Scalp Micropigmentation

Evidence Basedcheckmark

Scalp micropigmentation or SMP is a permanent makeup technique used on the scalp or facial hair area to create the appearance of thicker, denser hair.

Scalp Micropigmentation Overview - 877

The Skinny


Average Recovery

3 days

Permanence

Permanent

Application

Injected

Surgical

No

Cost

$350 - $5100

The Specifics


What is scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical hair restoration procedure using permanent makeup to pigment the scalp or facial hair area. This procedure uses micro pigment to color the scalp and create a denser, thicker, more evenly distributed hair appearance.

Scalp micropigmentation is ideal for those with baldness, short, cropped, and dark hair, those with thinning hair, alopecia, male or female pattern baldness, or individuals looking to hide a hair transplant scar or enhance the results of a previous hair restoration procedure.

What cosmetic concerns does scalp micropigmentation treat?

  1. Hair Loss: Scalp micropigmentation creates the illusion of hair follicles, fuller hair, and thicker hair by tattooing the scalp for a more uniform pigmentation appearance.

Who is the ideal candidate for scalp micropigmentation?

The ideal candidate for scalp micropigmentation is a post hair transplant candidate looking to hide a scar, an individual with short cropped, or those with thinning hair. Additionally, those who have already undergone surgical hair restoration use scalp micropigmentation to augment the results. Scalp Micropigmentation is not recommended for those with lighter hair colors, certain skin types, those who wear their hair long, or women with blond hair.

What is the average recovery associated with scalp micropigmentation?

The recovery period following a scalp micropigmentation is typically about one week. Candidates are advised to avoid strenuous activity, keep the area dry, and not touch or pick at the scabs in the treated area for one week. Limiting sun exposure will help limit fading of the pigment and uneven pigmentation.

What are the potential side effects of scalp micropigmentation?

Possible side effects of scalp micropigmentation include allergic reaction, redness, stinging, bleeding, and infection.

What can someone expect from the results of scalp micropigmentation?

The results of scalp micropigmentation are permanent. To achieve the desired results multiple tattooing treatments may be needed with maintenance treatments usually being performed once a year.

What is the average cost of scalp micropigmentation?

A scalp micropigmentation procedure can cost anywhere from $350 to $5,100. The actual cost of scalp micropigmentation is dependent upon location, expert provider, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of scalp micropigmentation.

thumbs-upPros

  • Permanent
  • Dense Hair

thumbs-downCons

  • Only For Darker Hair Colors
  • Best For Shorter Hairstyles

Invasiveness Score

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Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.

What to Expect


Scalp micropigmentation creates the illusion of hair in sparse areas on the scalp or facial hair region. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after scalp micropigmentation.

The Takeaway


Scalp micropigmentation is a permanent makeup scalp pigmentation tattooing technique to create the appearance of natural hair follicles for the illusion of a fuller head of hair and improved hair density.

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Source List

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AEDIT uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. American Academy of Dermatology Association Hair Loss: Tips for Managing aad.org
  2. Mayo Clinic Staff Hair Loss Symptoms and Causes MayoClinic.org
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