Are you thinking about scalp micropigmentation? That’s great, but it seems that you have some concerns. Scalp micropigmentation is safe and can last quite a long time. But how long is long? In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about SMP, including how long it lasts. You will be surprised as to how long it does last, so don’t worry. So if you’d like to get SMP but need to clear some things up first, you need to keep reading.
Who Can Benefit From Scalp Micropigmentation?
The goal of scalp micropigmentation is to create hairlike lines by using layered, tiny dots in various hues of black to create a natural shadow on the head. This is done to create a natural definition and aesthetic-looking depth. A skilled SMP practitioner will work to ensure the dots seem like real hair follicles and will do their best to make the work blend in with your complexion.
The process is useful for a variety of individuals who have had an unpleasant experience with hair loss. This includes individuals with alopecia, thinning hair, cancer, and pattern baldness. Get your tattoo for hair loss to mitigate these conditions.
Does SMP Hurt?
Are you wondering how painful the procedure will be? Well, it depends. Before the process, the practitioners will make use of a numbing agent. However, this does not mean that discomfort will be eliminated. In any case, this discomfort is usually regulated by individual pain tolerance.
People with skin sensitivities, such as psoriasis or acne should avoid scalp micropigmentation during stressful times. It will be hard to apply pigment during these times. If you develop keloids, you might not be a good candidate for SMP either. Once you’ve done your research and found a great SMP artist, you will have your first consultation. During this meeting, they will explain to you what to expect and elaborate on how you can prepare before.
For instance, you should shower before each treatment. You cannot wash your scalp for the next four following days after the treatment. Each treatment takes about five hours. How many treatments you will get will depend on how much SMP you need. Even if you’re covering the widow’s peak, it can take four treatments to get long-lasting results. Treatments are to be scheduled weeks apart.
In these breaks, you should not use a sauna, should not swim, and should not take hot showers. Avoid exposing your scalp for the first four days as well. On the fifth day, you can start to gradually expose your scalp (30 minutes is enough).
However, less sun exposure means better results over the long-term.
Will SMP Fade?
While scalp micropigmentation usually last several years, it’s likely to start fading at some point. However, the degree of fading will depend on a variety of factors, such as how your body responds to treatment. This means that fading is personalized upon lifestyle, skin, and body.
When the ink has been injected, it sits beneath 2 layers of skin. As the skin exfoliations, the fading is more likely to occur. The type of ink and quality is also important. Using non-tested inks can affect the longevity and consistency of appearance. It’s also important to make use of pigment hues that match your complexion and hair color.
Using a darker or lighter color can affect the consistency of the appearance. An SMP practitioner should be able to find an appropriate color before starting. Most people will need to touch up their scalp every four years. After one session, the original aesthetic is restored and will last for many years ahead.
What Are the Risks?
As is the case with almost all medical treatments, there are certain risks involved. While micropigmentation is not necessarily a tattoo, because tattoo ink goes deeper and is injected with a wider needled, services such as SMP carry similar risks.
These include allergies to the components in the ink, as well as infection if performed improperly. Of course, this only happens when the practitioners do not practice in a hygiene-appropriate manner. Make sure that everything used in the treatment is new, packaged, and sterile.
However, the most important thing to be aware of is whether or not your practitioner has formal training. Many tattoo artists propose their SMP services without any training beyond visual art on other body parts. SMP is not something to be adventurous about.
The procedure involves sensitive parts of the body, which are close to critical centers of your entire human vessel. The use of improper needles and ink can lead to serious health issues.
If you want to have a safe experience, look for people with certification and years of experience. Perform your due diligence when searching and all shall be well.
SMP Is Waiting
Now that you know what scalp micropigmentation is, as well as that it lasts a generous amount of time, given that you follow the longevity protocols, you are well on your way to begin your aesthetic journey. Scalp micropigmentation is a safe and effective treatment, but only if it is done in a safe and effective manner.
To ensure that you get the best possible results during your procedure, carefully select your practitioner, don’t hesitate to ask questions, and prepare yourself mentally for the following days after the process. What happens after is as important as what happens during.
If you’re interested in similar content, feel free to check out some of our other lifestyle and health articles on the sidebar.
Feature Photo by emre keshavarz
