How long does SMP take to heal?

Author: Prof. Quentin King  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 23, 2025

It takes approximately 4 weeks after the final session for the treatment to fully heal but this will vary from person to person. Will I see the difference between my hair follicles and the SMP?

How long does it take for SMP to settle?

The pigment colour may appear darker until it has had time to settle and you have washed off the excess pigment, approximately 5-7 days.

What is the best aftercare for SMP?

In general, you'll want to treat your scalp like an open wound after SMP treatment. Meaning, avoid getting it wet and keep it clean. No chlorinated pools, saunas, steam rooms, or tanning beds for 28 days after your final treatment. This will ensure a good, long-lasting result.

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 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.

How Long Does Scalp Micropigmentation Take to Heal? SMP Explained

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.

How to make SMP fade faster?

Regular exfoliation with sea salt can help speed up the fading process. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub designed for the scalp. This method works by removing the top layer of skin cells, which can help lighten the pigment over time.

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.

Can SMP be fully removed?

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

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.

Does SMP look good after 1 session?

For your scalp micropigmentation to look the best quality and authentic is simply can't be done in a day of treatment. As a rule of thumb you will require a minimum of three sittings.

How to prolong SMP?

Maximize longevity: By following proper aftercare practices, you can extend the lifespan of your SMP treatment. Protecting it from sun damage through sunscreen application and avoiding prolonged exposure to UV rays will keep the pigment vibrant for longer.

What is the percentage of SMP recovery?

If you're classed as a small employer, you can recover 100% plus 3% (24/25) or 8.5% (25/26) in Small Employers' Relief. Otherwise, you can recover 92%.

How long will SMP remain dark after healing?

After care for 3D Scalp Micropigmentation is simple and fast. Redness will occur from the procedure itself, but will lessen 24 to 48 after the procedure. Also, the pigment on the scalp will appear darker than the desired outcome, but will soften within 1 to 2 weeks.

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.

When can I buzz my head after SMP?

For some people, it may be safe to shave their heads as soon as a week after SMP. For others, it may be necessary to wait a little longer in order to ensure that the scalp is completely healed. Ultimately, it is best to check with your SMP artist to see what their recommendation is.

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.

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.

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.

Who is a good candidate for SMP?

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
  • Men and women wanting the appearance of added hair density.
  • People with shaved heads that desire hairline definition.
  • Alopecia sufferers.
  • Those who want to camouflage burns, scars or birthmarks.
  • Non-candidates for hair transplantation.

Do any celebrities have scalp micropigmentation?

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx makes our list of celebs with SMP. Foxx, a household name in Hollywood, is widely recognized for his versatile acting skills. In his 40s, Foxx opted for scalp micropigmentation to enhance his looks and camouflage his receding hairline.

How deep does SMP go?

Both scalp micropigmentation and tattoo artists aim to deposit ink in the dermis layer of the skin. During scalp micropigmentation, Folicule pigment is deposited around 1.5 to 2 mm deep. This allows the Folicule pigment to be deposited past the epidermis and into the dermis.

How many laser sessions to remove SMP?

In most cases depending on the depth of the SMP, it may take from 1- 2 sessions possibly up to 4.

Can I grow my hair with SMP?

Scalp micropigmentation doesn't grow hair or change your natural hair growth. It's not a hair loss treatment. 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.

Should I moisturize after SMP?

Please ensure that you moisturise daily after showering as your skin will be very dry. Avoid swimming, saunas and stream rooms for one month after your final treatment as this can cause fading to your SMP. Keep the treated area out of the sun for 30 days after your treatment.

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