Scalp Camouflage: Everything You Need to Know About Hair Tattoo
Find out how to scalp camouflage: works, who it’s for, and how much it costs in our comprehensive guide.
Hair restoration with scalp tattoo gives immediate and guaranteed results. Long-term and relatively cost-effective, it can camouflage bald patches and scars, re-densify bald spots, and bring down a receding hairline.
Learn everything you need to know about scalp micropigmentation or SMP.
SCALP TATTOO: WHAT IT IS
Why Should You Consider Scalp Micropigmentation?
In terms of aesthetics, or paramedical tattooing, scalp camouflage is like a tattoo, but with a few important differences. It creates an illusion of more density by covering the scalp with dots that look like hair follicles, i.e. emerging hair.
Pigments are injected shallowly into the scalp’s skin using a machine designed for cosmetic micropigmentation. Scalp pigmentation is not a traditional tattoo – the colors are formulated differently in order to be absorbed by the body, and they’re implanted closer to the skin’s surface.
It is important to note that scalp camouflage does not last forever, but it can last for up to 8 years.
Scalp Camouflage: Who Is a Candidate?
Hair restoration is for anyone who needs extra density between existing hair which might be thinner than what they want, whether it’s a whole scalp, patches, over scars, or it’s for someone who needs extra density between their existing hair. However, there are some contraindications.
Do you qualify for scalp pigmentation?
There are certain conditions that make cosmetic tattooing unsafe. The following conditions require a doctor’s clearance before you can undergo the treatment:
- People with diabetes (consult a doctor)
- Patients with bleeding disorders
- Those who take blood-thinning medications (consult your doctor and discontinue if possible)
- Women who are pregnant or nursing
- Those suffering from hypertrophic scarring or keloids
- Those suffering from viral infections or diseases
- Patients undergoing chemotherapy
- People with scalp irritations or psoriasis
Does Scalp Camouflage work on both men and women?
Yes, of course!
There are a number of hair problems that can be solved using this technique. It is possible to recreate hair in the form of skin follicles using scalp micropigmentation, so the results look like freshly shaved heads, but if placed between longer hair, they just look like shades that give the impression of thick hair.
Thin hair and bald spots can occur in both men and women, although men are more likely to experience male pattern baldness and a receding hairline. In addition to areas with no hair, it can also improve the appearance of patches with sparse hair.
It looks like the hair has been shaved off and is just starting to grow in if a larger bald area is treated. The perfect solution for clients who have no or very little hair and cut it very short anyway.
However, it can also densify sparse, longer hair. With the dotting technique, the areas between the natural strands are shaded, giving the appearance of more density. No matter how long the hair is, this technique works well on women. There will still be thin hair, but it will not be as prominently visible through it.
THE EFFECTS OF PIGMENTATION ON THE SCALP
The benefits of scalp camouflage include resolving what issues?
It is possible to treat the entire scalp area or only patches with SMP. The following issues can be camouflaged with scalp pigmentation:
- The total absence of hair
- A male pattern baldness (MPB)
- Hairline receding
- A patch of baldness
- Scalp scarring
- Sparce hair
What is the lifespan of a Hair Tattoo?
The longevity of the results varies from person to person and depends on many factors. Hair micropigmentation usually lasts between 4 and 8 years for most clients, but it can fade after just a year or two or last up to 10 years.
SMP fades gradually as a cosmetic pigmentation. Pigment inks are formulated in such a way that the immune system breaks them down and extracts them from the skin. If you want to keep the results for a longer period of time, you can refresh them periodically.
SCALP CAMOUFLAGE TATTOO TREATMENT
What Are the Steps in Scalp Micropigmentation?
Using scalp micropigmentation, pigment is injected in tiny dots into the skin of the scalp, following a pattern suited to camouflaging the problem. The procedure is performed with a machine that uses a fine needle that imitates a hair follicle’s diameter.
Treatment is a process, and results are achieved after several sessions. The average client needs 2-3 sessions, but more might be needed. Pigment retention depends on the skin.
An overview of the SMP treatment is provided below.
In-person or online consultations
Schedule a consultation with hair micropigmentation at Brows & Lips or simply send a photo of your scalp area. During the consultation, your artist will inspect the area and tell you what results in you can expect. Additionally, the artist informs you of the treatment schedule and instructs you on the aftercare regimen.
It is up to you to decide the shape of the hairline, but it is up to the artist to choose the color.
1st Camouflage Session
As a result of the initial treatment, the look is largely created – the subsequent sessions are top-ups.
A sketch of your future hairline is drawn at the beginning of the session. As soon as you’re satisfied with the result, the artist usually applies a numbing cream to reduce the pain. After 15-20 minutes, the numbing kicks in, and the needling begins. With a pigmentation machine, the artist will saturate the scalp with tiny dots of pigment.
It usually takes 2 to 4 hours for the first session.
2nd Session
The second session is scheduled about 15-30 days after the first. As some pigment from your skin is extracted, your results will initially appear very dark, then lighten over time. One session is not enough to achieve proper saturation, since the skin cannot retain enough pigment in one go.
In the second session, the artist goes over the dots again, replenishing them with pigment. Also, you can modify the shape of the hairline if you wish.
The second session won’t last as long as the first.
3rd Session
Most clients need to return in 15-30 days for another round of hair or skin micropigmentation (but not all – those with excellent retention may not require another treatment).
During this session, a significant amount of pigment should be retained, and you can see how the final result will look. This third session is an opportunity to replenish the pigments a little more.
Treatment Duration: How long does scalp camouflage last?
Hair Micropigmentation Camouflage takes between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size of the area to be treated. It is expected that the 2nd session will last about half as long as the first, and any additional sessions will be even shorter.
Is hair micropigmentation painful?
You shouldn’t feel pain during the treatment, but you may feel uncomfortable. Before the work begins, artists at Brows & Lips apply a topical anesthetic to the area, which will eliminate the pain.
In spite of this, you will still feel certain sensations such as pressure, tingling, and slight stinging. There won’t be anything unbearable, but it’s best to be prepared.
There are some areas of the scalp that are more sensitive than others, so discomfort may be severe on the temples or the crown. Also, scar tissue can be more sensitive.
Is Scalp pigmentation a safe procedure?
If done correctly, yes.
There is a risk of infection or allergic reactions caused by pigments and other products.
If the treatment was performed in unsterile conditions or with unsterilized products, or if improper aftercare was provided, infections can occur. Always go to a certified, licensed places and artists and follow aftercare instructions closely.
You can be sure to get a safe procedure at Brows & Lips under proper sterile conditions. To prevent allergic reactions, we will conduct a patch test before the treatment.
Camouflage Micropigmentation of the hair affects hair growth?
Not at all. You do not have to worry about the treatment affecting your hair growth since it is above the hair follicles.
SCALP CAMOUFLAGE PREPARATION
What do I need to do to prepare for scalp micropigmentation?
You should avoid these things before the treatment to ensure a smooth experience:
- For about two weeks, avoid sunbathing and tanning. Skin that is tanned is more sensitive.
- One month prior to the procedure, stop using any retinol or Vitamin A products on the forehead and temples. As a result, the skin thins out and bleeds more.
- It is advised that you avoid alcohol, caffeine, ibuprofen, aspirin, and fish oil supplements at least 24 hours before your appointment.
- Before your treatment, avoid scalp treatments for at least two weeks.
- Consult your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medications and see if you can stop using them for a few weeks.
It is also recommended to exfoliate the scalp the day before the treatment to remove dead skin cells or moisturize the scalp to make it softer.
SMP AFTERCARE
The procedure is relatively non-invasive, but you will need to follow an aftercare routine between sessions until the area heals. As a result, you will need to adjust your washing routine:
- For three days, keep the scalp dry. It is not allowed to wash, swim, sweat, bathe in saunas, or take steam baths.
- Wash your head with water between days 3 and 7, but do not use soap or shampoo.
- When you reach day 7, you can wash your head with mild soap.
In between sessions, and for at least 2 weeks after your last session, avoid the following:
- Touching your scalp
- Exposure to sunlight
- Sweating excessively
- Taking long, hot showers and being in a steamy environment
- Head shaving
This is a general guideline for scalp micropigmentation post-care.
How does SMP heal?
Since this treatment involves breaking the surface of the skin, the micro-wounds take a few days to close. You can expect the following after each session:
- You may experience some redness and irritation (it will subside within a couple of days).
- In the beginning, the pigments will appear too dark, then too light (they will reach their final color after healing).
- You may experience dryness and itching in the area – ask your artist for an ointment to relieve these symptoms.
- Scabs may form over the treated area – do not pick them!
What is the healing time for SMP?
With SMP sessions occurring so close together, the healing cycle will basically continue without interruption. As a result, the healing process has been complete for 4 weeks since the last session.
It takes this long for the pigments to show their true color and for the tissue to fully heal. Once that’s done, you don’t need to pay attention to your scalp, but you should minimize sun exposure and wear SPF when outside.
SCALP CAMOUFLAGE FOLLOW-UP SESSIONS
What is the best time to get an SMP touch-up?
In most cases, the 2nd and 3rd sessions are mandatory. Once you achieve the desired saturation and color, you won’t need to touch up for at least a few years.
Whenever you feel your results have faded significantly, you can get a color refresher touch-up. It is common for clients to come back only after 4 or even 5 years. It all depends on how fast your pigments fade.
If you notice that your hair is fading significantly, it is best to book a touch-up as soon as possible. As the pigments fade, more work will be required and the price will rise.
HAIR MICROPIGMENTATION CORRECTION
Pigmentation on the Scalp: What Can Go Wrong?
Infections, allergic reactions, and permanent scarring are some of the possible side effects of the treatment. You can prevent all of these issues by going to a certified, licensed, and experienced artist who knows what they’re doing does a patch test and gives clear aftercare instructions.
There is a very small chance of a botched SMP, but you might dislike the outline of the hairline or the color. The shape can be corrected and the color can be corrected if that is the case.
How to remove Hair Camouflage Micropigmentation?
Laser removal is an option if you decide to remove your scalp pigmentation at some point. The area of SMP is simply too large to be removed using other methods such as saline or acid removal.
A laser breaks down pigment particles, which are then extracted by the system. Many sessions are required for removal (in some cases, up to 10), and the process can take months. Additionally, it’s painful and quite uncomfortable.
Perhaps waiting until the pigments fade naturally is the best option.
Scalp Pigmentation Camouflage Price
How Much Does Scalp Pigmentation Cost in Dubai?
There are many factors that can affect the price of the SMP treatment, but one of the biggest is the size of the area being treated. Generally, the price range is between AED1500 and AED6000, with scar camouflage and receding hairlines being the cheapest, and full head treatment being the most expensive.
We can determine the cost of treating your particular case by assessing the amount of work required. Contact us at Brows & Lips for more information.
Hair Tattoo Camouflage - KEY TAKEAWAYS
There is no way for scalp micropigmentation to not work because it gives immediate results and camouflages scars or bald patches on the scalp. The process involves inserting dots of pigment into the scalp’s skin. In addition to giving a buzz-cut appearance, it also creates the illusion of more volume for up to 10 years.
To know more about our services please visit price list page or contact us directly.
