If you have been facing thin hair problems, SMP might have crossed your sight.
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), is a technique that will help you get a promising natural-looking head full of hair.
It is not just about the treatment itself; what follows is equally as important. SMP aftercare is essential to achieving the best results. By following proper tips, it will ease the process and help the pigment stick better.
Below, we will go over the entire healing timeline and share some simple scalp care tips post SMP procedure.
What to Anticipate Immediately After Your SMP Treatment
Immediately after your SMP session, you may feel tenderness in the scalp. This is normal; it is part of the healing process. The area you treated may appear darker than you anticipated, but no need to be alarmed! That is only temporary and will fade to the colour it is shot at.
There may also be slight redness, although that typically resolves within a day or two. Consider this your skin’s natural reaction to the treatment.
The Healing Timeline
Day 1-2: The First 48 Hours
The first few days are the most important after getting Scalp Micropigmentation. Your scalp requires gentle care at this time. You may have slight redness, or even itchy skin, which is completely normal. Resist the temptation to scratch or rub your scalp even if it is scratchy.
Do’s:
- If necessary, use lukewarm water to wash your scalp gently.
- Pat dry your scalp with a soft, clean towel.
Don’ts:
- Don’t wash vigorously with strong shampoos or scrub the site.
- Avoid intense workouts that could cause you to sweat profusely.
- Your skin has only just started to heal, so treat it tenderly.
Day 3-5: Scabbing and Settling
Small scabs may appear on the scalp by the third day. These scabs are part of your body’s natural healing process. They assist in shielding the treated area until fresh skin grows underneath.
Usually, the scabs will begin to fall off on their own. Don’t pick at them! Popping might disturb the pigment, which could create uneven results.
Tips for This Stage:
- Do not let hair touch a clean and dry scalp.
- Avoid direct sun exposure. If you must go out, wear a loose-fitting hat.
- You might skip all pageant-ish physical activities that you would have sweat.
- Your scalp is hard at work adjusting to the pigment, so patience is required.
Day 6-10: Flaking Begins
At this stage, you will probably see more derided skin coming off as the scabs shed. It can be tempting to fast-track this process, but allowing it to occur organically is essential.
The pigment may look more pale after the scabs fall off. Don’t worry; this is normal. The colour will settle out and even out in the coming weeks.
Keep using your gentle washing routine and avoid putting your scalp through undue tension through this time.
Day 11-14: Surviving with Satisfaction
By the end of the second week, your scalp should be much more comfortable. The redness and flaking will be mostly gone, and the pigment will begin to appear more natural.
At this stage, you should be cleared to resume normal activities, like light exercise. Just steer clear of anything that could aggravate your scalp, like strong shampoos or prolonged sun exposure.
Checking in with your SMP provider, like the folks at Hair Tattoo, is advisable at this point. They can answer your questions and walk you through the rest of the healing process.
Weeks 3-4: Fully Healed
By week three or four, your scalp will be completely healed. The pigment has now settled into your skin, and this is the final look in all its glory. The results are meant to be soft and natural.
Some SMPs may take multiple sessions, and yours will let you know when you need to come in for the next treatment.
Taking care of your scalp is essential to get optimal results. If this sounds like you, here are a few simple tips to support you through your healing process:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help hydrate your skin from the inside out. Adequate hydration promotes healing.
- Avoid Heavy Products: In the early weeks, avoid harsh chemicals or strong products, such as styling gels or sprays, as they may irritate the area being treated.
- Avoid the Sun on Your Scalp: Exposure to the sun can harm healing skin and, thus, compromise the results. Once your scalp has healed completely, wear a hat or apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
- Keep It Clean: Use a gentle cleanser to keep your scalp clean. Avoid products containing alcohol or fragrances, as they can dry out or irritate the skin.
- Don’t Scratch or Pick: Itching and scabbing are part of the healing process. Avoid scratching or picking at your scalp. It can create uneven pigment and slow healing.
- Be Patient: Recovery is gradual, and skin responds to trauma in a highly individual manner. Just a little trust in the process and the final implementation will take its time but will be worth waiting for!
Common Concerns During Healing
Below are some SMP healing concerns people worry about and what to do if it happens.
What if My Scalp Feels Itchy?
Itching is a normal sign of healing. If the itching, though, grows intolerable, apply a little fragrance-free moisturizing lotion.
What if the Pigment Doesn’t Look Even?
In the initial stages, the pigment may seem blotchy or uneven. This typically balances out when the skin is healed. If you’re concerned, reach out to your SMP provider for advice.
What if I mistakenly hurt a scab?
Don’t panic! While it’s best not to do this, accidentally disturbing a scab once is unlikely to ruin the results. Just be more careful going forward.
Why Aftercare Matters
Always remind yourself that proper aftercare is the foundation of great SMP results. Aftercare isn’t something you want to breeze over—bad aftercare can lead to undesirable issues, like patchy pigment or healing that takes longer than it should. By listening to your practitioner’s instructions and caring for your scalp properly, you’re investing in that satisfaction for the long-term.”
For example, Hair Tattoo stresses the need for aftercare so clients can achieve perfect, natural results. It can give you the confidence you need to feel certain about your SMP treatment, working in tandem with your specialist.
Final Thoughts
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a fantastic way to look great and gain confidence. As long as you follow all aftercare instructions, you’ll have the best possible outcome. Healing isn’t complex, but it does take time and tenderness.
By knowing what to expect from the healing timeline, and following the above tips, you’ll be on your way to a successful recovery. Keep in mind that the aftercare of your scalp is just as critical as the procedure itself!
If you’re thinking about SMP or have already had it, keeping yourself informed is the first part of a good recovery. So hang in there, and you’ll be enjoying all the benefits of this life-altering procedure in no time.
