Scalp micropigmentation, sometimes referred to as a hair tattoo, is a cosmetic treatment designed to help people with thinning hair or hair loss. The provider carefully uses thin, small needles to deposit tiny dots of cosmetic-grade, permanent pigment on the scalp to give the appearance of thicker hair.
Scalp micropigmentation, when performed by a skilled technician, can be used to hide thinning areas or bald patches on the scalp, birthmarks and scars. It can also be used to create the illusion of a shaved head or “buzz cut” on bald individuals. The best part is this treatment doesn’t require surgery or anesthesia, and it is completely noninvasive.
A treatment known as scalp micropigmentation is a type of permanent makeup which can be used to give people with thinning hair or who are balding the appearance of having thicker hair:
While scalp micropigmentation won’t actually help regrow hair or change your natural hair growth and isn’t a form of treatment for hair loss, it also won’t cause hair loss or damage existing hair follicles. Instead, this procedure provides the illusion of fuller, thicker hair that looks like it’s grown naturally.
Before scalp micropigmentation:
In order to create a natural, hairlike effect, your provider will use a medical-grade needle to deposit small pigment dots on the spots you desire. The dots can vary in size, angle and depth to create the most realistic look possible.
Depending on the size of the treatment area, your treatment may take anywhere from 5 hours. Most people need at least three individual treatments with some weeks of space in-between them. Every successive treatment will add additional pigment to make it look like a fully-haired scalp.
As there is no surgery or anesthesia involved, you can resume your daily activities without delay. Very few side effects accompany scalp micropigmentation – the only significant one being a possible redness of the scalp which lasts a few hours. If necessary, you can choose to cover it up with a hat or a scarf.
The advantages of scalp micropigmentation in comparison to hair transplantation surgery are plentiful, such as its fast healing time and cost efficiency:
Taking the necessary precautions is essential when opting for scalp micropigmentation and seeking out a licensed, experienced practitioner is of the utmost importance to avoid the potential risks. Possible downsides include infection, scarring and discoloration, all of which should be discussed beforehand with your practitioner:
To avoid these risks:
Individuals with a history of keloids (scars that increase in size beyond their initial size) should not get scalp micropigmentation as the treatment may cause keloids to form.
After the treatment, you may need to avoid certain activities for several days, including:
With scalp micropigmentation, results can typically be expected to last for four years or more. To achieve this, permanent cosmetic pigments are used, rather than tattoo inks, as these are more resistant to fading and color changes.
Scalp micropigmentation, sometimes referred to as a hair tattoo, is a cosmetic treatment designed to help people with thinning hair or hair loss. The provider carefully uses thin, small needles to deposit tiny dots of cosmetic-grade, permanent pigment on the scalp to give the appearance of thicker hair.
Scalp micropigmentation, when performed by a skilled technician, can be used to hide thinning areas or bald patches on the scalp, birthmarks and scars. It can also be used to create the illusion of a shaved head or “buzz cut” on bald individuals. The best part is this treatment doesn’t require surgery or anesthesia, and it is completely noninvasive.
If after scalp micropigmentation you begin to experience any signs of infection, it is important to call your healthcare provider right away:
When you’ve decided on a licensed and experienced micropigmentation specialist, make sure to ask them:
Scalp micropigmentation and permanent makeup are not medical requirements, they are elective (optional) procedures. Before you decide to go through with either procedure, it is important to ask your provider about the cost of the procedure as well as how many treatments you may need to get the desired result.
Those who get scalp micropigmentation performed by a skilled provider often find that they’re satisfied with the results. With the pigments lasting several years, it’s a low-maintenance and long-lasting treatment option.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Don’t let hair loss or thinning get in the way of your self-confidence. There are a number of conditions that can cause it, including alopecia, male pattern baldness or hormonal conditions. You might also have a scar or birthmark you want to conceal. Fortunately, scalp micropigmentation is a great noninvasive alternative to make your hair look thicker.