If your SMP is significantly darker than desired, it's wise to consult with a professional who specialises in
One of the most common questions about SMP is whether it fades over time. The answer is yes—hair tattoos do fade gradually. If performed correctly by a skilled practitioner, the pigment lightens naturally over a period of 2 to 5 years, requiring only a refresh or touch-up to maintain its appearance.
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.
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.
Laser Treatment to Fade Scalp Micropigmentation
Laser removal is one of the most effective methods for fading SMP. It works by targeting the pigment particles with laser light, breaking them down so the body can absorb and eliminate them.
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.
Laser scalp micro pigmentation removal is a non-invasive procedure that uses lasers to break down the pigments in the scalp, allowing the immune system to absorb and remove them naturally over time. This process can help fade or remove the SMP, depending on the amount of pigment used and the individual's skin type.
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.
Remember, SMP isn't a life sentence—you have options to fade or remove it completely.
Professional procedures such as microdermabrasion and facials with cleansers can help exfoliate the upper layers of the skin and help the body naturally get rid of the pigment. You may need several sessions of microdermabrasion but you should notice a definite “lightening” after each and every session.
Q-Switch laser treatment is the most common and effective method for tattoo removal, including micropigmentation and microblading tattoos. The laser energy targets the pigment particles in the skin, breaking them down into smaller fragments which are then eliminated by the body's immune system.
Applying prescription bleaching creams (hydroquinone) alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) and a mild steroid might gradually fade the spots over several months. The treatments might cause temporary itching, redness, burning or dryness. Laser and intense pulsed light.
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.
The longevity of SMP varies based on several factors, including the individual's skin type, lifestyle, immune system, and skincare regimen. In some cases, SMP can maintain its appearance for several years, while in others, it may soften to a lighter tone, remaining inconspicuous to observers.
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.
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.
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.
SMP may turn blue for a few reasons, often related to the type of pigment used, the depth at which the pigment was implanted, or external factors affecting the scalp.
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.
The expert scalp micropigmentation artist can carry out correction work only if the unexpert technician who preceded him used a scalp micropigmentation ink. If the operator has instead used a permanent tattoo pigment, the only solution is laser removal.
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 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.
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.
Over time, SMP pigments can fade or change color due to factors such as sun exposure, skin type, and the client's lifestyle. This can result in an unnatural appearance, particularly if the pigment fades to a different color than the client's natural hair.