More and more people who experience hair loss turn to scalp micropigmentation as a permanent solution. Scalp micropigmentation involves the use of an electric tattooing machine to deposit color pigment into the scalp. The bald spots are then concealed using tiny dots that resemble hair follicles or hair stubble.
This non-invasive procedure can create the illusion of having fuller hair. Due to this, it’s greatly beneficial for those who suffer from male and female pattern baldness, as well as hair thinning. It’s also commonly used by those who suffer from total hair loss due to conditions, such as cancer or alopecia.
The effects of scalp micropigmentation, performed by clinics such as Scalp Micro USA, typically last from four to six years before touchups are needed. However, some preparations need to be done before treatment. Also, the aftercare instructions after the procedure should be followed accordingly.
Here are some of the recommended steps for preparation and aftercare of scalp micropigmentation:
Preparation
Set Expectations
Before heading to the scalp tattooing center, it may be helpful to identify first the look that you want to achieve. For this, you may want to look at sample photos online and decide the kind of hairline and color density you’d prefer. However, you can also consult with the SMP specialist if you’re unsure what style would suit you best. This way, you’ll have a clear idea of what the result would look like and make adjustments according to your preference.
Cease Use Of Topical Products
If you’re using hair creams or oils regularly, you may have to skip using them 48 hours before the scalp micropigmentation session. This is so that the skin surface remains clear to make way for the color pigments to be deposited.
Avoid Anticoagulants and Blood Thinners
Your SMP artist may advise you to avoid drinking alcohol, energy drinks, coffee, or tea as they’re known to be blood thinners. When taken the night before or on the day of the procedure, you might bleed more during the session. This scenario isn’t ideal as excessive bleeding could affect the color of pigments.
Also, some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen, may act as anticoagulants, which could delay blood clotting. As such, it’s also commonly advised to avoid taking them at least 48 hours before your SMP session.
Clean The Scalp
Wash your hair and scalp regularly several days before your SMP appointment. To ensure that your scalp would be in good condition for SMP, you can use mild and fragrance-free shampoo and moisturizer at least once a day. If needed, you can also use a mild exfoliant to remove product buildup, if any. However, you’ll have to take extra care to ensure that your scalp won’t have scratches or breakouts, which would make it unfit for the treatment.
Trim The Hair
Many SMP centers can assist clients when they have to cut their hair short before treatment. However, you may also have your hair cut on any salon or barbershop, provided that you take extra care to avoid scratching or irritating the scalp.
Aftercare
Keep The Area Dry
You should avoid getting your scalp wet for the first four days after treatment. This is to let the color pigment stick to the skin without being diluted with water. Also, the skin should be able to heal completely as inflammation subsides, if any. Given this, experts advise avoiding excessive sweating which could disrupt the recovery process.
Protect The Scalp
Avoid exposing the scalp to sunlight on the first few days following the procedure as this could cause the color to fade quickly. To do this, you can cover your head with a soft and breathable hat, or use an umbrella as needed.
Avoid Friction
While the skin is healing, you should minimize any contact with your scalp. You should avoid touching, scratching, and shaving your head. Also, if you’re going to take a shower four days after the session, rinse the scalp lightly without scrubbing or shampooing.
Stay Hydrated And Take The Prescribed Medication
Being well-hydrated will help with the healing process. Aside from this, you’ll also need to take any aftercare medications required to ensure that the skin will recover before the next session.
Avoid Irritants
Until the scalp heals, it’s best to avoid saunas, tanning beds or sprays, or anything that might irritate the scalp. Apart from this, you can also use a mild and gentle moisturizer to ensure that the skin won’t get too dry.
Conclusion
After your SMP session, you may experience redness and inflammation. However, these after-effects are mild and wouldn’t disrupt daily activities. Also, it may take more than 10 days before you can resume your usual hair care routine.
Moreover, you can expect some changes in the shade of the color pigments as the skin heals. Your SMP specialist would be able to adjust the darkness based on your preference. As such, it could take one or more sessions after the first one before you can achieve the desired results.