How long does Scalp Micropigmentation last?
And why smp artists avoid answering!

What is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Hair loss is a common problem in Australia, with many people affected by it. There are a number of ways to treat hair loss, and many products are available to help people manage it. However, not all are suitable with many people finding it difficult to find a treatment that is cost-effective and works for them.

One treatment that ticks the boxes for most people is Scalp Micro pigmentation (SMP). SMP hair tattoo is a new cutting-edge hair loss treatment that helps to disguise baldness or thinning hair by adding pigment to the scalp. It is a non-invasive procedure that can take just a few hours to complete and results in a super natural-looking head of hair.

One of the big questions we get asked, and so many artists avoid answering (more on this down below), is how long does Scalp Micropigmentation last?

Is Scalp Micropigmentation Permanent?

Yes, Scalp Micro pigmentation hair tattoo is considered a permanent hair loss treatment. Depending on how the procedure was performed, the quality of pigment used, and how well you care for it, the SMP treatment typically lasts around four to six years, sometimes longer. After this time, an SMP touch-up may be required as the Micropigmentation may start to lighten.

 

To achieve the best results, it is always recommended that the SMP treatment be performed over 2-4 sessions. This allows for a gradual application of the pigment so the hair tattoo artist can get a clear indication of how your skin will react to the treatment over time and adjust their techniques to ensure you get the most life out of your treatment before touch-ups are needed.

 

Additionally, make sure you read about Scalp Micropigmentation aftercare here to extend the life of your hair tattoo.

Does Scalp Micropigmentation Fade?

The short answer, yes, over time, Scalp Micropigmentation will fade. Now, an important factor to keep in mind is some fading is a natural part of the process and is a big reason why we recommend completing the treatment over multiple sessions. By completing the treatment over multiple sessions, we are able to ensure multiple layers are deposited. This not only helps to create the 3D realistic effect but also increases the longevity of the SMP treatment.

Why Does Scalp Micropigmentation Fade?

There are several factors that can affect how long SMP will last.

One of the biggest is sun exposure (UV rays). The more your scalp pigment is exposed to Ultraviolet light, the faster it starts fading away!
 
Another reason this treatment may lose its colouration over time includes the quality of the materials used during procedures. For example, compared to traditional tattoo pigment, Scalp Micropigmentation ink is specifically designed and formulated to ensure longevity in the colouration. While this is ideal, it is also more expensive than traditional tattoo ink. This results in many artists opting to use traditional ink to cut costs.
 
At Natural Pro SMP, we only use high-quality scalp ink and needles to ensure the quality and longevity of our work.

 

The type of skin you have can affect how much the Scalp Micro pigmentation fades also.

Why Is It So Hard To Find Out How Long My Scalp Micropigmentation Will Last?

This one is a big one in the industry that so many artists are hesitant to answer, and generally, it’s because there are so many personal variables that need to be considered. As discussed earlier, many of the factors that cause Micropigmentation fade are down to individual characteristics such as UV exposure, aftercare, and skin type. This makes it hard to give an accurate answer. However, generally, you should expect four to six years out of your initial Scalp Micropigmentation treatment before a touch-up is required.

How to prevent Scalp Micropigmentation from fading?

Some things that cause hair tattoo fade are outside of our control, such as our immune systems. However, here are a few things you can do to help prevent Scalp Micropigmentation from fading:

 
  1. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

  2. Always wear a high factor sunscreen or wear a hat when you are going into the sun.

  3. Do not put alcohol or bleach on your scalp tattoo.

  4. Moisturise daily with a non-greasy, matte finish moisturiser.

  5. Make sure to do your research on your artist before committing to a Scalp Micropigmentation treatment. Make sure they have plenty of experience and use high-quality, Scalp Micropigmentation formulated ink.

 
 
 

Read more about Scalp Micropigmentation aftercare here to ensure you get as many years as possible out of your treatment.

Contact Us

Let us know about your hair loss concerns and we'll give you a personalised quote for your own Scalp Micropigmentation transformation.