Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a process that deposits pigment onto the scalp to create the appearance of natural hair follicles. It can be used to cover up thinning hair or bald patches, and many people find it to be a less invasive alternative to hair transplant surgery.

There’s a lot of interest in scalp micropigmentation these days, and for good reason. This treatment can give you the look of a full head of hair, and it’s relatively affordable compared to other hair loss treatments. But one question that many people have is: “How long does scalp micropigmentation last?”

In this post, we’ll take a look at what factors influence the longevity of this treatment, and we’ll also share some tips on how to prolong the results.

How long will scalp micropigmentation last?

Clients are interested to know how long scalp micropigmentation will last. Scalp micropigmentation practitioners advocate a retouch every 4-6 years to maintain the look after the SMP procedure.

What are the factors that influence the longevity of SMP?

  • Sun exposure

The sun is a particularly potent hazard to your hairline. Wearing a hat or applying sunblock lotion with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 will protect you against this issue.

The brilliance of SMP will diminish as a result of UV rays from the sun. The wavelengths of UV radiation have enough energy to break down the pigmentation molecules when you leave your scalp ink out in the sun. Even if it’s cloudy outside, this holds true.

On a positive note, maintaining your new look is as simple as purchasing a high-quality sun lotion. Any topical with an SPF of 30 or higher will protect you from 97-98 percent of UV rays. However, you should also stay away from lotions that have alcohol near the top of the ingredient list, which can cause extra dryness.

  • Immune system

Your immune system can absorb the ink from your micropigmentation over time and try to expel it. This is because scalp micropigmentation professionals put pigment beneath your skin’s epidermis. The ink will not shed with the higher layers of skin cells, but your macrophage cells will treat it as a foreign substance and wear it away.

Individuals vary in their ability to do so. Factors such as your skin type and time spent in the sun will determine the extent of this fading. This implies that some people’s pigment will last much longer while others will need to touch up more frequently.

  • Quality of procedure

Some inexperienced artists believe SMP is a straightforward method rather than specialized expertise. They provide their services at a lesser cost to persuade you to forego a recognized SMP procedure. However, this could lead to the use of low-quality scalp micropigmentation ink and an improper pigment application depth.

Before committing to a scalp micropigmentation treatment, make sure your SMP practitioner is certified and has a client portfolio. Examine the practitioner’s client testimonials to get an idea of the kind of service you may expect.

Never make a decision based entirely on pricing. Expect high quality and be willing to pay a bit more for it.

What can you do to prolong the results of your scalp micropigmentation?

There are a few things that you can do to prolong the results of your scalp micropigmentation post-procedure:

1) Do not touch, wash, or rub the scalp for at least three days after the procedure.

Scalp micropigmentation entails using microneedles to pierce your scalp and inject ink into the skin’s layers. As a result, your scalp sores will be raw for a few days after the treatment. If you touch, rub, or wash the area, you’re more likely to have an infection, which will slow down the healing process. After three days, you can wash your hair with water but not with shampoo.

2) Follow your specialist’s directions for aftercare.

It is critical, as with any other procedure, that you follow all of your SMP practitioner’s advice for aftercare treatment. Some instructions may include, but are not limited to, keeping your scalp dry and refraining from using razors until a certain time has passed. It is critical that you take this seriously, even if it may create temporary disruptions in your usual routines.

3) Regularly moisturize your scalp.

Start applying moisturizer to your scalp after a few days of treatment. It will keep the scalp hydrated and give it a polished appearance. Moisturizing the scalp also prevents it from getting flaky and dry.

4) Stay out of the sun.

Although it may appear challenging to follow, avoid exposing your scalp to the sun. If you must go out, wear sunscreen with a high SPF. When your scalp is exposed to the sun, the pigment may fade faster than usual. Yes, the pigment will eventually fade, but only in a few years. Don’t hasten the process by exposing your scalp to the sun.

Conclusion

After your scalp micropigmentation procedure, following the proper aftercare instructions is crucial in maintaining your look. This means keeping the area clean and free of oils and lotions, avoiding direct sunlight, and using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. 

If you’re looking for a permanent solution to your scalp aesthetics in Boston, Scalp Designs is one of the best clinics to turn to. Our team of hair specialists are experts in Scalp Micropigmentation and can give you a treatment that will last anywhere from 4-6 years.

The longevity of the SMP look depends on various factors such as aftercare, sun exposure, etc. Still, by following our simple guidelines and recommendations, you can ensure that your scalp aesthetic will stay brilliant, and highly pigmented for years to come.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about our services.

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