Scalp Micropigmentation and removing tattoo ink from the scalp by Laser, is this safe?

Question

I have recently completed a course in scalp micropigmentation. One of the procedures involves shading the scalp with pigment. We were told that should the client want it removed, or go completely bald, a laser could remove the tattoo pigment. I am concerned about its safety on the whole head What are your thoughts?

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

SMP, or scalp micropigmentation, is a painless procedure that uses highly specialized equipment and unique techniques to carefully and expertly inject all-natural, color-tailored pigments into the scalp creating a completely natural look of the patient’s hairline. A typical procedure involves an initial consultation and two pigmentation sessions to achieve the desired results. You can wash your head the fourth day after the treatment and, during that time, avoid any strenuous activity that will prompt undesired sweating. Once the procedure is complete, the results of a Scalp Micropigmentation treatment can last up to five years.
At the Foundation for Hair Restoration in NYC, I work with the world-renowned hair expert Dr.Jeffrey Epstein and his team to create beautiful, natural results for any hair type. 
While some lasers can assist in removing some of the ink, it is better to stay conservative with the initial application of the SMP to avoid having to remove it.
 Consult with an experienced hair restoration surgeon for a complete range of options that are appropriate for your situation.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Not all SMP can be removed.If your client wants SMP removed that is a failure.SMP should be done with an understanding that it is permanent like a tattoo.It generally cannot be removed. It is very difficult to remove SMP from the entire head.For example pigment containing Iron Oxide cannot be easily removedCertain SMP colors cannot be removed well.Doctors can SURGICALLY remove them as we have on many BAD SMP from other clinics.Those SMP were not able to be removed with any laser.

Jayanthy Ravindran, MS, DNB, MRCS · Answer

Scalp micro pigmentation is a cosmetic tattoo procedure offered by physicians and estheticians alike. However, this broad-spectrum of 'professionals' opens doors to inexperienced and poorly trained personnel from non-medical backgrounds. Therefore, if a client undergoes scalp micro pigmentation with staff who have not undergone adequate training sessions and trial periods, there are chances of them being dissatisfied with their outcome.
The whole point of scalp micro pigmentation is that the ink deposited should mimic a hair follicle's appearance. Therefore, it is primarily deposited as a single dot. One may even compare the manner of this procedure to the art of pointillism.
However, for whatever reason, if the client is dissatisfied with the outcome or prefers to change their look to completely bald, it is still possible after scalp micro-pigmentation.
The ideal method would be to ride the ink out. As scalp micro pigmentation is a semi-permanent treatment, the ink that has been deposited under the epidermis will fade as time runs by and new cells replace the inked ones.
Suppose the patient is in a dire hurry and for reasons that cannot wait. In that case, their other option is looking for lasers like a Q-switch that allow the pigment to be removed over a couple of sessions (similar to a laser tattoo removal) without harming the hair follicles on the scalp.

Nikki D. Hill, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello. There are different tattoos that target pigment. You have to know the color you're going after, the depth, and if there will be collateral damage-specifically surrounding hairs.  Typically SMP pigment is placed superficially so those deep hair follicles are not in the line of fire.  However, some Q-switch lasers leave behind scattered pigment and make a blushed-gray/black color.  Be careful with having to go to laser to correct pigment and only use it under worse case scenarios-understanding you cannot go back to square one of normal appearing skin. Nikki D. Hill, MD

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

The use of lasers such as the Q-switch laser works well as it does not kills the hair on your head. It takes time for the body to react to the laser treatment and sometimes it takes more than a few treatments. The key of course, is to get it right the first time. See our web-site below

Scalp Micropigmentation and removing tattoo ink from the scalp by Laser, is this safe?

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Answer: Laser for tattoo removal

Answer: Laser for tattoo removal

Answer: Treating SMP frailures

Answer: Treating SMP frailures

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Scalp Micropigmentation and removing tattoo ink from the scalp by Laser, is this safe?

Answers (5)

Answer: Laser for tattoo removal

Answer: Laser for tattoo removal

Answer: Treating SMP frailures

Answer: Treating SMP frailures

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Everything you need to know about Scalp Micropigmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.