frequently asked questions

Is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) the same as a tattoo?

No. SMP is often referred to as a “medical tattoo” as the treatment is performed using an entirely different technique to regular tattoos. We use different pigments, machines, and needles. We are strictly making small micro dots through the pointillism method, not shading or drawing lines. SMP is performed using organic pigment created for the scalp only, which is much more diluted than typical tattoo inks. For this reason, it won’t break down to different colors or look too saturated once it heals.

Scalp Micropigmentation is a specialist field of its own. Camouflaging all levels of hair loss, also aids in scar revision from previous hair transplant surgeries, and requires a highly experienced technician to achieve great results.

Will SMP treatment damage my existing hair?

No not at all, if anything the treatment has been known to stimulate and improve new hair growth in some cases. The repeated action of poking your scalp with a needle widens the blood vessels, boosting collagen and promoting increased blood flow to the hair follicles. Which in turn, delivers more oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles, possibly promoting hair growth.

How many SMP treatments will I need?

Scalp Micropigmentation should never be considered a one-treatment process. As a general rule, most clients can expect between 2-3 sessions to complete their treatment. This will depend entirely on your skin type and the amount of hair loss or scarring.

Each treatment session can last between 2-3 hours spaced out between 7-10 y days apart.

Are SMP results permanent?

SMP is a permanent solution for hair loss and will last a lifetime with maintenance along the way. The frequency of maintenance (touch-ups) needed will depend on various factors such as your immune system, sun exposure, and personal post-treatment care. The longevity of the results can vary from person to person. After completion of your treatment (2-3 sessions), a client should expect the strength of the color to last 4-6 years.

Over a longer-term, a client will very gradually begin to notice slight lightening (not discoloration) of the treatment. When this occurs, they can undergo a brief “touch up” session to restore any fading and secure many more years of their style.

How much does SMP cost?

The cost of your SMP treatment will depend on the extent of your hair loss level and several other factors.

Depending on these factors, investment cost generally ranges from $1800 – $4000.

I determine the exact cost of your treatment after a consultation, where I can examine the extent of your hair loss and scalp conditions and then determine the correct treatment plan for you.

Payments can be made in full on the day of your first treatment or spread across your treatment at no extra cost.

We also offer payment plans through Cherry Payment Plans for all SMP treatments.

We can meet ANY budget requirements!

How long will my SMP treatment take?

It varies depending on the amount of hair loss we are working with, but generally speaking, treatment sessions can last between 2 to 3 hours per session.

Will SMP hurt?

The honest answer is discomfort can be very relative as everyones nervous system is unique. On a scale of 1 – 10 most clients say it generally falls around a “3” and the discomfort level of the treatment is minimal.

Will my scalp be red or sore after the SMP treatment?

This varies depending on your skin sensitivity level. Usually, any redness will subside within 24 hours of your SMP treatment.

Some clients may experience redness for the following few days, although this is quite rare. Your scalp will not necessarily be sore after your treatment, but you may experience a slight ‘itchiness’ at times whilst your skin is healing.

Is SMP ideal for individuals with lighter or darker skin tones? Will it work with red, light brown, grey and light blond hair?

Yes! Our pigment (ink) is designed within the same spectrum of a grey-wash monochromatic scale and therefore we are able to match the shade of our pigment to a wide range of skin tones and hair color.

Is there any metal content in your SMP pigment?

Our pigment (ink) used for SMP has zero quantities of metal. We only use organic carbon-based ink with no additional colorants or additives. Traditional body art tattoo ink carries heavy quantities of metals like cadmium, iron oxide, and even mercury which can all cause allergic reactions, scarring, and eczema.

Traditional body art tattoo inks also cause interference with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans and other similar scans. Our SMP pigment does NOT interfere with (MRI) imaging.

Does SMP pigment discolor over time (turn orange/blue)?

No. Unlike tattoo ink, the SMP pigment is designed to fall within the same color spectrum of short cut hair. The pigment contains no additional colorants or additives and will only lighten, not discolor over an extended period of time.

Is SMP detectable?

Scalp Micropigmentation has become such an effective hair loss solution because of it’s consistently natural and undetectable results.

Think Ink Micro-Esthetics prides itself on the ability to seamlessly replicate each individual hair follicle to create a perfect match for each client.

Do I need to take time off work?

Scalp Micropigmentation is non-invasive and requires no downtime. In most cases, you will not need to take any extended time away from work, school, or other functions. After treatment, it is common to notice slight redness on the scalp up to 48 hours post-treatment session. This redness subsides quickly and most clients return to work either right away or within a couple of days. Clients are also allowed to wear hats should they feel the need.

Can SMP camouflage my FUT/FUE hair transplant scar?

Yes! By replicating tiny hair follicles inside the scarring and blending the color around the scarring area, transplant and surgical scars can see a massive improvement in concealment.