Scalp micropigmentation, also known as SMP, is a form of cosmetic tattoo used as a concealer for hair and scalp deformities. Cosmetic deformities of the scalp can arise from hair restoration surgeries or dermatologic diseases such as scarring alopecia or thinning hair from genetic alopecia. SMP can also be used to conceal neurosurgery scars and head trauma scars.

Hair transplant scars

Hair loss is a condition that cuts across age, race, and color. Many affected individuals suffer loss of self-esteem or self-confidence to some extent. Hair loss is so common that several techniques have been developed to try and mask the areas of hair loss or thinning hair. Invariably, many of these individuals resort to hair transplant procedures to conceal the condition. Hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves moving hair from parts of the scalp that are still growing hair to areas where the growth has stopped. Eventually, these individuals develop unsightly scars in areas from which growing hair was removed. The presence of these scars is a source of considerable anxiety and distress for such individuals. As the scar becomes even more visible, they begin to look for a method of concealing them. This is where scalp micropigmentation can help.

Scalp micropigmentation

As mentioned, SMP is a concealer technique for hair and scalp deformities and is particularly useful for masking hair transplant scars. These scars vary, depending on the surgical method used, from follicular unit extraction (FUE) to follicular unit transplantation (FUT). The type of scar influences the choice of concealment technique to be used during the procedure as each type of scar presents unique challenges.

The technique

A tattoo needle is used to insert different hues of pigments into the skin's upper dermis. The requirements for each area being treated depend on several factors, including skin and hair color, the amount of hair present, the thickness of the scar, and the characteristics of the pigments used. The Tattoo Specialist makes a visual judgment of the depth of the needle inserted, depending on the skin's thickness at the point of insertion. However, the needle must get to the upper dermis after penetrating the epidermis. 

The results

Experienced providers with technical and artistic skills can bring considerable joy and happiness to millions of individuals who have previously had ineffective options for covering up their hair transplant scars. The procedure adds to the appearance of a full head of hair and helps cover up even the most visible hair transplant scars.