Frequently Asked Questions
Who is SMP for? Anyone who has thinning hair due to age maturity, alopecia, trichotillomania and who wants natural-looking fullness on their scalp without the downtime of hair replacement surgery.
Is it painful? The skin on your temples and front hairline is thinner than the rest of the scalp. Tattooing these thinner areas may cause slight discomfort. The average client comfort level ranges between 1 - 3. Some clients even fall asleep during the treatment.
When is the best time to get SMP? Most people do not need to take time from their employment unless you have a physically strenuous job. If you do then arrange to get your treatment before have a few days off to follow the aftercare correctly. If you have travel plans, weddings or other special occasions to attend, please plan the timing of your SMP treatment accordingly.
Who is not suitable for SMP? Anyone who suffers from hemophilia, seizures, and epilepsy (only if at risk of having during the procedure), eczema, psoriasis, keloid scars, hypertrophic scars on the area to be treated; Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, Anyone undergoing chemotherapy, Who has a pacemaker or major heart problems, has immunodeficiency, organ transplant, is currently using or has been on Accutane for less than one year.
How many sessions does it take? On average 2 - 4 consecutive sessions is necessary to give a true gradient on the scalp. If additional sessions are required, additional fees are charged at a reduced rate.
How long does SMP last? On average SMP last anywhere between 5 -8 years.
Will my SMP look natural? Scalp Inked specializes in enhancing your natural look. We help you choose a scalp design that complements your face. We choose colours that complement your skin tone and match your natural hair. My investment in continuing education, advanced techniques, and equipment give us an edge in creating realistic, natural SMP.
How long does each session take? Each session generally takes between 2 hour to 4 hours depending on the amount of hair loss.
How much does SMP cost? Prices vary depending on the amount of hair loss and the presence of scars. The average cost of SMP is between $2000 to $3000. Remember this is an average. Some treatments may cost below $2000 while others may cost above $3000. Reach out for an obligation free consult and personalized quote
How will I look immediately after? Right after each session, the impressions are fresh and dark and your skin may be red and inflamed for 24-48 hours.
When will I see the results? You will see results instantly from the first session. The final healed result will be seen 2-3 weeks after the initial consecutive treatment sessions.
What are the after care instructions? We will give you a card on the day of treatment with the specific after care instructions. But generally stay cool, keep your scalp dry and no wetting it for 4 days following each session (A shower cap will be provided) Refrain from exercise, strenuous activity and avoid the sun (as much as possible) for 5 days after each session. No swimming until 2 weeks after your final session.
Do I need to prepare for my treatment? Yes, you should gently scrub the scalp/wash your hair in the shower prior to each session. If you have dry skin moisturise daily 1 week prior to your first session.
Does SMP fade? Yes, Pigment particles exposed to the UV rays of the sun breaks down over time. SMP is also specifically designed to fade over time so that the SMP has an opportunity to age with you. Over the years you may aquire more white or grey hairs in which we want the pigment to be faded so we can take that into account when conducting your retouch sessions.
Can SMP pose allergy problems? Yes. You should always be cautious, as it is possible to be allergic to the pigment. You may request a patch test if you are concerned about having an allergic reaction. Many doctors recommend that people who have sensitive skin or allergies to cosmetics have permanent makeup procedures done because they are great alternatives to cosmetic products that they are sensitive to.
What if I want to change my hair colour? SMP is designed to blend with your natural hair follicle and provide the right amount of contrast against your skin tone. If you are changing hair color that is a lighter shade than your SMP (like a blonde) your SMP will match your roots. As SMP replicates hair follicles and not the hair strand itself the change in colour does not have a large impact your SMP.
Do i need to shave before getting SMP? No, you do not need to shave your head before getting SMP. If you are coming in for a shaven look treatment I ask that on the first session you shave 2-3 days before to have a good amount of stubble as i need to be able to see where your hair naturally sits.
Do i really need to follow the after care? 50% of the result is dependent on how closely you follow the aftercare. Extra sessions may be required if the aftercare is not followed correctly at an additional cost.
Can I get cosmetic surgery after SMP? Yes. Preferably, any hair transplant surgeries should be done prior to receiving SMP. If you choose to go through a hair transplant after you already have had SMP you should wait 4 weeks after your final SMP session before conducting the transplant surgery.
What precautions should I take? It is ideal to have minimal or no bleeding during the procedure. Please refrain from blood-thinning NSAIDs like Naproxen, Aspirin; blood thinners like Coumadin; Vitamins like B & E and alcoholic beverages 48 hours prior to your procedure. Get plenty of rest and hydrate yourself prior to each session.
How do I maintain my tattoo? Apply moisturizer to prevent dryness and flaky skin. Apply sunblock when you're exposed to heavy sunlight to extend the longevity of your SMP. Use an Skull shaver when you shave your head.
Can SMP be removed or altered? Yes. SMP can be removed with laser or saline tattoo removal. Lasers are used to heat and blast the pigment particles into even smaller particle sizes which are easily absorbed by your immune system. Saline tattoo removal is a natural way of lifting the pigment out of your dermis, out of your body through the process of osmosis and scabbing. SMP is fairly easy to remove in most cases because the pigment is deposited at a very superficial depth in the skin.