What Is Scalp Micropigmentation? A Detailed Guide

Some adults suffer from hair problems that cause them to be self-conscious about things such as their hairline. Sometimes it’s genetics that creates the gaps and spaces, inviting the beginning stages of balding. However, for most, hair issues are often due to aging.

Over 300 million Americans struggle with thinning hair. By the time you are 30, you have a 25% chance of balding, specifically at the hairline. It may be hard to find solutions to treat areas that won’t regrow. In these instances, scalp micropigmentation may be the best solution.

What is scalp micropigmentation, and what can it do to help you? Keep reading this guide to find out.

What Is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation is a procedure that offers the illusion of thicker, fuller hair. Micropigmentation uses an electronic tattooing device that is capable of penetrating the skin of your scalp to inject pigment.

The arrangement of pigment is very important. The color and dimension allow the added pigment to look hair-like and realistic.

Specialists who use the device use pointillism to create tiny, layered dots in varied hues of black. This mimics the shadow of your scalp. The enhanced hairline helps boost confidence in men and women who desire fuller hair and look more youthful.

Who Are the Best Candidates?

Scalp micropigmentation is perfect for people experiencing some form of hair loss. The best candidates are those dealing with pattern hair baldness, thinning hair, shaved hair cancer, or scars. Sometimes, no matter what you do in an attempt to regrow your hair, it can never look the same as it did before.

Male or Female Pattern Baldness (Alopecia)

Male/female pattern hair loss can happen at any age, but it often starts between the ages of 35-50. While most people with this hair condition still maintain the overall thickness of their hair, they lose hair around the temples.

Others develop a receding hairline. Scalp pigmentation can cover areas that are sparse or those with no hair at all. Individuals who develop balding will no longer see those bald spots.

Thinning Hair or Shaved Hair

There are times people can reverse thinning hair or improve how it looks depending on the cause. However, if your thinning hair is not related to a poor diet or nutrient deficiencies, it may not always be reversible.

Age and health complications are the two main reasons for thinning hair. When hair is less dense, you may look for ways to hide it by brushing your hair a certain way or wearing a hat. Even if you do decide to shave your head, scalp micropigmentation can still be a great choice because it can create a full hairline.

Cancer

People with cancer may decide to undergo chemotherapy. One side-effect of the treatment is hair loss. There are times the hair does not grow back even after you finish chemotherapy. Aside from wearing wigs or opting for hair transplants, you can also use scalp micropigmentation to improve your hairline.

Scars

Severe head injuries or head surgeries can leave you with many types of scars. Even those who get a hair transplant to correct balding may find it returns in another form. These people may notice FUT or FUE scars on their heads.

These scars remain visible because scars on the scalp rarely ever experience hair growth. The good news is scalp pigmentation can help camouflage the scar.

What Are the Risks?

Before you accept any scalp micropigmentation treatment, you should always understand the risks and weigh them against each other to see if it is right for you. The best way to reduce potential risks is to visit locations that have certified, experienced professionals.

People who have an interest in scalp pigmentation can get proper training at places like Scalp Co academy. Every professional should learn how to do the right blending techniques. They must also keep the area and their equipment sanitized to reduce the risk of infection.

With that said, there are not many side effects aside from infection if you visit a non-sterile location that does not use proper protective equipment. A good location will have a health permit and a bloodborne pathogen certification.

Keep in mind, you may have a reaction to the ink itself if you are allergic to the ingredients. This is unlikely, but it helps to do a patch test.

How Much Does Scalp Micropigmentation Cost?

The cost of scalp micropigmentation varies. It will depend mostly on how much coverage you’re looking for. Overall, a typical treatment will cost between $300-1,000. The best thing about getting a micropigmentation treatment is knowing the value you get for the money.

It is a semi-permanent procedure that can last up to 10 years. During this time, the treatment will start to slowly fade because our skin cells are always renewing itself.

Exfoliating your scalp speeds up this process. Those who suffer from dry skin may notice the treatment fading quicker than usual because the skin will flake off the pigment.

Still, even when the pigment lightens, the appearance of fuller hair still remains so long the correct pigment is used. You can touch-up areas that do become too light or vanish.

Achieve the Hairline You Desire

Everyone has a different head shape and hairline. Some people are born with a certain hairline that they are uncomfortable with. Others lose their original hairline as they age and notice the appearance of bald spots. They often create an “M” shape.

For others, such as women who are suffering from a form of alopecia or post-pregnancy, they will experience hair loss at the temples. Sometimes no matter what you do, you cannot achieve the same fullness you had even if you are able to regrow some of the hair back. Try scalp micropigmentation to help you regain that sense of fullness.

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