Scalp Micropigmentation Clinic UK - Hitchin, Herfordshire near London

What is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Scalp Micropigmentation, or SMP for short, is also known as Hair or Head Tattooing, Follicle Simulation, or Tricopigmentation and consists of the process of the shallow placement of pigment into the scalp to create the effect of a short buzzcut hairstyle on bald and extremely thinning areas, or create the illusion of density by camouflaging the scalp within longer thinning hair.

With the use of fine needles, as found in Traditional Tattooing and Semi Permanent Makeup, short-cropped hair follicles can be simulated to recreate the illusion of density and a variety of hairline styles to produce the incredible effect of a full head of healthy hair. This increasingly popular procedure can provide a permanent solution for those suffering from all forms of hair loss and thinning related to Alopecia, Hereditary Baldness, Stress, and Medical Procedures or Conditions.

Scalp Micropigmentation is the ultimate affordable, non-surgical solution for both Men and Women seeking a hair restoration, hair regrowth, or hair replacement solution that requires no downtime.

To find out more go to our Scalp Micropigmentation page by Clicking HERE

FAQ's

Does Scalp Micropigmentation Look Real?

Yes, Scalp Micropigmentation can create the illusion of a healthy, full head of hair and can be designed for each individual to create a very realistic, sympathetic effect, even close up.

Taking into account the amount of any existing hair, its colour and density, as well as other factors such as skin colour, lifestyle, and age, the pigment can be altered to match colour and density and placement of pigment can be tailored to suit and blend in.

How Long Does Scalp Micropigmentation Last?

The pigment used in Scalp Micropigmentation is permanent and designed to last, however, lifestyle, skin type and the reason for hair loss can play a part in some fading over time.

Certain actions can be taken to increase the longevity of the pigment such as the application of SPF creams to protect from over-exposure to sunlight, and in extreme conditions, the wearing of hats.

In order to maintain a crisp, lifelike effect it is adviseable to have top-ups every 5-10 years, depending upon lifestyle, so that the simulation remains realistic. These top-ups also serve the purpose of allowing adjustments to be made to take in to account any change in hair colour, further hair loss, and even changes in fashion

Is Scalp Micropigmentation Permanent?

Yes, Scalp Micropigmentation is permanent although some fading may be seen over time depending upon each clients individual lifestyle and skin type.

Being permanent means that after-procedure care is maintenance-free. Apart from top-ups every 5-10 years (if required), the only long-term after-care advice we offer is to moisturise regularly and protect it from the sun to help prevent fading.

That being said, Scalp Micropigmentation can be fully removed and faded by laser and this is also a treatment that we specialise in at Scalpetics. See the FAQ below for more or visit the Scalp Micropigmentation Removal page by clicking HERE

Can Scalp Micropigmentation be Removed?

Yes, Scalp Micropigmentation Removal is extremely effective and the pigment can be removed easily by laser.

At Scalpetics we realise that, for numerous reasons, there is a requirement and demand for Scalp Micropigmentation Removal and correction services, to both Clients and Clinics, and our sister Company, The Laser Studios specialises in this form of removal, offering the most experienced SMP Removal Services in Europe, with clients flying-in from overseas for treatment.

It may be that the hairline needs adjusting, or that the pigment needs fading, or that the client has decided that it simply isn't for them. The whole scalp, smaller isolated patches, hairlines, and even single dots can be corrected. Regardless of reason, we can remove it.

When done correctly, Laser removal is the most effective method for SMP removal and correction, and The Laser Studios doesn't attempt to impress clients with attempts to remove pigment as fast as possible, regardless of consequences. Instead, they maintain a safe, responsible removal policy to remove the pigment without damaging the skin on the scalp, so as to give the client the best possible chance of leaving it with no sign the pigment was ever there.

A Free Consultation is provided to assess the amount of removal required, answer questions, carry-out a patch test, and to provide information on the treatments, expected outcome, and price per treatment.

To find out more, click HERE

Is Scalp Micropigmentation Painful?

Does Scalp Micropigmentation Hurt? is one of the most frequently asked questions regarding the SMP procedure. The process isn't completely pain-free but the sensation for most is little more than a similar sensation to the hair being tugged. Larger areas will require longer to treat and so mat become a little more uncomfortable, but this is very manageable and it's not unknown for clients to fall asleep during treatment.

In comparison with other hair restoration solutions, it is substantially less and treatment times are faster and less invasive with little or no downtime and extremely rapid recovery, usually within 24 hours.

Everyone is different of course, and for each client that feels very little, there will always be one that feels a little more. Certain things can be done to minimise and prevent pain and we constantly monitor each client through the treatment and take regular breaks for your comfort.

Does Scalp Micropigmentation Fade?

As with all pigment placed into the skin, the ink can fade over time due to a number of factors such as skin condition, health, Lifestyle, age, and exposure to the sun. Certain measures can be taken to minimise this such as a good skincare regime, maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle, and minimising exposure to UV rays with the application of SPF lotions and by covering the head in extreme sunshine with hats or scarves.

It should be borne in mind that a Scalp Micropigmentation maintenance top-up every 5-10 years may be required, and this will help to keep the effect looking sharp and allow for alterations to be made in the event that any changes are deemed necessary.

Will I Need More Than One Treatment?

At Scalpetics, the full Scalp Micropigmentation treatment is completed over three sessions following a consultation where a patch test will be carried-out.

The patch test allows us to ensure that your skin reacts well to the tattooing process. The pigments are hypoallergenic and any adverse reaction to this is almost unheard of but in order to follow correct procedure, this will be required.

The first SMP session will be carried out no less than 48 hours following the consultation and this would usually take 2-4 hours to complete, depending on the size of the area The purpose of the first session is to establish your new hairline and side profiles and to begin the density to create a template on the scalp.

Two weeks after the first session, the second is carried-out and at this stage, subtle changes can be made and density can be added to create the desired effect.

A further two weeks following this session, the third and final session takes place, where final measures to perfect and re-inforce the natural effect are carried out to conclude the Scalp Micropigmentation procedure.

In the event that minor 'tweaks' are required, a further treatment may be required and again this will be another two weeks later. Thereafter, it is expected that a certain amount of fading will naturally occur over time and a top-up is advised every 5-10 years to maintain the natural look.

More Info can be found by Clicking HERE

How Long Does the SMP Procedure take to Carry-Out?

The Scalp Micropigmentation Treatment would usually take consist of a consultation and three sessions over a period of about 4 weeks.

The first step is a free consultation where the extent of your hair loss can be assessed, your requirements are discussed, and any questions can be answered. If you decide to go ahead, then the treatment is agreed a patch test can be performed.

Following a minimum of 48 hours the first session can then be carried out and would normally take 2-4 hours to complete, depending upon size of area to be treated.

The first SMP session will be carried out no less than 48 hours following the consultation and this would usually take 2-4 hours to complete, depending on the size of the area. The purpose of the first session is to establish your new hairline and side profiles and to begin the density to create a template on the scalp.

Two weeks after the first session, the second is carried-out and at this stage, subtle changes can be made and density can be added to create the desired effect.

A further two weeks following this session, the third and final session takes place, where final measures to perfect and re-inforce the natural effect are carried out to conclude the Scalp Micropigmentation procedure.

In the event that minor 'tweaks' are required, a further treatment may be required and again this will be another two weeks later. Thereafter, it is expected that a certain amount of fading will naturally occur over time and a top-up is advised every 5-10 years to maintain the natural look.

More Info can be found by Clicking HERE

Will I need Time Off Work?

Scalp Micropigmentation is a non-surgical hair restoration procedure and so time off work, if required, would be minimal and, in addition to how your skin responds to the healing process would also depend upon your work environment.

Immediately following each treatment, the scalp may be slightly red and this can continue for up to 24 hours but in most cases recedes after just a few hours. Depending upon your skin, other than the new pigment, there would be no evidence of the treatment and so no 'down-time is necessary and in many cases, our clients are happy to return to work the following day.

Is Scalp Micropigmentation The Same As A Traditional Tattoo?

Scalp Micropigmentation, or SMP, is also referred-to as a Hair Tattoo or Cosmetic Tattooing and so essentially the principle is the same as traditional Tattooing and Semi Permanent Makeup and Tricopigmentation in that ink is being placed in the skin by way of fine needles.

There are a number of differences that separate them such as pigments, equipment and needles, which will also differ between SMP practitioners, and other subtle differences such as technique, pigment durability and depth of pigment placement. The main difference is the type of ink and the fact that the ink placements aren't dense and are relatively shallow.

Can Scalp Micropigmentation be Altered?

Yes, depending upon whether more needs to be added, or some taken away, different methods can be applied to alter hairlines and side profiles, create more or take away density, change the style, and lighten or darken the micropigmentation. This is particularly useful if further hairloss or thinning is required.

In many cases, particularly when further hair loss is experienced, alterations can be made by way of additional pigment applications. In the case that alterations would be required to reduce the area that has been treated, or fade the pigment, laser removal will be required.

At Scalpetics, we work in hand with one of the best-equipped and experienced independent Laser Clinics in the UK, The Laser Studios. Their head practitioner, Carl J Barton is also trained and experienced in the procedure of applying SMP and so is uniquely skilled and qualified in this field.

With the use of micropigmentation machines and lasers, precise areas of pigmentation of any size can be altered so, whether removing a single dot, adjusting a hairline or side profile, or fading or removing the entire scalp, there's no need to worry about future changes to your procedure.

Click HERE for more on Scalp Micropigmentation Removal

and

Click HERE for Scalp Micropigmentation Removal Prices

Can Scalp Micropigmentation be used to cover Scars?

Yes, in fact scar camouflage is a very common application for Scalp Micropigmentation and can be extremely effective in disguising the scar tissue so that it blends in to the existing hair or other micropigmentation deposits.

The procedure can be used to treat scars within the hairlines that have been caused as a result of trauma to the skin by way of accident, including cuts, burns and scalds, as well as surgical scars caused during operations, and other scarring such as those resulting from medical procedures such as hair transplants and hair restoration procedures.

Bearing in mind that it is due to Hair Loss that Micropigmentation procedures are sought-out, it is reasonable to expect that, in some cases, other restorative procedures have been previously undertaken, and so it is not uncommon for this treatment to be used to camouflage scars left behind following FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) where scarring in the form of a 'plug' or 'punch' are likely to result, and FUT ( Follicular Unit Transplant) where strips of follicularly rich skin are surgically removed from the skin, resulting in 'strip scarring'.

It should be acknowledged that scar tissue can perform in a completely different way to the surrounding healthy skin and so seperate patch tests should be carried out on the scar, and additional treatments may be necessary. Your consultant will discuss with you during your consultation.

What if I Lose More Hair After The Treatment?

Depending upon the cause and stage of hair loss when you undertake scalp mkcropigmentation, there is always the chance that this will continue after your treatment has been completed.

Your consultant will cover this during your consultation and may suggest a further continuation of Micropigmentation into the hairline than may appear necessary, to take this into account.

In the event that this is not undertaken or further substantial hair loss occurs, the treatment can be added-to at a later date so that the previous simulated follicles can be extended. In this case, it is most certainly adviseable to return to your previous practitioner so that the technique and density can be replicated, and the pigment can be matched according to his records, to help ensure a seamless blend.

Depending upon the length of time lapsed between visits, it may be necessary to reinforce, or 'top-up' the previous micropigmentation, and this will be determined during your re-visit consultation.

What if I go Grey After The Treatment?

It's quoted that "almost 50% of the population will turn 50% grey by the time they reach 50" and, once begun, it's impossible to precisely determine the rate of advancement that this process will take. Whilst this is so, an 'educated assessment' can be made, based upon certain factors such as age, hair colour, current presence of, and extent of grey hairs, and genetic factors.

Once agreed during consultation, this assessment can be taken into account when determining the shade, or shades of pigment to be used for treatment and can be dispersed accordingly throughout the scalp so that it can take into account not only the current colour and shade of hair but also potential further greying in the future.

Over a period of 5-10 years, depending upon a number of factors, the pigment in the scalp may fade slightly and this may result in a softer appearance. In may cases, a top-up would be required to re-establish the correct shade to match the existing hair, but in others, where greying has occurred, this may not be necessary

Is Scalp Micropigmentation suitable for All Skin Types?

Yes, hair loss can occur in both men and women, and regardless of skin colour or ethnicity and Scalp Micropigmentation can be used to replicate hair follicles although different application techniques and colours may be more suitable to some skin types than others.

A skin assessment based upon the 'Fitzpatrick Scale' will form part of the consultation process and this will be used, in addition to other factors such as hair colour, density, and length of hair, to determine the correct shades to be used durin the treatment.

By applying this assessment, shades can be equally effective in simulating ginger hair on a very fair complexion, blonde hair on light skin, brown hair on Mediterranean skin, dark hair on Asian and Middle-Eastern tones, and almost black on dark African skin. As mentioned in the answer to a previous question, greying hair can also be taken into account.

Will SMP Match My Existing Hair Colour?

Using a variety of methods, Scalp Micropigmentation can be used to create a number of effects and densities on several different hair lengths and styles to create a realistic result that will blend seamlessly into your existing hair.

The most popular application is for close-cropped and shaved hair because it allows for the creation of new hairlines and side profiles as well as density by simulating hair follicles.

At this length the follicles of even brown, blonde, and ginger hair appear to be a variation on a shade of black, or grey, which makes them easy to accurately match. In this instance it is crucial to keep the hair at the desired length to maintain the appearance.

In medium length and long hair hair it isn't possible to create new hairlines or profiles, but, depending upon the extent of hair loss, the effect of density on the scalp can be created to give the appearance of thicker hair. In this instance, the colour won't be as closely matched but will work with the hair, to act as camouflage to the scalp and so create the illusion of thicker, denser hair.

Does Scalp Micropigmentation Require Any Maintenance?

Scalp Micropigmentation is relatively maintenance free and consists only of establishing a good skincare regime for the treated area, with particular attention to protection from exposure to the sun, and maintaining a hair style and length that complements the micropigmentation. It's that simple!

At consultation, and following the start of the procedure, full pre-, during, and aftercare advice is provided and consists of the best do's and don'ts to ensure the greatest establishment and retention of the pigment in your skin.

Where the effect of short-shaved clean buzz cut has been created, any existing hair must be maintained at the agreed length so as to maintain the illusion and so that the hair doesn't become darker than the pigment placements.

Where pigment has been placed within longer hair, there will be more opportunity to alter the hair style but it will have been agreed that a certain style and length should be maintained that will create the best illusion.

Depending upon lifestyle and skintype, some fading may be seen over time and in these instances, occasional top-ups may be required to maintain the desired effect.

How Much Does Scalp Micropigmentation Cost?

As you would expect, the cost of Scalp Micropigmentation is based mainly upon the size of area to be treated and ranges from just £300 for a small patch or scar. Prices for larger areas are based upon the Norwood Scale of Hair Loss with a price of approximately £1200 for a Norwood 4, £1800 for a Norwood 6, £2,400 for a Norwood 7 and £3,200 for a fully bald head as would be found in cases of Alopecia Totalis and Alopecia Universalis.

Other factors such as head size and existing hair density density, as well as evidence of any skin conditions or presence of scarring also have a bearing on the price and this will be fully discussed during the initial consultation process.

Click HERE for more about Scalp Micropigmentation Prices

Is Scalp Micropigmentation Suitable for both Men and Women?

Yes, Scalp Micropigmentatio is suitable for both men and women and offers a permanent hair loss solution to Male Pattern Baldness, Female Pattern Baldness, thinning, hair loss, most forms of alpoecia and other medical conditions and acts of trauma that result in hairloss.

Mostly requested by men, but also suitable for women, the most popular application is for a close-cropped shaved hair effect because it allows for the creation of new hairlines and side profiles as well as density by simulating hair follicles. In this instance it is crucial to keep the hair at the desired length to maintain the appearance.

In medium length and long hair hair it isn't possible to create new hairlines or profiles but, depending upon the extent of hair loss, the effect of density on the scalp can be created to give the appearance of a thicker healthier head of hair.

In this instance, the colour will not be as closely matched but will work with the hair to ensure that the scalp is darker and so create the illusion of thicker, denser hair. This process may allow for some densification to the hairline and profiles as well as the entire scalp but this is judged on a case by case basis.

Where Is Scalpetics?

Scalpetics Scalp Micropigmentation & Hair Loss Clinic is conveniently located in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, just North and Central of London & the M25 with easy access by road, rail & air:

Road:
Just minutes from the A1 and M1 and only 25 minutes from the M25 we are less than one hour from nearly a third of the UK population including North, West and East London, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Essex, Middlesex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Suffolk, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire and Huntingdon.

Rail:

The town’s mainline station is just a few minutes away and provides a fast and easy route just half an hour from London Kings Cross, Euston and St. Pancras stations, opening-up fast rail travel options from The City, South and Central London, the West End, Soho and the rest of the UK.

Air:

Just ten minutes from Luton Airport, and 45 from Stansted Airport, we are also easily accessible from the farthest reaches of the UK including Manchester, Birmingham, Leicester, Nottingham, Newcastle, Leeds, Brighton, Bournemouth, Bristol, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland as well as all over Europe.