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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), also known as scalp micro procedures or a medical hair tattoo, is a form of cosmetic tattooing in which precision needles deposit pigment into the scalp. Each deposit of pigment creates a micro-dot to replicate the missing hair follicles. Ultra-fine, medical-grade needles — approximately the width of a human hair — are used to implant the pigment with accuracy. The result gives the appearance of natural, stubble-like hair growth, creating the illusion of a fuller head of hair.
How much does Scalp Micropigmentation cost?
The cost of the treatment will vary depending on the service you require and the extent of your hair loss. My prices range from £75 - £600 per session, and up to £750 per session for more specialised treatments such as alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis. The cost of your treatment will be agreed upon in advance during your free consultation. You can also submit photos for an instant quote. If you require a top-up or alterations within the first 6 months after completing your treatment, the session will be free of charge. I offer 0% finance with PayItMonthly for all SMP procedures over £1000, so you can spread the cost of your treatment over 2-12 months completely interest free.
How many sessions of SMP do I need?
A full scalp micropigmentation treatment is usually completed over 3-4 sessions. If you only require a top-up session, this can be completed in one session. Some scar camouflage treatments, such as FUE or FUT scar camouflage, can be completed within just 2 sessions depending on the number of grafts and condition of the skin. Scalp Micropigmentation should never be considered a one session process (unless it is a top-up session). Multiple sessions are essential for building density naturally and safely. Speak with Chloe to find out how many sessions you'd need.
How long is a session of SMP?
A single session can take anywhere between 1-6 hours to complete depending on the service you require and the extent of your hair loss. An average session usually lasts between 2-4 hours. During your session, you will be able to take as many breaks as needed. My aim is to make the entire process as comfortable for you as possible. There are plenty of tea, coffee, and biscuit supplies, as well as optional music and entertainment to see you through your session in comfort.
How long do I need to wait between each session?
After your 1st session you will need to wait at least 10-14 days before you can have your subsequent sessions. I usually like to leave 21-28 days before completing your final session.
How long do the results last?
After completion of your treatment, you can expect results to last several years before requiring a top-up. Everyone varies, but generally speaking the results of an SMP procedure can last 2-5 years. A top-up session can be done every 1-5 years and will freshen up the SMP and restore any areas which may have faded (not discoloured) over the years. A top-up is completed in a single session and should see you through for many more years. You can maintain the results of your SMP with proper aftercare.
Is there any downtime?
Scalp Micropigmentation is non-surgical and minimally invasive, meaning there is little down-time and you can return to work and most daily activities straight away. You should avoid getting your scalp wet 4 days post treatment. This includes excessive sweating and exercise. You may notice redness for up to 48 hours after your treatment, so may want to plan your SMP around events. You can return to washing and styling your hair as normal 4-7 days post treatment. Full pre/post aftercare instructions will be provided prior to your treatment.
How should I prepare for my SMP treatment?
Avoid drinking coffee, taking ibuprofen, asprin (unless medically advised), alcohol or any stimulants 12 hours before your treatment. Hair colouring should be done 48 hours prior to treatment and 1 week post treatment. Hair should be shaved to a grade 0.5 or 1 prior to attending your treatment for hairline restoration treatments. Hair does not need to be cut for density treatments. It is recommended to massage coconut oil into the scalp a few times the week before your treatment to hydrate the skin. On the day of your treatment you should be in good health and ensure to eat before attending. This will help with your blood sugar levels as sessions can last for many hours. You will be required to complete Medical History, Consent, and Treatment Plan forms prior to your treatment commencing.
Is SMP painful?
For most clients, the pain of a Scalp Micropigmentation treatment is minimal. You will not need numbing cream for this procedure, and you won't experience any discomfort during the healing process. There are more sensitive areas of the scalp such as the hairline and temples. But many clients find the crown and back of the head therapeutic! Numbing foam is available for clients who find the treatment particularly uncomfortable. This is generally the case for those who have undergone hair transplant surgery.
Is Scalp Micropigmentation Permanent?
Scalp-Micropigmentation is a form tattooing. All tattoos will fade and lighten gradually over time. SMP can lighten a little faster than a traditional body tattoo as the pigment is diluted with sterile water to achieve the correct colour tone. If an SMP tattoo is left to fade naturally, the original treatment would be barely visible after approximately 10+ years. Top-ups are advised every 1-5 years to keep the impressions looking fresh and to re-darken the overall result.
Will the colour of the pigment change like a tattoo?
No. The pigment I use for all of my SMP treatments is a carbon black ink which I dilute with varying ratios of sterile water to achieve a grey tone once healed, closely mimicking the natural tone of hair stubble. If the pigment is placed at the correct depth in the skin, with the correct technique, and with the correct dilution of pigment, the impressions will not discolour. The pigment contains only organic ingredients with no additional colourants or additives and will only lighten, not discolour, over time.
Will SMP work with grey and blonde hair?
Yes! Scalp Micropigmentation is suitable for those with grey or blonde hair. The pigment I use is a pure black ink which I dilute in accordance to the clients hair colour. All new hair growth, or stubble, has a grey undertone, regardless of the clients natural hair colour (unless naturally auburn). For grey and blonde hair, the pigment is simply more diluted so that is heals to a lighter shade of grey.
Am I too young / old to have Scalp Micropigmentation?
The UK prohibits anyone under the age of 18 to have a tattoo. This legislation was brought in under the Tattooing Of Minors Act 1969. As long as you are age 18 or above, there is no limit to what age you can have SMP! In fact, my oldest client to date was a female in her 80s. Of course, I will tailor your treatment to ensure the results are age appropriate.
Can women have Scalp Micropigmentation?
Yes! Women can also enjoy the transformative benefits of scalp micro procedure's. The most common treatment for Women would be Female Density. A Density treatment works to create the appearance of full hair density or a full parting. Hair loss in Women can be an extremely traumatic experience. I am here to help and guide you through your hair loss journey and will work with you to regain your confidence. If you are experiencing sudden hair loss or are unsure of the cause of your hair loss, it could be worth having a Trichology Consultation to find out if there is another solution in or out of the clinic.
Does SMP look good on both light and dark skin tones?
Absolutely! I can match the shade of the pigment to a wide range of skin tones including Fitzpatrick Scale skin types 1-6. I simply dilute the pigment more for clients with a lighter skin tone, and less for clients with a darker skin tone. All ethnicities are suitable for this treatment.
Is Scalp Micropigmentation a hair loss solution for Alopecia?
Yes! SMP is an incredible hair loss solution for several alopecia conditions. Alopecia is the umbrella term for most hair loss.
Is SMP a hair loss solution for Male Pattern Baldness?
Yes! Scalp Micropigmentation is most popular with those experiencing the effects of Male Pattern Baldness or MPB. MPB is also known as Androgenetic Alopecia and is thought to be caused by the hair follicle's sensitivity to DHT (Dihydrotestosterone). It is believed that 95% of cases of male pattern baldness occurs because of the effects of DHT on the hair follicle. How much DHT an individual produces depends entirely on their genetic makeup. Pattern hair loss is the most common cause of hair loss.
Is SMP a hair loss solution for Female Pattern Baldness?
Yes! Scalp Micropigmentation is becoming ever more popular hair loss solution for Women of all ages due to its instant and natural results. It is estimated that 50% of women over the age of 60 experience female pattern baldness. The condition results in diffused thinning of the hair on the scalp from the parting outwards using the Sinclair scale. Female pattern baldness has a strong genetic predisposition. Asian Women are also considered more likely to suffer overall hair thinning than that of other hair types.
Will Scalp Micropigmentation grow my hair back?
No. Scalp Micropigmentation will not grow hair. SMP is a 2D result which works by implanting pigment into the dermis in the formation of tiny dots to mimic individual hair follicles, giving the illusion of new hair growth. Procedures such as PRP Therapy or a hair transplant surgery could be a better option depending on whether you are a candidate.
Can I still use Finasteride and/or Minoxidil after my treatment?
Clients can continue using Finasteride during and after their scalp pigmentation procedure. Minoxidil should be suspended during the course of treatment and for 30 days post your final session. This is to ensure the proper healing and settling of pigment without interference of the chemicals found in Minoxidil.
Is Scalp Micropigmentation the same as a tattoo?
SMP is not the same as a traditional tattoo. There are a few main differences between the two. Firstly, SMP artists use specifically designed SMP needles which start from just 0.17mm in width to closely match the width of a real hair follicle. Secondly, SMP is the process of creating small micro dots through a pointillism method to replicate stubble. There is no shading or drawing lines. Lastly, a diluted pigment is used to created the impressions in the scalp. For this reason, it won't break down to different colours or look too saturated once healed. This also means results will lighten gradually over several years.
Where is Micro Artistry located?
The Micro Artistry Hair Clinic is based in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, UK. My full address is Unit 15, Bridgwater Ct, Oldmixon Cres, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 9AY. My clinic is fully equipped for micropigmentation treatments and follows all Government Health & Safety guidelines.
What are Micro Artistry's service areas?
My scalp micropigmentation and hair services are widely available and accessible to an extensive area of the South West including Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge, Bridgwater, Weston-Super-Mare, Taunton, Portishead, Bristol, Bath, Glastonbury, Wells, Minehead, Somerset, North Somerset and many more.
Why should I choose Micro Artistry Hair Clinic?
I am a Level 4 Scalp Micropigmentation Technician and Trichologist specialising in Scalp Micro Procedures (SMP). I completed my training with the UK's leading Micropigmentation School, Finishing Touches Group, and furthered my training by completing a 1:1 2-day masterclass with world renowned SMP Artist, Paul Clark. I have had a natural artistic ability since a child and started drawing portraits at the age of 5. I trained in Scalp Micropigmentation to be able to help people regain confidence through my art. I am a true perfectionist with my work and aim to create the most natural and undetectable results possible. Your scalp is my canvas!