FAQs
Scalp Micropigmentation
What is Scalp-Micropigmentation?
A hair tattoo or scalp micropigmentation (SMP for short) is a non-surgical, superficial cosmetic tattoo that gives the illusion of thicker fuller hair.
Scalp Micropigmentation, or SMP for short, is a non-invasive treatment that uses detailed micro-needles to deposit pigment into the scalp. The result creates the appearance of tiny hair follicles that help thicken and restore the look of fuller hair for both men and women. By accurately replicating natural hair follicles and hair color, SMP can help strengthen and add density to thinning areas, creating a more youthful look. It requires little to no maintenance and carries no strict lifestyle, or daily restrictions. The procedure can also be used to conceal scars from hair transplantation and hide the visual impact of burns or scars on the head. Scalp micropigmentation can be performed on all ethnicities.
What Exactly is Scalp Micropigmentation or SMP?
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) was developed as both a cosmetic procedure for men and women suffering with all types of hair loss, and as a medical procedure to help conceal scars in general, as well as scars from hair FUT and FUE hair transplant procedures, burns, birthmarks, as well as the full spectrum of alopecia.
During the procedure your technician uses sophisticated microneedles to deposit custom mixed pigments (that match your hair color) into the dermal layer of your scalp. This technique is specially designed to replicate tiny hair follicles to restore thinning hair to resemble its previous density.
SMP is a viable alternative to traditional hair transplant surgery, hair systems, pills, and fibers.
Who should NOT have SMP?
Clients suffering from active eczema as needles may cause flare ups & a flare up may cause your SMP to heal inconsistently. Clients experiencing Dermatitis , Psoriasis, and Fol liculitis’ should also not have SMP as these conditions may cause your SMP not to heal well. We also want to stay away from further irritating your scalp. Clients with Keloid Scarring should consult with your dermatologist before having SMP.
Do I have to shave my head before SMP?
The short answer to this is NO! SMP works on both long and short hair. SMP is great for both men and women.
Women & Pain Level
Women for density, when timing the booking of your appointment, keep in mind that pain tolerance is reduced just before and during, menstruation.
What will my scalp look like directly after treatment?
The area of the scalp that has been treated will have some redness for 24 hours after treatment, though this tends to be less visible on darker skin tones. In addition, the pigmentation will be darker for up to 7 days after treatment, again, depending on your skin tone.
Thereafter, the pigmentation will appear to become lighter and softer as the pigment filled scabs begin to flake away. These scabs flake away in the first 3 to 10 days. As this happens, it appears to the observer that the SMP dots are shrinking.
When the healing process is complete, the final dots are often 90 to 170 Um in diameter and blend seamlessly into any natural hair. By about one month, after any treatment, the pigments will begin to “set” and thereafter, fading will be almost zero.
How many sessions are required for my SMP to be complete?
Every client will be a little bit different, typically it will take 2-3 sessions for your SMP to be complete. This also depends on how quickly you heal and how closely you follow our aftercare protocol.
How long does each SMP session last?
Typically, we try not to go more than 3 hours during a session.
SMP is not a painful procedure, but we do have a lot of nerves in the scalp. Usually, clients are good up until about the 3-hour mark after that the nerves tend to become more sensitive.
How long will it take for my final SMP appearance to form?
The first treatment often places a very light application on the scalp to assess fading and density levels.
The normal reaction from many clients is to assume that the SMP is too light. However, this is a normal part of the treatment and allows me to better treat the scalp in later sessions. The second treatment is 10-14 days later, and adds the majority of the density to your new look.
Treatments three or later are usually for completing the look, addressing darkness matching or to even the density across the scalp.
Does SMP Make my hair grow back?
Should I get a hair transplant before SMP?
My recommendation would be to get SMP done first as this will help to correctly map out your hairline. If you decide to go with a hair transplant first, you will have to wait 8-12 months before you can have SMP done. We will have to follow the guidelines that you are given by your hair transplant physician. I would also like to add that after speaking to many clients and hearing about their experiences many if not all of them wish that they had gone with the SMP before getting a hair transplant. SMP is less risky, doesn’t require any down-time, the results are immediate and there is very little after care.
Will SMP look good on my skin tone?
SMP looks good on any skin tones. Whether you’re a Fitzpatrick 1 or a Fitzpatrick 6. The pigments are custom blended to match your specific hair color and skin tone so that it looks very natural.
Will SMP turn blue or green like other body tattoos?
When SMP is done correctly meaning the inks should be modified to match your skin tone and hair color & placed at the correct depth in your scalp or the most superficial layer of skin it should keep its true color.
Can I take Propecia & Rogaine with my SMP?
Propecia is fine to take with your SMP; you do not have to stop taking it. You should stop taking Rogaine/Minoxidil at least two weeks prior to coming in for your SMP as it dries out your scalp. We need your scalp to be moisturized in order for the SMP process to go more smoothly.
Can I have SMP if I have severe dandruff or very dry flaky scalp?
No, I would not be able to complete SMP on your scalp if you have either of those conditions. Please reach out to your dermatologist so that they can recommend treatments (typically something like Selenium Sulfide 2.5%). Once your scalp issues have been cleared up then we can proceed with your SMP.
What if I am Pregnant or Nursing? Can I still get the tattoo?
I wish that we could, but unfortunately if you are nursing or pregnant you are not a suitable candidate at this time.
How much does scalp micropigmentation cost?
We would need to schedule a in person or virtual consultation to find out how extensive the hair loss is in order to give you an accurate quote.
Camouflage Tattoo
What is camouflage tattoo?
Scar camouflage tattoos can conceal the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and other skin imperfections using techniques similar to permanent makeup.
Scar camouflage tattooing, also known as Brazilian scar camouflage, or skin color tattoo is a needle and pigment technique that uses permanent makeup pigments to blend scars into the surrounding natural skin. The increasing popularity of skin re-pigmentation is due to its ability to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and other areas affected by hypopigmentation.
What are common areas people tattoo?
- Abdomen
- Breasts
- Hips
- Flank
- Buttocks
- Thighs
- Post body tattoo removals
Does my skin type matter?
All skin types benefit from camouflage tattoos. Regardless of where you land on the Fitzpatrick Scale, you are most likely a candidate. I have worked with both lighter and darker skin tones with great success. We could have a virtual or in-person consultation to answer any questions you may have about your skin tone.
Camouflage Tattoo vs Paramedical Tattoo.
Brazilian Stretch Mark Camouflage is a technique that is used to conceal superficial scars, such as stretch marks.
Post-surgical scars, burn scars, and hypertrophic scars are targeted by paramedical cosmetic tattooing, which is a more specialized technique. It also helps with skin discolorations caused by vitiligo, birthmarks, acne scars, port scars, sun spots, and other skin imperfections. Tattooing for paramedical purposes demands an extensive background in working with compromised skin.
How long does the procedure Last?
A cosmetic tattoo typically requires multiple steps, with the client and tattoo artist collaborating to achieve the best results possible. Due to the complexity of most scars and skin abnormalities results are a case by case basis. Many of my clients have experienced exceptional results from the very first session.
During our consultation we will discuss expectations and create an action plan. I am with you every step of the way to make sure you are aware of what we are doing and to remove any element of uncertainty. I am extremely accessible to all of my clients, and they all have my direct line.
How long does the Camouflage Tattoo Last?
Everyone is unique. Our Metabolisms vary from one another. Our Health and Lifestyles vary from person to person, and these factors definitely play a role in determining how long the camouflage tattoo will last. Typically, a camouflage tattoo lasts between 3 and 5 years. Some individuals prefer to come in sooner for touch-ups.
Does it Actually Work? How does it work?
Camouflage/Paramedical Tattoo Does work to Conceal or create the Illusion to the naked eye that your scars/stretchmarks are no longer there as they will blend in with the surrounding skin tone with Inks that I custom mix specifically for you. The contrast between your skin tone and your stretch marks/scars will be much milder.
What if I am Pregnant or Nursing? Can I still get the tattoo?
We do not tattoo on anyone who is pregnant or nursing. Please speak to your medical provider if you feel this is something that just can’t be put off.
I just got a tan? Should I still get my tattoo?
Many of us enjoy a healthy tan. We do not tattoo on tanned skin. Please wait until your tan fades as we work to match your natural skin tone, as we want you to walk away with a natural looking camouflage tattoo. If we matched your tanned skin, you would leave with an unnatural camouflage tattoo.
How soon will I see results from my procedure?
Everyone is a bit different. On average it takes about 45-60 days to see full results. Other Variables that may extend the duration of your recovery include:
- Age
- Diet
- Hormones
- Medications
- Smoker vs Non-Smokers
- general health
- Overtones or the tone of your most superficial layer of skin
- Your Sun Exposure
- If you are prone to Hyperpigmentation. Your healing process may take longer.
As each individual’s body heals differently, the duration of recovery differs between individuals.
How well you follow the post procedure protocols is VERY IMORTANT.
Is numbing used during the procedure?
Everyone’s pain level differs. Feedback that we have received on pain levels from most clients is that it is about a 4-5 on a scale of (1-10) 10 being the most painful to no pain at all.
Ladies your pain receptors will be elevated during your cycle. We recommend booking all sessions around your cycle.
Numbing Creams or Topical Aesthetics are not used during procedure to preserve the texture, size and color of your scar/stretch marks for best results.
What is the cost of the Procedure?
The Price Varies per individual. We develop a specific plan of care for each specific scenario. Because we use a combination of technique like the inkless method, hyperpigmentation lightening (scar lightening), and camouflage / paramedical tattooing we would need to schedule a consultation determine your plan of action.
Other options for treating/managing scars & stretch marks
Laser treatments may be an option, but they are much more expensive. Also, please keep in mind Laser treatments may help with the texture of your problem area, but they do not help with the color. I’ve worked on clients that have spent thousands of dollars on laser and have still come in for camouflage tattoo
Can a camouflage tattoo help cover up a tummy tuck scar?
A camouflage tattoo is one of the best solutions to cover up a tummy tuck scar. Although there are a variety of tattoo designs that can be used to conceal a scar. A tattoo that matches your skins natural color is a more simple solution.
Is a stretch mark camouflage tattoo and a tummy tuck tattoo camouflage the same?
A tummy tuck tattoo camouflage performs the same function as a stretch mark camouflage tattoo, which helps conceal and diminish the appearance of stretch marks. It is best described as applying a permanent filter to your tummy tuck scars making them unrecognizable.
A tummy tuck tattoo procedure is performed on both men and women.
Does a tummy tuck tattoo hurt?
While everyone’s pain tolerance varies the majority of our clients intensity of pain was a 3 to 4 out of 10. Your safety and comfort is our top priority. We will look after you throughout the entire procedure.
Do you offer payment options?
Yes, for through Cherry Finance. Apply for a loan to determine your eligibility and payment plan options. The application process is quick and straightforward, and the results are immediate*. Cherry performs a soft credit check, so applying will not affect your credit score.