Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) uses carefully placed pigment to replicate the appearance of natural hair follicles. It can help reduce the contrast between the hair and scalp, create the look of greater density, define a hairline, or camouflage certain scalp scars.
Each treatment is customized around your existing hair, scalp, skin tone, and overall goals.
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a cosmetic technique that uses carefully placed pigment to replicate the appearance of natural hair follicles.
Rather than adding hair or stimulating new growth, SMP works visually by reducing the contrast between the scalp and surrounding hair.
Depending on the goal, it can be used to create the appearance of greater density in thinning areas, define the look of a closely shaved hairline, or help certain scalp scars blend more naturally with the surrounding area.
SMP can be adapted to different patterns of hair loss and different cosmetic goals.
Pigment placed between existing hairs can reduce scalp show-through and create the appearance of greater density.
For closely shaved or very short hairstyles, SMP can help create or strengthen the visual appearance of a hairline.
Strategic pigment placement can help reduce the contrast between the scalp and existing hair in areas of crown thinning.
SMP may also help certain scalp scars blend more naturally with the surrounding hair and scalp.
Every SMP treatment is planned around the individual, including the treatment area, existing hair, skin tone, and desired appearance.
We begin by evaluating your hair, scalp, pattern of thinning, and the areas you would like to improve.
Pigment tone, density, placement, and design are selected to complement your natural appearance.
Pigment is carefully placed throughout the planned area to recreate the visual appearance of natural hair follicles.
The number of sessions needed depends on the size of the area being treated and the result being created.
Effective scalp micropigmentation should complement your existing hair rather than draw attention to the treatment itself.
Your SMP plan can take several factors into consideration:
Existing hair density
Natural hairline characteristics
Hair and scalp color
Skin tone
Pattern of thinning
Treatment area
Overall cosmetic goals
The goal is to create a balanced appearance that works naturally with the hair and features you already have.
Scalp Micropigmentation does not create new hair follicles or change the way your existing hair grows.
Instead, carefully placed pigment creates the visual appearance of tiny hair follicles and can reduce the contrast between visible scalp and surrounding hair.
For someone primarily concerned with scalp visibility or the appearance of thinning, SMP may provide a cosmetic option without hair transplant surgery.
Because Jernigan’s offers several approaches to hair loss, we can also help you determine whether SMP, hair transplantation, non-surgical hair replacement, or another option better fits your goals.
Scalp Micropigmentation is a form of cosmetic micropigmentation, but the goal is very different from traditional decorative tattooing.
SMP uses tiny pigment impressions designed to resemble the visual scale of natural hair follicles.
Pigment is distributed based on the surrounding hair and the density or coverage being created.
Pigment selection is planned around the individual’s hair, scalp, and skin tone.
When a hairline is being created or enhanced, its shape and placement should complement the individual’s facial features and existing hair pattern.
SMP may be worth considering if your primary goal is to improve the visual appearance of thinning hair or visible scalp.
You may want to explore SMP if you would like to:
Reduce the appearance of scalp show-through
Create the look of greater density
Define the appearance of a closely shaved hairline
Improve the appearance of certain scalp scars
Make a cosmetic change without hair transplant surgery
SMP is not the right option for every type of hair loss or every goal. A consultation allows us to evaluate your scalp and discuss which approach may be most appropriate for you.
Learn more about what SMP can do, what to expect, and whether it may fit your goals.
Yes. SMP may be used in areas where thinning hair creates noticeable contrast between the scalp and surrounding hair. The treatment plan depends on the individual’s pattern of thinning and goals.
SMP may help certain scalp scars blend more naturally with the surrounding area. Each scar should be evaluated individually before treatment.
The number of sessions varies depending on the treatment area, existing hair, scalp characteristics, and the result being created. SMP is commonly built gradually over more than one appointment.
Pigment appearance can gradually change or fade over time. Individual results vary, and touch-up treatments may eventually be recommended.
Because SMP does not involve surgical incisions, recovery is different from a hair transplant procedure. Temporary redness or scalp sensitivity can occur, and aftercare instructions should be followed while the area settles.
In some cases, SMP may complement an existing hair transplant or help reduce the visibility of certain donor-area scars. The scalp should be evaluated before treatment.
