AlopeciaRx – Treatments for Alopecia (Hair Loss & Baldness) The Virtual Care Hospital
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What is Scalp Micropigmentation?
Scalp Micropigmentation (in short, SMP), has many names like, Hair tattoo, Scalp tattoo, Tricho-pigmentation, Hair replication, etc.
Scalp Micropigmentation is a recently popular, non-surgical hair loss treatment wherein natural pigments are applied within the dermal layer of the scalp, giving the appearance of a natural shaved head with full of tiny hair. This is actually hair tattooing and indeed a great solution to hair loss patients.
This hair tattooing or scalp tattooing lasts for many years and boosts confidence and self-esteem in alopecia patients who have lost most of their hair, like in stage 3 to 7 on the Baldness scale.
Who can benefit from SMP?
The procedure is recommended for any form or any intensity of hair loss. Those who are losing hair or have already lost their hair, those who lack hair density or those with sparse hair. This includes people with:
- Male Pattern baldness
- Female Pattern baldness
- Alopecia areata – that’s patchy areas of baldness, which is an auto immune disease.
- Thinning hair
- Cancer patients with hair loss.
- To Cover Scars on the scalp, including hair transplant surgery scars.
Before and After Results?
The goal of this procedure is to create tiny, layered dots on the bald area in different hues of black to replicate the look of a shadow on your scalp. A skilled dermatologist or a trained technician will work to ensure the dots look like a natural hair follicle and blend in seamlessly with your complexion. This procedure is often done in multiple sittings. Typically, the procedure is divided into multiple sessions with 5-7 days in between each appointment. This allows the artist an opportunity to re-evaluate placement, shade, and density of the pigment to create a realistic layering effect. Firstly, the treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed. Barriers will be marked on the skin to indicate where the new hairline will begin. The microdots will then be individually made into the skin with a specialized device which uses only 1-6 needles in a smaller gauge that do not penetrate as deeply as a traditional tattoo gun.
Does it cause Pain?
This procedure is similar to skin tattooing. Before starting the procedure, your doctor or trained technician will apply local anaesthesia to your scalp to alleviate pain and discomfort. SMP is a day-care procedure done on an outpatient basis.
How long does it last?
Scalp Micropigmentation is considered semi-permanent. The looks of natural hair of shaven head may last up to 6 years and gradually the treated area fades over time since all skin naturally exfoliates itself.
How much does it cost?
The price of the procedure varies depending on how much of your scalp needs to be covered. Each sitting typically costs between $400 and $1,000, depending on the area of scalp to be tattooed.
Can I buy the Tattoo Gun or needle and Do it at Home?
SMP procedure is done by using a needle or electric tattoo gun to deposit pigment in tiny dots within the upper layers of the skin on your scalp. There are many DIY scalp tattoo kits available online including amazon. These also include training material to do it yourself. You can check them out at your own risk.
What are the risks involved in this process?
There are certain risks involved in SMP procedure. These include allergies to certain components in the pigment and infection associated with the tattoo ink. Hence SMP must be performed by a trained doctor and never by tattoo parlours or tattoo artists.
What about age and ethnicity?
Neither age nor ethnicity is a barrier to SMP treatment for hair loss. Most clinics treat men and women of all ethnicities throughout the world.
How do I find the right provider for SMP?
The market for this type of hair loss treatment is growing at a rapid pace, and as a consequence, treatment centres are opening up around the world, on every continent. You can google up for your local SMP centre or provider and read the reviews and decide on it.
