In the United States, it’s estimated that over 35 million men suffer some form of hair loss, with roughly 21 million women being affected too. While many people look into treatment options like Rogaine and Propecia, others decide on scalp micropigmentation as a way to cover up hair loss.
Scalp micropigmentation is a kind of precise medical tattooing, which uses follicle-sized needles and special pigments to create the impression of hair density on the scalp. If you have decided on this treatment, you will have all sorts of questions beforehand, such as how long the results last. To give you more clarification, here is a guide on SMP and the results you can expect once treatment is complete.
What Is Scalp Micropigmentation?
Over the years, scalp micropigmentation (SMP) has become one of the most popular hair loss solutions for all genders and ages. Scalp micropigmentation not only conceals thinning hair but also rejuvenates a receding hairline, leaving you with a clean-looking, sharp appearance. The number one goal for most is to achieve a high level of realism, helping your hairline to blend in for all the right reasons.
If you are familiar with the microblading of eyebrows process, SMP is very similar. While microblading is performed with a manual blade, SMP must be conducted with an electric tattoo device. If you are worried about any pain or discomfort during the treatment, you’ll be pleased to know that a numbing agent is applied, helping to keep you comfortable.
Is Scalp Micropigmentation Permanent?
Understandably, when paying out for scalp micropigmentation, your number one question will be whether the treatment is permanent. SMP is considered permanent and can last for up to 5 years or longer. However, this will depend on how the treatment was performed, as well as whether you follow the aftercare advice. Micropigmentation tends to start lightening after 3 to 5 years, meaning a touchup will be needed to maintain results.
To get excellent results, an SMP procedure is performed over 2 to 3 sessions, with 11 to 14 days rest between sessions. Once you undergo your first session, your results will give a good indication of how much micropigmentation has been retained. Be warned that some fading may occur after your first session, which is completely normal. As you go for your second and third sessions, you will have more fullness and density to make sure your SMP lasts for several years.
Will Scalp Micropigmentation Fade?
Although SMP should last for many years, you will likely start noticing fading at some stage. While this is inevitable, how your body reacts to micropigmentation can be a huge factor. Scalp pigmentation fading can be more prominent in some than others due to a difference in skin health or lifestyle.
After scalp micropigmentation ink is deposited, it will sit roughly 2 layers beneath your skin. As your skin starts to exfoliate, the risk of fading may be heightened. To get long-lasting results from the treatment, the kind of ink and quality is a contributing factor. Ink mixtures like folicule are specifically designed for SMP. Make sure you use a reputable clinic like Inkredible Scalp to get results that can last for up to 8 years.
What Factors Affect Scalp Micropigmentation?
Once you have finished your scalp micropigmentation treatment, there are aftercare tips you must follow to retain results. Should you not listen to the experts, fading may occur sooner than you think. One of the biggest things you must avoid in the immediate aftermath of SNP is sun rays. The more your scalp is exposed to the sun, the faster the pigmentation will fade. If you’re always out and about and cannot avoid the sun, it’s recommended to wear headgear and regularly apply SPF.
When washing your head after SMP treatment, you must stick to cold water and be gentle. Whatever you do, you mustn’t scratch your scalp as this can hinder the healing process. You should avoid shampooing and putting anything containing chemicals on your scalp too. As long as you adhere to the advice you are given, the results should last longer.
There are all sorts of reasons why thousands of men and women undergo scalp micropigmentation procedures every year, whether it’s to restore the natural hairline, conceal varying forms of alopecia, or reduce the visual impact that burns, scarring and blemishes can have on your scalp. However, you must follow the advice above to yield the best results from treatment.
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