Get the answers to our most frequently asked questions about Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP).

If there is anything else that you want to ask or need clarification with please get in touch with us. Free confidential consultations are always highly recommended in order to discuss the treatment in more detail, address and answer all your questions or concerns and ultimately give you an accurate price quote.

Is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) the same as a tattoo?

No. SMP is often referred to as a ‘medical tattoo’ as the treatment is performed using an entirely different technique from regular tattoos. We use different pigments, machines, and needles. We are strictly making small micro dots through the pointillism method, not shading or drawing lines. SMP is performed using organic pigment created for the scalp only, which is much more diluted than typical tattoo inks. For this reason, it won’t break down to different colors or look too saturated once it heals.

Scalp Micropigmentation is a specialist field of its own camouflaging all levels of hair loss, also aids in scar revision from previous hair transplant treatments, and requires a highly experienced technician to achieve great results.

Q: How many SMP treatments will I need?

Scalp micropigmentation should never be considered a one-treatment process. As a general rule, most clients can expect between 3-5 sessions to complete their treatment. This will depend entirely on your skin type and the amount of hair loss or scarring.

Each treatment session can last between 2-5 hours spaced out between 2-4 weeks apart.

Q: Are SMP results permanent?

SMP is a permanent solution for hair loss and will last a lifetime with maintenance along the way. The frequency of maintenance (touch-ups) needed will depend on various factors such as your immune system, sun exposure, and personal post-treatment care. The longevity of the results can vary from person to person. After completion of your treatment (3-5 sessions), a client should expect the strength of the color to last 4-6 years.

Over a longer-term, a client will very gradually begin to notice slight lightening (not discolor) of the treatment. When this occurs they can undergo a brief “touch up” session to restore any fading and secure many more years of their style.

Q: How much does SMP cost?

The cost of your SMP treatment will depend on the extent of your hair loss level. Prices for treatments start from $1,500 – $5,000.

I determine the exact cost of your treatment after an in-person consultation at the clinic, where I can examine your scalp and determine the correct treatment plan for you.

Payments can be made in full on the day of your first treatment or spread across your treatment at no extra cost.  We also offer financing through the Cherry payment plan.

Q: How long will my SMP treatment take?

It varies depending on the amount of hair loss we are working with, but generally speaking, treatment sessions can last between 2 to 5 hours per session, with short breaks taken every 30 minutes or so.

Q: Will SMP hurt and will I require pain relief?

The honest answer is you will feel some level of discomfort as with any tattoo procedure. Some clients describe the feeling as ‘small pin pricks’ on their scalp.  Others say ‘it feels quite nice and relaxing. 

The discomfort level of treatment is minimal, the majority of clients do not require any pain relief, however, we do offer numbing cream for clients that are nervous about the discomfort.

Q: Will my scalp be red or sore after the SMP treatment?

This varies depending on your skin sensitivity level. Usually, any redness will subside within 24 hours of your SMP treatment.

Some clients may experience redness for the following few days, although this is quite rare. Your scalp will not necessarily be sore after your treatment, but you may experience a slight ‘itchiness’ at times whilst your skin is healing.

Q: Is SMP ideal for individuals with lighter or darker skin tones? Will it work with red, light brown, grey and light blond hair?

Yes! Our pigment (ink) is designed to match a wide range of skin tones and hair colors.

Q: Does SMP pigment discolor over time (turn orange/blue)?

No. Unlike tattoo ink, the SMP pigment is designed to fall within the same color spectrum of short cut hair. The pigment contains no additional colorants or additives and will only lighten, not discolor over an extended period of time.

Q: Is SMP detectable?

Scalp Micropigmentation has become such an effective hair loss solution because of it’s consistently natural and undetectable results.

Optima Revision prides itself on the ability to seamlessly replicate each individual hair follicle to create a perfect match for each client.

Q: Can SMP camouflage my FUT/FUE hair transplant scar?

Yes! By replicating tiny hair follicles inside the scarring and blending the color around the scarring area, transplant scars can see a massive improvement in concealment.