Scalp Micropigmentation FAQs
SMP or Scalp Micropigmentation is a non-surgical alternative to hair loss. It is a superficial cosmetic tattoo that gives the illusion of a close buzz cut hairstyle on a bald person or the illusion of more density to a thinning crown, part line etc. Both men and women are benefiting from this service. It is considered semi-permanent as it will fade out naturally over time but can still last up to 8 years.
The colour is chosen based on the individual and will gradually lighten as the tattoo ages, but it should not turn undesirable colours. It will not cause scar tissue or damage to the existing hair follicles and some report it actually stimulates hair growth (however that is never a guarantee).
Each session varies in price depending on the size being treated. A smaller area will be around $500 and the cost can go as high as $4,000 in the case of a completely bald person. It generally takes 2-3 sessions to build the desired density in order to keep it looking natural. Slow is the way to go! For a more accurate quote, we recommend a free consultation which can be done via email, Zoom or in person.
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SMP or Scalp Micropigmentation is a non-surgical alternative to hair loss done with a tattoo machine. It is a superficial cosmetic tattoo that gives the illusion of a close buzz cut hairstyle on a bald person or the illusion of more density to a thinning crown, part line etc.
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Scalp Micropigmentation is an immediate and affordable solution to regaining confidence from hair loss for men and women. SMP helps to hide the effects of:
Male pattern baldness
Thinning hair
Alopecia
Receding hairlines
FUE/FUT scarring from hair transplant procedures
Increasing Hair Density
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We use only the best pigments that are specially formulated for the scalp. They are formulated to be long lasting, needing minimal touch ups. We apply the color using brief movements with a tattoo machine with needles that are specific to this technique.
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The color we choose will be dependent on your natural hair color and skin undertones. We have a variety of colors ranging from light gray to black and even a beautiful range of browns can be created. It can be done on all skin and hair colors.
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The pigments we use are high quality and long lasting and should stay true to tone for years to come, however, it will eventually lighten over the years. This is normal and can be refreshed if needed. Using a high quality SPF and avoiding direct sun exposure (tanning beds etc) will help the longevity.
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The majority of clients do not find it painful. It is most often rated a 2/10 on a pain scale without numbing. However, pain tolerance is subjective and we do have numbing products on hand if needed.
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This will depend on the person and area being treated. It generally takes 2-3 sessions to achieve a complete look. The first session is typically the longest, as you can expect about 2-5 hours. The second session can take about 2-4 hours. The third session is our perfecting session. This is where we fine tune and see where any extra density needs to be added for the most natural result.
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Typically, the first two sessions are spread 7-1O days apart. The 3rd session is ideally 1 month after the second session. If needed the 3rd session can be performed up to 3 months after the second.
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Downtime is very minimal. Immediately after the first session you will have the overall look of what the end result will look like. However, there will be some redness that may last for a couple of days.
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For the first 5 days, we recommend keeping the area as dry as possible. Brief luke-warm showers are allowed, but no hair products or heat styling tools should be used during this time. You will want to avoid sweating heavily, direct sun exposure, scrubbing the treated area, shaving the treated area and touching the treated area. You may wear a hat, toque (beanie/skull cap) and sleep anyway that’s comfortable for you. We will give you instructions and a soothing balm that you can apply during the healing process.
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SMP lasts a lifetime with proper care, however, there is maintenance required in the form of “refreshes” to maintain the richness of the pigment color. Color refresh appointment timelines vary on a client to client basis but on average, clients should plan on coming every 5 to 6 years for a refresh appointment.
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Yes! FUE/FUT scars are treated slightly differently, but can definitely be worked on safely.
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Although a fully shaven head is most common for full head SMP, we do not require it in all cases. For example, if it is just to build density to overall thinning hair, part lines or patchy bald spots then shaving the head will not be necessary.
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No. With proper technique and aftercare there should be very minimal trauma to the skin and no damage to the hair follicles. Some actually find that the needling action can stimulate hair growth in some cases!
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The cost varies depending on the size of the treated area and the amount of sessions it takes. It generally starts at $500 and can go up to $4,000 as in the case of a completely bald head hairline/scalp reconstruction. For the most accurate pricing quote, we recommend a free consultation which can be done both in person or virtually.
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This is a very tedious technique that requires a lot of skill and practice. Our artists have dedicated much of their time and talent into perfecting this technique for our clients to bring you the best long term healed results. Not all artists are created equal. Having your scalp micropigmentation done well is worth the investment, after all it’s there for everyone to see for a very long time!