Updated 31/08/2023
Suffering from hair loss or thinning hair can be detrimental to your confidence. Very few people enjoy wearing a wig or toupee. The hair can look unnatural and hard to manage. Up until recently, the only realistic option was a hair transplant surgery. Something that has become popular with celebrities. From John Travolta to Jude Law, James Nesbitt to Wayne Rooney. That is where the new option of scalp micropigmentation can help.
Not everyone is suitable for a hair transplant. Also, not everyone wants to have a surgical procedure. Some may be faced with a choice of a hair transplant or scalp micropigmentation. It can be hard to decide and take a while. Weighing up the pros and cons is very important. The best option can depend on your goals and expectations. As a result, it´s important to check the facts about SMP. Also known as scalp micropigmentation, to make an informed decision.
What is the procedure for SMP?
Scalp micropigmentation is a process whereby a pigment into the skin. Making it appear as if you have a neatly shaven head. It is non-surgical and no anaesthetic is required. Unlike a traditional tattoo, the ink used contains no metals and is not permanent. It can be touched up annually to keep it looking good.
How long does SMP take?
With micropigmentation, each treatment will last around one to three hours. Depending on how large an area you need covering. There is usually a gap of around one to four weeks between the follow-up treatment. This allows the pigment to set naturally into the skin. As a result this helps the practitioner adjust the shades used to ensure a natural finish.
Most clients require three appointments. Some may require more. Once the treatment is complete, the results can last for up to two years. Although you can return to have a touch up before. There is no downtime and no real need to be off work.
Downside:
- Numerous appointment to get the desired product.
- Not a permanent solution.
How painful is SMP?
People have their own threshold for pain. Most people describe this as an uncomfortable scratchy sensation. No anaesthetic or sedative is given. The pigment is only implanted into the upper dermis of the skin. Traditional tattoos need are placed deeper. The needle is bigger, sharper, and goes further into your skin.
Is an adverse reaction likely?
All scalp micropigmentation techniques use natural pigments which have been chosen to be hypoallergenic. This means that there is little to no risk of an allergic or otherwise bad reaction to the treatment. Just to make sure, your practitioner will always perform a patch test prior to your first treatment, to ensure your body is happy with the pigments being used. This needs to be carried out 48 hours before the procedure
How effective is SMP?
SMP can look good! Not only do you end up with a natural looking, clean-shaven appearance, you can also reinvent your hairline to frame your face in the most attractive way. Scalp micropigmentation is also highly effective for those who are not bald but are otherwise suffering from thinning or lost hair. It can be applied over scars, hiding areas where the hair no longer grows following trauma and can be used to darken areas where the hair is thin, giving the appearance of thicker, fuller hair on top.
How much does SMP cost?
The costs of scalp micropigmentation in the UK will depend greatly on what you need doing. Small patches of treatment, to cover scars or thinning areas, can cost from £800 – £1,500. Crown and hairline work can be from £1,000 upwards, and a full procedure will usually cost in the region of £2,000 – £3,500. The cost is reflective of the skills of the practitioner.
Conclusion
Scalp micro pigmentation is the process of tattooing ink into and onto the scalp. As a result, gives the illusion of a shaved head. No hair is required. So can treat very advanced hair loss stages. However, the SMP will not feel like real hair. And obviously does not grow. The only style available is that of a shaved head in this situation. If you have hair this will need to be shaved. SMP is useful for those who have lost hair in patches, as it can be used as a ‘filler’.
A hair transplant is a medical procedure. The result is the movement of genetically healthy hair. A hair transplant cannot be achieved on someone who is completely bald. The hair transplant can rebuild areas of hair loss. The hair will continue to grow naturally.
If you have any questions, then please feel free to contact us today on either method T: 0808 169 7210. E: info@hairdr.co.uk alternatively you can book a free consultation via our website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the hair transplant procedure painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so any discomfort is minimised. Some patients might experience mild soreness during the recovery phase.
Are the results of Scalp Micropigmentation noticeable?
Yes, the microdots applied during SMP create a realistic illusion of hair, resulting in a noticeable improvement in the appearance of a fuller head.
How long do SMP results last?
The results can last for several years, but touch-up sessions are recommended to maintain the desired look over time.
Can I shave my head after a hair transplant?
Yes, once the transplanted hair has fully grown, you can treat it like your natural hair, including shaving it if desired.
Is SMP suitable for all skin tones?
Yes, SMP can be tailored to match various skin tones, ensuring a natural appearance.
What’s the recovery time for a hair transplant?
Most patients can resume normal activities within a week, but it might take a few months for the transplanted hair to fully grow.
