Scalp Micropigmentation before and after

Scalp MicroPigmentation @ Cotswold Trichology

Scalp Micropigmentation before and after

Cotswold Trichology
Scalp MicroPigmentation Treatment

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What is Scalp MicroPigmentation?

Scalp MicroPigmentation is also known as SMP, Scalp Tattoo, TricoPigmentation and 3D Scalp MicroPigmentation. It is a camouflage treatment that offers a real alternative to hair transplants, hair systems, concealers, lotions and pills.

Carbon black medical grade pigment is diluted according to hair and skin colour then applied in dots close together using a special type of tattoo needle. It is a different skill to tattooing, the pigment resides slightly shallower in the dermal layers than a standard tattoo.  

The non-surgical procedure is suitable for both men and women and replicates hair follicles to give the illusion of thicker hair. Consequently, this removes the focus from the visible scalp or any thin areas you have. The treatment creates the illusion of a closely shaven hair cut. It is frequently used to effectively disguise scars or give the appearance of denser hair.

 

 

3D Scalp tattooing

 

Is it the same as a Tattoo?

Scalp Micropigmentation is not the same as regular tattooing, the only similarity is the application  of pigment to your skin. Please be aware of tattoo studios offering a similar service without specific training from an appropriate well established academy. The needles, pigments and equipment used are different to create this realistic 3D hair growth appearance.

The pigment is made with natural ingredients including beta-carotene and iron oxide. If required or requested we can carryout a patch test on an area of your scalp but allergic reactions are very rare.

 

Scalp Micropigmentation Treatment is Perfect for:

 

  • Male pattern hair loss
  • Female pattern hair loss
  • Receding hairlines
  • Crown hair loss
  • Thinning hair
  • Total hair loss
  • Patchy hair loss
  • Head injury
  • Disguise scars
  • Alopecia
  • Traction Alopecia
  • Thicken the appearance of a hair transplant


Norwood scale for male hair loss
In male hair loss, SMP is suitable at all stages, particularly 4,5,6,7. Whereas hair loss treatments are more suitable for stages 2, 3 & 4

 

Scalp Micropigmentation Treatment for Women – Improved Hair Density Appearance

The process is slightly different for women with hair than men with a shaved head.  Many women choose this treatment to to mask the appearance of pink scalp through their hair. This is rather like using topical hair fibres like Topic and Nanogen however, the effect doesn’t wash off. Sometimes if hair thinning is extensive hair fibres are not effective as they need at least some hair to stick to.

Female Hair Loss Pattern, Savin Scale,

As the pigments used are dark, this effect works best on those with dark blonde – very dark brown hair. Ladies with highlight blonde hair but a slight regrowth will also find this treatment gives an improved hair density appearance.  Less sessions will be necessary for this type of Scalp MicroPigment treatment than the shaved head look. The technique is the same but pigment is applied between existing hairs creating a shadow.  

SMP Treatment for Hair Transplant Patients

Men who have had hair transplant surgery can use Scalp MicroPigmentation to further improve their hair density. The pigment application process is the same as described for women above to give a further appearance of improved density. We would recommend waiting until your surgery has well and truly healed and donor hairs have grown for a reasonable period of time before undertaking SMP. 

The 3D scalp tattoo method can blend the appearance of an FUT line scar into surrounding hair so it looks practically invisible.  The pockmark scar effect from FUE transplants can blend immaculately into surrounding hair at the back of the head. After Scalp Micropigmentation you can shave your hair to the length of a 5pm shadow if you wish.

 

Your SMP Technician – Benedetto Cusumano AIT IAT 

Ben is an experienced Trichologist, a fully licensed SMP Technician and a well respected, trusted hair loss expert. With over 15 years in the hair industry he has great experience in hair and natural hair appearance.  He was recently awarded the title of ‘Master SMP Practitioner’ by HIS Hair Clinic in Birmingham, the original pioneers of SMP.

Ben has recently joined Cotswold Trichology as both CT’s Scalp MicroPigmentation technician and male hair loss Trichologist. If you would like a full Trichology consultation to explore ALL hair loss treatments and avenues, please book a 1 hour first consultation.  

A Trichologist is able to give a full unbiased hair loss consultation. There are very few Trichologists who can offer both experienced, qualified advice on hair loss treatments and scalp micropigmentation. The Free SMP consultation is to talk about just that, as we allow significantly less time than we would to make a hair loss diagnosis and explore treatment.

 

Ben carrying out Scalp Micropigmentation treatment

You can book a standard Trichology Consultation PLUS a Scalp MicroPigmentation consultation if you would like to discuss both. If the Trichology consultation is not necessary and only SMP is suitable, we will not charge you the full consultation rate.

 

What Happens During The Scalp Micropigmentation Process. 

This treatment is a journey not a race, everyone heals at a different rate. It is essential to see how each individual’s skin reacts to pigment by leaving some time between treatments. It is not possible to efficiently complete the effect in one sitting. A full treatment area can typically takes between 2-12 hours. This is normally spread over 2-4 of sessions.

  • Stage one – 

    The first stage is to book a consultation to see if you are suitable and what your expectations are. This should ideally be face to face with Ben but remote consultations can be arranged if necessary. During the consultation Ben will take a medical history, asses your scalp, existing hair density and colour. You can discuss the type of look you would like to achieve and he will tell you if what you would like is possible and if it will look good or not. You will be given pre treatment advice. 

  • Cooling off Period –

    This will normally be a minimum of one week after your consultation. We feel it is really important for you to take in all of the information, digest it and think about it. When you are ready, book your first treatment session. As SMP sessions are long, we ask that you pay a deposit to secure a session. Hence we ask you to be sure you are ready for it, if not, ask more questions.

  • Treatment one –  
    Laying the foundation, this includes shape, style and density. It is preferable to add the pigment in stages as once applied it is permanent. One should also consider what your newly designed hair line will look as you age. The pigment will fade slightly over time but the shape of the hair line will not. Given this consideration, soft natural hair lines are preferable. However, the choice is yours. The treatment is minimally invasive and healing is normally quick.  You may experience some mild discomfort but most clients tolerate sessions well.

  • Treatment two –
    Now things are becoming exciting! In this session Ben will refine your hairline and density, Your hair will begin to look like the end result.

  • Treatment three, four, five –  (not always needed) Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither is a great 3D scalp tattoo effect. The average scalp has around 10,000 hair follicles and that is what we are trying to replicate. It may be necessary to have a third, fourth or fifth session to achieve the look you want. Ben is happy to continue refining your density and hairline until you are happy with the final result.

 

Scalp Micropigmentation Post Treatment Advice
  • You will be able to carry out your day to day activities immediately afterwards.
  • Each session can take around 5- 7 days to heal.
  • Scalp inflammation, redness and tenderness may occur after your session.
  • Very small scabs will form at the treated area and pigment dots will appear darker than the final result.
  • Scabs can last a few days until they naturally fall off.
  • Do not pick the scabs as this will effect your final result leading to pigment loss.
  • You may experience itchiness for a few weeks due to the skins natural healing process 
  • Recovery times vary from person to person.
  • Touch-up treatments will be required between 2 to 8 years depending on the person and lifestyle.

 

Are There Any Contraindications to Scalp Micropigmentation Treatment 

The following are contraindications to scalp micropigmentation 


  • Blood clots
  • Infectious diseases
  • Epilepsy
  • Diabetes

 
  • Liver disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Albinism
  • Heart disease


  • Antibiotic therapy 
  • Anticoagulants 
  • Chemotherapy
  • Under the influence of drugs or alcohol

    • We may need to refer you to your GP in order to undergo treatment 

     
     Treatment lifespan is significantly longer if you avoid UV.
    Therefore we advise you to use sunscreen or a hat throughout the summer months when outside.

     

    How Much Does Scalp Micropigmentation Cost?

    Scalp MicroPigmentation is rarely completed in one session consequently a number of sessions will be necessary to achieve the final look. Ben will outline the cost of treatment at your consultation. Our average session cost is £400 -£800, sometimes less if the treatment area is very small or more if the entire scalp is being treated.

    The initial consultation is free and lasts around 15-20 minutes.  If you would like to book a consultation to find out more either call 01386 421703 email   or book online

    Frequently asked Scalp Micropigmentation questions

    Frequently Asked Questions on Scalp Micropigmentation.

    What Are the Different names for scalp micropigmentation treatment?

    Scalp MicroPigmentation(SMP), Micro Scalp Pigmentation (MSP), Hair Micro Pigmentation (HPT),  Scalp Tattoo, TricoPigmentation and 3D Scalp Micro Pigmentation.They are all the same!

    How long will treatment take?

    Consultation and patch test (if required or requested) 30min-1hour

    Treatments:

    • One – 2-4 hours depending on needs

    • Two – 1-2 weeks after (approximately) 2-4 hours depending on needs

    • Three – 2 -4 weeks after (not always needed) 2-4 hours depending on needs

    • Four – 2 – 4 weeks after (not always needed) 1-2 hours depending on needs

    Do I have to do anything before treatment?

    Pre treatment advice will be given to you before your first treatment session.

    How will I look straight after my sessions?

    You will be able to do your day to day activities immediately afterwards. Inflammation of the scalp, redness and tenderness may happen after your session and can last 4 -7 days.

    Can I wear a hat after my sessions?

    You can for the first 12 – 18  hours but make sure it’s a baseball cap and not worn too tightly. After this it is not ideal to wear one until 7 days.    

    How often will I need to shave or “buzz” my head?

    This is personal choice and the rate at which your hair grows.  For men most choose a shaven or “buzz” look so we say the shorter the better to complement your new look. We advice you experiment with length to see which you prefer.

    How long does results last?

    It is a permanent cosmetic treatment. However, touch up treatments will be required 1 to 8 years depending on the person and lifestyle.

    Will it fade?

    This is a permanent solution to hair loss. However, it is possible that over the longterm there may be some fading. If this happens, we can provide touch-ups to your style at an agreed hourly rate, much lower than the original treatment cost.

    What about ongoing hair loss?

    Ben will apply the treatment so any future loss will be minimal. However if any future loss becomes noticeable we can provide touch-ups to your style at an agreed hourly rate, much lower than the original treatment cost.

    Can I continue to use hair loss treatments after?

    Yes we advise you continue with any treatment you were using before. It is  important to maintain as much 'real hair' density as possible, particularly with Female and Hair Transplant patients.

    What happens if I go grey?

    No problem! Any greyness will not affect the overall look. Your existing hair will blend into the treated area.

    Is it painful?

    You may experience some mild discomfort but most clients tolerate sessions without any pain.

    Is there any age limits to treatment?

    Yes a minimum age of 18 years old but is suitable for any upper age.

    What pigment is used?

    The pigments used are made with natural ingredients such as beta-carotene and iron oxide.

    Is the treatment reversible?

    Pigment placement during Scalp Micro Pigmentation is different to a traditional tattoos  so it is easier to remove using laser. You would need to see a laser removal specialist.

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