When should I wash my hair with SMP?

Author: Hyman Langosh Jr.  |  Last update: Sunday, August 17, 2025

After your scalp micropigmentation services, wash your hair and scalp after 4 days. However, even then, you'll want to use a mild, sulfate-free, non-exfoliating product for the best scalp micropigmentation aftercare. This will wash your scalp and hair without affecting the ink.

When can you wash your hair after SMP?

Avoid washing your scalp for the first 48 hours after the procedure. This will allow the pigment to properly set and avoid any smudging or fading. Once the initial 48-hour period has passed, gently wash your scalp with a mild, sulfate-free shampoo.

What happens to SMP when you go grey?

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.

How to 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.

What are the rules after SMP?

POST CARE INSTRUCTIONS
  • Avoid getting your scalp wet from water or sweat at least 5 days after each Scalp Micro Pigmentation session.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that cause sweating for at least 10 days after the SMP procedure.
  • Avoid exposing your scalp to the sun for at least a 2 weeks after the procedure.

When Can I Wash My Hair After Scalp Micropigmentation? SMP Explained

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.

How do I keep my SMP dark?

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.

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.

Why did my SMP turn blue?

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.

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.

Do you regret getting 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.

Can you tell if someone has had SMP?

Scalp micropigmentation can look either like hair that is denser or like shaved hair. But just as it would be odd to have only part of a head shaved, so too does SMP look odd when there is a mix of haired (long hair) and non-haired (closely shaved) areas on a scalp.

What shampoo is best after SMP?

Choose the Right Shampoo: Choose a mild, sulfate-free shampoo designed for sensitive skin. Avoid products with harsh chemicals or strong fragrances, as they can irritate your scalp and affect SMP pigments. Use Lukewarm Water: When washing your scalp, ensure the water temperature is lukewarm rather than hot.

When can I buzz my head after SMP?

For some people, it may be safe to shave their heads as soon as a week after SMP. For others, it may be necessary to wait a little longer in order to ensure that the scalp is completely healed. Ultimately, it is best to check with your SMP artist to see what their recommendation is.

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.

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 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.

How much does SMP cost?

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.

How do I make SMP last?

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.

What does sun do to SMP?

Directly exposing your scalp to the sun's rays can accelerate the fading of your treatment, which is why it's crucial to invest in an SPF-containing product to preserve your new hairline. Ultraviolet rays can cause your scalp tattoo to fade much like it does on car paint or leather fabrics.

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.

How long until I can wash my hair after SMP?

When Can I Wash My Head After SMP? After your scalp micropigmentation services, wash your hair and scalp after 4 days. However, even then, you'll want to use a mild, sulfate-free, non-exfoliating product for the best scalp micropigmentation aftercare.

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.

Does SMP have to be paid back?

If you get contractual maternity pay you might only keep your full amount if you return to work. You won't need to pay back statutory maternity pay or Maternity Allowance, even if you don't return to work.

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