scalp micro pigmentation

Scalp Micro Pigmentation, or SMP, is a technique that involves implanting pigment into the skin's dermal layer on the scalp to simulate hair follicles. From a short distance, these pigment dots resemble real hair follicles, giving the impression of a full head of closely shaved hair.

SMP is adaptable to various skin tones, from very fair to deep, and can accommodate clients with different hair colors, including red, blonde, or gray. Typically, SMP requires two to five sessions at our clinics, with each session lasting anywhere from 15 minutes to four hours, depending on the extent of hair loss.

ABOUT SMP

HOW NATURAL DOES IT LOOK?

A typical hair on a Caucasian male's scalp is about 77 micrometers wide (67 UM for Asians and 120 µm for Africans).

"Um" stands for micrometer, which is a unit of length equal to one millionth of a meter, commonly used to measure very small distances, such as the diameter of hair strands.

In Scalp Micro Pigmentation (SMP), the dots implanted in the skin are slightly larger, ranging from 90 to 150 micrometers. Despite this, when viewed from six inches away or more, they look just like real hair follicles. Even family members standing a foot away often can't tell where your real hair stops and the SMP begins.

CAN SMP HELP WITH SCAR CAMOUFLAGE?

SMP® can be highly effective in minimizing the appearance of scars resulting from prior hair transplant surgeries. The extent of scar concealment varies based on the characteristics of the scar tissue. Nevertheless, by seamlessly integrating the scar with the surrounding hair, it becomes significantly less noticeable, often appearing nearly imperceptible. You can view photos of some of our past clients who have benefited from SMP® to camouflage scars in the Gallery section of our website.

HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?

With appropriate care and maintenance, such as applying sunscreen when outdoors, SMP can typically endure for several years.

For a healthy individual with a normal immune system, we anticipate that a complete series of SMP sessions will provide lasting results for eight to fifteen years before requiring a touch-up. However, in some cases, individuals with robust immune systems or those frequently exposed to sunlight may necessitate touch-ups sooner.

Since each person's circumstances vary, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Fortunately, if a touch-up is necessary, we offer this service at a rate that is more economical per hour compared to the standard full treatment fee.

what pigments are used in smp?

The pigments utilised in SMP treatments typically incorporate blends of metal oxides to achieve the necessary grayscale for the majority of our clients. In specific instances where clients have exceptionally fair or red hair, beta carotene additives may also be included. We are proud to mention that we use 100% imported ink from the main manufacturer in Korea.

While we understand the desire for more detailed information about our pigments, neXt has dedicated considerable time and effort to refining the SMP treatment. As a result, we opt not to divulge proprietary secrets to competitors or imitators.

FAQs

  • In healthy individuals, the likelihood of SMP fading, smearing, or turning blue over time is minimal. While any pigment applied to the skin's dermal layer will naturally fade eventually, SMP typically maintains its integrity for several years before any noticeable fading occurs. Compared to regular tattoo inks used in SMP replication, fading is more common due to the breakdown of inks by ultraviolet radiation from the sun, leading to increased fade rates and slight smudging. Additionally, as these inks degrade, their color may alter. However, without divulging proprietary information, we believe that the specific molecular structure of the SMP pigments we utilize, combined with their deposition in the upper layer of the dermis, offer the best chance for a long-lasting and stable treatment.

  • Certainly:

    SMP pigmentation can be eliminated using an electro-optic Q-switched laser, which heats and breaks up the pigmentation for easier absorption by dermal phagocytes. Removal of SMP is generally straightforward because the pigment is not deposited as deeply as traditional tattoo ink. However, the electro-optic laser required for this procedure is quite costly, leading many clinics that advertise laser removal to not actually possess one.

    While neXt now offers SMP removal at one of our clinics and may consider expanding this service in the future, it's worth noting that feedback indicates the demand for true SMP reversal or total removal is less than one percent (< 1%) among our clients.

  • The level of discomfort experienced during an SMP treatment varies from person to person. While some clients have found the procedure to be so comfortable that they've even fallen asleep, others have reported feeling discomfort around the temples or above the ears.

    Pain perception is highly individual. Typically, clients rate their discomfort during treatment between three to five on a scale of one to ten.

    For clients who are nervous about discomfort, we offer mild numbing options to help ease any potential discomfort.

  • SMP was developed by Ian Watson and Ranbir Rai-Watson. Ian Watson, who experienced alopecia following his brother's sudden death from cancer, sought to create a realistic and low-maintenance method for replicating hair follicles. Collaborating with Ranbir, his brother's widow, they conducted initial experiments and ultimately perfected the technique that has become the standard practice today.

  • Scalp micro pigmentation (SMP) is a process where tiny pigments are tattooed onto the scalp to create the look of hair follicles. It's like getting a tattoo, but on your scalp.

    Multiple sessions are needed for a few reasons:

    Building Up the Look: SMP is done gradually to make it look natural. Each session adds more pigment to the scalp, so it doesn't look too dark or obvious all at once.

    Matching Your Hair: Your hair color and skin tone are unique. Multiple sessions let the technician match the pigment color to your hair and skin perfectly.

    Letting Your Scalp Heal: Tattooing your scalp can cause some discomfort, and your scalp needs time to heal between sessions. Giving it time helps prevent problems and makes sure the pigment stays looking good for a long time.

    Getting the Details Right: SMP is customized to fit your needs. Having more sessions means the technician can get all the details just right, like creating a natural hairline and filling in any thinning spots.

Tips for Optimal Results from Your Scalp Micropigmentation Procedure

To get the most out of your SMP procedure, it's important to follow our Aftercare Tips diligently.

Post-procedure care is crucial to maintain the pigmentation and ensure it heals properly.

Remember to keep the treated area clean and dry, avoid exposure to direct sunlight, and abstain from strenuous activities that could cause excessive sweating.

With good care and regular touch-ups, your SMP treatment can last for many years, offering you a long-term solution to hair loss.

Experience the artistry and professionalism of Elevate You Studio's SMP services. Together, we can redefine your look and boost your self-esteem, one hair follicle at a time.

**Post-Procedure Precautions for Scalp Micro pigmentation

  1. Scalp micropigmentation involves creating small wounds, so avoid touching the treated area, applying makeup, using saunas, and utilizing unhygienic public facilities until the wounds heal to prevent infection.

  2. You can wash your scalp starting the next day. It is fine for water, shampoo, and mild cleansers to touch the area, but avoid rubbing the treated area or performing actions that could cause irritation for two weeks. You can apply scalp makeup after two weeks, but other hair products can be applied on the same day (be careful not to let mask packs or moisturizing creams touch the treated area for two weeks).

  3. Apply a very small amount of the provided regeneration cream thinly on the treated area every morning and evening after washing your scalp for 5-7 days. The provided cream should last a long time if applied thinly (do not apply too thickly). *If no cream was provided, you do not need to apply any.

  4. From the evening of the procedure day to about 3-4 days afterward, the treated area may become red and slightly darker (there is no need to worry about it becoming too dark). During this time, the treated areas may temporarily appear more pronounced and asymmetrical, but they will gradually lighten and even out. If you have sensitive skin, you may experience redness and irritation around the treated area for 3-5 days.

  5. About 7-10 days after the procedure, you may develop some itch as the skin regenerates (this may not occur). If it feels itchy, do not scratch. Depending on your skin type, the areas where the pigment adheres well and those where it does not can vary. Areas that are not pigmented can be corrected during touch-ups. It is normal for the initial color to lighten over time.

    Retouching (only for areas where pigmentation did not adhere or to improve the overall appearance and add dimension):

  6. There may be areas on the scalp where the pigmentation does not adhere well, and differences in color development depending on individual skin types. *It is normal for the color to lighten significantly and the appearance to become slightly thinner compared to immediately after the procedure.

  7. Detailed shape changes cannot be made during the retouch (e.g., making the hairline longer or more rounded). Scalp micropigmentation *is not hair, so retouching only covers the minimal necessary areas.* During the first procedure, everything is carefully considered and designed in detail, so there is a reason for the design and procedure done by me. Detailed shapes beyond the original design should be complemented with hair grooming or makeup.

  8. Grooming your hair will maximize the effect of scalp micropigmentation. Grooming your hair alone can make the shape clearer, and if your hair grows back and blurs the line boundary,

  9. In some cases, if you are allergic to lidocaine, which is contained in the cream applied before the procedure, or have a metal allergy, or if you have extremely dry skin, atopic dermatitis, or sensitive skin, and experience stinging or swelling around the treated area lasting more than three days, please see a doctor.

  10. *Considering the skin regeneration period of 30 days, you can schedule your retouch appointment one to two months after the procedure. Please observe the results after about two weeks and make an appointment if necessary. If the pigmentation is satisfactory, you do not need a retouch, and it will last for one year.

To choose your desired date and time, you must request a retouch appointment at least 3 weeks in advance.

If the two-month period is exceeded, retouch requests are not possible.

Please make sure to request your preferred date at least 3 weeks in advance.

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