Frequently Asked Questions
What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?
Scalp Micropigmentation or SMP (Scalp Micro Procedures), is a form of cosmetic tattooing where precision needles are used to deposit pigment into the scalp. Each implantation of pigment creates a micro-dot to replicate an individual hair follicle. The result gives the appearance of new hair growth.
How much does Scalp Micropigmentation cost?
The cost of the treatment will vary depending on the service you require and the extent of your hair loss. My prices range from £300 - £2000 for a full treatment, and up to £3000 for more specialised treatments such as Alopecia Totalis. The cost of your treatment will be agreed upon in advance during your free consultation. You can also submit photos for an instant quote. If you require a top-up or alterations within the first 6 months after your treatment, the session will be free of charge. I offer 0% finance with PayItMonthly for all SMP procedures over £1000, so you can spread the cost of your treatment over 6-12 months completely interest free.
How many sessions of SMP do I need?
A full Scalp Micropigmentation treatment is completed over 2-4 sessions. Scalp Micropigmentation should never be considered a one session process. Multiple sessions are essential for the most natural and safe results.
How long is a session of SMP?
A single session can take anywhere between 1-6 hours to complete depending on the service you require and the extent of your hair loss. During your session, you will be able to take as many breaks as needed. My aim is to make the entire process as comfortable for you as possible.
How long do I need to wait between each session?
After your 1st session you will need to wait 10-14 days before you can have your 2nd and 3rd session. After the 3rd session you will need to wait 20-30 days before you can have your final session.
How long do the results last?
After completion of your treatment, you can expect results to last between 1-5 years before needing a top-up. A top-up will freshen up the SMP and restore any areas which may have faded (not discoloured) over the years. A top-up is completed in a single session and will see you through for many more years. You can maintain the results of your SMP with proper aftercare.
Is there any downtime?
Scalp Micropigmentation is non-surgical and minimally invasive, meaning there is little down-time and you can return to work and most daily activities straight away. You should avoid getting your scalp wet 4 days post treatment. This includes excessive sweating and exercise. You may notice redness 24-48 hours after your treatment, so may want to plan your SMP around events. You can return to washing and styling your hair as normal 7 days post treatment. Full pre/post aftercare instructions will be provided prior to your treatment.
How should I prepare for my SMP treatment?
Avoid drinking coffee, taking ibuprofen, asprin (unless medically advised), alcohol or any stimulants 12 hours before your treatment. Hair colouring should be done 48 hours prior to treatment and 1 week post treatment. Hair should be shaved to a grade 0.5 or 1 prior to attending your treatment for hairline restoration treatments. It is recommended to massage coconut oil into the scalp a few times the week before your treatment to hydrate the skin. On the day of your treatment you should be in good health and ensure to eat before attending. This will help with your blood sugar levels as sessions can last for many hours. You will be required to complete Medical History, Consent and Treatment forms prior to your treatment commencing.
Does SMP hurt?
For most clients, the pain of a Scalp Micropigmentation treatment is minimal. You will not need numbing cream for this procedure, and you won't experience any discomfort during the healing process. There are more sensitive areas of the scalp such as the hairline and temples. But many clients find the crown and back of the head therapeutic!
Is Scalp Micropigmentation Permanent?
Scalp-Micropigmentation is a form or permanent cosmetics or permanent make-up. Despite being referred to as permanent, any form of cosmetic tattooing will fade over time. If left completely, the original treatment would be barely visible after around 10 years. The reason for this is because the pigment is placed in the upper layer of the Dermis during an SMP treatment. Whereas a traditional tattoo reaches the lower level of the Dermis in effect creating a permanent scar.
Will the colour of the pigment change like a tattoo?
No. Unlike tattoo ink, the pigment used during a Scalp Micropigmentation treatment is specifically designed for this purpose meaning the pigment is designed to fall within the same colour spectrum of stubble or very short hair. The pigment contains only organic ingredients with no additional colourants or additives and will only lighten, not discolour, over time.
Will SMP work with grey and blonde hair?
Yes! Scalp Micropigmentation is suitable for those with grey or blonde hair. The pigment I use is a pure black ink which is diluted in accordance to the clients hair colour. All new hair growth has a grey undertone, regardless of the clients natural hair colour. For grey and blonde hair, the pigment is simply more diluted.
Am I too young / old to have Scalp Micropigmentation?
The UK prohibits anyone under the age of 18 to have a tattoo. This legislation was brought in under the Tattooing Of Minors Act 1969. As long as you are age 18 or above, there is no limit to what age you can have SMP! Of course, I will tailor your treatment to ensure the results are age appropriate.
Can women have Scalp Micropigmentation?
Yes! Women can also enjoy the transformative benefits of scalp micro procedure's. The most common treatment for Women would be Density. A Density treatment works to create the appearance of full hair density or a full parting. Hairloss in Women can be an extremely traumatic experience. I am here to help and guide you through your hair loss journey and will work with you to regain your confidence.
Does SMP look good on both light and dark skin tones?
Absolutely! I can match the shade of the pigment to a wide range of skin tones including Fitzpatrick Scale skin types 1-6. I simply dilute the pigment more for clients with a lighter skin tone, and less for clients with a darker skin tone. All ethnicities are suitable for this treatment.
Is Scalp Micropigmentation a hair loss solution for Alopecia?
Yes! SMP is an incredible hair loss solution for those with alopecia. Alopecia is the umbrella term for most hair loss and include:
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1. Alopecia Areata
2. Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss)
3. Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (Scarring Alopecia)
4. Chemotherapy Induced Alopecia (Anagen Effluvium)
5. Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (Scarring Alopecia)
6. Lichen Planopilaris (Scarring Alopecia)
7. Telogen Effluvium
8. Traction Alopecia (hair loss)
9. Trichotillomania (hair pulling)
Is SMP a hair loss solution for Male Pattern Baldness?
Yes! Scalp Micropigmentation is most popular with those experiencing the effects of Male Pattern Baldness or MPB. MPB is also known as Androgenetic Alopecia and is thought to be caused by the hair follicle's sensitivity to DHT (Dihydrotestosterone). It is believed that 95% of cases of male pattern baldness occurs because of the effects of DHT on the hair follicle. How much DHT an individual produces depends entirely on their genetic makeup. Pattern hair loss is the most common cause of hair loss.
Is SMP a hair loss solution for Female Pattern Baldness?
Yes! Scalp Micropigmentation is becoming ever more popular hair loss solution for Women of all ages due to its instant and natural results. It is estimated that 50% of women over the age of 60 experience female pattern baldness. The condition results in diffused thinning of the hair on the scalp from the parting outwards. Female pattern baldness has a strong genetic predisposition. Asian Women are also considered more likely to suffer overall hair thinning than that of other hair types.
Will Scalp Micropigmentation grow my hair back?
No. Scalp Micropigmentation will not grow hair. SMP is a 2D treatment which works by implanting pigment into the dermis in the formation of tiny dots to mimic individual hair follicles, giving the illusion of new hair growth. Results can look 3D when completed by an artistic and trained technician. But the treatment will always be 2D. If you want real hair, procedures such as PRP Therapy or a hair transplant could be a better option for you, depending on whether you are a candidate.
Can I still use Finasteride and/or Minoxidil after my treatment?
Clients can continue using Finasteride during and after their scalp pigmentation procedure. Minoxidil should be suspended during the course of treatment and for 30 days post your final session. This is to ensure the proper healing and settling of pigment without interference of the chemicals found in Minoxidil.
Is Scalp Micropigmentation the same as a tattoo?
SMP is not the same as a traditional tattoo. There are a few main differences between the two. Firstly, SMP only reaches the top layer of the dermis making it more similar to permanent make-up, whereas a tattoo penetrates the lower dermis creating a scar. Secondly, SMP is the process of creating small micro dots through pointillism method to replicate a hair follicle. There is no shading or drawing lines. Lastly, SMP only ever uses a pure black pigment which is much more diluted than typical tattoo inks. For this reason, it won't break down to different colours or look too saturated once healed.
Where is Micro Artistry located?
The Micro Artistry Hair Clinic is based in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, UK. My full address is Unit 15, Bridgwater Ct, Oldmixon Cres, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 9AY. My clinic is fully equipped for Micropigmentation treatments and follows all Government Health & Safety guidelines.
What are Micro Artistry's service areas?
My scalp micropigmentation and hair services are widely available and accessible to an extensive area of the South West including Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge, Bridgwater, Weston-Super-Mare, Taunton, Portishead, Bristol, Bath, Glastonbury, Wells, Minehead, Somerset, North Somerset and many more.
Why should I choose Micro Artistry Hair Clinic?
I am a Level 4 Micropigmentation Technician specialising in Scalp Micropigmentation and the hair & scalp. I completed my training with the UK's leading Micropigmentation School, Finishing Touches Group. I have had a natural artistic ability since a child and started drawing portraits at the age of 5. I trained in Scalp Micropigmentation to be able to help people regain confidence through my art. I am a true perfectionist with my work and aim to create the most natural and undetectable results possible. Your skin is my canvas!