Will SMP Fade or Blur Over Time?

Question

Will SMP fade or blur over time like regular tattoos?

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

SMP is like any tattoo. It will fade and blur over time.  Over time some may want a touch up (like any tattoo) Most Scalp MicroPigmentation at our practice we have not needed a touch up.  I see about 10 to 20 percent of our patients return for a touch up after 2 to 3 years (not because they "need it", but because they "want" to look their best). SMP quality and even technique differ from clinic to clinic so there is no absolute time frame.

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. After that period, sometimes a touch up is needed to maintain the appearance. 
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. 
 Consult with an experienced hair restoration surgeon for a complete range of options that are appropriate for your situation.

Jayanthy Ravindran, MS, DNB, MRCS · Answer

Scalp micro pigmentation is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo which helps mimic the appearance of a hair follicle on the scalp. This allows the thinning region of the scalp to appear full. 
The longevity of the treatment will depend on the type and brand of ink, and the equipment used to deposit the ink into the scalp. Nevertheless, scalp micro pigmentation is not a permanent procedure. The dots will fade over time and patient's would be required to get touch-up sessions.
Why is scalp micro pigmentation not permanent like a tattoo?
For a typical body tattoo the ink is deposited in the dermal layer of the skin, where as, for SMP the ink is deposited in the epidermal layer. As cells exfoliate and new cells replace old ones, the ink present will fade away. 
So what can be done to increase the longevity of the procedure?
1. Research about the variety of ink being used.
2. Avoid topical products with alcohol and other counter-active ingredients which can fade the ink.
3. Allow proper healing post procedure.
4. Avoid sweating and water activities during the healing period.
5. Follow doctor's instructions on after care.

Artur Kierach, MD · Answer

There are a number of scalp tattoo or pigmentation treatments now available. From the techniques used including the instruments to the quality of the pigments applied to the skin. Some may last longer than others without showing signs of fading.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a tattoo and like all tattoos they tend to fade over time. We have been doing it for 5 years and although we offer touch-ups for fading, few have come for that service and seem to be happy with what we have done. As far as blurring, if it is done right, then it should not blur from one dot to another. See website below.

Will SMP Fade or Blur Over Time?

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Answer: Scalp Pigmentation Fading

Answer: Scalp Pigmentation Fading

Answer: Will SMP fade or blur over time

Answer: Will SMP fade or blur over time

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Will SMP Fade or Blur Over Time?

Answers (5)

Answer: Scalp Pigmentation Fading

Answer: Scalp Pigmentation Fading

Answer: Will SMP fade or blur over time

Answer: Will SMP fade or blur over time

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scalp Micropigmentation

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