How much can you make as an SMP artist?

Author: Cicero Heathcote  |  Last update: Friday, October 24, 2025

Scalp Micropigmentation Salary The salary potential for SMP Artists is significant, reflecting the increasing demand for this specialised service. On average, part time SMP technicians can earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per year, with top earners well surpassing this range.

Is scalp micropigmentation profitable?

Advantages of Micro-Pigmentation as a Career

Earning Potential: Due to high demand and low supply, artists can earn almost $50,000 – $80,000 Moreover, you can choose your working hours according to your customers' availability.

Is SMP a good business?

The growing awareness and acceptance of SMP, coupled with the rise of the beauty and cosmetic industry, make it a lucrative business opportunity in the right hands.

Is SMP in demand?

Scalp micropigmentation is already an indispensable tool for the well-rounded hair transplant surgeon, although additional high-quality training opportunities are still needed, the use of SMP will continue to expand.

How do you become a SMP 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 To Make $100,000 As A Scalp Micropigmentation Artist

Is SMP a good career?

Once established the financial rewards can accumulate quickly. SMP offers an uncapped earning potential with flexibility for the artist. This business not only has the potential for high profitability due to increasing demand but also requires relatively low startup costs compared to other cosmetic procedures.

How much does SMP training cost?

Our 3 Day Course + Online Theory is $3,799. If you need equipment, our Scalp Micropigmentation Kit which includes the brand NEW Cordless Flux S machine by Microbeau, the #1 Rated SMP Pigment by Folicule, and industry leading FYT needles cost an additional $699.

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.

How much does SMP make?

Average SMP hourly pay ranges from approximately $21.22 per hour for Administrator to $41.85 per hour for Director of Maintenance. The average SMP salary ranges from approximately $51,060 per year for Service Advisor to $83,880 per year for Sales.

How hard is it to get into SMP?

#2: Check SMP Requirements

Even though you may think that special master's programs would have more lax requirements than medical schools, it's not easy to get accepted. Most programs will require at least a 3.0 GPA and an MCAT score of 500.

How to get SMP clients?

The most popular ways to promote an SMP business
  1. Online advertising options. Social media advertising. Email marketing. Content marketing.
  2. Offline advertising options. Leaflet drops. Billboards. Referrals. Local press.

Is it worth getting SMP?

Choosing SMP instead of a hair transplant. For some people with hair loss, SMP is the perfect solution. As this SMP patient explains, it works well if you're used to being bald: Those who want more styling options, or prefer to wear their hair long, a hair transplant is a better option.

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 is the best scalp micropigmentation artist in the world?

Meet the artists
  • Matthew Iulo. Founder and Lead Practitioner at Scalp Micro USA. ...
  • Derek Bogner. Clinic Manager & Lead SMP Practitioner in Los Angeles. ...
  • Graig Lauricella. Top rated OG SMP artist with over 11 years of experience. ...
  • Mike Sosna. ...
  • Max Fierro. ...
  • Ken Boyle.

Is scalp micropigmentation hard to learn?

It's impossible to become fully proficient in this industry by simply attending a short training course. Ongoing support is crucial.

How much should I pay for scalp micropigmentation?

Here's a general overview of average costs in the US: Mild Hair Loss: $3,900 to $4,300. Severe Hair Loss: $4,500 to $5,000. Scar Cover-Up: $1,900 to $2,500.

How much does the SMP program pay?

The SMP Program provides:

GRFD/Minuteman Scholarship (Full tuition and fees OR $10,000/year Room and Board) ROTC Stipend $420/month. Drill pay as a CDT (E-5) $329/month.

How much do you get for SMP?

It is paid: for the first six weeks at 90 per cent of your average gross weekly earnings with no upper limit. for the remaining 33 weeks at the lower of either the standard rate of £184.03 (for the year 2024/25) or 90 per cent of your average gross weekly earnings.

How do I become an SMP artist?

An SMP artist should have knowledge about scalp and skin health and pigmentation. Since SMP involves implanting pigment into the affected areas of the scalp, scalp artists need to undergo micropigmentation training to gain experience in the field.

Is scalp micropigmentation worth it?

By choosing scalp micropigmentation, you may attain not only the illusion of thicker hair but also an appearance that is more youthful. The regained confidence and revitalized look might improve many facets of your life.

Is SMP just a tattoo?

SMP injects pigment in a dot pattern that replicates the natural look of hair follicles. Tattooing typically involves much deeper and widespread inking. There is also the fact that SMP procedures are usually spread out across several procedures.

Does SMP look realistic?

When done right by an expert, SMP produces stunningly natural-looking results. The advanced techniques and customized approach result in hairlines and hair patterns that are virtually undetectable as not being real hair. With the right factors in place, you can achieve natural-looking SMP results.

What license do you need to do SMP?

SMP when offered by non-doctors, fall under the same regulation as tattoo shops. SMP clinics need a license by the city. SMP employees need a cosmetology license.

How do I get SMP certified?

Our SMP training courses include:
  1. A combination of online learning and face-to-face classes.
  2. Live treatment demonstrations by our experienced SMP artists.
  3. Sessions spent practicing your techniques on live models with support and guidance from our trainers.

Is SMP expensive?

Scalp Micropigmentation cost varies, because every scalp is unique with unique requirements. Typically, the price starts between $500 (pic 1) and $3000+ (pic 6). This price can include up to 3 sessions depending on how much scalp needs to be covered.

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