Scalp Micropigmentation

What is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation is a minimally invasive, non-surgical cosmetic procedure that treats bald patches. It involves injecting the skin of the scalp with deposits of pigment (color) on the scalp. These dots give the  appearance of fuller and thicker hair by simulating real hair follicles.

If standard solutions for hair loss have failed you in the past, scalp micropigmentation may be worth considering.

Who is a good candidate for Scalp Micropigmentation?

1. Alopecia areata
2. Alopecia Universalis
3. Hair Loss on women
4. Male pattern baldness
5. Receding Hairline
6. Scars or birthmarks on scalp
7. Thin hair or scalp show-through
8. Hormonal conditions that cause hair loss, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
9. chemotherapy related hair loss.

However, anyone unhappy with the appearance of their hair may also benefit from this procedure.

Who is not a good candidate for Scalp Micropigmentation?

1. Eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis can irritate the scalp when exposed to needles and pigment during the scalp micropigmentation process.
2. Keloids and if prone to getting them.

If you have any of these conditions, it’s best to consult with a doctor before proceeding with any scalp micropigmentation treatment.

Scalp Micropigmentation Pre Care.

• Wash your scalp with a gentle non-abrasive shampoo the week prior to your procedure. If experiencing breakouts on your scalp, please see a dermatologist or appropriate medical doctor to resolve this issue prior to your procedure.
• After washing the scalp, moisturize the skin with some form of skin moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Doing so will allow the ink to be properly absorbed.
• Don’t use any Rogaine, Toppik, Powders, Scalp Fillers, etc. 48 hours before your treatment day. Also, don’t put any gels or hairspray on your scalp on the day of your treatment.
• Refrain from sun tanning to avoid burning and peeling of the skin.
• If you are extremely sensitive to pain, mention before treatment for possible options or seek medical advice prior to procedure.
• Avoid anything that might thin the blood, like aspirin and ibuprofen, or alcohol, at least 48 hours before your treatment.
• Please do not wear a hair piece at least 10-14 days prior to your scheduled procedure. As wearing a hair piece may limit oxygen flow to the scalp and ink may not be fully absorbed into the follicle.
• Think about the hairline you want.
• Before your procedure, either shave your head with a razor blade two or three days prior. On the day of the procedures use a pair of clippers with a size #0 guard. Do not use any type of razor on your scalp within 24 hours before the scheduled procedure as seeing all your remaining natural hair color is crucial for applying pigment to match the color of your existing hair follicles.
• If you’re experiencing hair loss on the sides of your head and not on the top of your head, you don’t need to shave off all your hair. Scalp micropigmentation can be done just on the sides.

Scalp Micropigmentation Post Care.

Now that you’ve had your SMP treatment it is your responsibility to care for and heal the treatment area properly for the best results. Failure to follow instructions could result in a poorly healed/faded procedure.

First 3 Days

• No water on the head.
• No sweating or heavy exercise
• No soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, concealer, etc on scalp
• No washing or touching the scalp, whatsoever unless otherwise instructed

Days 4-9

• You may use WARM WATER to rinse your head (no soap)
• You may sweat lightly (pat head with clean towel to prevent sweat from pooling)
• You may exercise lightly (avoid heavy sweating)
• Do not scratch your scalp; small scabs will form where pigment has been applied and it is crucial not to pick at them

Days 10~

• You may use soap and water to wash your head as normal
• You may exercise as normal
• You may sweat as normal
• You may apply moisturizer if needed

* After day 10 and when your scalp is healed completely, you should protect your scalp from direct sunlight by: a) wearing a hat and/or b) applying sunblock

* Clients with long hair may wash their hair with warm water and soap (baby shampoo) on the FIRST day at least 4 hours after treatment. Blow dry with cool air until the hair is completely dry. Keep dry the first 3 days, don’t sweat, jacuzzi, sauna. Day 4-10 use water to wash, no soap. After each wash, blow dry COOL air. No wet hair lying on the scalp.

* If you see someone’s head come back dry and flaky, change the aftercare. Give a wash with normal soap after the 2nd day, every 2 days.

* Overly oily skin: wash head after 2 days and after every other day, mild soap + warm water.

* Yes you can wear a hat, as long as that doesn’t cause friction and irritation, SMP won’t heal properly

* No products during healing process. Fibers, dry shampoo, etc during 10 days of aftercare

Avoid these:

• Take extra care to cover up the scalp when exposure to the sun is likely as extended periods in sunlight can cause the pigmentation on your scalp to fade.
• To avoid infection, don’t touch your scalp with your hands. If you must wash your hands thoroughly first to minimize the risk of bacteria.
• AHA’s (alpha hydroxy acids), like glycolic acid, fade away pigment. This means that during recovery and after AHA’s should be avoided.
• For the first five days, you should stay out of tanning beds and saunas, avoid using any chlorinated water, and don’t go swimming.

Post Care Day 30 and beyond.

• You can now go swimming, visit saunas and use tanning beds.
• You should continue to use 30 to 50 SPF sunscreen on the scalp. This will extend the life of your scalp’s micropigment.
• Continue using moisturizer on your scalp daily.
• Try to avoid situations that encourage head shine.