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SMP IS A FORM OF HAIR TATTOOING
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Hair tattooing, also known as scalp pigmentation, is a form of permanent makeup that involves depositing tattoo ink onto the scalp to create the appearance of tiny hair follicles.
This method is especially popular among individuals experiencing hair loss, including those with receding hairlines, male pattern baldness, alopecia areata, or scars from hair transplant surgery.
In addition, hair tattooing can be used to create a hairline tattoo or to fill in thinning areas of the scalp, resulting in the illusion of a full head of hair.
Unlike traditional tattoos, hair tattooing requires specialized equipment and ink to ensure the result looks like real hair. The process involves a free consultation to discuss the client’s needs and goals for the procedure.
The technician will then use a specialized needle to deposit the tattoo ink into the skin, creating the look of tiny hairs that blend in with the client’s natural hair.
The results are immediate, and clients can typically return to normal activities, including buzz cuts, shortly after the procedure.
While there are some side effects, such as mild discomfort or redness, these are typically minimal and short-lived, making hair tattooing a relatively safe and effective solution for individuals experiencing hair loss.
What is Hair Tattooing?
Hair tattooing is a technique of depositing pigment (ink) into the layers of the skin. Similar techniques to SMP include microblading for eyebrows and permanent makeup. SMP creates a stippled pattern on the scalp by placing smaller microdots that are less than 1mm in size, reducing the contrast between hair and skin, resulting in the illusion of fuller hair.
SMP is a non-invasive procedure that provides a natural-looking solution to hair loss for men and women with minimal hair loss or thinning hair.
80 Million Hair Loss Sufferers in the US
Over 80 million people in the United States suffer from hair loss, also known as alopecia, which can cause significant psychological and social distress for both men and women (NIH, 2015). Although this condition is not cured, hair loss solutions are available to help camouflage the issue.
One such solution is scalp micropigmentation (SMP), which has gained popularity since its introduction in the early 2000s. The primary objective of SMP is to create microdots that resemble hair follicles, the specialized structures in the scalp that produce hair.
How Long does SMP take?
The procedure typically requires three sessions, each lasting one to two hours and spaced one week apart.
How Much is SMP?
The cost of SMP hair tattooing can range from \$3000 to \$4000 per session, making it a significant investment. Finding a qualified SMP tattoo artist is crucial, as the quality of work can vary among clinics. His Hair Clinic | Hairtattoo.ca is a reputable clinic with four locations in the Toronto area, including downtown Toronto, Richmond Hill, Brampton, and Mississauga.
The clinic has been a pioneer in SMP for nearly 20 years and is renowned worldwide as a leader in scalp micropigmentation.
What’s the SMP Procedure Like?
Hair tattooing involves using standard instruments with multiple microneedles to create a stippling effect on the scalp. It is crucial to have a skilled tattoo artist perform the SMP procedure.
Since every patient is unique, the skin on different areas of the scalp varies, requiring the tattoo artist to make technical and artistic adjustments during the process.
For example, if the pigment is placed too deeply, it may appear blotchy, while if it is too shallow, it may bleed out and fade more rapidly.
Therefore, the tattoo artist needs the expertise to adjust the depth of the pigment according to the individual’s skin and scalp condition to achieve the desired outcome.
What should you do after a hair tattooing treatment?
To ensure the best results, following proper aftercare instructions following your scalp micropigmentation treatment is essential.
- It is recommended to avoid showering or touching your scalp for the first two to four days after the treatment session. Additionally, avoid activities that may cause excessive sweating or sun exposure during this time.
- After four days, you can moisturize your scalp regularly, particularly if another session is scheduled.
- Direct sun exposure should be avoided during the first 30 days after the treatment. After that, it is recommended to wear a hat or sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect the treated area.
- For 30 days after the final treatment and between sessions, it is best to avoid swimming to prevent any adverse effects on the treated area.
Who should get SMP?
- hair tattooing is a solution for people experiencing different types of alopecia.
- SMP can benefit individuals with androgenic alopecia, also known as hereditary baldness, which affects both males and females.
- SMP can also help those with scalp scars from scarring alopecias or scalp surgery, such as hair transplant surgery, trauma, and other medical procedures.
- Individuals with autoimmune hair loss, like alopecia areata, can also benefit from SMP.
- SMP can solve chemotherapy-associated hair loss that doesn’t grow back.
- People with a “failed” hair transplant, whose hair does not look as complete as desired, can also consider SMP as a solution.
TAKEAWAY
SMP is a form of hair tattooing. It is a cosmetic treatment for hair loss that involves depositing pigment into the scalp to mimic the appearance of hair follicles. The pigments are applied using a micro-needle to create tiny dots that simulate hair follicles. This creates a look that resembles a buzz cut or shaved head, providing the appearance of a fuller head of hair.
While the concept of hair tattooing has been around for some time, scalp micropigmentation is a more advanced technique that requires specialized equipment and training. The pigments in SMP are also specially formulated to match the natural hair colour and create a realistic appearance.
In contrast to traditional tattooing, scalp micropigmentation is performed at a shallower depth to avoid the permanence associated with conventional tattoos. SMP pigments also tend to fade over time, requiring touch-ups to maintain the desired appearance.
In general, scalp micropigmentation can be considered a reliable and efficient remedy for those who are dealing with hair loss or thinning. It offers a cost-effective alternative to hair transplant surgery and can provide long-lasting results with minimal maintenance.
Furthermore, scalp micropigmentation has gained popularity among individuals who want to simulate a shaved head or add volume to thinning hair, as it provides a non-surgical solution to hair loss.