SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION SMP

About SMP

Androgenic alopecia also knowns as male pattern baldness (MPB) is responsible for the vast majority of hair loss in men. There are also many other reasons for hair loss; serious disease, reaction to medications and in stressful events. How ever most is hereditary. MPB accounts for 95% of hair loss in men. By the age of 35 66% of men will experience some degree of hair loss & by age 50 85% will have significant thinning hair.

MPB sufferers inherit hair follicles with a genetic sensitivity to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). These hair follicles sensitive to DHT begin to miniaturize, shortening the lifespan of the follicle affected. Eventually the follicles stop producing cosmetically acceptable hair.

MPB is generally characterised with the onset of a receding hairline and thinning crown. Hi in thee areas including the temples and mid-anterior scalp appear to be the most sensitive to DHT. This pattern eventually progresses into more apparent baldness throughout the entire top of the scalp, leaving a rim or “horseshoe” pattern of remaining hair in advanced stages. Sometimes the remaining rim can be affected by DHT.

Scars

Alopecia

Transplant Scars

We use the Norwood Scale of Baldness as a guide to determine the cost of each treatment. Each client is different and in different stages of balding do the price can increase or decrease depending on the type of baldness or hair loss the client is experiencing.

Depending on they type of baldness or hair loss, the amount of work hours needed to get the results the client is wanting, this will determine the exact cost price of the treatment. SMP is labour intensive with the artist placing thousand of microdots on the scalp over 2-4 treatments. We only use world renowned products, top quality equipment and fully disposable tips, casings, needles, pigment pots and trays. Nothing is re used.

Trichopigmentation uses specialised Scalp Pigments that are shallowly implanted in the scalp to replicate hair follicles. This treatment will require annual colour boosts and will fade allowing changes as the hair ages. Perfect if you are unsure or very nervous. This option is less expensive initially, but will cost more long term. Prices range $1200-2500 and you can expect around $500-1000 annually

SMP Scalp Micro Pigmentation uses specialised Scalp Inks that are implated shallowly in the scalp to replicate hair follicles. This treatment lasts a lot longer, generally between 5 & 10 years before a maintenance session is required. This option is more expensiive, however the colour does not fade much & in some cases as it fades it will still blend with the natural hair. Prices range from $2000-4500. Although touch-ups may not be necessary, in order to keep the SMP scalp hair follicles looking “fresh”, it is advised that you come in anywhere between 5-10 years in order to get a touch up of the treated area. Should the colour not fade enough as you age a single session of laser removal should be enough to reduce the colour. With SMP we do recommend a regular color boost every 12-24 months to keep the look refreshed - this should only take 1.5-2 hours.

Both treatment options are easily lasered out should you change your mind. Both treatments offer pros and cons. If you do not look after your investment using a top quality sunscreen daily it will fade out requiring more maintenance. On rare occassions it may fade to an undesirable colour and require a single session of laser removal.

Costs are determined by your Norwood Class of Baldness, the technique required and the density required. Prices will be discussed at your consultation or once you send photos of your head. We will discuss realistic expectations.

SMP is non-invasive and a long term affordable solution to balding for men and women.

SMP

Scalp Micropigmentation or SMP is a non-surgical solution for hairloss where your technician uses advanced tattooing skills to create simulated hair follicles to give the illusion of real hair follicles - men will need to keep a shadow effect (close shave) if they are balding, or create the illusion of more density in women or men in the early stages of hair loss can use this to help conceal hair loss. It is non invasive and a great treatment to treat male & female hair loss. This can be achieved in 2-4 sessions.

If you suffer from Alopecia, have scars you would like camouflauged, are receeding or thinning SMP is for you.

Results vary patient to patient due to the severity of baldness, the look you wish to achieve and technique you decide to go with. At Hairline Restoration Clinic we offer 2 forms of treatment.

Prices start from $1000 & we have 10 weeks with Humm and also Lay-by and Afterpay available

FAQ'S

What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?

SMP is short form for Scalp Micro Pigmentation. It is a medical grade technique of depositing pigment (color) into the upper dermal layer of the skin on the scalp. This technique allows the replication of hair follicles in the scalp, which gives the appearance of having a “buzz cut” or recently shaved head. The SMP method gives the appearance of having a full head of hair, rather than having a receding hair line, thinning hair line, the classic horse shoe balding pattern, or being semi or permanently bald.

The SMP method color matches the pigment to be used with your skin complexion, thus, this treatment works for clients with pale to dark skin tones. Other names for Scalp Micropigmentation include: Scalp Tattoo, Hair Tattoo, Scalp Pigmentation, Head Tattoo, Medical Hairline Restoration and Hair Follicle Simulation. Although the names may differ, the treatment process is relatively the same.

Does having SMP Look Realistic?

Absolutely! By placing the correct amount of pigment and “dots” per square inch and color matching the pigment to your skin tone, the results are a realistic, full head of hair. The result looks like a freshly shaved head of hair, or a buzz cut. As well, having a SMP Hair Density treatment will add fullness and density to thinning hair.

Can SMP Camouflage Scars on the Scalp?

Yes! By color matching the pigment to your skin tone, we are able to cover most scars with real looking hair. The results, of course, depend on the amount of scar tissue formed, age of scar, location, etc.

Scalp Micropigmentation is a great treatment for scars on the scalp caused by injury, medical procedures, or hair transplants. Scalp Tattoo and Hair Tattoo can be used to camouflage these scars into your natural hairline to greatly reduce or eliminate the appearance of the scar.

How Long Does SMP Last?

Depending on your age, immune system, metabolism, adherence to aftercare, use of sunscreen/hats etc, SMP treatment can last anywhere between 5-10 years - we do recommend a quick color boost every 12-24 months - this should only be around 2 hours to refresh the color where needed.

No provider can guarantee how long the SMP treatment will last because EVERYBODY is different and no one can estimate how long the pigmented dots will last before needing a touch up. However, with proper aftercare (i.e. applying sunscreen, etc.), SMP will last many, many years. We offer a 12 month guarantee with SMP, but not with Trichopigmentation which WILL require annual color boosts. Many people are happy with some fading, while others will want a freshen up and/or add more density and fullness

Is SMP for Women Too?

YES! Women can experience thinning hair, baldness or bald spots, and alopecia. If you are suffering thinning hair or hair loss we can add density to your scalp to camoflauge or if your hair loss is permanent we are able to give you the buzz cut look.

How Long will SMP Take?

We use the “Norwood Scale of Baldness” to determine the degree of baldness. Your first session can be anywhere between 2-4 hours and we usually do 3- 4 sessions for most clients. Depending on the severity of your condition each session will be between 1-3 hours. Each follicle is placed by hand so it is a labour intensive treatment. It is not advisable to do more than 4 hours in one session and it is not possible to complete a perfect treatment in one session. You will lose approx. 20-30% of the microdots on the first try due to many issues such as dry skin, inflammation, swelling, differing depth. Different areas on the scalp require different depths or pressures, to avoid “blow out” of dots, a cautious approach is taken on your first treatment. We would rather have to redo some areas than give you a sub-standard treatment.

Is SMP Reversible?

Yes SMP is reversible using a tattoo removal laser.

Body Tattoo and Tattoo ink is placed directly into the mid to lower dermis and is much harder, longer and more painful to remove. SMP is placed in the epidermis and upper dermis, thus making it much easier to remove.

How Much Does SMP Cost?

Cost is determined by the work that needs to be done using the “Norwood Scale of Baldness”. You can expect to pay between $2000-$4500.

What are the Benefits of Having SMP?

The benefits of having Scalp Micropigmentation Treatments include:

The appearance of a full head of shaved hair or a fresh buzz cut
Simulate realistic hair follicles and recreate your hairline
Increase Self confidence
Increase Self esteem
Hide scars, burns, hair transplant scars, birthmarks
Restore hairline for all types and levels of baldness
Camouflage thinning hair or bald spots for men and women
Increase hair density for men and women

What types of balding can SMP help with?

SMP can help regain your confidence and self-esteem for any type of balding, the most common being:

Crown Balding

Receding Hairline

Semi or Complete Baldness

Alopecia

Thinning Hair for Men and Women

Bald Spots

Does Having SMP Hurt?

It is not painful, it can get a little annoying at times and there are a few spots that are a little more sensitive than others, however some clients fall asleep. We do not administer topical anaesthetic, however if you wish to purchase EMLA from a Pharmacy and apply at least an hour prior to your treatment you can. You should not need it! Please avoid alcohol, caffeine and any blood thinning medications 48 hours prior.

Is there pain after SMP?

You can expect mild tenderness, swelling and redness for up to 48 hours after the treatment.

What about SMP Aftercare?

We will go thru aftercare with you and you will receive written instructions to take away with you. You will also receive some after care products to use thru this period. Do not wash the scalp for 4 days, then use the cleanser supplied & clean GENTLY. You will be given a cream to apply every night to stop the scalp drying & getting itchy.

For the first 3 full days avoid sweating, no washing, shampooing, scrubbing the scalp. No running or exercise. At no point scrub the scalp during the first 7-10 days. After day 7 you may clipper your hair.

From Day 4 onwards you can resume normal activities.

Are there any contraindication to having SMP?

The following list are contraindications to having an SMP treatment:

•Blood clots
•Infectious diseases
•Epilepsy
•Diabetes
•Albinism
•Heart disease
•Liver disease
•High blood pressure
•Undergoing antibiotic therapy
•Undergoing blood thinner therapy
•Undergoing chemotherapy
•Under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Your history & medical forms will need to fully completed prior to commencement and if any of the above are listed we will postpone or cancel the treatment due to possible risk of infection or not achieving optimal results. We send medical forms at the time of booking to allow you to go thru and should you be contra-indicated we can cancel the appointment so your deposit is not forfeited.