Scalp Micropigmentation Frequently Asked Questions
What is Scalp Micropigmentation and does it have other names?
Scalp Micropigmentation, also known as SMP, Hair Tattoo, Medical Tattoo, Cosmetic Tattoo, Scalp Microdot Pigmentation is a non-surgical procedure that involves the insertion of pigmented microdots onto the epidermal level of the scalp by utilizing medical grade micro needles to replicate the appearance of real hair follicles.
What is the price of the Scalp Micropigmentation procedure?
The price of SMP procedure could be as individually different as the level of hair loss and the type of hair loss the client has. Our prices start from $600 per 1 session for male and female pattern baldness. Prices for hair transplant scar camouflage and scar concealment are different. Please, check out our service page for more info or contact us to get a more personalized quote.
Do you charge for a consultation?
No, we don’t. The consultation is free. You can email us at info@scalplosangeles.com or Call at 833-424-7448 to book your free consultation.
How many treatments of SMP do I need?
We recommend 2-3 sessions for the best results but it is totally up to the client how many sessions to take – 1, 2 or 3. Each treatment is set at least 2 weeks apart which means that you can have the 2nd session done any time after 2 weeks ( evaluation of the treated area is required) but not sooner than 2 weeks.
How long do the final results of SMP last?
After completion of all necessary sessions of the treatment recommended by the practitioner, one can expect 3-4 years (depending on the lifestyle and sun regimen) until a slight fading occurs. A quick touch-up will prolong the life of your SMP and make it look fresh for many more years.
How long does the Scalp Micropigmentation procedure take?
Each session of SMP treatment usually takes anything between 2-4 hours depending on the complexity of work that needs to be done on an individual scalp. It may take less or more depending on the level of hair loss.
Does SMP treatment hurt and what is the level of pain from 1-10?
Most of the clients describe it as a mosquito bite and a few of them experience some level of discomfort. We have had clients literally snoring during the procedure. However, the average client description of the pain level has been described as 3-4 out of 10 depending on the sensitivity of the scalp.
Is Scalp Micropigmentation permanent or semi-permanent?
Although Scalp Micropigmentation shows signs of slight fading over the years, like any other tattoo or permanent makeup, it is not going to vanish from your scalp. Therefore it is a permanent procedure and falls into the permanent cosmetics category. A quick 1 session of touchup will make it look fresh and defined again.
What are the aftercare instructions to keep my SMP looking good?
We recommend using all-natural, vegan shampoos or soaps containing no heavy chemicals and acids. If you have dry skin, a scalp moisturizer will help you keep your scalp hydrated to further prevent any skin flaking or dandruff.
Buzzcut with a hair clipper is preferred over razor shaving.
When sun-exposed, applying sunscreen to your scalp will protect your SMP from unnecessary damage caused by UV light.
When can I come back for a touch-up?
On average clients come back for a touch-up not earlier than after 2-3 years post-treatment depending on the level of fading. Ideally, if you notice that your SMP does not match with the color of your existing hair follicles(when shaved or buzz cut), meaning it is lighter, it's time to see your practitioner. We offer lifetime 50% off on any touch-up for Scalp Los Angeles returning customers who completed 3 sessions with us.
When can we get started with my procedure?
After the initial communication via phone or email, your practitioner may offer you a free consultation in person or set up an appointment for the 1st session of your SMP treatment. Please, contact us if you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment. (833-424-7448) info@scalplosangeles.com
What payment options do you have?
We are currently not offering any payment plans. We charge by each session though. Meaning, you don't have to pay for all 3 sessions at once. We break it down in 3 payments, each payment is due before or right after each session. Cash, Apple Pay and all major credit cards are accepted.
Do I need to take a day off from work?
You don't need to take time off from work, however, we strongly encourage our clients to follow up with the 5-day aftercare instructions which include no heavy sweating, not washing your scalp and keeping the treated area clean for 5 days post-treatment. Please, read aftercare instructions.
What should I expect from the 1st session of Scalp Micropigmentation?
1st session of Scalp Micropigmentation works as a foundation for the upcoming 2nd and 3rd sessions, therefore it may look lighter. We add more density to each session to create a fuller and darker look to match it with your existing hair follicles.
Are there hairline options to choose from?
We can design any type of hairline you envision - from the conservative to the modern, the barber edge up, the widow peak and more. You name it, we shape it.
Will my hair grow back after Scalp Micropigmentation treatment?
Unfortunately it will not. Scalp Micropigmentation will not help your hair grow back. However, Scalp Micropigmentation will add desired density to thinning areas of your scalp making it look fuller.
Should I cut my hair before each SMP treatment?
If you are planning to keep a "shaved head look", we recommend buzz cutting your hair with a hair clipper to the shortest length possible before each treatment. If you are adding density to your existing hair, you can leave your hair at your desired length.
Will people be able to detect that I have had SMP treatment done?
If done correctly, no one will be able to detect it. Scalp Los Angeles practitioners have the necessary knowledge and experience in providing the most natural and undetectable results. We use only the best pigments and needles on the market that have been specifically designed and produced to perfectly mimic real hair follicles.
Is there a difference between Scalp Micropigmentation and Body Art Tattoo?
First of all Body Art Tattoo inks are different from SMP pigments. We use only carbon-based pigments containing no dyes or additives. Therefore SMP fades to a lighter shade of black and does not change its color over time.
Secondly, Scalp Micropigmentation does not require deep penetration into the skin like the traditional body art tattoo.
And finally, SMP is an application of thousands of pigmented microdots on the scalp vs. traditional body art tattoo technique of shading or drawing lines.
Can Scalp Micropigmentation cover up hair transplant scars?
Yes, Scalp Micropigmentation is the best and the most effective option to permanently camouflage both FUE and FUT scars. It works best to cover up other unwanted scars on the scalp as well.
Can I use Rogaine, Minoxidil or Propecia after or during my Scalp Micropigmentation treatment?
We recommend you stop using Rogaine, Minoxidil, and Propecia during the course of your Scalp Micropigmentation treatment and 30 days after the final session of your treatment to ensure proper healing and settling of the pigment.
Can I dye my hair after Scalp Micropigmentation?
Yes, you can. We recommend waiting at least 3-4 weeks before you dye your hair.
Does Scalp Micropigmentation work with any type and any color of hair?
Scalp Micropigmentation works for all types of hair. However, it works best for hair that has a darker shade of color closer to black or dark brown.
Does Scalp Micropigmentation work for long hair?
Scalp Micropigmentation can have an amazing effect on long hair by adding density to thinning areas and making them look fuller.
Will Scalp Micropigmentation look good with gray hair?
It definitely will look good with gray hair and will add darker "pallet" to the scalp filling in the thinning areas. We are able to blend our pigment to various shades of black and gray hair color to achieve the best and the most natural look.
Can I use soap or shampoo after Scalp Micropigmentation treatment?
We recommend waiting at least 5-6 days before using soap or shampoo in the treated area. All-natural, vegan soap and shampoos containing no acid or chemical ingredients are preferred.
Can I wear a hat after my SMP treatment?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to keep your treated area as clean as possible to avoid any contamination. We recommend wearing a new hat or newly washed/cleaned hat.
Can I swim in the pool or go to the sauna, after my SMP treatment?
We recommend waiting at least 10 days after every session of your Scalp Micropigmentation treatment before you swim in the pool or go to the sauna.
Can I still have a hair transplant after Scalp Micropigmentation?
Yes, you can. Scalp Micropigmentation is a method of depositing pigmented microdots into the epidermis of the scalp. SMP will not affect hair follicles nor hair roots. It is safe to have a hair transplant after Scalp Micropigmentation. We recommend waiting at least 1 month after your SMP treatment before you do hair transplant surgery.
Can I have Scalp Micropigmentation after a hair transplant?
Yes, you can. In fact, Scalp Micropigmentation works best to complement hair transplant results. SMP can effectively cover up hair transplant scars and add desired density to the thinner areas of the scalp making it look fuller. We recommend waiting at least 6 months to 1 year after your hair transplant surgery before you can have SMP done.
Can Scalp Micropigmentation cover up keloid scars?
Depending on the size, color and texture of keloid scars, we recommend waiting at least 1 year to avoid reinjuring the skin and to make sure the scar has completely healed after the surgery or formation of the keloid. Please, send a picture of the keloid scar you want to treat with SMP for evaluation at: info@scalplosangeles.com
What is the healing time between the sessions and how long should I wait before I can do the 2nd and the 3rd session of SMP?
We recommend waiting for at least 14 days before you can visit us for the 2nd session of your treatment. Your practitioner will follow up with you to make sure the treated area is fully healed and ready for the next session. The same applies for the 3rd session.
If I need an additional 4th session or a touch-up after my 3rd session, what would the price be?
In some cases, the client may need an additional 4th session or a touch-up. Both, the 4th session and/or the touch-up are completely on us.
When can I shave or buzz cut my hair after my Scalp Micropigmentation treatment?
We recommend waiting at least 5 days after your SMP treatment. Buzz cutting with a hair clipper is preferred over shaving with a razor. Please, follow aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner.
Will sweating damage my SMP?
Sweating will not damage your SMP in the long run. However, if you have just had your SMP treatment done, we recommend refraining from heavy sweating for at least 5 days post-treatment for proper healing purposes.
Why sun exposure is bad for my SMP?
Exposure to the sun for a long period of time will affect your SMP. UV rays get absorbed breaking up the pigment particles resulting in fading of your scalp tattoo as well as damaging the skin on the scalp. We recommend applying protective sunscreen, wearing a hat or avoiding direct sunlight on the treated area if you are planning to spend a long time outside.
How does the touch-up procedure work?
The touch-up works just like any other session of Scalp Micropigmentation treatment. The length of the procedure depends on the size of the treated area. Class 6-7 hair loss on the Norwood Scale takes about 2-3 hours.
Does Scalp Micropigmentation work for a patchy beard?
Scalp Micropigmentation works quite effectively to fill in the patchy spots on the beard as well. The same technique and the same SMP pigment is used to treat the thinning area of the beard.
Will Scalp Micropigmentation affect my current hair?
Scalp Micropigmentation will not affect your current hair. The pigment is applied to the epidermal level of the skin and does not interfere with the growth of your existing hair.
In fact, SMP may increase the blood flow under the epidermis of the skin stimulating hair growth.
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