One of the very many questions or concerns people have about scalp micropigmentation is how well it lasts and holds up over the years. We’re here to allay your fears. Short answer? YES, SMP lasts long and looks good even after 3-5 years of initial application. Long answer: Yes, it holds up, but they are caveats.
To begin, let us quickly learn what Scalp Micropigmentation really is:
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a cosmetic procedure in which a small amount of hair follicle-containing skin is transferred to the scalp to change the appearance of the scalp. SMP is most commonly performed on people who have lost their hair due to alopecia areata, but it can also be used to enhance baldness or treat scars and burns.
Brief overview of the procedure: The Scalp Micropigmentation procedure is usually done in a series of sessions and it takes several hours. During the procedure, the SMP practitioner uses a needle to deposit small amounts of pigment into the scalp, creating the appearance of hair follicles.
Factors that affect the appearance of SMP
- Skill of the practitioner: The skill level of the practitioner can greatly affect the final result of the SMP procedure. A skilled practitioner will be able to create a natural-looking, realistic hairline, while an unskilled practitioner may create a less convincing result.
- Quality of pigments used: The quality of pigments used also plays a role in how SMP will look after many years. Pigments that are of high quality will last longer and maintain their color better than lower quality pigments.
- Lifestyle choices (e.g. sun exposure): Lifestyle choices such as excessive sun exposure can also affect the appearance of SMP over time. These can cause fading of the pigments and changes in skin color which will make the tattoo appear less realistic.
What happens after several years?
After several years, there are some changes that happen to your scalp from this treatment. They include, but may not be limited to:
- The color of your scalp will change, as more and more of the pigment gets absorbed into your skin.
- Scalp micropigmentation may cause white spots on the top of your head where it was applied—this is due to the fact that some pigments have a darker color than others and will not fully blend in with the rest of your hair.
- You may notice that the surface area of your head shrinks over time—this is because more pigment was absorbed into your skin over time, so less remains on top of your head after several years.
How often touch-ups may be needed
Touch-ups may be needed to maintain the desired appearance of SMP. The frequency of touch-ups will depend on factors such as the quality of the pigments used and the individual’s lifestyle choices.
Conclusion
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a cosmetic procedure that involves tattooing pigment into the scalp to simulate the appearance of hair follicles. The lasting appearance of SMP can vary depending on factors such as the skill of the practitioner and the type of pigment used. However, generally speaking, SMP will appear natural and realistic immediately after the procedure, and it will last for several years (usually 3-5 years) before requiring another touch up.