SMP: What, why and how?
You’ve probably read about scalp micropigmentation (SMP) on this site. You might have noticed we’re big fans! But it is quite a tricky concept to get your head around. Unlike other hair loss treatments, we’re not actually trying to stop hair loss with SMP, we’re just stopping it from being a problem anymore.
So we thought we’d put together a general information post on SMP. How it works and what to expect from the treatment.
What is SMP?
Scalp micropigmentation is a hair loss treatment like no other. Pigment is injected into the scalp in thousands of tiny microdots, creating the illusion of active hair follicles.
How does SMP differ from tattooing?
It is a similar process, but SMP injections are delivered much less deeply than a regular tattoo, which allows us to be much more precise. It also avoids a ‘blob’ effect, and we can create a very realistic hair follicle impression.
How can you make SMP look like real hair?
If you just injected uniform black dots across a scalp, it might look effective from a distance. On closer inspection however, it would be very obvious that it wasn’t real hair. With SMP, we inject each dose of pigment to a slightly different depth and from a slightly different angle to the last, replicating the way that real hair grows.
We also use a number of different pigments for each client, closely matched to their hair colour, for as natural a finished effect as possible.
Who is a suitable candidate for SMP?
Literally anyone could have SMP and it would be effective, although we do stick to over-18s! Man or woman, young or old, the beauty of this procedure is that it is hugely versatile.
You can leave your head shaved and have a buzz cut, a popular option for our male clients. Or you can grow your hair out and just use SMP to disguise the thinning areas. This works especially well for women suffering from female-pattern baldness, which tends to present as a diffuse thinning across the whole scalp.
Can I really choose my own hairline?
Yes, you absolutely can. Our technicians will work closely with you to ensure that the hairline you choose is the right one for you. After all, this is a permanent procedure and you want to look your best at the end of it. But if you’ve always fancied a widow’s peak, now’s the time to do it.
How long does it take?
Each SMP session will last between two and four hours, and you will need at least two, probably three sessions before the procedure is finalised.
Previous clients have described SMP as a ‘life changing’ experience, so if you’ve been considering it why not take the plunge and give us a call today on 020 8159 9060.
