A person’s hair is integral to the way that they look. This is why a haircut, styling of the hair, or dying it to a different color can change the person’s look, appearance, and image.
While some people are fortunate to have lots of hair, some are not so lucky and are bald. For some others, the problem might be a loss of hair which may be due to several different reasons. These reasons can include alopecia as well as sicknesses and diseases such as cancer. It may also be a result of using a poor cosmetic product or a general lack of care for the hair.
For people who are bald or have experienced hair loss, this can be very depressing and it may also affect their self-esteem. Everyone loves full, good looking hair except you intentionally choose to have your scrape. To this end, scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a medical solution that can be used to restore a person’s receding hairline or loss.
What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?
SMP is a medical but non-surgical cosmetic tattoo procedure. It helps to give the impression of full hair by adding an illusion of density to a receding hairline. This procedure can as well be used for concealing scars or hide any other blemish on the scalp.
The idea is that SMP is used to recreate the appearance of thicker and fuller hair. Its goal is to use tiny, micro-fine needles to apply pigment (ink) in order to create an impression of hair. This is done by using the pigmentation to form layered dots in varying black hues and this recreates the appearance of a shadow on the scalp.
SMP is done by specially trained and skilled practitioners who will ensure that the layered dots closely resemble natural hair follicles which will blend with the complexion. SMP can be done on any skin color or type.
What Is The Process Like?
It is best to start out with research for a skilled practitioner. When you have chosen one, you will begin with an initial consultation to determine what will work best for you. The artist will also advise you on what to expect as well as how to prepare for the procedure. You will then select from different shades of pink, the one that will match your complexion and original color of hair.
Persons with skin sensitive issues such as scalp acne and psoriasis should avoid undergoing SMP when they have a flare-up or breakout. This is because it would be quite difficult applying pigmentation to the affected areas of the scalp. Also, people who are prone to keloids may not be good candidates for Micropigmentation.
Prior to the start of the procedure, the practitioner will apply local anesthesia to numb any feelings of pain when the procedure is underway. However, there may still be some level of discomfort depending on your pain threshold.
SMP typically bores into the epidermal skin level where the pigment is then deposited in the upper dermal levels of the skin. The pigment used is usually less prone to a change in color even over time. The most critical part of the procedure is usually finding a hairline that looks natural.
Keep in mind that you may need more than one treatment to achieve what you desire. The number of treatments you need is dependent on how large the area to be treated is. These treatments will be scheduled a few weeks away from each other. Each treatment can last anything between three to five hours.
What to Do After the Procedure
After each treatment, you should avoid washing the hair for 4 days and avoid touching the affected area. Furthermore, avoid sunlight or situations that may cause you to sweat in the affected area. You should generally avoid activities that will make the area wet within the first few days. The aim is to keep it clean as well as dry.
Side Effects of Scalp Micropigmentation
Scalp Micropigmentation is a relatively new procedure so there is not enough data to show the various types of side effects. However, you may experience some swelling, redness, and itching after the procedure but these should all go away in a few days. Some other side effects that can come up especially when a poor technique is used include:
- The tightness of the scalp
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fading of pigmentation
- Oversized dots
SMP is typically a permanent solution but it can be removed by laser treatment or other correctional procedures.
Where Can SMP Be Done?
Scalp Micropigmentation can be done in a Scalp Micropigmentation Clinic that has trained and professional technicians who will handle the procedure. Asides from the technician, a good clinic will have the requisite equipment and technology to undertake any SMP treatment.
It is important to carry out due diligence when selecting an SMP clinic. Part of this is visiting the clinic and ensuring that the technician is licensed and certified to practice SMP. This license should typically be displayed but this is dependent on state laws. Other licenses and certifications that the clinic should have include:
- A license as a body art practitioner
- A bloodborne pathogens certification and
- A health permit
Other things to watch out for include a sterile and clean environment. You should also watch out for items meant for precautionary measures. These include gloves, masks, packaged needles that will be opened and used while the client is present barrier tape, and so on.
Conclusion
Scalp Micropigmentation or SMP is also called provides a way to build up your self-esteem when you have a problem with hair loss. It does not matter whether this is due to sickness, natural loss, or any other factors. What matters is that you can feel great with the way you look when it is done.
Ensure to do your homework and research about the SMP clinic as well as the technician to carry out the procedure. This is important because the procedure needs to be done right to avoid unpleasant and disastrous results as well as incidences of infections.