You’ve finally booked the scalp micropigmentation treatment you’ve been eagerly anticipating! To ensure optimal results, careful preparation and diligent aftercare are essential.
Scalp micropigmentation involves depositing pigment into the upper skin layers of the scalp using tiny needles. As the scalp heals, new skin forms over the pigment, resulting in a natural, undetectable appearance.
PREPARATION for SMP
- CUT YOUR HAIR: Men aiming to restore their hairline should shave their head the day before or morning of treatment using a #1 or no guard. Specific length requirements will be discussed during your consultation.For our female clients, wash your hair the day before or morning of treatment.
- COLOURING HAIR: Color your hair one week before your first and last (third) session. We can create a personalized schedule during your consultation. Ensure your hair is washed twice after coloring before your appointment to remove any dye residue.
- FEED YOURSELF: As the treatment can last 2-4 hours, enjoy a meal beforehand. No food is permitted during the procedure.
- TOPICAL and ORAL MEDICATIONS: Clients can continue using Propecia during and after their scalp pigmentation procedure. Rogaine (topical minoxidil) should be suspended during the course of treatment and for 30 days post your final session. This is to ensure the proper healing and settling of pigment without interference of the chemicals found in Rogaine foam.
AFTERCARE TIPS for SMP
Day 0 to Day 5
- AVOID EXCESSIVE SWEATING AFTER SMP: Avoid excessive sweating. Stay away from any saunas, steam rooms, things that may cause excessive sweating. We recommend 3-4 days, but this can be flexible depending on how you feel. If you must go to the gym, take a few days off, then only light exercises so you can refrain from excessive sweating.
- MINIMIZE DISCOMFORT: Mild redness and itchiness are normal. Avoid scratching or touching the treated area. A soft, clean hat can be worn for comfort.
- MOISTURISE: As the pigment heals under the skin, little tiny scabs may form. After 2-3 days, you can start to moisturize again using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to hydrate the scalp and aid healing.
- WASHING: Resume washing your hair 3-4 days with warm water. Avoid medicated shampoos and hair growth products for at least ten days.
- AVOID IRRITANTS: Refrain from shaving your head, sun exposure, and touching your scalp to prevent infection and premature fading.
- Continue gentle care for your scalp as it continues to heal.
Day 5 to Day 10
Your scalp should be improving significantly, but healing is ongoing. Continue aftercare practices:
- CUTTING YOUR HAIR: Gentle hair cutting with clippers or a shaver is permitted after day five.
- NO SCRATCHING – As with tattoos, the skin on your scalp may begin to peel and itch during these next few days. It’s important that you avoid scratching.
- AVOID IRRITANTS – While your scalp is healing, avoid self tanners and irritants that could cause inflammation and disturb the healing process. No microneedling.
SMP MAINTENANCE
- SUN PROTECTION: Use a high-factor sunscreen (SPF 50) to prevent fading.
- CHLORINE EXPOSURE: Avoid swimming pools and hot tubs for up to 30 days to protect the pigment.
- MOISTURIZE: Continue regular scalp moisturizing for skin health.
- TOUCH UP: Single session refreshers every 2-5 years.