How long does scalp micropigmentation last? Scalp micropigmentation usually retains its appearance for four years or longer. The pigments used in scalp micropigmentation are permanent cosmetic pigments. They are not the same as tattoo ink, so they resist fading or color change.
Not a permanent solution – top-ups and new procedures are required every few years, so it's an ongoing investment. While results fade, some pigment will stick around underneath your skin. It's worth considering whether scalp micropigmentation is a look you'll want when you're older.
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.
Touch-ups can also help maintain the uniformity of the pigments throughout the scalp. SMP touch-ups may be required every year to three years after the initial treatment, depending on the quality of the SMP and aftercare practices followed.
Remember, SMP isn't a life sentence—you have options to fade or remove it completely.
We offer transparent pricing based on the size of the treatment area: Small Area (e.g., hairline correction) – from $150 per session. Medium Area (e.g., partial scalp removal) – from $250 per session. Full SMP Removal (entire scalp) – from $350 per session.
Can you grow your hair out after SMP? The answer is yes, you can do whatever you like with your own hair.
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.
Most people, including family members, cannot differentiate between natural and SMP follicles. However, it is noticeable in the same manner as if someone had shaved only this portion of their head and not the sides.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Even though scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a life-changing solution for hair loss, a small percentage of people experience scalp micropigmentation regrets. Most of the time, these regrets stem from just a few common mistakes that can be easily avoided.
As micropigmentation uses a machine to deposit pigment into the brow area, the skin is much more likely to retain the ink from an Ombre Brow procedure. This, in turn, means that micropigmentation requires much fewer top-ups than microblading. Suitable for all skin types.
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.
SMP has now been around for approximately 14 years, and in this time, there has been a great amount of trial and error completed. If you look at some of the best artists in the world, they are all working to a 3 session standard. On occasion, some will do 2 main sessions and a third touch up session.
You and your provider choose pigments that match your hair color. Your practitioner applies numbing medicine to the scalp to make you more comfortable. The needles are thinner and smaller than tattoo needles, so scalp micropigmentation is usually less painful than getting a tattoo.
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.
No, sorry scalp micropigmentation is not covered by insurance. SMP is a cosmetic procedure by nature, so it is rarely ever covered by medical insurance.
Skalp® is recognised as the world's number one Scalp Micropigmentation hair tattoo clinic, known worldwide for offering the most natural & realistic results.
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP®) is an innovative solution that replicates the appearance of thicker, fuller hair. Specially trained Bosley technicians apply a proprietary formula of pigment to the scalp with micro-fine needles to create thousands of tiny impressions, giving the illusion of hair.
Disadvantages of Scalp Micro Pigmentation
An SMP treatment will always look its very best when the surrounding hairs have been shaved. In most cases, the SMP treatment works best to add the appearance of a “shaved look” to an already shaved head. When SMP is done in areas that have longer hair, it may be noticeable.
However, one of the most common questions we get at Foli Sim is – Do you have to shave your head for scalp micropigmentation? The short answer? Not always. While some clients benefit from shaving their heads before the procedure, others can have SMP blended seamlessly into their existing hair.
If you have hair in the treated area, brushing or combing should be done carefully. Avoid brushing the scalp directly for at least 4-7 days post-procedure to prevent disturbing the healing skin or the pigments. If your scalp feels itchy or dry, resist the urge to scratch or apply pressure with a brush.