The Real Advantages and Disadvantages of SMP

Read the information below to understand the advantages and disadvantages of SMP so that you can make the right decision on how to handle your receding hairline.

If you are looking for a solution to hair loss you have already heard of vitamins, pills, wigs, hair transplants, and thickening lotions, but what about a guaranteed solution that will last and doesn’t involve expensive hair transplants?

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a popular way to combat hair loss, but like any treatment, there are pros and cons to consider. We’ve shared the most up to date and accurate advantages and disadvantages of SMP so that you can be up to speed on what you can look forward to, the side effects and whether your skin tone is right for this modern technique – read on to find out more!

Advantages of Scalp Micropigmentation

1. SMP results are guaranteed

As mentioned, scalp micropigmentation is guaranteed to work and can be completed within a matter of weeks. Micropigmentation is the application of pigment into the skin ¹ to replicate the appearance of hair follicles, giving you the look of a full head of shaved hair. That means after the required three sessions, the final result is ready. (Make sure to pick a reputable clinic and experienced artist to ensure the satisfaction of results)

Unlike other hair thickening treatments, there is minimal downtime and no expensive or time-consuming maintenance. Once the first ten days have passed after treatment, you can then move back to your usual beauty regime, cleaning your scalp and moisturising as normal. As Scalp Micropigmentation is a type of tattoo, you need to protect the treatment in the sun with regular sun cream.

2. Scalp micropigmentation is easy to maintain

Unlike other hair thickening treatments, there is minimal downtime and no expensive or time-consuming maintenance. As Scalp Micropigmentation is a type of tattoo, you need to protect the treatment in the sun with regular sun cream.

3. SMP treatment looks real

Not only are the results very realistic, but people will even be convinced that you have decided to shave your hair short instead of losing it to male pattern baldness. You can choose to tell your friends and family or keep it to yourself; no one will question your new look.

4. Scalp micropigmentation is safe

Many men feel that hair transplants and other extreme surgeries are the only option for them to use when it comes to dealing with hair loss, but this isn’t true. SMP is a real option for men with hair loss that doesn’t involve any drastic surgery or risky procedures; plus, it is a simple and effective solution with no danger or risks attached.

5. SMP is permanent

SMP is officially classed as a permanent cosmetic treatment, once you have the full procedure done your ‘hair’ is back for good. Some men do have more than one treatment to help keep on top of their new look, but this isn’t necessary for everyone – your SMP expert will help you decide what is best for you.

6. SMP ages with you

Scalp micropigmentation is a tattoo which means it will not change colour over time or disappear, leaving you with the hair loss problem you were trying to resolve. You may find that after many years it may begin to fade to a lighter tone but this shouldn’t affect the appearance of your SMP hairline and you can choose to top it up if needed. Also, if you want your hair colour to reflect your age and go grey naturally, you can manage this by simply not topping up your treatment and letting it get lighter as you age. Already grey? Find out how SMP works on grey hair here.

7. A cost-effective alternative to a hair transplant

A hair transplant in the UK can cost anywhere up to £30,000 depending on the extent of hair loss ² and even then may take multiple tries for any lasting result. SMP, on the other hand, costs nowhere near this amount and offers a permanent result that looks authentic for many years to come.

Disadvantages of SMP

1. Your hairstyle will never change

Hair gives you the flexibility to chop and change your look. When you start to go bald you lose that control. Scalp micropigmentation provides a solution, although you will only ever have a buzz cut style. Most people do not mind this, but it is not for everyone.

Of course, you can alter the hairline shape over time. You can do this by changing the side profile or density of the pigmentation. These tweaks still offer some variation if that is what you need.

2. You will need to keep shaving

To get the most out of the look, you have to shave regularly. Any hair that still grows will have to be kept to a grade of around 0.5. How often you will need to shave depends on how quickly your hair grows but a good average would be at least twice a week.

Even though this is relatively low maintenance, it can prove tiring for some. A good way around this is to find a shaving routine that works for you. It might be an electric shaver, hair clippers, or a wet shave in the shower.

3. It may require a top-up

It usually takes 3 sessions to complete the initial treatment. You may need to visit once more within a year to manage any fading that has appeared. After that, you will be fine for between 4-and 6 years. Then you will need to return to have your pigmentation topped up.

4. There is aftercare after each session

One of the few disadvantages of SMP is the aftercare involved. You can find the recommended pre-treatment and aftercare advice here. The good news is the aftercare is very simple and involves things like not getting it wet or applying any lotions for four days post-treatment.

5. Scalp micropigmentation isn’t 3D

Scalp micropigmentation convinces people you have shaved your head. That is how detailed it looks to the human eye. What it does not include is any 3D texture on the skin. Therefore, if someone runs their hand over your scalp it will feel like smooth skin. A hair tattoo is similar to a standard skin tattoo in how it sits on the skin’s surface. It is not three-dimensional despite its hyper-realistic appearance.

6. Not suitable for all hair types and skin tones

SMP may not be the best option for people with very fine, very curly hair or a very light skin tone, as the procedure may not have created a natural look once it has been completed. It’s also important to remember that the smp process typically uses black and brown inks, which can result in a harsh finish for those people who are very fair headed.

All things considered, those who have this treatment done already say the two main disadvantages of SMP are the process of having your head tattooed and the week-long aftercare you must follow. All in all, that’s pretty positive compared to other hair loss treatments on the market and leaves you with a realistic buzz cut that gives the impression of hair follicles and real hair for those who are struggling with hair loss.

Choosing scalp micropigmentation procedure as the solution for your hair loss is a big decision and should be well thought through. Always consult with a professional to get the best advice for your unique situation before deciding to go ahead. Most clinics offer a free consultation to talk about any concerns or questions you may have.

Skalp® have clinics around the world. We have clinics in New York, Los Angeles, London, Manchester, Edinburgh and Dublin.

The Real Advantages and Disadvantages of SMP