Does SMP eventually fade away?

Author: Mr. Augustus Miller III  |  Last update: Sunday, April 27, 2025

The short answer is, SMP does fade, and if done correctly it will lighten gradually over 3-5 years. If applied incorrectly it could last a lifetime, and will no doubt look horrendous. On average your SMP should last about 3-5 years before a refresh is carried out (preferably by the same artist).

Does SMP ever completely fade?

One of the most common questions about SMP is whether it fades over time. The answer is yes—hair tattoos do fade gradually. If performed correctly by a skilled practitioner, the pigment lightens naturally over a period of 2 to 5 years, requiring only a refresh or touch-up to maintain its appearance.

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.

How many years does SMP last?

SMP is designed to be semi-permanent, which means that it will fade over time. The average length of time that SMP lasts ranges from 3 to 6 years, depending on various factors such as your skin type, hair growth, size of the treated area, and aftercare practices.

How do I keep my SMP from fading?

Maintaining the Pigment

Additionally, choose gentle shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for colored hair to prevent fading. Avoid harsh chemicals or hair products that may strip away the pigment prematurely, and follow aftercare guidelines provided by your SMP technician.

Does Scalp Micropigmentation Fade Away?

Does SMP lighten as it heals?

Yes, Scalp Micropigmentation typically does lighten after a few days following the treatment. This initial lightening is a normal part of the healing process. When SMP is first applied, the pigment may appear darker and more intense.

Can SMP be permanent?

Although scalp micropigmentation can last for years, it is not a permanent solution to hair loss. You will have good results for years, It is most popular for men who have short hair, and gives you the appearance of having a buzz-cut.

Does SMP age well?

Over time, sun exposure and skin cell turnover can lead to slight fading of the SMP pigment. However, this is usually a slow process and can be managed with regular touch-up sessions. This ensures your SMP always looks fresh and natural, regardless of your age.

Can SMP be fully removed?

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

Does SMP fade after third session?

This is the fading that occurs between your treatment sessions, and also up to about a year after your final session. Immediate fading is normal and expected, however excessive early fading usually means that your treatment simply isn't finished yet, and more sessions are required.

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?

Can you tell if someone has had SMP?

Scalp micropigmentation can look either like hair that is denser or like shaved hair. But just as it would be odd to have only part of a head shaved, so too does SMP look odd when there is a mix of haired (long hair) and non-haired (closely shaved) areas on a scalp.

Do people regret SMP?

SMP is a good option for many patients. Unfortunately, some people report regretting their scalp micropigmentation operation. This could be due to a lack of study, questionable clinics providing deceptive information or selecting the incorrect surgery.

Can you laser off SMP?

If you've undergone a scalp micro pigmentation (SMP) treatment in the past and now want to remove it, laser scalp micro pigmentation removal might be the solution you're looking for.

Does SMP get lighter?

After five years, the SMP had naturally lightened, as intended. The multiple shades used initially had faded at different rates, with the lightest shades almost disappearing. This created a subtle, blended appearance that retained its natural look despite minor hair recession and skin changes over the years.

Does SMP eventually disappear?

Scalp Micropigmentation is a semi-permanent solution, typically lasting between 4 to 6 years before noticeable fading.

What to do if SMP is not enough?

If you do not qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) or Maternity Allowance (MA), you may be able to claim New-Style Employment and Support Allowance (New Style ESA) for a short period before and after birth.

How do I get rid of SMP naturally?

So the first way is to go out in the sun. Now, the sun is the biggest fader of scalp micropigmentation. So logically if you were trying to get rid of it, it would be wise to spend a lot of time in the sun because it will fade more quickly over time.

What is the downside to SMP?

Disadvantages of Scalp Micro Pigmentation
  • Disadvantages of Scalp Micro Pigmentation. An SMP treatment will always look its very best when the surrounding hairs have been shaved. ...
  • It does not feel like hair. SMP is a great way to create an illusion, but it will still feel the same as a bald head. ...
  • Will not age.

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 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.

Is SMP reversible?

Is Scalp Micropigmentation Reversible? It is a permanent treatment, but it can be reversed or adjusted once the rest of your hair turns grey. Removals are relatively simple and painless, usually requiring only one or two sessions for complete restoration to a natural hairline.

Does SMP damage existing hair?

It also won't cause hair loss or damage your existing hair follicles. Scalp micropigmentation is a way to make it look like you have fuller, thicker hair.

Does SMP leave scars?

Scalp micropigmentation (also known as SMP or hair tattoo) is the perfect treatment to camouflage the area and the best thing is, it will leave you with 100% natural results and it will almost be like the scar was never there to begin with.

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