What is SMP Scalp Micropigmentation?
Scalp Micropigmentation, also known as Scalp Tattooing, is a form of micropigmentation, where hair follicle impressions are tattooed onto the scalp to create the illusion of hair. It is growing in popularity as a hairloss treatment and we offer this at Scalp in Chester City Centre. We have put together this blog to answer all your SMP questions.
Is SMP right for me?
Our clients have SMP for total hairloss, hairloss/receding hairline with age, thinning hair, alopecia, ladies thinning hair, scar coverage, hair transplant scarring and beard hair loss or sparse growth.
How much does SMP cost?
It varies depending on the clinic location and how long the technicians have been in the SMP field. At Scalp we are competitively priced whilst providing a fully insured and licensed clinic using the highest quality equipment. Victoria has 3 years micro pigmentation experience and charges from just £300 up to £1500 for a completed treatment.
How long does SMP last?
It varies depending on the clients skin type - on average SMP lasts 5 years. When a top up is required it is approximately £200 for another top up, which is completed within 1 session and restores the SMP to its original state.
Does SMP look natural?
Yes - when it is done correctly SMP does look like hair follicles/hair that has been shaved. It is advisable to do your research and find an SMP technician whose style is right for you. At Scalp. our ethos is LESS IS MORE and the natural results are the best ones.
How long does SMP take?
SMP requires on average 3/4 sessions, but in some cases it can take up to 5 in some cases depending on client skin type etc (extra sessions do not increase price). Each session is approximately 2 - 2 1/2 hours long for a full head treatment. We try to book you in for your treatments 10 - 14 days apart. From start to finish it could take as little as 3 weeks.
Is SMP painful?
Most people experience mild to no pain at all during and post treatment. The needles are different to 'tattoo' needles and the treatment is therefore a specialist form of tattooing, we often get asked if it feels like tattooing and because of technique it does not.
Does SMP turn blue?
Only if applied incorrectly - i.e. using a regular tattoo needle, meaning the ink goes too deep into the skin. When performed correctly, SMP does NOT turn blue.
If I have SMP do I have to shave my head?
Not necessarily! For a lot of clients (both men and women) they require density treatment meaning that we are adding in the follicle impressions within their hair to disguise thinning areas. For clients with total hair loss in some areas it may be advisable to shave the head in order to have the most natural look.
Does SMP make hair grow back?
In short - no. SMP does camouflage hairloss areas and looks natural. It's a great alternative to hair transplants because they are not always guaranteed to work, are very expensive and have a lot of painful downtime.