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What is SMP (Scalp Micropigmentation)?

Proven to be safe and effective and suitable for all skin tones, Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is the ultimate hair loss solution. It is a non-surgical precision technique that replicates the look of natural hair follicles, by applying natural pigments to the scalp, thus providing clients with the appearance of a closely shaven scalp which I know from experience can be truly life changing.

 

Essentially it is tattooing of the scalp but unlike tattooing as most people would know it to create body art, SMP is a much more superficial procedure, the needle only goes 0.3mm below the surface of the skin into the upper layer of the dermis, as opposed to traditional tattooing which goes anywhere between 1-2mm into the skin. The reason for this is that it ensures the ink pigment maintains it shape as any deeper would allow the ink to blur which would prevent the procedure replicating hair follicles.

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How Long Does Scalp Micropigmentation Last?

Due to the fact the ink is inserted just below the surface it means that over time the ink will fade, and top ups are normally required around 3 years after the initial treatment which is normally achieved within 1 session of approximately 2 hours. Due to its shallow depth, it also means that the ink pigment can be affected by sun exposure therefore it is strongly recommended that a spf 50 sun cream should be used to ensure the best longevity for your treatment.

 

Does The Treatment Hurt?

Now I’m not going to tell that the treatment is a pain free procedure and certain parts of the scalp are slightly more painful than others but as someone who has a full sleeve of body art and SMP I can honestly say that it is not nearly as painful as traditional body art.

During the procedure I always ensure that the client is comfortable, I where possible start with the areas I know to be more sensitive as it makes the treatment a more pleasant experience. In addition, a well-stocked fridge of chocolate is always on hand if you haven’t already stopped into the cake shop next door!

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Why Should I Choose Scalp Micropigmentation Over Other Options?

Baldness is one of those things that I feel you only understand if it happens to you and from personal experience, I know just how hard it can be to come to terms with, it’s something that affects approximately 6.5 million men in the UK and unfortunately it cannot be ‘cured’, however it can be camouflaged. There are many options available to help disguise it, such as hair transplant surgery which in fairness has improved massively over the last few years and has become more readily available as the costs have reduced, temporary concealers and advanced hair systems.

At Head Strong I use the very latest techniques to create an incredible completely natural look concentrating in particular on the hairline as in the early days of SMP I feel it was the element that shattered the intended illusion. When you look at hair follicles closely you will see that they vary in both size shape and colour so the techniques I use do just that and by using different shades and needle sizes you will be amazed at how realistic it looks. After your treatment and even under close inspection it would be extremely difficult to distinguish between the hair follicles and the SMP.

All the ink pigments I use are completely natural made from organic powder and distilled water which help ensure the best possible colour and assist with the healing process.

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Who Is Eligible For Scalp Micropigmentation?

Every client has different requirements and I discuss this in great depth to ensure the customer will be 100% satisfied with the results, this is because a 40-year-old would be looking for a different hairline to someone in there 20’s and vice versa. The procedure normally takes place over three sessions of approximately 3-4 hours this allows for adjustments to be made and the techniques I use make this very easy to do.

SMP is also not just a solution for male or female pattern baldness, it is also a procedure that give amazing results for clients suffering from alopecia, or slightly thinning hair as it allows me to create the illusion of greater hair density. In addition, it is also great for disguising scarring on the scalp or face where hair would normally grow.

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Can SMP be used for thinning hair?

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SMP is now becoming increasingly popular with those suffering from thinning hair, both male and female. With the ability to create the look of thicker hair and the introduction light and dark brown ink SMP is now the best solution to thinning. For men it takes away the requirement to use fibers or have hair cuts specifically to disguise areas of thin hair, it on average delays the inevitable buzz cut for 4-5 years. Approximately 50% of clients coming to the clinics for SMP are now looking to add density to thin hair and with it being a cheaper procedure than traditional SMP it is fantastic value and transforms the lives of those treated.

For women struggling with thin hair it is used in exactly the same way and often requires just one session as normally the level of hair loss is not as great. The difference it makes to every clients self confidence is incredible as the results are instant and so transformational