Does Micro Scalp Pigmentation Look Real?

Many people dealing with the reality of baldness, hair loss, or thinning hair follicles require that any form of treatment they intend to undergo, which includes scalp micropigmentation, must produce natural-looking results. So, the question they would often ask about this procedure is ‘does scalp micropigmentation look real?’. 

The rule of thumb with micropigmentation on scalp is that the finished scalp micropigmentation look should not attract undue attention meaning there should be a little external query about the scalp micropigmentation treatment. The bottom line is Yes, while scalp micropigmentation can look real, it has to be performed by professionals who will take time to make sure that the SMP treatment is done correctly. 

How Scalp Micropigmentation Works

The Scalp micropigmentation look follows processes that are very similar to a tattoo because it works with the same principle that skin on the head consists of layers just like the skin on the body. However, what sets it apart from traditional tattoos is that the color pigments used in micropigmentation for scalp do not go beyond the epidermis. Permanent dyes are also never used when achieving the scalp micropigmentation look. The preferred dyes are anti-allergic so that clients/recipients do not develop side effects to its application.

Scalp micropigmentation with transplant is a lot like the process of microblading eyebrows. Instead of creating the appearance of strands of hair, it instead employs the artistic method of pointillism to create dots on the scalp of individuals who suffer hair loss. It follows a strategic process of making the hair look fuller, in the case of balding men, a buzz cut, and in the case of women with thinning hair follicles, hiding the scalp with dark pigments applied in microdots.

Before the commencement of each Scalp micropigmentation session, the scalp area that has experienced hair loss and requires treatment will be cleansed thoroughly then an outline will be marked on the skin that will serve as an indicator for where the hairline will begin. After this, the microdots will then be applied one by one with a particular device that utilizes between one to six needles that will not penetrate your skin as much as a tattoo gun. This will appear real, imitate the rest of the scalp, and not look overly bold.

It takes between 2 to 3 sessions over 4 to 7 days for the scalp micropigmentation (SMP) treatment to be fully applied, which gives the professional time to evaluate how the micro dotting looks on the scalp if it’s the right shade, and so on to give that natural look. However, the results will last for up to three years. The reason is that your body’s immune system will begin fighting the pigments the moment they are applied scalp micro, and this makes it fade eventually. This hints at the relationship between protein and hair loss.

What to Expect From Scalp Micropigmentation?

The primary aim of scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is to create the illusion of a fuller head of hair by creating microdots of hair follicles. However, many people going through the scalp micropigmentation procedure for the first time will often have a lot of concerns about what the treatment entails for them, how it will look, and different expectations of the aftermath of its application.

 From issues such as their scalp micro color unnaturally changing to the scalp microdots posing as hair follicles being too large and lacking that natural look, these complaints, and fears are often a result of the ‘professional’s’ proficiency and patience to deliver a natural scalp micropigmentation look for their client. Some of them are not even into micropigmentation but just regular tattoo artists who want to make a quick buck. If you have seen the results of their error anywhere, it is okay to have your concerns but just remember this can be avoided if you entrust your scalp to a professional SMP practitioner. With that explained, below is a list of what to expect before and after the scalp micropigmentation process;

• Before the micropigmentation scalp treatment, most clients are advised to shave their heads to give a uniform look so that the SMP professional can determine how to make the procedure real.
• During the scalp micropigmentation treatment, the area of focus will be cleansed thoroughly. Then, the new hairline will be outlined then microdots will be applied one by one till the required result is achieved.
• It is essential to note that immediately after the pigmentation treatment, there might be swelling or redness on the client’s head.
• For the first week after the scalp micropigmentation treatment, the scalp should not contact any form of moisture or sunlight, and the client should avoid all forms of strenuous activity.

Testimonials from People Who Experienced Hair Loss

1. Toby M, Cancer Survivor

When Toby Mcclean battled with cancer, he lost many things, and amongst those things was his hair. 

"I experienced real shame. You would always see me with my hat on because I was not confident about the way I looked. My wife tried to make me feel better, but it was hard to genuinely feel good because my hair had been a part of my identity for most of my life."

However, Toby found the scalp micropigmentation process and underwent the process, which has been incredibly satisfying for him. Looking at Toby after the SMP treatment is a testament to how effective clients find the whole process.

‘Even my wife admitted that she missed the hair when I arrived home after the completion of the session,” he said.

2. Mateo S, Construction Worker

Mateo is one of many Hispanic Americans who suffer male pattern baldness. 

"It had it tough in my teens. Being bald in high school is equal to social suicide." Mateo recalled. "For a long time, I tried everything. Nothing worked. It was my ex-girlfriend that introduced me to SMP."

Now 33 years old, living in the city of New York with his wife and daughter, Mateo is leading a confident lifestyle without the worries of a receding hairline or baldness.

“I can’t describe the joy of not having to always show up at my daughter’s school in my construction hat,” Mateo laughed.

3. Anika, D Investment Banker

Women suffer hair loss, and it is more common than many would care to admit. This was the case with Anika Desiree, an Investment Banker in California.

"It had happened to friends of mine, but I never really thought it could happen to me." Anika sighed. "It did, and I remember becoming very conscious of my scalp."

Anika was already familiar with SMP through a family friend and decided to try it.

"I figured, what's the worst that could happen?" Anika said with a wide smile. "SMP gave me all the right answers. I can hardly see my scalp anymore."

Unlike most people, Anika has been very vocal about her procedure. Satisfied with the results, she is more than happy to share it with others going through similar situations.

Conclusion

Scalp Micropigmentation is mostly about realism, confidence, and a sense of restoration. The pigment procedures are geared towards a realistic look that will work for whoever decides to attempt it. Thus, you must be fully aware of the technician’s capabilities and experience, whose skills you decide to employ. 

Be thorough with your research on them, recite their works, check to see before and after pictures, and have an in-depth conversation about the standards you require and the look you intend to achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Scalp Micropigmentation Worth It?

Yes, scalp micropigmentation is worth it based on all the fantastic results it gives.

How Long Does Scalp Micropigmentation Last?

Scalp micropigmentation lasts up to 8 years.

Does Hair Pigmentation Look Real?

Yes, hair micropigmentation looks very realistic.

What Does Scalp Micropigmentation Feel Like?

Scalp micropigmentation feels like getting a tattoo but doesn’t hurt as much.