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Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Micropigmentation

ScalpMasters RI • December 23, 2021

Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Micropigmentation

Hair loss is a universal condition. It is something that can impact both men and women, and the severity of it can range significantly from person to person. Hair thinning or hair loss can occur at various stages in a person's life, and it's not solely a sign of aging. Due to the significant impact that hair loss can have on your personal and professional life, it's important that you know that there are options available to you.

Scalp micro pigmentation, or SMP, is quickly becoming the leading option for individuals who are suffering from significant hair thinning or permanent hair loss. Scalp pigmentation is a non-surgical procedure that can create the appearance of fuller hair.

Hair micropigmentation could be the best option for you. This guide will provide you with everything that you need to know about the scalp tattoo procedure, including who is a good candidate for scalp pigmentation, what is micropigmentation, how much it costs and how long do SMP results last.

Understanding the Hair Micropigmentation Procedure

Scalp micropigmentation is a procedure that is similar to the popular microblading procedure, which is performed on a person's eyebrows in order to sculpt the brow and provide a fuller appearance. While it is similar in the sense that the SMP procedure allows you to appear as if you have a fuller head of hair, the process of injecting the pigment is different.


During the scalp micropigmentation procedure, a skilled technician will inject pigment into the top several layers of the skin on the top of the scalp. The pigment is placed near hair follicles, in order to give the impression of a small, growing follicle. On a bald man, the procedure gives the look of a fresh buzz cut. On a woman, the procedure fills in areas where there has been hair loss, giving the appearance of a full head of hair.


Hair micropigmentation is a viable alternative to many other hair loss treatments, including surgery or medication. For many, it's the preferred option due to the fact that it's a non-invasive procedure that delivers personalized results.

Who is a Candidate for Micropigmentation of the Scalp?

Micropigmentation of the scalp is more than just a procedure — in many ways, it's a work of art. A skilled SMP technician will utilize various shades of pigment in order to create natural-looking shadows on your scalp, making it virtually impossible for anyone to tell that you have had scalp micro pigmentation performed.


Anyone who is experiencing thinning hair or hair loss is a candidate for scalp micro pigmentation. Far too often, people assume that SMP is only an option for bald men. While a scalp tattoo is a great solution for a man who is suffering from pattern baldness or permanent hair loss, it's also an option for women as well. You may be a candidate for scalp pigmentation if:


  • You have been diagnosed with Alopecia Areata.
  • You have started to notice the signs of pattern baldness.
  • You have a receding hair line.
  • You have bald patches or thinning hair.
  • You are going through cancer treatments.


If you feel that you may be a good candidate for scalp micro pigmentation, then you should contact an SMP clinic in order to set up a consultation appointment.

What to Expect from the Scalp Pigmentation Procedure

While you are likely focused on the results of your procedure and the new look that you will enjoy, it's important that you are prepared for the procedure itself. This will allow you to feel comfortable and confident on the day of your procedure. Here's what you can expect from the micropigmentation hair procedure:


  • The scalp micro pigmentation procedure will last for about four or five hours, depending on the nature of the work that needs to be done during your appointment.
  • You may need to have more than one appointment in order to get the look that you want. If you are having an extensive scalp tattoo applied, it could take between three and five treatments before the work is complete.
  • Your SMP technician will likely schedule your treatments at least three weeks apart.


Before you come to your appointment, you should shower and wash your head thoroughly. You will not be able to shower or get your scalp wet for about four days after the procedure. It's important to be aware of the fact that you may experience some pain during this procedure. A topical anesthesia will be applied to the area, but there may still be some discomfort. Talk with your SMP technician prior to your treatment in order to understand what it will be like and what you can do to manage any discomfort during the procedure.


As you recover from your procedure, you will also need to care for the affected area in order to enjoy the best possible results. These are some things that you will want to keep in mind:



  • You should avoid swimming in pools for about a month after the procedure. You also should not enter saunas or steam rooms for a month.
  • Avoid being in the direct sunlight for at least a month after the procedure. If you will be outside and your scalp will be exposed, use SPF 50 sunscreen on the affected area.
  • Do not participate in rigorous activity or exercise for a week after your treatment.
  • Moisturize the affected area regularly for the first week after the treatment.

Scalp Micropigmentation Cost

The cost of hair micropigmentation will vary based on your personal circumstances. If you are looking for an extensive scalp tattoo that covers a large area of the scalp, then it is going to cost more. If you simply want to fill in a few areas where your hair is thinning, then it will cost less. The cost also will fluctuate depending on the number of procedures that you need in order to achieve your desired results. In general, you can expect the micropigmentation cost to range from between $1000 and $5,000 per treatment. However actual pricing will vary depending on individual needs and the number of procedures performed.

How Long Do Scalp Tattoo Results Last?

The scalp pigmentation procedure is known for its long-term results, however, it is not a permanent solution to hair loss. You can expect your scalp tattoo to last for several years, as long as you care for it properlty. You should be aware, though, that the pigment will begin to fade over time, because the skin on your scalp naturally eliminates the pigment

The Risks of Micropigmentation of the Scalp

Generally speaking, hair micropigmentation is considered to be one of the safest and most effective hair loss treatments. However, there are some minor risks associated with this procedure that you should be aware of. These risks include:



  • Allergic Reaction — As with any foreign substance going into your body, there is a minor risk of experiencing an allergic reaction to the pigment that is injected during the SMP procedure. Allergic reactions are rare, however, when they do occur, most allergy symptoms are mild and can easily be treated.
  • Infection — There is an inherent risk of infection, similar to the risks associated with getting a tattoo. When you work with a skilled and reputable SMP technician, the risk of infection decreases significantly.

Finding the Right SMP Technician

The SMP technician that you choose will play a major role in the success of your treatment. In order to get the best possible results, you need to work with a technician who takes pride in their work. You should partner with a scalp micro pigmentation expert who:


  • Understands what it is like to experience hair loss.
  • Is certified to perform this procedure.
  • Operates out of a clean and sterile environment.
  • Uses basic protection in order to perform the procedure.
  • Is passionate about SMP and about what it can do for an individual.
  • Has experience delivering precise, personalized results.
  • Has trained with the leading experts in the industry.


The key to getting the customized micropigmentation hair results that you are craving is to partner with a leading SMP technician who is an experienced professional. At Scalpmasters, our technician has trained with the leading experts in the SMP industry, and he has experienced the SMP treatment himself. He knows what you expect from this procedure, and he is dedicated to making sure that you get the scalp pigmentation results that you deserve.


For more information about hair micropigmentation and to find out if you are a good candidate for a scalp tattoo, contact Scalpmasters today.

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