Who is a good candidate for SMP?

Author: Prof. Cale Cassin  |  Last update: Sunday, June 8, 2025

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
  • Men and women wanting the appearance of added hair density.
  • People with shaved heads that desire hairline definition.
  • Alopecia sufferers.
  • Those who want to camouflage burns, scars or birthmarks.
  • Non-candidates for hair transplantation.

Who is not a candidate for SMP?

Individuals with Scalp Conditions: Certain scalp conditions, such as psoriasis or dermatitis, may affect candidacy for SMP.

Who is eligible for scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation is particularly useful when hormonal therapy is unable to restore full hair density where previous male pattern hair loss existed or where scars from facial feminization surgery (FFS) have left an odd pattern of hair growth.

What is the downside to SMP?

Possible risks include: Allergic reaction to the cosmetic pigments. Infection from unsterilized needles. Unnatural or undesirable appearance after treatment.

Who is not a good candidate for hair transplant?

Conversely, if someone has a low density of hair follicles, they will probably not be a good candidate for a hair transplant. You need to have a moderate-to-high level of hair density in order to be able to transplant donor follicles across the scalp.

The reason why you need to keep your hair short after the SMP treatment

What disqualifies you from a hair transplant?

Generally speaking, the following reasons would make someone NOT a candidate for surgery: younger than age 25, various medical reasons/conditions, type of thinning (diffuse rather than pattern alopecia), lack of hair in donor area (this is the most common disqualifying reason that we see) and most importantly, ...

Who is unfit for a hair transplant?

These are: diffuse unpatterned alopecia (DUPA), cicatricial alopecia (CA), patients with unstable hair loss, patients with insufficient hair loss, very young patients, patients with unrealistic expectations, patients with psychologic disorders such as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and trichotillomania, and patients ...

Who should not get SMP?

It's important to note that scalp conditions like active psoriasis or eczema may not be suitable for SMP treatment. Consulting with a qualified hair loss doctor or SMP technician can help determine if you're a good candidate for the procedure.

Does anyone regret 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.

Is SMP worth the money?

Whether you have age-related hair loss, alopecia, thinning hair, or major scars from past experiences, scalp micropigmentation is a cost-effective alternative that can dramatically improve your confidence and look. So, it is definitely worth it.

How does SMP look after years?

Five years after Scalp Micropigmentation, expect a slight fading of the pigments. Still, the overall shape and design generally remain well-preserved. At this stage, clients often opt for minor touch-ups of the SMP to their current preferences. This ensures the treatment gives it a natural and vibrant look.

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.

Do any celebrities have scalp micropigmentation?

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx makes our list of celebs with SMP. Foxx, a household name in Hollywood, is widely recognized for his versatile acting skills. In his 40s, Foxx opted for scalp micropigmentation to enhance his looks and camouflage his receding hairline.

What would I look like with scalp micropigmentation?

These dots replicate the appearance of hair follicles, creating the illusion of a closely shaved or buzzed hairstyle. It's a highly effective way to address various types of hair loss, including male pattern baldness and receding hairlines.

Should I shave my head before SMP?

To summarise: Do you need to shave for SMP? The bottom line is: it depends on your hair loss and the look you're going for. If you want a buzz-cut appearance, yes, shaving is required. If you have thinning hair and want to create density, no, you can keep your existing hair.

How long does it take for SMP to heal?

It's a very fast healing process. So, as far as SMP heals in the short term, 7 days you're usually back to normal, good to go, and then for the total healing time of the procedure, it's gonna be about 21 to 30 days if you have your appointments consecutively.

What are the downsides of SMP?

Not a permanent solution – top-ups and new procedures are required every few years, so it's an ongoing investment. While results fade, some pigment will stick around underneath your skin. It's worth considering whether scalp micropigmentation is a look you'll want when you're older.

Can you tell if someone has scalp micropigmentation?

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.

What is the world's best scalp micropigmentation?

Skalp® is recognised as the world's number one Scalp Micropigmentation hair tattoo clinic, known worldwide for offering the most natural & realistic results.

Do people regret scalp micropigmentation?

Even though scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a life-changing solution for hair loss, a small percentage of people experience scalp micropigmentation regrets. Most of the time, these regrets stem from just a few common mistakes that can be easily avoided.

Does sick leave affect SMP?

If the employee: becomes sick during the SMP pay period do not pay Statutory Sick Pay ( SSP ), continue to pay SMP as normal. returns to work within the Maternity Pay Period ( MPP ) and then goes sick during that period, pay SMP , not SSP.

What entitles you to SMP?

Statutory Maternity Pay ( SMP )

To qualify for SMP you must: earn on average at least £123 a week. give the correct notice and proof you're pregnant. have worked for your employer continuously for at least 26 weeks continuing into the 'qualifying week' - the 15th week before the expected week of childbirth.

What can disqualify you from a hair transplant?

Contraindications to Transplantation in Patterned Hair Loss
  • Diffuse unpatterned alopecia.
  • Cicatricial Alopecias.
  • Alopecia areata.
  • Patients with unstable hair loss.
  • Patients with insufficient hair loss.
  • Beware the young patient!
  • The patient with unrealistic expectations.
  • Patients with psychological disorders.

How bald is too bald for a hair transplant?

Generally, clients can proceed with a hair transplant or preparatory therapies if: Their hair loss is below stage six on the Norwood Scale. There are sufficient follicles to replenish the target areas.

Who is a good vs bad candidate for hair transplant?

The ideal hair transplant candidate has a healthy donor area of hair, and is generally below the age of 65. Failure to have a thick, healthy donor area with hair that is viable for transplantation can ultimately lead to a failed hair transplant.

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