Your hair plays a crucial role in your self-esteem. People with hair loss often suffer from a decline in self-image and esteem. If you want to solve your balding problem, consider getting a hairline tattoo.

This article covers everything you need to know before getting a hairline tattoo. Read on to discover more about scalp micro-pigmentation.

1. What It Is

The proper term for a hairline tattoo is SMP or scalp micro-pigmentation. SMP is a different form of tattooing because of the ink and needle involved. Microneedle tattoos are more efficient in achieving the texture of hair follicles.

Hairline tattoos require a micro needle to look like hair. This form of tattooing only goes two layers deep beneath your skin instead of five. This gives your tattoo artist more control over the shape and looks of the hair follicle.

2. Treatment Duration

A scalp micro-pigmentation treatment usually lasts for three sessions. The first session of treatment usually includes the initial consultation. During this period, you and your artist will decide the best style for your head.

Your first session will focus on laying the foundation of your new scalp tattoo. You should expect some redness after your first session. The second session is where your tattoo artist will start to fill in more details.

They may go a darker shade during this session. A third session may take place during the treatment if the client wants to use a darker shade. Your artist will try their best to match your tattoo to your natural hair color.

3. The Cost and Longevity

The cost of a scalp micro-pigmentation tattoo will depend on the client. Your tattoo artist will take into consideration your desired style. The average male hairline tattoo client may need to pay $1,800 to $3,200.
The average price for a general SMP treatment ranges between $2,000 to $4,500. The best way to determine the cost of your treatment is to consult with your practitioner.

SMP is semi-permanent, meaning it can last up to eight years with good maintenance. Over time, the treated area may fade and need a touch-up.

4. Avoid Sun Exposure

Like regular tattoos, your new treatment may become inefficient with sun exposure. Exposure to the sun may lead to the loss of saturation in your pigments. It's essential to avoid exposing your fresh tattoo to the sun.

Make sure to cover your tattoo with a hat to limit its exposure to sun rays. Your tattoo may need a month of protection and healing before you can expose it to the sun.

Without proper healing, your fresh tattoo may get sunburnt and permanent damage. This makes your tattoo more susceptible to redness, itching, and blistering. This can lead to an infection, which causes the ink to fall out.

5. Consider the Risks

Though scalp micro-pigmentation differs from a normal tattoo, it comes with similar risks. Some people are allergic to components in the pigment. You may ask your tattoo artist to conduct a test to see if your skin can handle the ink.

It's also important to note that SMP has no formal training. This means that your results depend on the skill of your tattoo artist. If you're looking for an artist for a hairline tattoo, it's essential to do your research.

6. Choosing the Right Artist

When looking for an SMP practitioner, treat it like looking for a regular tattoo artist. Tattoo artists must display a license and county health permit. Your artist must also have a clean and sterile environment.

They must also have barrier protection, like a mask and nitrile gloves. Some tattoo artists may have a certification of SMP training.

When looking for any tattoo artist, it's essential to look at their portfolio. This will give you an idea of their skill and tattoo style. During your consultation, find out how many clients your artists get in a day.

SMP treatment requires a lot of time to complete. You want an artist who gives their client enough time and attention.

7. Pain and Procedure

Your practitioner will first apply a numbing ointment to your scalp. However, you may still experience some pain or discomfort. This may depend on your pain tolerance.

It's essential to shower before each session of SMP. You may need to wrap up your scalp to allow the ink to settle. Each session lasts between 4-5 hours.

How many sessions of treatment you receive will depend on the amount of area you need to cover. SMP is a layering process. Your treatment may last for three to four sessions for long-term retention.

8. Medication and Conditions

It's essential to share any current medications with your tattoo artists. Some medications may affect your ability to get a micro-pigmentation treatment. Some medical conditions may also affect your ability to get an SMP treatment.

Dry skin, dermatitis, or psoriasis may prevent your artist from working on your scalp. If you have scalp acne or psoriasis, avoid getting SMP when your condition flares up. Consult your doctor first to determine if you're a good candidate for SMP.

9. Choose Your Hairline

One of the best things about SMP is that you decide the final look of your treatment. You can go for a hairline that complements your best features. Older people may get a rounded, feathered, or broken up hairline.

It's also essential to determine if you want to keep your hair short or long. The style of your treatment may differ depending on how long you want to keep your hair. People with shorter hair may get full reconstructions, while those will longer hair may get density fills.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Hairline Tattoo

Thinking of getting a hairline tattoo? A consultation is the first step to getting your treatment. Here are some other essential factors to consider before getting a hairline tattoo.

Looking to get your SMP treatment? Contact us today!