Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

Here’s a quick breakdown of SMP:

• Purpose: Treats hair loss, thinning hair, bald patches, alopecia, and scalp scars.
• Technique: Tiny layered dots of pigment are tattooed in different shades of black to give a natural, three-dimensional look.
• Sessions: Typically takes 2–4 sessions spaced a few weeks apart.
• Results: Long-lasting (around 4–6 years before touch-ups may be needed).
• Pain: Mild to moderate discomfort, often compared to a light scratching sensation.
• Aftercare: Avoid heavy sweating, sun exposure, and shampooing the scalp for a few days post-treatment.

It’s becoming super popular because it’s relatively low-maintenance compared to hair transplants or daily hair systems.

Purpose of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

The purpose of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is to create the illusion of a fuller head of hair or a closely-shaved scalp by depositing natural pigments into the skin. It’s designed to enhance appearance, restore confidence, and camouflage various scalp concerns.

Here’s a more detailed look:

• Hair Loss Camouflage: Helps men and women experiencing hair thinning, receding hairlines, or full baldness look like they have a denser head of hair.
• Scar Concealment: Covers scars from hair transplant surgery (like FUT/FUE scars) or injuries on the scalp.
• Alopecia Solution: Offers a cosmetic fix for people with alopecia (including alopecia areata and totalis) where hair loss is patchy or total.
• Density Enhancement: People who still have hair but notice thinning can use SMP to make their hair look thicker by darkening the scalp underneath.
• Styling Choice: Some clients simply like the clean “buzzed” look SMP provides and opt for it as a style statement.

SMP doesn’t promote hair regrowth — it’s purely a cosmetic solution that makes hair loss much less noticeable.

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Technique

The technique of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a very detailed process designed to mimic the look of natural hair follicles on the scalp. Here’s how it works step-by-step:

• Consultation and Design
  – The artist examines your scalp, hair type, skin tone, and level of hair loss.
  – Together, you decide on the hairline shape, density, and pigment color that matches your natural look.
• Pigment Selection
  – Specially formulated pigments (different from regular tattoo inks) are chosen based on your skin undertone and desired result.
  – The goal is a natural match, whether you’re blending into existing hair or recreating a shaved look.
• Preparation
  – The scalp is cleaned and sometimes lightly shaved.
  – A numbing cream may be applied to minimize discomfort.
• Application of Micro-Dots
  – Using a microneedle machine, the practitioner deposits tiny dots of pigment into the upper dermis of the scalp.
  – The dots are layered in a way that they vary in size, depth, and shade to replicate real hair follicles and avoid a flat, “drawn-on” look.
• Layering and Building Density
  – SMP is typically done over 2–4 sessions.
  – Each session gradually builds up density and definition without overloading the scalp with too much pigment at once, allowing proper healing between treatments.
• Healing and Touch-Ups
  – After each session, the scalp heals and the pigment settles.
  – Touch-ups refine the look by adjusting color, density, and hairline sharpness if needed.

Important to know:

• Precision is key — each dot must be perfectly placed.
• Pressure control matters — too shallow, and the pigment fades; too deep, and it blurs.

Number of Sessions for Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

The typical number of sessions needed for Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is 2 to 4 sessions, depending on your individual case.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

• First Session (Foundation Layer)
  – Focuses on creating the basic hairline, filling in the scalp with the first layer of pigment.
  – It’s like laying the groundwork — lighter in density to start.
  Session time: Around 2–4 hours, depending on the size of the area.
• Second Session (Building Density and Definition)
  – Adds a second layer of pigment to deepen color and create a more natural, 3D look.
  – Refines the hairline and fills any lighter spots.
  – Typically done 7–14 days after the first session (after the scalp heals).
• Third Session (Final Perfecting)
  – Fine-tunes the result: adjusts density, sharpens hairline details, and ensures even blending.
  – Not everyone needs a third session, but it’s very common.
• Optional Fourth Session (Touch-up)
  – For very large areas, major alopecia, or if the client wants an ultra-dense look, a fourth session might be needed.
  – Sometimes also used months later as a final polish.

Quick facts:

• Sessions are spaced out to let the scalp heal and pigment settle properly.
• Minor fading after the first session is normal — later sessions are needed to “lock in” the final result.

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Pain & Healing

Here’s a clear breakdown of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Pain & Healing:

Pain Level

Pain is usually mild to moderate.

• Most people compare it to a light scratching or mild sunburn feeling.
• Pain tolerance varies — areas near the temples, crown, and forehead can feel more sensitive.
• A numbing cream may be applied beforehand to reduce discomfort, but some artists prefer minimal numbing to ensure pigment settles properly.
• If you’ve had tattoos before, SMP feels much lighter because the needles are smaller and don’t go as deep into the skin.

Healing Process

• Day 1–3:
  – Scalp might feel tender, slightly red, or tight (like after a sunburn).
  – Tiny scabs may form where the pigment was placed.
  – Avoid touching, washing, or sweating heavily.
• Day 4–7:
  – Light peeling or flaking may happen as the skin heals.
  – The pigment may look lighter — this is normal! It settles deeper as healing continues.
• Day 7–14:
  – Most redness and scabbing are gone.
  – Pigment becomes more visible but softer and more natural-looking.
  – You can usually resume normal activities but still avoid harsh sun or aggressive scalp treatments.
• After 30 Days:
  – Full healing is complete.
  – If needed, you can get a touch-up session to perfect the density or correct any fading.

Important Healing Tips:

• No heavy sweating (e.g., gym workouts) for the first 5 days.
• No swimming, steam rooms, or long hot showers early on.
• Stay out of direct sunlight — UV rays can fade fresh pigment.
• Moisturize lightly if instructed (usually after 4–5 days).

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Aftercare

Here’s a clear and easy guide to Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Aftercare:

• First 4 Days After SMP
  – Don’t wash your scalp — keep it dry.
  – Avoid sweating — no gym, running, or intense activity.
  – No touching or scratching — let your scalp heal naturally.
  – Avoid sun exposure — stay indoors or wear a loose hat if you have to go out.
  – No shaving the scalp — let the micro-wounds close properly first.
• Day 5 to Day 7
  – You can gently rinse your scalp with lukewarm water (no soap yet).
  – Lightly moisturize your scalp with a non-fragrance, alcohol-free moisturizer if it feels dry (your SMP artist might recommend one).
  – Still avoid sweating heavily, swimming, saunas, and steam rooms.
• After 7 Days
  – Normal light showers are okay — use a mild, fragrance-free soap.
  – You can shave your scalp carefully with an electric foil shaver (no razor blades yet).
  – Still limit sun exposure — UV rays can cause pigment fading.
  – No exfoliating or scrubbing — treat the scalp gently.

Long-Term Care (after 30 days)

• Moisturize daily to keep the scalp healthy.
• Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when exposed to sunlight to protect the pigment.
• Avoid harsh shampoos — stick with gentle, sulfate-free products.
• Stay hydrated — healthy skin holds pigment better.

Plan for touch-ups every 3–6 years if needed, depending on how your body and lifestyle affect fading.

Cost of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) in Nairobi, Kenya

Here’s a simple breakdown of the Cost of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP):

Average Cost Range

Ksh.  to Ksh.  for a full SMP treatment (usually 2–4 sessions).

Factor and How it Affects Cost

• Extent of Hair Loss – A small area (like a scar or crown spot) costs less than full-head coverage.
• Clinic Location Prices are higher in big cities or premium clinics.
• Artist’s Experience – Highly skilled or in-demand artists charge more (but deliver more natural results).
• Customization Level – Highly detailed hairline design, blending with existing hair, and density work can add to the cost.
• Number of Sessions – More severe hair loss may need extra sessions = higher price.

Typical Pricing Examples

• Small Area (Scar Camouflage): around Ksh– Ksh.
• Mild to Moderate Thinning (Crown/Top Only): around Ksh. –Ksh.
• Full Scalp (Complete Baldness): around Ksh.– Ksh..