Scalp micropigmentation after a hair transplant serves to visually fill out the donor area. However, scalp pigmentation is also a good first step for receding hairline, thinning areas, smaller bald spots or gradually thinning hair. As an inexpensive, almost painless alternative, it serves as an ideal substitute for permanent makeup and proudly stands up to any before-and-after comparison.
What is scalp micropigmentation?
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a procedure comparable to a hair tattoo. During this treatment, practitioners insert tiny dots of color pigments into the scalp using a very fine needle. The results typically last an average of three to five years before needing a refresh.
Not only the needles but also the colours used in hair pigmentation are different from those used in permanent make-up. Also, unlike tattoos, the colours do not fade into blue over time. The fine pigments in the epidermis look deceptively real even from close up and create the illusion of natural hair. They look like natural hair which is intentionally kept short, as with a buzz cut. Surrounded by other hair, they give this illusion of fuller, thicker hair, with more hair density.
What should you take into consideration before scalp pigmentation?
One week before scalp micropigmentation, you should avoid all stimulating and energising substances. These include caffeine, which is found in coffee and cola, but also theine from tea and taurine from energy drinks.
You should also restrain from consuming alcohol, nicotine and other drugs. Indeed, they can affect the blood vessels. The same applies to spicy foods.
Furthermore, you should avoid any cosmetic treatments, including peelings and other abrasive skin treatments, in the week leading up to hair pigmentation. During the treatment and for at least two weeks afterward, refrain from any cosmetic treatments on the scalp.
Very important: The skin must enjoy sufficient sun protection before, during and after scalp pigmentation. Therefore, only go out in the sun with a hat until the treatment is completed.
What does the procedure look like?
As with all hair loss treatments, a preliminary consultation is first held to determine the expected expense and also to ask about the patient’s desired hairstyle. The pigmenter will then draw the new hairline on the scalp and, if the patient is satisfied, begin work.
Unlike hair transplantation, practitioners do not shave the main hair for scalp micropigmentation unless the patient chooses to wear that hairstyle later. The initial treatment starts with a pigment test to identify the most suitable color pigments for the desired result. If the patient wishes, the scalp can be lightly numbed with an ointment; however, most patients describe the procedure as almost painless even without it.
The procedure is an outpatient treatment. And unlike hair transplantation, it is not a surgical procedure. The patient can therefore participate in everyday life again immediately after the hair pigmentation. Depending on the required effort, 3 to 4 sessions of one to four hours each may be necessary.
About 2 weeks after the last session, everything should have healed completely. Until then, you should use gentle care products that gently cleanse the scalp and hair and avoid sunlight, coffee, tea and alcohol.
How soon can I have scalp micropigmentation after hair transplant?
Can there be allergic reactions to scalp pigmentation?
The colours used in scalp pigmentation are hypoallergenic and usually do not cause allergic reactions. However, those who suffer from certain allergies and intolerances should clarify beforehand whether they are allergic to any of the ingredients. Of course, this also applies to the anaesthetic ointment.
How long does scalp micropigmentation last?
One of the disadvantages of hair pigmentation is that it does not last forever, unlike permanent makeup. You can usually enjoy visually fuller hair for about 3 to 5 years. When the pigments fade, they can be refreshed in just one session.
How much does it cost?
The costs for scalp micropigmentation cannot be specified as a lump sum, but they often amount to about half the cost of a hair transplant. The price of scalp pigmentation depends on the effort required, the size of the area being treated, and the number of sessions the patient needs.
Is it an alternative to a hair transplant?
If there is only a little hair loss in localised areas, scalp micropigmentation can visually contribute to a fuller head of hair. Especially if the bald spots are only shimmering through the hair, scalp pigmentation makes the hair look fuller. Scalp pigmentation can also help with diffuse hair loss if no exact diagnosis can be found.
Hair pigmentation can also be a cheaper alternative for particularly short hairstyles and blend in seamlessly with the existing hair. In a before and after comparison, hair pigmentation is usually not noticeable on very short hair (less than three millimetres in length) and provides a harmonious result.
The disadvantages of hair pigmentation compared to hair transplantation are no longer noticeable with short hairstyles. Even under existing hair, the pigmentation is not visible. It looks like a natural shadow of real hair and the bald spots are reliably covered.
Hair pigmentation after hair transplantation
After a hair transplant in Istanbul, hair pigmentation can enhance the desired effect of the transplanted hair and make the transition between the grafts and the existing hair smoother. Especially in the growth phase of the hair directly after the procedure, the pigments reliably conceal the transition.
Scar tissue in the donor area can also be well covered with professional hair pigmentation. This way, no one can see from where the grafts of the hair transplant were taken and the joy of the new, full hair sets in early.
Scalp micropigmentation is also a good recommendation during the shedding phase after hair transplantation. The hair follicles enter the resting phase after the transplant and the hair is shed. In this phase, hair pigments can serve as a good bridging measure. They can also give the appearance of a deliberately short hairstyle until the real hair has grown back.
