Scalp Micropigmentation

How Scalp Micropigmentation Works?

It starts with an initial consultation with the dermatologist to understand the extent and severity of hair loss. Subsequently, a practitioner will prep the target area to administer hypoallergic medical pigments. 

The practitioner implants pigment under the scalp’s surface using a machine with super-fine needles. It makes hair look natural while covering the bald patches. 

The practitioner will also draw the hairline to create depth and definition.

How Hair Colour Is Matched with Scalp Micropigmentation?

Before the procedure, the practitioner or Scalp Micropigmentation Artist (SMP) will find pigment or ink closest to your existing hair colour and skin tone. 

As a rule of thumb, a lighter shade is deposited to check how the colour looks when the scalp heals completely. 

The follow-up sessions involve filling the pigment in detail by carefully creating an illusion of three-dimensional hair. 

The entire process can take up to five hours, depending on the size of the treated area.

Benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation

• Non-surgical procedure: Scalp Micropigmentation is a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t involve surgery to replicate fuller hair and hairline. The practitioner ensures the pigment blends flawlessly with the existing hair.

• Relatively painless: Even though everyone’s pain tolerance is different, you will likely experience mild discomfort or scratching sensation.

• No downtime: It requires no physical recovery or elaborate after-care post-procedure.

• No significant side effects: Unlike surgical hair transplants and other invasive procedures, it has no side effects or risks.

• Affordable: Scalp Micropigmentation is a pocket-friendly procedure.

• Long-lasting: The results are long-lasting and can be easily maintained. You may only need touch-up sessions in the future.

• Fuss-free: Scalp Micropigmentation is a fuss-free alternative to other hair restoration techniques for people suffering from hair thinning, alopecia, cancer, and male and female baldness.

Before & After Results

Before the procedure, your bald patches or thin hair are visible, you will notice a visible difference after the procedure. 

The pigment to settle and blend in, but eventually, you’ll see a natural appearance.

Who Can Have Scalp Micropigmentation?

Anyone above 18 years old can opt for Scalp Micropigmentation. It is ideal for those with

• Alopecia areata
• Male pattern baldness
• Female pattern baldness
• Hormonal hair loss
• Hair thinning
• Hair loss due to chemotherapy
• Scarred scalp

Who Shouldn’t Have Scalp Micropigmentation?

Those with sensitive skin or prone to keloids should refrain.

What to expect after Scalp Micropigmentation?

Scalp Micropigmentation doesn’t require any elaborate recovery—You can return to your normal activities immediately.

Although you may experience some sensation on the scalp, along with redness or tenderness, it may last for a day or two.

Pre & Post Care for Scalp Micropigmentation

• Before Scalp Micropigmentation, avoid exposing your scalp to UV rays.
• After treatment, avoid sun exposure on the scalp.
• Refrain from strenuous or heavy exercises that may cause excessive sweating.
• Avoid hot showers or saunas that may lead to moisture in the treated area.
• Avoid washing or wetting your scalp for several days after the treatment.
• Avoid swimming for a week or so.
• Avoid wearing helmets.

The Cost of Scalp Micropigmentation

The exact cost depends on the size of the target area, grade of baldness, number of sessions, presence of scarred tissue, clinic’s location, and the practitioner’s skill.

Risks or Side Effects

There are no significant side effects but those with sensitive skin may experience allergic reactions to the pigment. 

It is also risky to get the treatment done by an unlicensed practitioner as it leads to an unnatural appearance. Using unsterilised needles may also lead to infection.

Conclusion

Men and women are increasingly opting for hair restoration procedures to elude hair loss without complex surgeries or medicated treatments. Plus, it’s affordable and offers long-term results with little to no maintenance.

We recommend visiting a hair expert or skilled dermatologist for a consultation.

FAQs

Is Scalp micropigmentation permanent?

It has long-lasting results if maintained well. You can enjoy permanent results for about five years or more.

Later, you may go for quick touch ups.

Does scalp micropigmentation work if you already have hair?

Yes, it works on those with sparse hair growth or thin hair.

Does it damage hair follicles?

The treatment doesn’t affect hair follicles as it doesn’t alter your hair growth.

Is scalp micropigmentation safe?

It’s a reasonably safe treatment with no surgery or medication risks.

Is scalp micropigmentation painful?

It is a relatively pain-free treatment that may involve some pricking or scratching sensation resembling a tattoo. However, the practitioner applies numbing cream before the treatment to reduce discomfort.

Is there any recovery period after scalp micropigmentation?

You can continue with your daily activities with exceptions, such as avoiding heavy workouts. The recovery period lasts for about a week or less.

Does scalp micropigmentation appear natural?

It does give natural-looking results by camouflaging the bald scalp areas.

Does scalp micropigmentation help regrow hair?

No, it’s a cosmetic treatment that doesn’t affect your hair growth.

Do you need to shave your head for scalp micropigmentation?

If your practitioner recommends, you can shave your entire head. But in many cases, it’s not required.

How many sessions does it take?

Typically, 4-5 hours in a session.

Does it work on light hair?

Yes, it works on light or blonde hair as well.

Does scalp micropigmentation eventually disappear?

It is considered a semi-permanent procedure that lasts more than five years if maintained properly. If it fades, you can get touch-ups.

Does hair colour matter when getting scalp micropigmentation?

Yes, the SMP practitioner will use the hair colour as a reference to match the relevant shade of pigment.

What kind of ink is used in Scalp Micropigmentation?

The ink is known as folicule, a specialised ink made of natural and medical-grade hypoallergic pigments to emulate your hair colour.

What if the client has light skin and blonde hair colour? Will scalp micropigmentation still work?

Yes, it works on anyone regardless of their hair and skin colour.

Does scalp micropigmentation work with grey hair?

Yes, it works with all types of hair colour, even grey.

Does scalp micropigmentation itch?

Some people may experience an itchy scalp after the treatment. However, it’s completely normal and subsides after a few days.

Can you dye your hair after scalp micropigmentation?

Yes, you can dye your hair after the procedure. Only dye or colour four weeks following the treatment.

Does it work for long hair?

Yes, it works for any hair length. It helps to enhance the overall look of those suffering from hair loss with long hair.

Does scalp micropigmentation stimulate hair growth?

It doesn’t impact hair follicles, so it neither stimulates nor stops hair growth.

Does it cause hair loss?

The procedure involves inserting pigment with tiny needles directly above hair follicles, so it does not lead to hair loss.

Is scalp micropigmentation suitable for thinning hair?

Yes, it is a non-surgical procedure ideal for people with thinning hair and other types of hair loss.

Is scalp micropigmentation natural hair?

It’s a cosmetic procedure that involves the use of pigment to mimic the hair or hairline. It does not include anything related to hair.

Is scalp micropigmentation the same as a tattoo?

Although it uses a pigment and specific equipment, it doesn’t penetrate the skin like regular tattoo ink.

Although commonly called hair tattoo, it’s nothing like traditional tattooing as everything from the type of ink, the deposit of ink and the depth of pigment deposits vary.

Does micropigmentation turn green?

If not done correctly, it may turn green or blue depending on the quality of the treatment and equipment used.