Can a regular tattoo artist do micropigmentation?

Author: Vernice Baumbach  |  Last update: Saturday, August 16, 2025

Scalp micropigmentation is the job of SMP technicians. Even if someone is a great tattoo artist, they cannot do the job of a scalp practitioner. SMP is a form of corrective procedure.

Can any tattoo artist do SMP?

It takes a lot of training to be a tattoo artist, and it takes a lot of training to be a permanent cosmetics artist. Both of those skills provide great experience for an SMP artist to draw on, but neither one of them are a replacement for a scalp micropigmentation training course.

Who can do micropigmentation?

Only those who are trained and specialized in scalp micropigmentation should perform these treatments, and in some locations around the world, only trained and licensed medical professionals should operate dermatologic lasers.

Can a tattoo artist do microblading?

Even the most well-trained tattoo artists find it difficult to achieve the fine lines of microblading with a tattoo needle. Tattooing simply doesn't lend itself to the same precise technique. Tattooed brows tend to have more of a solid look, and appear as brow filler more so than your natural brow.

What is the difference between a tattoo machine and a SMP machine?

The needle used for SMP is smaller and the machine operates at a higher frequency compared to tattoo machines. The technician uses a tapping motion to gently deposit the pigment into the skin in small, precise dots. This creates the illusion of hair stubble and helps to camouflage hair loss or thinning.

The reason why you need to keep your hair short after the SMP treatment

Is SMP ink the same as tattoo ink?

SMP requires specialized pigments specifically formulated for the scalp and designed to mimic the appearance of natural hair follicles. These pigments are different from tattoo inks, as they are specifically developed to match the colour and texture of the scalp and provide long-lasting, realistic results.

What machine is used for SMP?

The Bishop SMP Pen Machine (Color: Black, Option: Pen)

The Bishop Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) machine is lightweight, smooth, and efficient. The RCA machine, which is the smallest and lightest in the market, was built with artists in mind, by expert builders with 20+ years of experience.

Can a tattoo artist do microneedling?

A tattoo artist would have no legal authority to perform microneedling in California.

What looks more natural, microblading or tattooing?

Results from microblading are more natural than traditional eyebrow tattoos. Each hairstroke is hand drawn in microblading. To the naked eye, these individual hairstrokes blend right in with a clients' real hair.

How to get your PMU license?

Licenses Required in California
  1. Obtaining a practitioner license.
  2. Completing a Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Training Program.
  3. Providing proof of hepatitis B vaccination.
  4. Undergoing a period of practical training, typically around 6 months.

Do you need a license for scalp micropigmentation?

Do I need a license to practice scalp micropigmentation? We do not require a tattoo license at the time of training, but depending on your county or city, you will be required to obtain a license prior to operating.

Who should not get micropigmentation?

People who are prone to keloids (scars that grow larger than normal) should not get scalp micropigmentation. The treatment can cause keloids to form in some people.

How much is micropigmentation school?

What is the cost of the scalp micropigmentation fundamentals 3-day in person training? Our 3 Day Course + Online Theory is $3,799.

What else can a tattoo artist do?

Business Management: Many tattoo artists are self-employed or work in small studios. In addition to their artistic responsibilities, they handle various aspects of running a business, such as scheduling appointments, managing finances, marketing their services, and maintaining a professional portfolio.

How to become a scalp micropigmentation artist?

To become a professional hair tattoo artist or a scalp micropigmentation practitioner, students must complete a certified training program. At Scalp Micro USA, we offer micropigmentation theory and hands-on courses to help you become a certified scalp micropigmentation artist.

How much does micropigmentation cost?

For a complete SMP treatment (2-3 sessions), you can expect it to cost you anywhere from $1,900 to $3,800, with the average treatment costing about $2,850 in 2024.

Can a tattoo artist do eyebrows?

When done correctly by a cosmetic tattoo artist, microblading can provide very natural-looking eyebrows, mimicking the appearance of hair strokes. The technique used to create hair-like strokes ensures a natural brow appearance that differs from the look of traditional tattoos.

What is the best skin to practice tattooing on?

The best tattoo practice skin closely mimics the texture, feel and responsiveness of real human skin, allowing you to hone your skills more quickly and accurately than ever before. A Pound of Flesh is the undisputed leader in manufacturing realistic, responsive, and anatomical tattoo practice skin.

Who is qualified for micro needling?

It is most often performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. In California, aestheticians cannot penetrate the skin and should not perform microneedling. This can also be done at home, but products available likely do not go as deep into the skin's surface as those done by a professional.

What happens if you microneedle over a tattoo?

Although it cannot remove tattoo ink by itself, the micro treatment can help the tattoo removal process by puncturing the skin and allowing the laser light to get into the dermis layer better. It can also help the healing process of the tattoo scar by boosting collagen production.

Can you be a self employed tattoo artist?

As a self-employed tattoo artist, you have the unique opportunity to claim a variety of tax write offs and deductions. These can significantly reduce your taxable income and increase your take-home pay. Here's a handy guide to help you navigate the world of tax deductions.

What size needle is best for SMP?

Typically, micropigmentation needles range from 1 to 3 round configurations and 0.18mm to 0.30mm in diameter. On average the main go-to needle sizes are 0603 (0.20mm) and a 0803 (0.25mm) gauge needle.

Can you do SMP at home?

Attempting to do SMP yourself is not the best way to approach the procedure, which requires skills and training to create a follicle replication that appears realistic. With the right equipment, the scalp artist can rest assured that their hands can create the result their clients dream of.

What is the best stroke for scalp micropigmentation?

Artists would typically only use a stroke length of 4mm and above for treatments such as scalp micropigmentation, areola restoration or scar camouflage on the body.

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