How Much Does Scalp Micropigmentation Cost?

Content Reviewed by AEDIT Medical Advisory Board

What is the average cost of scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical hair restoration procedure for the scalp. This cosmetic procedure uses micro-pigment (permanent makeup) to color the scalp and create a thicker, denser, and more evenly distributed hair appearance. A scalp micropigmentation hair loss solution does not require a candidate to have existing hair follicles like other hair transplant procedures.

• Average Cost of Scalp Micropigmentation: $500
• Price Range for Scalp Micropigmentation: $350 - $3,500

Scalp micropigmentation is an ideal non-surgical alternative for those with short, cropped, and dark hair. Additionally, candidates with thinning hair, alopecia, male or female pattern baldness, or patients who have previously undergone a hair restoration procedure who are looking to hide a hair transplant scar or enhance prior results. The cost of scalp micropigmentation will vary by individual and we’ve outlined the factors in the table below.

Factors to Consider in the Total Cost of Scalp Micropigmentation

| Cost Factor | Explanation | | ---------- | ---------- | | Intensity of Concern | Size of area to be treated | | Provider | Training, experience, specialty | | Consultation Fee | May or may not be applied towards procedure cost | | Maintenance | Regularity of maintenance touch-ups |

What affects the cost of scalp micropigmentation?

Let’s expand a bit on the factors we mentioned in the first table. Scalp micropigmentation is a highly individualized treatment. Between candidates, there will be significant variations in hair distribution, density, overall appearance, and health. These differences are actually rated in a standardized classification system for providers called the Norwood Scale.

Scalp micropigmentation can treat a small bald patch or it can fill in a large section of scalp. Additionally, some candidates may have scalp micropigmentation as part of a surgical hair restoration procedure to further augment results.

The cost of a scalp micropigmentation will vary based on who performs it (a specialized provider will typically charge more for their time), where you have the procedure (the coasts are usually more expensive), how many treatments your scalp area will need (scalp micropigmentation requires multiple sessions), and the regularity of maintenance.

What does the cost of scalp micropigmentation include?

So, what are you actually paying for in a scalp micropigmentation? Essentially the cost of the procedure includes the supplies used to perform the scalp micropigmentation (permanent makeup solution, tools, gloves, anesthetics, etc.), the time of the provider performing the procedure, the cost of the additional personnel in the room (medical assistants), and additional fees for the procedure room time.

The factors we mentioned in the first paragraph will vary by provider and location. A scalp micropigmentation of a larger scalp area on the east coast that requires three one to two hour sessions will cost more than a small bald patch fill in that takes two 30 minute sessions.

How much does scalp micropigmentation cost?

To help give you an idea of what a treatment may cost for you based on your concern, we’ve provided some data for common treatment concerns with estimated cost ranges. Again, there will be significant variation and these are highly generalized estimates, but they can give you an idea of what type of work will cost more. These averages are for an entire scalp micropigmentation treatment encompassing one to three sessions.

Scalp Micropigmentation Treatment Costs by Concern Area or Type

| Area | Cost | | ---------- | ---------- | | Mild Balding | $3,900 to $4,300 | | Severe Balding | $4,500 to $5,000 | | Hairline | $2,500 to $3,000 | | Scar Coverup | $1,900 to $2,500 | | Adding Density | $2,500 to $3,500 | | Touch Ups | $350 to $1,000 |

How much does scalp micropigmentation cost across the United States?

It’s all about location! The 2019 American Society of Plastic Surgeons Report shows most cosmetic procedures occur on the coasts. Since everything is more expensive on the coasts, it’s safe to assume this holds true for scalp micropigmentation.

The table below shows average one or multi-session costs for scalp micropigmentation in major cities across the U.S. (we know it’s a little confusing to report the costs this way, but many facilities report their prices as ‘package costs’).

Average Scalp Micropigmentation Cost by City and State

| State | Average Cost | | ---------- | ---------- | | New York, NY | $2,200 to $5,000 | | Chicago, IL | $2,000 to $4,750 | | Miami, FL | $2,000 to $5,000 | | Birmingham, AL | $1,750 to $4,000 | | Austin, TX | $1,800 to $4,500 | | Los Angeles, CA | $2,000 to $5,000 |

How much does scalp micropigmentation cost around the world?

For those considering pursuing scalp micropigmentation abroad, the table below compares average procedure costs in a few countries. As a friendly reminder, you’ll need to consider travel expenses, consider recovery time, and research the reputation of the provider and facility. The table below shows average one or multi-session costs for scalp micropigmentation converted to U.S. dollars.

Average Scalp Micropigmentation Cost by Country in USD

| Country | Average Cost | | ---------- | ---------- | | Canada | $2,000 to $5,000 | | Mexico | $1,000 to $4,000 | | Colombia | $750 to $3,500 | | United Kingdom | $1,000 to $5,000 | | Australia | $1,000 to $5,000 | | Japan | $1,000 to $4,000 | | United Arab Emirates | $500 to $3,000 |

Does insurance cover the cost of scalp micropigmentation?

So, does insurance pay for a scalp micropigmentation? Short answer: No. But, if you’re curious, we’ve got the long answer and it requires you to read some definitions from the American Medical Association (AMA):

• Cosmetic Surgery: Reshapes normal structures of the body in order to improve appearance and self-esteem.
• Reconstructive Surgery: Alterations to abnormal body structures caused by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors, or disease.

Basically, reconstructive surgeries might be covered by health insurance and cosmetic procedures are not. Obviously, scalp micropigmentation is not a surgery, and while there may be some medical indications causing your hair loss, this is a cosmetic procedure (not a medical necessity) and will likely not be covered.