What happens if you get SMP wet?

Author: Jeffrey Schneider  |  Last update: Sunday, January 18, 2026

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.

How long after SMP can you wet your hair?

So you can actually shower on the first day of your scalp micropigmentation procedure, the thing is you want to avoid scrubbing your scalp, so you can shower a day off but as far as shampooing and then towel drying your head, you're gonna have to wait until at least the 4th day.

How long after SMP can I swim?

Extending the Lifespan of the SMP

Avoid swimming in chlorinated pools for at least two weeks after treatment to preserve the longevity of your SMP.

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.

Does sweating ruin SMP?

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.

SMP on Wet Hair

What does bad SMP look like?

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.

How do I 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.

How long does SMP take 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. Again this is more noticeable on lighter skin. It is not uncommon to lose implanted colour, which is why you will require 2-3 treatments to ensure an even colour match all over.

Does sauna fade SMP?

All of the treatment area needs to be kept clean and getting the scalp wet should be avoided. This means that to ensure lasting results, for at least a month after your last SMP treatment you should not use facilities such as saunas, tanning beds, chlorinated pools or steam rooms.

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.

Can I sleep on a pillow after SMP?

Try not to touch your head with your hands or any surface that may be unclean. Do not shave the treated area. Don't apply any product to scalp. Sleeping on a clean pillow case is recommended.

Can SMP make hair look thicker?

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.

Can SMP fall out?

SMP Removal

“Permanent” pigments can fade, and “temporary“ pigments never leave.

Can SMP be fully removed?

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

Does SMP make your head shiny?

Think of sunlight or artificial light bouncing off the surface of a shaved smooth SMP scalp. When this happens, the surface will shine and shine will be noticed after having a wet shave. When there is hair growing from the scalp there is not as much shine because the hair disrupts the shine on the skin surface.

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.

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.

Can SMP be reversed?

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?

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.

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.

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.

Do people regret SMP?

SMP is a good option for many patients. Unfortunately, some people report regretting their scalp micropigmentation operation. This could be due to a lack of study, questionable clinics providing deceptive information or selecting the incorrect surgery.

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.

Previous article
What happens if you pick your pores?
Next article
How do I stop hair from growing on my upper lip?