Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

How Does a Hair Transplant Surgeon Perform SMP?

Think of scalp micropigmentation as a scalp tattoo. This hair treatment innovation duplicates the appearance of full, thick hair. 

When performing SMP, our hair transplant physician will apply a natural pigment to the scalp’s epidermal layer using ultra-fine needles that create thousands of microdot tattoos creating an appearance of natural hair follicles. The stippling pattern stimulates hair follicles that resemble hair shaved close to the scalp.

The SMP procedure involves significant attention to detail. The purpose of this technique is to cover the surface area of hair loss at the scalp to achieve a new hairline. You typically need approximately two to three sessions, about four to five hours per session, for scalp micropigmentation to attain the results you desire. During your consultation with our hair restoration specialist at The Hair Transplant Center – Virginia, you’ll want to describe the color you desire that closely matches your natural hair color and skin tone.

Who Benefits From SMP?

The “shaved style” of scalp micropigmentation allows you to determine the position of your hairline. This positioning affects your facial structure, and it makes thin hair appear thicker and bald areas denser. 

SMP is ideal for people facing the following hair loss challenges:

• Alopecia areata.
• Male and female pattern baldness.
• Previous hair transplants.
• Thinning hair.
• Uneven hair loss.

Does SMP Offer Any Advantages to Address Hair Loss?

SMP can can provide several benefits for people who want to address their hair loss:

• SMP is a noninvasive procedure. SMP does not involve surgical incisions into the scalp.
• SMP doesn’t produce significant pain and discomfort. A hair restoration specialist applies numbing agents to the scalp before treatment begins, a process which decreases pain and discomfort.
• SMP is a low-maintenance hair loss solution. SMP only needs to be performed every three to five years to maintain a consistent look and feel.
• SMP can conceal scars. Hide scars on your scalp by working with your hair’s natural form.
• SMP is a low-cost procedure. SMP is more affordable than traditional hair transplant procedures and long-term, over-the-counter or prescription drugs that treat hair loss.

How Does One Prepare to Receive an SMP Treatment?

During your initial consultation with our hair transplant specialist, you’ll be told what to expect and how to prepare for an SMP treatment.

Some general guidelines include the following:

• Shower before each treatment. You can’t wash or wet the scalp for four days after each treatment session occurs.
• Typically, each treatment requires four to five hours to complete.
• Even if you’re focusing on one small area at a time, three to four sessions are needed since SMP involves color layering.
• Treatment sessions are scheduled several weeks apart from one another.

What Should You Do Once Each SMP Treatment Session Is Completed?

After each SMP treatment concludes, you’ll receive specific after-treatment instructions. Your post-treatment care includes the following activities:

• Do not use swimming pools, saunas, and steam rooms for several days after your treatment.
• Avoid sun exposure for several days after each treatment. After a week has passed, use sunscreen with SPF 30 to 50 protection.
• Avoid strenuous exercises for five days after each treatment.
• Apply moisture to the treated area following the fourth day of each SMP treatment.

How Much Can I Expect to Pay for an SMP Treatment?

Scalp micropigmentation depends largely on the extent of your hair loss. Treatment may cost more in more involved cases requiring several sessions to complete. SMP is more affordable when you compare it to other hair restoration techniques, including hair transplants. 

Cost also depends on our hair restoration surgeon’s expertise. A professional who has years of experience may be able to charge more because the individual can create a hairline that’s tailored to your facial features, a look that can remain appealing even as you age.