What is Scalp Micropigmentation?
Hair loss, or alopecia, is something that affects many different people at varying stages of their lives the world over. It is a biological process that is extremely common for a plethora of reasons. However, for those who wish to combat it, there are a number of options. Unfortunately, more than a few of these solutions involve going under the knife and/or a great deal of faith in their success! Be that as it may, there is another course of action with which to fight hair loss.
Scalp micropigmentation, or SMP, is a recently developed, non-invasive procedure that replicates the appearance of a shadow on your scalp. This gives the look of shaved hair that is both full and thick. To achieve this, natural pigments are applied to the dermal layer of the scalp with an electric tattooing device (such a device is necessary due to the increased thickness of the skin on the scalp). Thousands of impressions in a range of hues are required in order to provide both definition and depth, and therefore an authentic appearance of hair follicles on the head. This can be compared to the technique known as stippling: using small dots in the formation of a pattern to simulate shading. SMP lasts for many years and does not smudge either.
For those who choose to go down this route in fighting hair loss, it can serve to build both self-esteem and confidence. The procedure is also extremely versatile: whether a person’s hair is long, short or thinning, scalp micropigmentation can aid in providing a look of fuller and thicker hair. It can also serve as an enhancement to an existing hair restoration technique; this is in large part because of its relative affordability in comparison to other hair loss solutions on the market.
Its flexibility also means that it is a feasible option to a wider variety of people than other procedures on the market may be. SMP is a viable option for people with prominent scars, burns or birthmarks, as it can work to camouflage such imperfections if so desired. For example, scars are formed from previous hair transplants and may be deemed unsightly if not properly healed. This in turn could lead to a loss of confidence and self-esteem. However, the use of SMP can act as a concealment aid, giving the appearance of freshly shaved hair follicles within the scar.
An autoimmune disorder, alopecia areata happens when the white blood cells in the human body attack the cells found in hair follicles, mistakenly believing them to be a threat. This causes the follicles to diminish in size, sharply decreasing hair production. As a consequence of this, hair then falls out in patches. This hair loss is chiefly from the scalp but can also affect the eyelashes as well as any facial hair. Although many alopecia area sufferers end up making a full recovery without any sort of necessary treatment, around a third of people find that the disorder evolves into a constant cycle of hair loss and subsequent re-growth. However, some may find that the condition worsens, progressing to conditions such as alopecia totalis (a complete loss of hair on the scalp) and alopecia universalis (a loss of all body hair).
SMP treatment can work to combat the signs of hair loss through concealment; working for people with a range of scalp conditions that affect hair growth. It is also effective for naturally occurring conditions such as hair thinning, a receding hairline, and both male and female pattern baldness. After the initial consultation with a highly trained and experienced scalp micropigmentation practitioner, it will be made clear how many sessions are required for a full course of treatment (please be aware that several sessions are needed to sufficiently build up tone). Each session lasts for a few hours in an environment which is both sterile and comfortable. Before each session, a topical numbing agent is put onto the scalp.
The process of scalp micropigmentation can mean that there is some discomfort for the client, though how much is wholly dependent on individual pain tolerance. Gloves are worn by the SMP specialist at all times to prevent the spread of germs and other pathogens. Sessions are often scheduled so that they are ten to fourteen days apart. It is very important to shower before each session of treatment, as the process of scalp micropigmentation means that the scalp cannot be washed or excessively wet for a few days afterwards. This means that heavy exercise is strongly ill-advised.
Another important aspect of SMP relates to sun exposure. For the first few days after a session, it is necessary not to expose the scalp to the sun directly, though wearing hats are permitted. Once the course of treatment has been completed, it is paramount to stay out of the sun for four weeks. After that, sunscreen will have to be applied to the scalp. Swimming, steam rooms and saunas should also be given a wide berth for twenty-eight days. On the other hand, refraining from heavy exercise does not need to take so long and can be resumed around five days after the end of treatment.
Once the treatment has been concluded, it is necessary to begin with regularly moisturising the area that has been treated (this practice can even be started from immediately after the first session). It also does not any require surgical procedures (instead utilising natural pigments), which make it an appealing option for many. In addition, it can be used in conjunction with other hair restoration methods as a form of enhancement; this is due to its versatility. For those whose confidence and self-esteem is greatly affected by their losing of hair, SMP can potentially provide happiness and peace of mind.