FAQ

What is SMP?

SMP stands for Scalp Micro Pigmentation. It is a method of depositing pigment into the epidermal layer of the skin on the scalp, which replicates hair follicles. When viewed from a few inches away, the pigment dots appear as hair follicles and the client has the appearance of a full head of recently shaved hair. SMP is color matched on a gray scale for most clients and can be used to treat clients of very pale complexion to extremely dark skin tones. Pigment changes also allow me to treat clients with red hair, blonde hair or older clients who have much gray or white hair. Normally, SMP is applied over the course of two to five treatments, with each treatment lasting  1-4 hours depending upon prior hair loss.

 

Does SMP look real?

A typical hair from a normal caucasian male is about 77 micrometers in diameter (67 Um in those of Asian descent, and 120 Um in those of African descent). Typically, SMP dots placed in the dermis are 90 to 150 micrometers in diameter. This might seem a bit larger than a real human hair, but when viewed from six inches or further away, the size is indistinguishable from real hair follicles. Often, even close family members standing one foot away (0.3 meters) cannot tell where your real hair ends and the SMP begins

​Does it Hurt?

This procedure is far less painful than a traditional tattoo but you will still feel some discomfort depending on your pain tolerance.  Our SMP procedure is completely safe. We use pre-packaged one-time-use sterile needles. We maintain the highest level of sterility and cleanliness. Your procedure is done in a private treatment room. This greatly reduces the possibility of cross contamination.

What pigments or inks are used in an SMP treatment?
We use Only 5pm Shadow SMP Pigment, which is regarded as The Best SMP pigment on the planet. Our pigments are Carbon based ink to replicate the gray scale needed for the majority of our clients and are guaranteed not to change color. 
Is SMP reversible?
Yes. SMP pigmentation can be removed with an electro-optic Q switched laser, which is used to heat and break-up the SMP pigmentation for easier absorption by phagocytes in the dermis. SMP is fairly easy to remove in most cases because the pigment is not deposited as deeply as normal tattoo ink. As long as the procedure is done by an experienced and certified professional then you should never want to have it reversed. Please take your time and find the best person for you. 

How much does SMP cost?

It depends upon the thinning or balding pattern, the area of the scalp to be covered and if any scars are present. The price range for SMP is normally $1800 to $3500 dollars excluding any application of SMP to scars. The lower price range is for Norwood I or II level clients who need simple alterations to their hairline or small areas of density added. The higher end of the price range is for Norwood VI and VII clients who have little real hair remaining. Scars are more difficult to predict as regards pricing and can vary depending upon a case by case basis. For more information on Special pricing that I offer please email or call 844-4SCALPS

How can I tell roughly how much
​SMP I will require?

In most cases you can compare your hair loss to the well known Hamilton-Norwood scale for male pattern baldness. This scale is rate from level one up to increasing baldness at level 7. Typically, most male clients we treat will ask for enough SMP scalp coverage to bring them back down to a Norwood I or II level of appearance.

Will I need the consent of my parents or guardians?

In the United States, all clients under the age of 18 must have the consent of a parent or guardian before we will agree to treat them. We are happy to treat young adults if we feel it would be in their best interests and if consent is obtained. In fact we treat many young people, especially those who are suffering with alopecia or other similar medical conditions.