Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), often referred to as a 'hair tattoo' or 'scalp tattoo,' replicates hair follicles using cosmetic pigment layered with dots, a technique known as pointillism. Its aim is to create the illusion of a full head of hair, whether the natural hair has been shaven down or to enhance the appearance of thicker, denser hair. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure with no downtime. Results become visible after the first session, although achieving the desired look of hair simulation typically requires several sessions. The outcome gives the appearance of tiny hair follicles or short hair stubble on a completely shaved scalp or can create the illusion of increased hair density among existing natural hair, whether your hair is thinning, receding, or if you are completely bald. This technique involves the non-surgical insertion of organic, plant-based carbon pigment deposits through the dermal layer of the scalp.
The sole method for complete Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) removal is through laser tattoo removal. Saline Solution tattoo removal is not advisable for Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP). Nevertheless, if you've had subpar Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) done elsewhere, please send us a few pictures initially. In some cases, we might be able to conduct cover-up work to improve your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) without the need for tattoo laser removal
The primary motivation behind considering Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is to help individuals feel their absolute best selves The advantages of undergoing Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) treatments include: • Achieving the appearance of a full head of shaved hair or a stylish buzz cut, effectively concealing the appearance of a receding hairlines or hair loss. • Boosting self-confidence and self-esteem by addressing hair loss insecurities. • Camouflaging accidental scars, surgery scars, hair transplant scars, or burn scars. • Restoring a natural-looking hairline for various degrees of baldness, revitalizing a more youthful appearance. • Concealing thinning hair or bald patches, benefiting both men and women. • Enhancing the appearance of hair density, reducing the visibility of the scalp through thinning hair. • Mitigating the visible effects of alopecia, offering relief from this particular insecurity.
For the safety and best possible outcome, we refrain from performing scalp micropigmentation on pregnant women. During pregnancy, the skin tends to be more sensitive, which may lead to potential bleeding and unpredictable reactions to the pigment, affecting the results. If you become pregnant while undergoing Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) sessions, it's advisable to postpone further treatments until after pregnancy for your well-being and to ensure optimal results. However, it is safe to consider or resume treatment during the post-partum phase while breastfeeding.
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) can effectively conceal hair loss resulting from various types of Alopecia. However, it's important to note that Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) doesn't treat or eliminate Alopecia symptoms; it merely helps to cover them up. Androgenic Alopecia: Known as common male or female pattern baldness, affects roughly 50% of the population. We can work on this type of alopecia, utilizing either the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) for density or the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) for the bald stubble look, depending on your requirements. Alopecia Areata: Often termed 'patchy hair loss,' can be addressed by camouflaging the bald patches on your head using either the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) for density method or, if your hair has been shaven, achieving the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) bald stubble look to blend with the rest of your hair. Alopecia Totalis/Universalis: The complete loss of all scalp hair, we can assist with the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) bald stubble look. However, in some cases, the skin may be less receptive to the pigment, necessitating additional sessions. Traction Alopecia: Typically caused by tight hairstyles, especially common among women, can be camouflaged if you still have baby hairs in your front hairline. Otherwise, we can address traction alopecia by blending your hairline forward using the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) for bald stubble method if you choose to shave your hair. Cicatricial Alopecia: Characterized by patchy inflamed hair loss leading to scarring, can only be addressed once the affected areas have healed. Working on inflamed areas could cause bleeding, leading to pigment rejection and further aggravation of the inflammation. We can work around the inflamed areas and space sessions out further apart to heal. Alopecia Barbae: Bald patches in the beard area, can also be camouflaged effectively. However, please keep in mind in some cases the pigment might be visible on the skin should you do a clean shave. It depends on your skin colour in combination with your hair follicle colour and the thickness of your beard. Please visit our treatment page to see what we are able to achieve with Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) to reduce the appearance of hair thinning caused by Alopecia
Absolutely, one of the primary motivations behind choosing the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) for density treatment is to address the self-consciousness one feels associated with a visible scalp through showing through thinning hair or low hair quantity. The technique involves "colouring in" the scalp background, effectively reducing the visibility of your skin through your hair. This creates the illusion of fuller hair and diminishes the appearance of scalp exposure, aiding in boosting confidence and achieving a more natural, dense look. Please visit our treatment page to see what we are able to achieve with Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) density work when working between hair.
At SMP South Africa, we utilize the highest quality pigments endorsed by leading Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) industry experts internationally. These pigments are specifically formulated to uphold their integrity over time and are engineered to resist discoloration effectively. Unlike in traditional tattoo inks that might require various colours to achieve a specific shade, some of these pigments can break down in the skin over time, leading to unwanted blue or green hues commonly seen in traditional tattoos. It's crucial to avoid using these pigments in Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) procedures to ensure optimal and lasting results.
We travel to provide treatments nationwide, but our services are available for groups of three or more clients in a specific location. However, we can add you to a waiting list to notify you when we will be in your area – please send us an enquiry about what you’d like to get done for us to provide you with a quotation and be added to our waiting list to inform you when we’ll be in your area
We provide two payment options for your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) treatment: 1. Full Treatment Upfront: Pay for the total recommended sessions upfront, which work out the cheapest as it gives us the guarantee to complete our work in the minimal required timeframe.2. Per Session Payment: Opt for a per-session payment plan, it works out slightly more in total, allowing you to space out payments according to your budget. You can schedule sessions on the minimum recommended time frame, monthly or as your budget allows. Additionally, we are registered with MEDIFIN , a medical and cosmetic treatment financing company that covers Scalp Micropigmentation treatment payments. If you prefer this option, we can assist you in registering with them. They will pay us in full, and you can set up a payment plan arrangement with them. Please let us know if you'd like to apply through MEDIFIN, and we'll help arrange the formal quotation for your treatment.
If you're experiencing any of the following concerns: • Crown Balding• Receding Hairline• Semi or Complete Baldness• Alopecia• Bald patches on your beard (Alopecia Barbae)• Thinning Hair• Bald Spots• Hair Transplant, surgery, or accident scars• Front hair receding due to braiding (Traction Alopecia) We understand that everyone is unique, and we're here to tailor a solution that best fits your needs. Feel free to reach out to us and send a few pictures. We'll discuss a personalized solution just for you. Please visit our treatment page to explore the range of solutions SMP offers for various types of hair loss. TREATMENTS
We strive to accommodate our clients considering their busy schedules. Our flexibility includes offering sessions on weekends, public holidays, and after-hours. However, these specialized sessions are in high demand and tend to fill up quickly. To secure a slot during after-hours or weekends, we recommend booking in advance due to their popularity
The skin, being the body's largest organ, varies in textures, thicknesses, and pH levels across its surfaces. Its healing process is unpredictable, necessitating the initial session to establish a foundation for subsequent treatments. Pigment absorption varies across different skin types, hence the importance of follow-up sessions. These sessions enable us to reinforce pigment where needed, add extra density for a consistent appearance, and assess the healed colour on your skin tone to determine if a darker shade is required in subsequent sessions. Additionally, the treatment process causes slight irritation to the skin, causing the impressions (dots) to shrink while healing. This allows us to add more impressions closer together in follow-up sessions, creating a seamlessly blended look of natural hair follicles on the scalp.
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is often referred to as 'semi-permanent' since it gradually fades over time. This occurs because we work superficially, specifically on the dermis layer of the skin. Generally, Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) can last up to 5 years with excellent aftercare. However, various factors such as sun exposure, skin shedding, hat-wearing, skin flaking, shaving, medication, skin type, age, cellular metabolism, diseases, and more can gradually affect the longevity of your treatment. After a few years, you might notice a lightening effect. At this point, undergoing 1 or 2 touch-up sessions can restore the treatment, allowing it to last for an extended period again.
The answer to this is both yes and no. The best way to define Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is as 'semi-permanent.' It differs from the permanence of traditional tattoos we typically get on our legs or arms. Instead, it's closer to cosmetic tattooing, such as permanent eyebrows, eyeliner, or lip treatments that require periodic touch-ups. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) does fade over time, although the colour may not necessarily change drastically—it tends to lighten. However, if complete removal is necessary, undergoing a tattoo removal procedure would be required. For more details regarding the longevity of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), you can refer to the FAQ section on 'How long will my treatment last?'
Absolutely, getting Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) doesn't impact your current hair or future hair growth. When we perform Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) for density, we work between your existing hairs. The only instance where it's preferable not to have any hair is if you opt for the full head shaven stubble look, as it appears most natural when the hair is kept shaved. If you choose Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) to create the illusion of denser and thicker hair, it's advisable not to shave it all off. Shaving completely could reveal patches of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) on your scalp, which would require laser removal or additional Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) application to achieve a consistent full head of stubble hair look. Please visit our treatment page to see what we are able to achieve with Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) density work when working between hair.
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a gradual process, and achieving full results requires multiple sessions. We allow healing time between sessions for the skin to heal and for us to evaluate the healed colour of your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP). This helps us determine if any colour or needle size adjustments are necessary. Our approach prioritizes safety, gradually darkening during the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th session, as once the work is too dark, it is not possible to go lighter again, it can only go gradually lighter with time or with tattoo removal. Below is an indication of the progressive nature of our work: with each session, we gradually darken the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) to add density. It's important to note that this process varies for each client
Yes, indeed, we offer various shades of grey to accommodate clients with more grey hair than dark hair. We meticulously blend the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) with your natural hair colours, employing a combination of grey and darker tones necessary, to achieve the most seamless and undetectable blend. Please see the picture below of a gentleman who had a significantly receded hairline with numerous grey hairs
Comprehensive aftercare instructions will be provided during your consultation or on your treatment day. Here are a few crucial points to remember: • Avoid exposing your scalp to the sun for at least 7 days. • Refrain from swimming, using saunas, and steam rooms. • Do not scratch or pick at the treatment area. • Avoid applying alcohol-based products on your scalp. • Refrain from activities leading to excessive sweating, such as vigorous exercise, sauna use, or wearing closed hats. • Avoid using helmets. It's vital to follow our detailed post-treatment instructions for the 4 to 14 days following the session, which we will discuss during your treatment.
In most cases, yes, but it depends on your preferences. For the bald stubble look, individuals with advanced hair loss, often with hair on the sides only, benefit most by maintaining a short stubble on the sides. This ensures a consistent appearance, avoiding a contrast between the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)-created stubble and longer side hair. For Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) density treatments, we use tighter impressions with a darker colour and slightly larger needle size. It's best to maintain some hair length afterward; otherwise, shaving may result in an uneven, patchy appearance with a darker hue compared to natural stubble. However, if you desire the bald stubble look for future shaving but also want added density, shaving before getting your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)allows us to create even spacing. You can then regrow your hair, achieving Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) suitable for both the bald stubble appearance and the appearance of increased density.
Yes, absolutely. It's quite common to combine Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) treatment with hair transplants. This combination serves to either camouflage the transplant scars or create the illusion of denser hair between the transplanted areas. Hair transplants, at times, may not achieve 100% success in providing the desired full head of hair appearance. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) can significantly enhance the look, offering a fuller appearance at a more affordable cost compared to undergoing 2 or 3 additional hair transplant procedures. However, we do need to wait at least 6 months post hair transplant before we can do any Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP). Please visit our treatment page to see what we are able to achieve with Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) in combination with hair transplants.
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a minimally invasive treatment that requires no downtime. You might experience slight redness in the treated scalp area, typically resolving completely by the next day. Many clients find the redness nearly gone by the evening. If you feel self-conscious about the redness, you can wear a soft-fitting hat or head scarf that doesn't exert pressure on the treated area. The primary post-treatment consideration is to avoid direct sun exposure, water contact, and excessive sweating on the treated area. For detailed aftercare instructions, comprehensive aftercare instructions will be discussed with you on your treatment day."
Wearing loose-fitting hats, beanies, or head scarves post-treatment is acceptable, as long as they don't sit tightly on the treated scalp area until it's completely healed. Hairpieces like clip-in extensions, tape-ins, or keratin bonds are generally fine as they don't typically touch the scalp. However, avoid wearing wigs or head pieces that rest directly on the scalp during the first week to allow proper healing, as wigs may cause scratching and sweating. Additionally, it's advisable to refrain from wearing helmets for at least a week post-treatment to ensure optimal healing of the treated area and achieve the best results.
There's generally no need for ongoing maintenance for your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) after your initial 3 to 4 sessions. Following these sessions, your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) should maintain its quality for several years. However, after about a year, some clients might feel accustomed to their results and wish to darken the pigment, which can usually be achieved in one or two sessions. The primary adversaries of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) are sun exposure and certain hair products directly applied to the scalp, which may cause fading of the pigment or skin flaking. To extend the longevity of your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), it's advisable to apply sunscreen to your scalp when exposed to the sun for extended periods and regularly moisturize the scalp.
You can submit a general inquiry from our homepage, and we'll reach out to discuss the procedure you're interested in. Alternatively, you can contact us via WhatsApp or email, providing a few pictures from various angles. This allows us to determine the best approach for you and offer a treatment plan, estimated price and session duration. For small patches or scars on the head, please include a picture with a ruler next to it for size reference. With this information, we'll create a treatment plan and provide a cost estimate. If you prefer an in-person consultation to view our previous work and learn more about the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) procedure, please give us a call or contact us via WhatsApp or email. Our inperson consultations require an upfront payment of R550 to secure your booking. If you proceed with treatment, this amount will be deducted from your total cost. We also offer virtual consultations via MS Teams, Zoom, or WhatsApp video calls if you're unable to visit us in person. In cases where we're uncertain if Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) treatment is suitable for you, we may request a complimentary in-person check to ensure we can provide the best possible outcome without making false promises. Please click here to make a booking or have a chat with us about your hair thinning concern.
First and foremost, Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is preferred to as semi-permanent as it gradually fades over time and is not permanent like body art tattoos. We also work much more superficially than with traditional body art tattoos, hence its gradual fading over time. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a restoration process that aims to give the illusion of closely shaven hair or a thicker, denser look of hair. Therefore, it is deemed halal by some Islamic Scholars. In 2016, the European Council for Fatwa and Research ruled on the issue of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) and its compliance with Islamic principles, concluding that it is a permissible treatment for hair loss, as it is a remedy for an ailment. SMP also does not affect Wudu post-treatment; however, it is suggested not to do Ghusl right after treatment and to wait at least 5 days before washing the scalp.
The pigments employed in Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) are formulated to naturally soften over time. Even when applied to white hair, darker Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) dots on the scalp contribute to creating depth within your hair. When hair exits the scalp, including white hair, it gives the impression of having a darker color beneath the skin's surface. This is why darker dots can seamlessly blend with white hair, providing a natural appearance. Moreover, Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) can aid in minimizing the visibility of grey hair by enhancing the appearance of darker hair follicles, creating the illusion of a more uniform hair color."
After your session, you may notice slight scalp sensitivity and a mild redness in the treated area, typically lasting between 12 to 48 hours, varying from person to person. You can resume your normal daily activities but avoid strenuous exercise, activities leading to excessive sweating or swimming. During your virtual or in-person consultation, we'll discuss post-session precautions and go through your daily lifestyle to see if anything within your daily activities or upcoming events could potentially affect the outcome of your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP).
Yes, after the first session, your treatment will be slightly visible, but it will fade during the healing process, and the colour will return. However, after the 2nd session, the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) will become significantly more prominent. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a gradual process, and achieving full results requires multiple sessions. We allow healing time between sessions for the skin to heal and for us to evaluate the healed colour of your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP). This helps us determine if any colour or needle size adjustments are necessary. Our approach prioritizes safety, gradually darkening during the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th session, as once the work is too dark, it is not possible to go lighter again, it can only go gradually lighter with time or with tattoo removal.
Typically, the best hairline to choose is your natural one you were born with. During the initial session, we take the time to sketch potential hairlines using a makeup pencil, exploring various options until we discover the most suitable one for you. Feel free to share images of hairlines you like, and we'll work to match and customize them to suit your features. Hence, we also do the Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) for bald stubble look in 3 sessions. We start with a softer approach in the first session, especially if someone's adjusting after years of being accustomed to a bald appearance. By the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th session, we can gradually make adjustments, adding density to go darker, bring the hairline more forward or making some slight adjustments. It's easier to add more than to have too much done too soon. Our primary aim is to ensure your hair treatment looks as natural as possible.
Consultations are designed to instil confidence in our expertise while understanding your desired outcome for scalp micropigmentation. We'll commence by exploring your specific hair loss concerns, duration of struggle, and any prior attempts at alternative hair restoration methods. Additionally, we'll discuss any planned future treatments aimed at addressing your hair loss. Our presentation will include a showcase of our past work, highlighting cases similar to yours. This visual representation will encompass diverse looks and hairlines we've crafted previously, aligning with your envisioned outcome. This allows us to ensure clarity between your expectations and our capabilities in delivering results. Should we find limitations in achieving your envisioned outcome through scalp micropigmentation, we prioritize transparency. Our commitment lies in honesty, preferring to openly communicate if certain expectations might not be achievable through this procedure. Our goal is a shared understanding and realistic alignment between your desires and the possibilities offered by scalp micropigmentation.
Procedures range from R 3000 to R 30,000 for the whole treatment, which includes 3 or 4 sessions depending on what’s required for you. Alternatively, we offer a per-session payment option, which can vary from R980 to R10,800 per session. The cost varies from person to person based on the severity of your hair loss, whether there is any hair remaining, and the amount of remaining hair density we might need to match. We don’t just work on the area where there is thinning hair; we also focus on the surrounding areas to make the blend as undetectable as possible. Session times can vary from 30 minutes to 6 hours, and generally, they need to be spaced at a minimum of 10 to 14 days apart. Sessions can also be done once a month or every second month or so should you choose a per session payment option and your budget only allows to come on a monthly basis or however is convenient for you. For only certain patches or scars we work on a cm measurement scale, please send us a picture with measurements of a scar or a patch to give you an accurate price estimation for that area alone. The Norwood scale below provides a rough indication of the pricing structure for general male pattern baldness. For more accurate pricing based on your specific Norwood scale level, or if you have concerns about hair thinning, scarring, alopecia, or any other issues, please send us a few pictures of your hair loss concern via WhatsApp, Telegram, or Email. Alternatively, you’re welcome to book an in person consultation, or we can schedule a virtual consultation.
Scalp Micropigmentation is a cosmetic tattoo with immediate results and no downtime. This is not hair transplanting or a hair growth solution.
Scalp Micropigmentation can assist with giving the illusion of fuller dense hair, assist in creating the look of a full head of hair cut into a buzz cut and/or assist with scar camouflage on the scalp or balding/thinning spots.