SMP or scalp micropigmentation is a specialized use of pigment to recreate the look of hair follicles, which results in the appearance of a full head of hair. SMP is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that provides a natural, permanent solution for hair loss.

I also wrote an entire page dedicated to diving a little bit deeper into this question, which can be found here.

Treatment times range from 30 minutes to 5 hours, depending on the area that is being treated. Smaller treatments like scar camouflaging or hairline touchups will fall on the shorter end of the range while full head and density treatments that involve working between existing hair will fall on the longer end of the range.

If done correctly, yes! This is why it is imperative to work with an artist that prioritizes quality over speed and specializes in SMP. In order to achieve the most natural result, multiple sessions are required which allows the artist to make adjustments to depth, density, color, and gradually blend and layer the different sessions together.

Within reason, yes. I will not attempt to match temporary, color-treated hair, for obvious reasons, but I will absolutely use a custom blend of pigments to produce the best result possible for your treatment.

Yes, but you have options if your goals change.

The depth the pigment is placed is in the upper dermis layer, which lends it to gradually lighten over time. If this happens and you’d like to darken the treatment, please reach out and we’ll set up a touch-up session.

Alternatively, if you’d like to revert back to your original look, or had unsatisfactory results elsewhere, you are able to remove the treatment with laser removal.

I’ve had clients tell me that it’s slightly uncomfortable only in some areas, it feels good/relaxing, and even had clients fall asleep in the chair.

The technique used is very gentle and much different than traditional tattoo applications, which makes it virtually painless. The depth of the deposit is shallower and the skin is not being scraped or carved into, but rather a single deposit is made and that site is not revisited.

Technically speaking, yes, as pigment is being applied permanently to the head. That being said, this is not a service that you would want to go to a traditional tattoo artist to try to replicate. It would be comparable to going to a dentist to fix your broken leg.

While that may seem like an extreme example, it’s a worthwhile comparison as they are completely different specializations that utilize different techniques. While I use some of the same equipment as a traditional tattoo artist, I wouldn’t attempt to tattoo a photo-realistic portrait on your back. Instead, I’d advise you to go to someone that specializes in that particular craft so that you would obtain the best result possible.

As mentioned above, traditional tattooing typically involves the lining or packing of a larger gauge needle across the skin at deeper depths, the technique used in SMP is most similar to a technique called pointillism, which is a very precise technique where individual points are created with no lining or packing involved.

The results of this technique are more subtle, natural and cause much less trauma to the skin. The goal is to replicate the look of hair follicles, not paint your scalp.

When it is done correctly, SMP is incredibly safe. All things being equal, it is safer than a traditional tattoo as the depth is shallower, the same areas are not revisited in the same session, and the cartridges used are much less abrasive.

Safety is incredibly important and it’s vital that you ensure that your practitioner exercises proper hygienic practices. At SMP Mastery, I even go a little bit overboard with the use of medical grade disinfectants before and after each treatment, fresh cartridges every single session, and I ensure that all surfaces that a client touches are not only covered, but disinfected and sanitized as well.

I’ve trained extensively on cross-contamination and am hyper-aware of my workspace and how to eliminate risks for my clients to ensure that this treatment is done as safely as possible.

I offer a range of different applications of SMP, so the price varies a bit. It ranges anywhere from $250-$5,000 in most cases, depending on the treatment that we’re completing.

For example, if you have a small scar in your hairline or beard you’re looking to conceal, that will take much less time than someone who is looking to receive a density treatment covering their entire scalp and has long hair that needs to be worked through and around.

I’m happy to give you a personalized quote upon reviewing your case.

Yes, we have several options available for financing the treatment cost.

There is no downtime in the sense that you are forced to remain at home or in bed, but there are some restrictions and guidelines that we will provide you with to ensure that your results heal optimally.

You are free to return to your normal routine/work (with a few exceptions) as soon as the treatment is over.

The treatment itself is virtually painless but it does result in mild irritation that can result in some redness. The redness typically lasts up to 48 hours.

Proper aftercare is just as important as proper technique in the treatment itself. We are a team here, so we both need to do our part to ensure that you get the result that you’re looking for.

Upon completion of the session, you will be provided with exact aftercare instructions that will inform you of exactly what needs to be done and what needs to be avoided. If you have any further questions, I’m always accessible, but it’s fairly simple and you should have no issues whatsoever.

Generally, I recommend waiting a minimum of 10 days between sessions. Some exceptions can be made if you heal particularly fast, but that is a good baseline.

A standard skin care routine is all you need to maintain your SMP treatment for years!

Sunscreen is probably the most vital, alongside a general moisturizer, exfoliant, and of course NO PICKING OR SCRATCHING!

Here are a few of our product recommendations:

Sunscreen

Exfoliator

Lotion

You can always wear a hat for sun protection if you’re going to be in the sun for an extended period of time and do not want to mess with reapplying sunscreens. Sun can wreak havoc on pigments and inks, so this is critical!