If you suffer from a receding hairline or other issues like alopecia or scarring, then scalp micropigmentation (SMP) may help restore your appearance. SMP is a hair tattoo method that creates a natural-looking hairline, using small injections of ink to mimic the appearance of your hair. It resembles the look of a close-cropped buzz cut. Here are some different styles of hair tattoos:
Sharp Fade
If you’re experiencing hair loss, SMP helps give some people’s hair a fuller look. An experienced artist is able to apply the pigment as a fade, which blends your natural hair into the pigment. The artist then ends the pigment with a clean line to achieve a sharp fade look. A tattoo artist analyzes your hair color and applies the pigment in a way that appears like your natural hair. They apply the ink as a gradient. This makes it appear shorter on the sides of your head, which gives you the look of a fresh haircut. A fade tattoo is ideal for those who have thinning hair.
Defined Hairline Shape
Another way an SMP artist helps those with ultra-thin hair or a receding hairline is by applying ink to create defined lines. Collaborate with your artist to determine the hairline shape you prefer. They could apply the hair pigment to restore your old hairline or make your tattoo appear as defined lines from a barber. Doing this helps restore a youthful look to your hair.
An SMP expert will match pigment with your existing hair or eyebrows for a seamless look. They apply the ink thickly at the front and gradually thin it out. This gives off a gradient look. By defining your hairline, you get to sculpt your tattoo to match your facial structure and features.
Increased Hair Density
For thinning hair, especially on the crown of the head, SMP artists can make it appear denser. They do this by adding pigment follicles that give off the appearance of growing hair. This is sometimes helpful for people with bald spots or alopecia. SMP artists use their expertise to apply ink in a way that imitates the growth of natural hair, such as layering it.
On top of people’s heads, where some have a bald spot, artists could apply the ink as a spiral to make it look even more natural. Because this type of hair tattoo is typically located at the top of the head, you’ll want to wear a hat or use a moisturizing sunscreen if you go outdoors. Excessive exposure to UV rays or a dry scalp can cause the tattoo to fade prematurely.
Buzz Cut
For those who are bald or wish to cover scars from burns or previous hair implants, buzz cuts are an ideal choice. An SMP mimicking a buzz cut gives off the appearance of a freshly shaved scalp. It looks like you just left the barber. If you have a scar, an expert artist can blend it in with your ink pigments, making it less visible. They will color match to your natural hair, which helps camouflage FUT or burn scars. Using tiny needles to inject ink on and around the scar, an expert blends the scar tissue with the rest of your scalp.
Maintenance and Recovery
To have a complete SMP job, it sometimes requires multiple appointments with an SMP artist. Because it is a non-invasive procedure, recovery is minimal, and you will likely be able to return to your daily routine soon. After applying the tattoo, your artist will give you some advice on how to care for it. You’ll want to keep it moisturized with a light shampoo and a moisturizing lotion. This helps keep the pigment in your skin and prevents it from fading too early. Avoid harshly scrubbing your head. Use a soft washcloth and shampoo to lather your scalp when cleaning.
Inquire About a Hair Tattoo Today
If you have thinning hair or want to improve the appearance of your hairline, then hair tattoo may be ideal. An experienced artist knows how to camouflage tattoos, create defined hairlines, and increase density. SMP procedures are minimally invasive and require little maintenance and upkeep. Reach out to a professional today for a consultation.