Does SMP damage hair transplant?

Author: Jaron Pollich  |  Last update: Monday, December 29, 2025

Q: If someone wants to get a hair transplant in the future, can they still get SMP? A: Yes. The tattooing is placed very high up in the dermal papillary layer of the skin (0.7mm to 1.1mm), which is too shallow to create any scarring that would be detrimental to grafts being placed in the future.

What is the downside to SMP?

Possible risks include: Allergic reaction to the cosmetic pigments. Infection from unsterilized needles. Unnatural or undesirable appearance after treatment.

Does SMP damage existing hair?

Scalp Micropigmentation SMP does not affect transplanted hair or harm existing hairs. It is considered safe as long as it is done properly at a medical facility.

Does SMP removal damage hair?

Answer: Scalp Micropigmentation SMP does not affect transplanted hair or harm existing hairs.

Do people regret SMP?

No! Most people who had SMP don't regret having it done. But people do regret BAD scalp micropigmentation.

How Scalp Micropigmentation Too Soon after a Hair Transplant can Damage Hair Grafts

How does SMP look after 5 years?

The pigments may soften, leading to a more natural look that blends seamlessly with any existing hair. The key contours and hairline designs set during the initial treatment remain visible, preserving the overall aesthetic. This matured look of SMP after 5 years fits well with the natural aging of the scalp and hair.

Does SMP look good in real life?

A skilled SMP artist creates tiny, layered dots in different shades to mimic natural hair follicles. Does scalp micropigmentation look real? Quality scalp micropigmentation should look like real hair follicles.

Can I do SMP after hair transplant?

“Before we start micropigmentation of the scalp, we must make sure that the transplanted bulbs are well positioned, healed and that the hair is growing. Usually it is a minimum of 6 months, although I personally recommend refraining from micropigmentation for 9-12 months after the transplant.

Can SMP be fully removed?

Remember, SMP isn't a life sentence—you have options to fade or remove it completely.

Does SMP make your head shiny?

Think of sunlight or artificial light bouncing off the surface of a shaved smooth SMP scalp. When this happens, the surface will shine and shine will be noticed after having a wet shave. When there is hair growing from the scalp there is not as much shine because the hair disrupts the shine on the skin surface.

Can hair grow over SMP?

Can you grow your hair out after SMP? The answer is yes, you can do whatever you like with your own hair.

Can SMP be reversed?

Can SMP be reversed? Yes, it can. However, we have never had an instance where a client requested this. How soon can I start the treatment?

How much does SMP cost?

On average, a hair transplant procedure costs $8,000, while an SMP treatment costs around $3,000. Hair transplant costs will also vary depending on whether you get an FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) or FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) cosmetic procedure. FUE is usually the more expensive of the two.

Who should not get SMP?

It's important to note that scalp conditions like active psoriasis or eczema may not be suitable for SMP treatment. Consulting with a qualified hair loss doctor or SMP technician can help determine if you're a good candidate for the procedure.

Is SMP worth the money?

Whether you have age-related hair loss, alopecia, thinning hair, or major scars from past experiences, scalp micropigmentation is a cost-effective alternative that can dramatically improve your confidence and look. So, it is definitely worth it.

Does SMP damage hair follicles?

It is important to clarify that SMP does not damage hair follicles. In contrast to invasive procedures and treatments involving the insertion of foreign substances into the scalp, SMP is a surface-level procedure that does not interfere with the underlying hair follicles.

Can SMP go wrong?

The most common reason for scalp micropigmentation going wrong is a rushed job given by the technician. The results will look unnatural, blotchy, and sometimes even wonky. Basically, it will look nothing like actual, real hair.

How long after transplant can I get SMP?

Meaning, there is enough donor hair available to completely cover, with enough density, the large scalp area of a low hairline created with SMP. We would advise waiting until nine months after a transplant before applying SMP.

Can hair grow through SMP?

Scalp micropigmentation doesn't grow hair or change your natural hair growth. And beyond what you may have read, it also won't cause hair loss or damage your existing hair follicles.

What fades SMP?

With any pigment in the skin, the appearance changes over time. “Permanent” pigments can fade, and “temporary“ pigments never leave. Ultraviolet (UV) light, in particular, will fade scalp micropigmentation pigments more quickly than otherwise, so sun protection for the head after treatment is essential.

What you Cannot do after hair transplant?

18 Things to Avoid After a Hair Transplant Procedure
  • Driving.
  • Sleeping Flat.
  • Ignoring Your Labels.
  • Forgetting The Ice.
  • Scrubbing Your Hair Or Shower.
  • Dyeing Your Hair.
  • Forgetting To Drink Water.
  • Assuming Your Hair Won't Fall Out.

Which is better, SMP or hair transplant?

Several personal factors can greatly influence your decision: Age and Future Hair Loss: Consider your age and the likelihood of future hair loss. Younger individuals with ongoing hair loss may find hair transplants a more suitable long-term solution, while older individuals may prefer the immediate results of SMP.

What are the negatives of SMP?

Disadvantages of Scalp Micro Pigmentation

When SMP is done in areas that have longer hair, it may be noticeable. If you would prefer a thicker head of hair or one that can be styled, then an FUE hair transplant will be your better option.

Do any celebrities have SMP?

First on our list of celebs with SMP is Ricky Bell, a famous American singer and actor. He is refreshingly open about his experience with scalp micropigmentation. He considers SMP a life-changing treatment that has significantly boosted his confidence.

Why is SMP so popular?

Scalp micropigmentation can be an effective treatment for those seeking to restore the appearance of full-head hair. SMP treatment is becoming increasingly popular as it provides satisfactory results without involving any invasive procedures or messy products.

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