Every day, scientists come up with a new solution for baldness. It might be difficult for those who never experienced hair loss to understand exactly why baldness is such a problem. They probably haven’t even heard of any scalp micropigmentation regrets countless people are experiencing.
If you already own something, you don’t appreciate it enough. Even if you are not having hair loss currently, it doesn’t mean you won’t be bald one day. Although genetic factors are one of the most common causes of hair loss, external factors and stress can play a significant role as well.
Let’s talk about what scalp micropigmentation (a.k.a. hair tattoo) is and benefits as well as the side effects of it.
What is Scalp Micropigmentation?
I was going to come up with an easy-to-read description but I see that Wikipedia has already nailed it:
A hair tattoo, scalp micro pigmentation (or SMP for short), is a medical, non-surgical, cosmetic tattoo that gives the illusion of a close buzz cut hairstyle
In other words, it’s a procedure to replicate the appearance of thicker, fuller, natural hair. By using tiny needles, an SMP practitioner simulates hair follicles in receding or thinning areas on the scalp.
Who is SMP (or hair tattoo) for?
This is a cosmetic procedure. Therefore, anyone who is not comfortable with their appearance is a good candidate for scalp micropigmentation.
Yes, both men and women can leverage the SMP and it can be useful for people at any age especially those who
- Experiencing hair loss or thinning hair
- Lacking in confidence because of the baldness
- Not happy with people staring at the opening on their scalp
- Aiming to boost self-esteem
- Wanting to hide the effects of cancer and alopecia
Scalp micropigmentation process is also preferred after hair transplantation. If you have thin hair and you didn’t get good results from hair transplantation, you may consider scalp micropigmentation services to cover the gaps between your hair. However, you don’t need to have a hair transplant beforehand to take advantage of this procedure. It offers you a solution even if you are completely bald.
Benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation
People who tried SMP often says that they have
- A thicker look of hair
- Natural-looking hairline (added definition to the front of the scalp)
- Higher confidence
- Younger look after this cosmetic correction
How Long Does It Take?
Depending on the size of the area to apply micro scalp pigmentation, it may take several treatments to complete the process. Each treatment should be a few weeks apart from each other.
Once you find an SMP trained professional, the first step is having a consultation session. In this session, the practitioner listens to your expectations and determines a good hairline and color.
I highly recommend checking before and after photos of the scalp micropigmentation process for the practitioner’s previous patients.
What to Consider While Searching for a Scalp Micropigmentation Professional?
While searching for an SMP professional, there are several factors to consider. Do they have
- An SMP training certification
- Health permit from their county
- A clean and sterile environment
- Body art practitioner license
Even if you go through SMP at a popular place that is preferred by celebrities, you may not get good results because the practitioner may not show the same care as they do for celebrities. Additionally, paying more does not mean you will get better results and you won’t have scalp micropigmentation regrets.
If you are looking for the best tattoo artist even for a small tattoo, you should do enough research for SMP as well. Even if it takes a long time, knowing that you will get rid of a wrong procedure has relieved you a little bit.
How Long Does It Last?
The effectiveness of scalp micropigmentation is considered semipermanent. The results typically last for about 2 or 3 years. It may even provide still a good enough look up to 8 years.
However, the treated area fades over eventually since the skin naturally exfoliates over time. If you have dry skin, it is likely to fade more quickly.
By regularly moisturizing the treated area and applying SPF 30–50 sunscreen (after the fourth day of the treatment), you can prolong the effectiveness of SMP.
How Long Does It Cost?
Depending on how much of your scalp needs to be covered, each treatment can cost up to $1,000. The average price would in the range of $300 and $500.
Scalp Micropigmentation Regrets
What about regret? There are those who have such regrets that “I wonder if I never get involved in these things?” We are sure you will ask yourself.
Although the scalp micropigmentation procedure is not a surgical procedure, it’s still a kind of tattooing. Therefore, side effects may (and do) occur such as,
- Mismatched colors
- Inflamed skin
- Allergic reactions
I highly recommend watching the minute-long video below before going to a clinic for SMP.
Think twice before making your decision especially if you are experience the issues below.
- Scalp acne and inflamed skin
- Sensitive skin (Remember, this is like having a tattoo)
- Psoriasis and keloids (more common in darker skins)
Can It Be Reverted? (Removal of SMP)
If a mistake occurs during the procedure or you are not satisfied with the result, there is not much to do. You will probably need to wait years for the ink to fade away (at least 2 years). However, just like tattoos, a professional can try to wipe the ink with the laser.
Unfortunately, instant removal still does not occur. It takes 1 year to get rid of the bad look completely. Well, it’s still better than waiting for 2 years.
11 Celebrities Who will Never Have Scalp Micropigmentation Regrets
Here are 11 celebrities who don’t have hair loss issues and are unlikely to have baldness in the future (Thanks to their genes?).
Or they don’t have to worry about losing hair because they’ve already lost most of it.
1. Justin Timberlake
Singer and actor. He is a living legend. He must be feeling lucky that he has not experienced hair loss even though he is in middle age. We’re not all as lucky as you, Justin.
2. Robbie Williams
He has been happily married to his wife Ayda Feild since 2010 and he did not lose her hair despite her old age. Strong hair follicles must have passed on to their children.
3. Brad Pitt
What’s your secret, Brad? How can you still have such thick hair? How can you still grow your hair this healthy?
4. Leonardo DiCaprio
You’re not baby-faced anymore, but you look like you haven’t lost much of your hair either. We hope that he will have children one day and pass on this lucky genetics.
5. Chewbacca
Grow enough hair from you for all of us. May the hair be with you.
6. Zlatan Ibrahimović
The bad boy of the football fields. Even if he gets bald one day, he will walk proudly saying “I am the bald king”. His character is his permanent makeup. Zlatan is proof that if we are confident, our appearance doesn’t matter much.
7. Robert Redford
At his age, still keeping most of his hair (no intention of jinxing). You are a role model, Mr. Redford!
8. Dwayne Johnson
Have you ever imagined The Rock with hair? I am not sure if you would be more sympathetic. He may have scalp micropigmentation regrets if gives it a try!
9. Pitbull
“Hotel, Motel, Holiday inn!”… Pitbull is the love of attractive women even though he never even try SMP. Dale!
10. Jason Statham
He had a real chance to lose his hair. Jason Statham, one of the most-wanted actor of fast-paced movie makers, he will never need a hair treatment.
11. Vin Diesel
Fast, furious and bald. Born in 1967, the successful actor is bald and charismatic. Considering his successful career, he is unlikely to even consider hair transplantation. Doesn’t short hair or baldness give freedom to actors in action movies? What do you think?
While you are on a cosmetic journey, check out dermaplaning as well. It may help you perfecting your face with one simple treatment: 9 Practical Tips to Avoid Having Dermaplaning Regret