Protecting it from sun damage through sunscreen application and avoiding prolonged exposure to UV rays will keep the pigment vibrant for longer. Additionally, maintaining a regular cleaning routine and adhering to any post-treatment guidelines provided will maximize the benefits of your SMP procedure.
Note: After each session the pigments will be up to 50% darker than the shade they will settle to. So please do not be alarmed if they are darker than expected. They will lighten over the course of the first 4 – 5 weeks.
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.
The simplest and least invasive method is to let the pigment fade naturally. Over time, exposure to sunlight, the body's immune response, and regular washing will gradually lighten the pigment. This process can take several months, but it's a viable option if you prefer not to undergo additional procedures.
If you resume the Retin-A, Retinol, or Retinoids after the 30 days, the continued use will fade the micropigmentation work prematurely.
SMP Removal
With any pigment in the skin, the appearance changes over time. “Permanent” pigments can fade, and “temporary“ pigments never leave. Ultraviolet (UV) light, in particular, will fade scalp micropigmentation pigments more quickly than otherwise, so sun protection for the head after treatment is essential.
Over time, scalp micropigmentation can fade due to the skin's natural exfoliation process and exposure to UV rays. However, this fading doesn't mean the end of your SMP journey. Touch-up sessions are available to revive the vibrancy of your SMP, ensuring it always looks its best.
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.
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.
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.
When you go grey, scalp micropigmentation remains unchanged because the pigments are deposited into the scalp, not the hair. If you have SMP and your hair starts to grey, the SMP may become more noticeable if there was an attempt to blend it with your natural hair colour before greying.
After SMP treatment, do not wet your hair. For example, a wash, swim, or sweat session could all lead to faster fading for your skin. And, as each piece of ink is like a small open wound to the skin, it can also be painful. Avoid shaving as well with a normal blade until 15 days after and direct sunlight for 30 days.
If done correctly, scalp micropigmentation ink will not discolor, turn blue or green. However, you will notice that overtime your treatment will naturally lighten. Typically, this happens every 4-6 years before a slight touch-up is needed. This is a normal part of the SMP process.
So yes, there are dedicated balms, creams, and lotions on the market that can darken the appearance of your tattoo. These can be great for when you want to show off your body ink on any given day, whether going to the beach or for a night out on the town. It's an effective albeit short term solution.
Can you sleep normally after SMP? Yes you can, the treatment does not affect your sleep. Ensure you have a clean pillow.
Remember, SMP isn't a life sentence—you have options to fade or remove it completely.
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.
The pigments used in SMP are formulated to remain stable and not change color over time, but sun exposure can still have a negative impact on the appearance of the results and cause fading.
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.
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.
Be aware that SMP is a semi-permanent solution, and the pigmentation may gradually fade over time. Furthermore, to maintain optimal results, some individuals choose to have touch-up sessions every few years, and it's totally up to the individual's needs.
Laser Removal of SMP is the safest, most effective method for the removal and correction of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP). Scalp Micropigmentation removal is more closely linked to permanent make-up removal, than tattoo removal. Tattoo artists generally use traditional inks which do not contain titanium oxide.
Can you grow your hair out after SMP? The answer is yes, you can do whatever you like with your own hair.