at least 1 month after your last session.
• Avoid strenuous exercises for at least 5 days after your last treatment.
• Avoid frequent exposure to sunlight and always use sunscreen (SPF 30 to 50).

 The client would also be asked to moisturize the scalp at certain points in between and after the procedure.

Scalp Micropigmentation – Costs and Lifespan

The cost of SMP may vary depending on the size of the area on the scalp to be camouflaged. However, the cost of the treatment typically ranges from $400 to $1,000. A client will also incur extra costs from subsequent touchups and modifications.

You can read up more information on this here: https://manofmany.com/fashion/mens-hairstyles/guide-to-hairline-tattoos.

When it is properly done, the results of this permanent makeup can last for almost eight years. However, the pigmentation will eventually start to fade since the skin would naturally go through exfoliation.

The color may also become lighter, but there would be no change in color unless the wrong pigment/color was used. Clients with really dry skin are likely to experience fading more quickly because their skin is likely to exfoliate at a faster rate.

Also, frequent exposure to the UV rays from the sun or a tanning bed may cause the pigment to fade quickly. This is why clients are advised to avoid exposure to these rays. 

Conclusion 

Scalp Micropigmentation is a non-invasive solution to many hair loss challenges that men and women face. Compared to other solutions, the SMP process is simple, fast, and effective in masking hair losses. 

Anyone with a hair loss challenge like female pattern baldness, male pattern baldness, scars from surgeries or head trauma, and just about any challenge that has made the client lose hair can benefit from micropigmentation. 

SMP can last for up to 8 years depending on how well the treatment is done and the quality of the aftercare practices. Skin type and lifestyle can also affect the rate at which fading occurs. 

Depending on your pain threshold, SMP can be a bit painful. Nonetheless, the technician will usually apply local anesthesia to numb the area being treated.