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Hair loss is a widespread issue that affects men of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. According to studies, by the end of their forties, up to 50% of men experience moderate to severe hair loss.
If you’ve looked into hair loss treatments, you may have come across “hair tattoos,” which conceal hair loss and give the appearance of a whole, buzz-cut-styled head.
This procedure is an intriguing alternative to other hair loss treatments.
We’ve explained how hair tattoo procedures work and the types of results you can expect from this approach to hair loss treatment below.
We’ve also discussed the other treatment options for hair loss, ranging from medication to surgical procedures to restore lost hair permanently.
What is Hair Tattoo?
A hair tattoo should be created by a skilled scalp micropigmentation technician because it is not a traditional tattoo. SMP (also known as scalp micropigmentation) cannot be obtained from a tattoo parlor because the procedure for scalp micropigmentation is performed differently. People frequently confuse a hair tattoo with designs cut or shaved into the hair to create a new hairstyle, but this is not the case.
If you are bald, a hair tattoo can cover the entire scalp; it is very popular worldwide. Hair tattooing can also be used on areas of the scalp that are thinning, receding, or balding. Scalp pigmentation can also be used to conceal scalp scars.
How Hair Tattoos Work
Although there are some similarities, the process of getting a hair tattoo is not the same as getting a regular tattoo.
While both procedures use similar equipment, scalp micropigmentation employs wonderful needles that allow the placement of tiny dots of pigment in the skin.
These needles cycle between 100 and 150 times per second, forming a follicle-like pattern on the scalp. When each needle contacts the upper dermis, a microdroplet of pigment is applied to the skin.
A skilled operator will apply pigments as close to the skin’s surface as possible and use a variety of dot sizes to mimic the appearance of real, natural hair.
Scalp micropigmentation creates the appearance of fine, tiny dots rather than the smoother texture of a traditional tattoo by applying ink close to the skin’s surface layer.
The length of the scalp micropigmentation procedure is determined by the extent of your hair loss and the number of dots required.
Over several sessions, tens of thousands of tiny dots must frequently be applied to the scalp.
Who is Scalp Micropigmentation Suitable For?
The SMP procedure is appropriate for men and women who are losing hair, have longer hair shorter hair, or have gone bald. Hair tattooing requires a high level of skill.
While other hair replacement methods can be painful, getting a hair tattoo is much less painful. As a result, many people say it’s almost painless.
Scalp Micropigmentation should always be performed by a trained industry professional; otherwise, the results you see in the mirror may not meet your expectations, and you may be very disappointed if it needs to be done correctly.
Advantages of Hair Tattoos
Hair tattoo procedures have several advantages compared to other hair loss treatments. These are some examples:
- A full head of hair’s appearance – The most significant advantage of scalp micropigmentation for most men is that it creates the impression of a full head of hair that is not affected by male pattern baldness.
- Increases in perceived density – Although scalp tattoos are typically used to simulate a buzz cut, they can also add thickness to a longer haircut, particularly in thin areas such as the vertex scalp.
- Long-term outcomes – In contrast to hairpieces, which must be replaced and refitted every few months, scalp micropigmentation provides long-term results. A typical hair tattoo will remain visible for several years.
- The procedure was relatively painless – Although scalp micropigmentation is done with a tattoo machine, the process is less painful than a traditional tattoo because the needles only penetrate the top layers of your skin.
- Affordability – particularly when compared to other procedures. The cost of scalp micropigmentation varies depending on the extent of the procedure, the number of treatments required for optimal results, the skill of the person performing it, the location, and other factors. However, there are more cost-effective methods of treating hair loss.
Disadvantages of Hair Tattoos
Despite their distinct advantages, hair tattoos have several drawbacks, ranging from a lack of actual hair growth improvements to potential safety concerns. These are some examples:
- There have been no discernible improvements in hair growth – While hair micropigmentation can increase the perceived density of your hair, it does not affect actual hair growth. It is not a proper “treatment” for male pattern baldness. If you’re already losing hair, the effect of scalp micropigmentation may be less noticeable.
- Despite their longevity, the effects are not permanent – Although tattooed hair can last for years, the procedure must be repeated to achieve natural-looking results. Repeating this procedure can add up over time, which means it may cost more than you expect to keep this “hair” for several decades.
Most Frequently Ask Questions
How long do hair tattoos last?
Hair tattooing lasts about eight years, though you may need to retouch it over time as the skin naturally exfoliates and the treated area fades somewhat.
Is hair tattoo painful?
You and your provider need unique pigments that match the color of your hair. Your practitioner will apply numbing medicine to your scalp to make you more comfortable.
Because the needles used for scalp micropigmentation are thinner and smaller than those used for tattoos, it is usually less painful than getting a tattoo.
Conclusion
Hair tattoos can give you the appearance of having a full head of hair without the pain, cost, or lengthy recovery time that comes with hair transplant surgery.
However, it is critical to understand the limitations of this type of procedure, such as the fact that it masks rather than treats hair loss.
If you’re losing your hair, finasteride and minoxidil can help you keep what you’ve got and even potentially regrow hair in areas of your scalp where hair loss has occurred.
