How much do SMP artists make?

Author: Dr. Jonathon Collins  |  Last update: Saturday, June 28, 2025

A full time Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) technician can make a minimum of $100,000- $250,000 a year gross with the right mentorship.

How much can you make doing SMP?

On average, part time SMP technicians can earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per year, with top earners well surpassing this range. Seasoned SMP artists and trainers who have established a strong reputation and loyal client base may earn even higher salaries upwards of $250 000 per year.

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 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

Can you do SMP as a freshman?

If you are (or will be) a freshman, are currently enlisted, and have completed Basic Combat Training, you are eligible for SMP contracting at the beginning of your sophomore fall semester. For your first year, you can still enroll in ROTC classes and drill with your unit but are not formally in the SMP.

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 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.

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.

How much can you make as an SMP artist?

SMP ARTIST SALARY: “How much can I make from SMP in the UK?” It's a very valid question. Experienced Scalp Micro Pigmentation technicians can earn up to £10,000 a month. Of course, not everyone will have the same pay, because it all depends on your ability to market your services, location and the results you provide.

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.

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.

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.

How much do you get paid in the SMP program?

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.

What is a good SMP GPA?

SMP's can be costly, averaging between $20,000 and $30,000 or more. If you enroll in a SMP and do not excel, you may hurt your chances for admission. The goal should be to achieve a GPA of 3.60 or better.

How long are SMP programs?

The majority of SMPs are full-time, one-, or two-year programs. A limited number of schools, such as Case Western Reserve University, offer part-time or full-time enrollment opportunities.

What is the difference between SMP and post-BACC?

Curriculum: SMPs are often more rigorous and more accurately simulate the medical school curriculum. They usually involve graduate-level courses, sometimes taken alongside medical students. In contrast, post-bacc programs involve undergraduate-level coursework in the pre-med sciences and are not as intense as SMPs.

Does anyone regret SMP?

SMP is a good choice for many patients. Unfortunately, some people also report having scalp micropigmentation regrets after their procedure. This can stem from lack of research, questionable clinics giving out misleading information and choosing the wrong procedure.

How realistic is SMP?

The results look extremely realistic since the pigment is matched precisely to your natural hair color and the dots are placed to mimic real hair follicles. No one will be able to tell that it's not your own natural hair growth.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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