How Long Does Scalp Micropigmentation Last?

If you have hair loss as the result of male pattern baldness, scalp micropigmentation is an effective way to restore your hairline. From thinning hair to total hair loss, an SMP procedure is a quick and easy way to get the look you want.

However, any cosmetic investment is more valuable when long-lasting, which is why it’s important to know how long your scalp micropigmentation treatment lasts. Fortunately, Zang SMP has extensive experience offering scalp micropigmentation and can address all of the most important questions you may have about the longevity of your results.

What is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Otherwise known as a “hair tattoo”, scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical method of inserting organic, plant-based pigments throughout the dermal layer of the scalp. These pigment deposits mimic the appearance of hair follicles, creating the appearance of a full head of hair. SMP pigments are designed to match natural hair tones, ensuring and natural-looking result.

How Long Does Scalp Micropigmentation Last?

While scalp micropigmentation is considered a permanent procedure, you should expect to pigment to require touch-ups after 5-8 years. Pigments fade overtime, making touch sessions necessary to maintain your SMP results.

Overall, though, the length of time that passes before a touch-up is recommended depends on many factors:

Factors in SMP Treatment Longevity

• UV Exposure: UV rays, either from sun exposure or tanning beds, can cause your scalp micropigmentation to fade faster.
• Touch-Up Sessions: Touch-ups extend how long an SMP treatment lasts, with their frequency influenced by factors like skin type, lifestyle, and desired pigment intensity.
• Excessive Sweating: Intense physical activities that cause excessive sweating can speed up the fading process.
• Health Conditions: Individual health conditions, particularly autoimmune conditions, can influence the permanence of SMP. These medical conditions may lead to variations in how the pigments are retained.

Is Scalp Micropigmentation Permanent?

Scalp micropigmentation is considered a permanent solution, as laser removal is required to remove the initial treatment. This is because the procedure involves using tattoo needles to deposit pigment into the scalp, creating tiny dots that mimic the appearance of hair follicles. 

However, while “permanent treatment” is used to describe any process involving a traditional tattoo or scalp tattoo, the quality of SMP results is not everlasting. While the results can last for a long time, the term "permanent" is relative, as touch-up sessions are typically necessary over the years.

Explaining Scalp Micropigmentation Fade

You might be asking, why does micro scalp pigmentation fade over time? Like traditional tattoos, fading refers to the gradual lightening of scalp pigmentation over time. Various factors, including sun exposure, lifestyle choices, and individual healing processes, contribute to fading over time. However, the cosmetic treatment will not completely disappear, and touch-up sessions can address any loss of pigmentation.

The Importance of Touch-Up Sessions

How long scalp micropigmentation lasts is highly dependent on effective touch-up sessions. These sessions can happen as frequently or infrequently as you want, but are recommended every few years. Consider the many benefits:

• Addressing fading: Touch-ups help to combat natural fading caused by UV rays, skin shedding, and environmental elements, ensuring that your SMP remains vibrant.
• Adapting to Changes in Skin: Factors like aging, weight changes, and more all change our skin over time, impacting the appearance of the SMP. Regular touch-ups adjust the pigments to the evolving characteristics of your skin.
• Customization for Evolving Preferences: As your preferred style and hairline change over time, you can use touch-up sessions as an opportunity to customize and refine the SMP treatment accordingly. 
• Preserving a Natural Look: SMP is celebrated for its ability to replicate the appearance of a closely shaved head with a natural hairline. Touch-ups help preserve this natural look by preventing fading and unnatural differences between the skin and pigments.

Can I Extend The Results?

Yes, you can extend how long scalp micropigmentation lasts by following these tips:

• Shield Against UV Light: To prevent pigment fading, we recommend wearing hats or applying sunscreen to the treated area on particularly sunny days. This helps prevent any type of tattoo ink from fading.
• Adhering to Aftercare Guidelines: Following your first session and all sessions after, your technician will provide aftercare instructions. Following these instructions is essential for proper healing and long-term results, with recommendations including avoiding heavy activity that leads to sweating, staying hydrated, and more.
• Regular Touch-Up Sessions: SMP is semi-permanent, and touch-up sessions are a standard part of maintenance. The frequency of touch-ups varies among individuals but should typically occur every few years. These sessions help refresh the pigments and address pigment fading.
• Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: General well-being contributes to the longevity of SMP. A balanced diet, light exercise, and proper hydration support overall skin health, ultimately improving the appearance of the pigmentation.
• Mindful Haircare Practices: If you have existing hair in the treated area, adopting gentle haircare practices is crucial. Harsh chemical treatments, excessive heat styling, or frequent use of strong hair products can affect the pigments and lead to premature fading.

Begin Your SMP Treatment Journey Today

If you’re ready for a non-invasive treatment that mimics tiny hair follicles, scalp micropigmentation is the perfect solution. Zang SMP offers long-lasting scalp micropigmentation treatments at multiple locations across the US.

This treatment is highly effective and professional, as it uses top-quality, natural pigments to resolve issues with thinning hair. From working around existing gray hairs to completely shaved hair, we have all the tools to perfectly match and enhance your hair color.

So, if you want a new hairline that works for you, contact us at (310) 425-4975 to schedule a free consultation today!