Bad SMP often looks unnatural, with colour fading, uneven hairline, it's patchy and not applied evenly, and a harsh hairline might be visible. You might notice stark contrasts due to poor pigment choices.
Sometimes they just have patchy, uneven results, that are slightly too dark or light with unnatural or asymmetrical hairlines, but sometimes their head is way beyond repair with dots that are 5-10 times bigger than they should be and the colour is way too dark and blotchy, and they are now hiding under a hat because ...
Depending on how bad the result is, often bad SMP can be reversed or corrected. If it is simply bad design and needs more work to improve it, we may be able to blend out some of the bad areas and correct poor hairlines. Often we can repair a bad result.
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.
Disadvantages of Scalp Micro Pigmentation
When SMP is done in areas that have longer hair, it may be noticeable. If you would prefer a thicker head of hair or one that can be styled, then an FUE hair transplant will be your better option.
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.
Scalp Micropigmentation is a semi-permanent solution, typically lasting between 4 to 6 years before noticeable fading. However, the exact duration can vary based on several factors, including your skincare routine, immune system, lifestyle habits, and exposure to UV light.
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.
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.
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.
If your SMP is significantly darker than desired, it's wise to consult with a professional who specialises in scalp micropigmentation correction. They can assess your situation and recommend the most suitable method for fading the pigment. They might combine several techniques to achieve the best results.
Remember, SMP isn't a life sentence—you have options to fade or remove it completely.
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.
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.
Vin Diesel is an American Actor best known for his roles as Dominic Toretto in the Fast and the Furious movies. He began experiencing hair loss when he was quite young. He embraced this look for many years and also received SMP to sharpen his look with a natural-appearing hairline.
There are three methods which are popular in the industry today. Laser removals, saline removal and UNDO system are the methods that have worked well. Lasers have been the most popular method simply because people don't know about other technologies. Lasers are used to break down the pigments into smaller particles.
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, 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.
A technician uses a special tool with tiny needles to deposit pigment into your scalp. These pigments are tiny dots that mimic the look of shaved hair follicles. This creates a realistic look of a buzz cut or adds density to thinning hair.
Can you grow your hair out after SMP? The answer is yes, you can do whatever you like with your own hair.
Can SMP be reversed? Yes, it can. However, we have never had an instance where a client requested this. How soon can I start the treatment?
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.
SMP pigment fades over time due to factors like sun exposure, aftercare, immune response, scalp health, and artist skill. Proper aftercare and sun protection can help minimise this fading. SMP touch-ups, necessary every 2-5 years, are generally more affordable as they usually require just one session.
You can give notice for SMP up to three weeks after the start of your SMP period and up to 13 weeks from the start of your SMP period if you have good reasons for the delay e.g. you have not been well.
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.