Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) and hair transplant – these can’t be new terms if you have been dealing with severe hair loss or receding hairline. While SMP has gained popularity recently, both procedures are effective in resolving hair loss concerns. However, most people don’t know that both techniques can be combined to acquire impeccable results.
Yes, if you have already undergone a hair transplant surgery, or you are planning to have one in the future, you don’t have to shy away from getting a hair tattoo. SMP can be done to enhance the results of a transplant procedure by increasing hair density and covering up the scarring.
Do you still need more convincing? In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the main benefits of combining the techniques for more natural-looking and long-lasting results. But first, let’s understand what each process involves.
A Comprehensive Guide – Combining Scalp Micropigmentation and Hair Transplants
Understanding Hair Transplants
Hair transplants trace back to the 70s and 80s, and, just like the name suggests, the process involves the transfer of healthy hair follicles (usually from a donor) to another part where the hair is thinning or experiencing the effects of male pattern baldness. The procedure is purely surgical, and several incisions have to be made to prepare the recipient sites.
Now, there are two types of hair transplants: Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). The FUE procedure does not require one to have a donor as it involves transferring hair follicles from one healthy area of your scalp to the regions experiencing hair loss. FUT involves the transfer of hair follicles from a donor to a person experiencing hair loss concerns. Both procedures offer a permanent solution.
Introducing Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Procedure
Scalp Micropigmentation, on the other hand, is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that helps create an illusion of existing hair follicles. The procedure involves using electric needles to deposit ink into the scalp, replicating hair follicles. While the use of needles may imply the procedure is invasive, this is not the case. The SMP needles only penetrate 0.3 to 1.2 mm deep, the upper layer of your scalp.
The key to achieving natural-looking results is increased density, which is exactly what hair SMP delivers. With the right colour shade of the pigments, the practitioner carefully uses varying depths, replicating the natural density of your hair.
Benefits of Combining SMP and Hair Transplants
Achieve a Natural Looking Hairline
Given that hair transplants mainly focus on the highly affected areas, due to donor limits and budgets, it can be challenging to create a natural-looking hairline. A high chance is that the hairline will appear less dense and gappy. A hair transplant with SMP will help you achieve a full effect.
With a skilled SMP practitioner, you will be able to fill the gaps and add more density to your hairline. That’s not the best part! Also, with SMP, you will have a variety of hairline styles to choose from. This will ensure a seamless blend with the shape of your head.
Better Coverage and Density
Hair transplants aren’t a one-time procedure; you may need several sessions to acquire your desired results. If you are working with a strict budget, it may be challenging to complete the required sessions. Not to mention, the donor may withdraw if you need more sessions. As a result, you may not get better coverage and density.
Combining Scalp Micropigmentation with a hair transplant can guarantee added density. Your SMP practitioner will deposit the tiny colour pigmentation to the gappy areas, ensuring your hair appears thicker and fuller. It is important to note that this hair transplant enhancement can only be done 9-12 months after the procedure to optimise results and promote healthy growth.
Effective in Concealing Post-Transplant Scars
The FUT hair transplant leaves a big scarring across the back of the scalp after the procedure. Such a noticeable scar can lower a person’s self-esteem. Fortunately, getting a hair tattoo can help cover up that scar. With the right colour shade, the practitioner should be able to create an illusion of existing hair follicles that blend perfectly with your skin tone and natural hair.
Can You Get a Hair Transplant After Scalp Micropigmentation?
Absolutely yes!
As mentioned earlier, the electric needles only penetrate 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm deep, which is the upper layer of your scalp. Such depths do not create scarring or restrict air circulation. Instead, they create a solid base for the transplant to be placed over, enhancing the survival of the new grafts. Also, if you are worried about scarring, getting the hair tattoo prior hides the diffused redness that occurs after the hair transplant procedure.
Don’t just sit there if you are unhappy with the hair transplant results; research the best Scalp Micropigmentation clinic and achieve the full natural effect of the procedure. We hope you restore that happy smile back!