SMP for Men and Women Is Not the Same. Here’s Why.
Learn how scalp micropigmentation is customized for men and women to achieve natural-looking results.
Scalp micropigmentation has become the go-to treatment for many hair loss sufferers who want a non-surgical, but long-lasting solution to hair loss. But is SMP done the same way in men and women? Well, not really. Even though the basic technique stays the same, the way SMP treatments are applied and the results they deliver can vary between men and women, due to differences in hairline styles, hair density, and aesthetic goals.
What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?
A scalp micropigmentation treatment is a non-surgical hair loss solution that uses microneedles to deposit pigment into the scalp. These tiny deposits create the illusion of shaved hair follicles or denser hair stubble, effectively concealing areas of hair loss and thinning. The pigment is carefully chosen to match your natural hair color and skin tone to create a hyper-realistic appearance that blends seamlessly.
Benefits of SMP for Hair Loss
SMP offers many compelling benefits for both men and women struggling with hair loss, including:
Non-invasive and painless: Unlike hair transplants, SMP requires no surgery or anesthesia. The procedure is minimally invasive and uses topical numbing agents for added comfort.
Long-lasting results: With proper care, SMP results can last for years. Touch-up sessions are typically recommended every few years to maintain optimal density and color vibrancy.
Quick recovery: Most people can resume their daily activities immediately after the treatment. However, we recommend avoiding any activities that cause sweating, including strenuous exercise, and housework that makes you break a sweat, touching the scalp, and washing your hair on the first 1-4 days post-treatment.
Boosts confidence: SMP can significantly improve self-esteem and confidence by creating a fuller-looking head of hair.
Read more: How Long Does Scalp Micropigmentation Last?
SMP for Men vs. Women
For men, SMP often focuses on creating a look that replicates a shaved or closely cropped hair style. The practitioner needs to skillfully design a hairline that suits the man’s facial features and head shape, so it looks natural as it recedes or blends with existing hair. The challenge lies in creating a realistic hairline that doesn’t appear too sharp or unnatural, as well as adding the right amount of density to areas of thinning without overdoing it.
In contrast, SMP for women typically aims to create the illusion of density rather than a distinct hairline. Women usually seek SMP treatments for thinning hair rather than complete baldness. Therefore, the SMP practitioner must masterfully apply the pigmentation to mimic the natural density of hair, ensuring the pigments are well blended with the existing hair, and avoiding any harsh lines. The goal is to make the scalp less visible through the thinning areas, giving an overall appearance of thicker, fuller hair.
SMP Techniques Tailored for Men and Women
The scalp micropigmentation process is meticulously tailored to match the distinct hair loss patterns observed in men and women.
For men, replicating a shaved head with a buzz-cut look is a popular choice, especially for men experiencing advanced hair loss. This technique utilizes a dense application of pigment dots to mimic a close shave.
For men with some remaining hair, SMP can recreate a denser stubble appearance. This technique involves strategically placing pigment dots to fill in sparse areas and create a more textured look.
On the other hand, the focus for women is often on adding density to thinning areas while maintaining a natural hair growth pattern. A lighter touch and strategically placed pigment dots create a subtle yet effective illusion of fuller hair.
Women who prefer to keep their hair can still benefit from SMP. The technique can be used to address specific areas of thinning along the part line or crown, seamlessly blending with existing hair for a natural look.
Color Matching and Scalp Conditions in SMP
An important aspect of achieving a realistic outcome is color matching. The pigment used in SMP is carefully chosen to mimic your natural hair color and skin tone. This ensures a seamless blend that complements your appearance. Lighter hair colors, especially for women, can be more challenging to match perfectly. However, experienced SMP technicians are skilled in creating customized pigment blends for optimal results.
It’s important to note that scalp conditions like active psoriasis or eczema may not be suitable for SMP treatment. Consulting with a qualified hair loss doctor or SMP technician can help determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
Read more: Scalp Micropigmentation Vs. Hair Tattoo: What’s The Difference?
Do Women Have to Shave Their Head to Get SMP?
One concern some women might have is the need to shave their heads entirely for SMP. While the shaved head effect is a popular option, it’s not the only approach. As mentioned earlier, SMP can be effective for women who prefer to keep some hair length by strategically targeting thinning areas. However, extremely light hair color or severe hair loss throughout the scalp might limit the effectiveness of SMP for some women.
Does SMP Hurt?
Scalp micropigmentation uses needles to deposit pigment, but don’t worry, it’s generally well-tolerated. Pain tolerance varies – some describe it as a light scratch, while others might find it more noticeable. Thankfully, the needles used in SMP are much finer and penetrate shallower than traditional tattoos, resulting in less discomfort.
Most practitioners also offer topical numbing creams for added comfort. The temples tend to be the most sensitive area, and longer sessions can lead to some fatigue, but overall, most clients report a manageable experience.
If you’re concerned about pain, discuss your worries with your SMP technician – they can address your concerns and offer numbing options to ensure your comfort throughout the SMP procedure.
Why Choose an SMP Provider Who is Also a Hair Transplant Surgeon?
Choosing an SMP provider who is also a qualified hair transplant surgeon offers compelling advantages. Their in-depth understanding of hair loss patterns allows them to tailor your SMP treatment to your specific needs, whether it’s replicating a natural hairline or mimicking denser hair growth.
Additionally, their expertise in hair follicle distribution translates to a more realistic illusion of density with strategic pigment placement. This combined knowledge ensures a natural-looking outcome and potentially opens doors to exploring hair transplant surgery as a complementary treatment in the future, with the same provider guiding you through the entire hair restoration journey.
If you’re contemplating getting an SMP treatment in Minneapolis, MN, look no further than Shapiro Medical Group. Our hair transplant surgeons are highly proficient in performing the SMP procedure, whether as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with other therapies.
Call us to schedule a consultation today. We serve patients in and around Minneapolis, including Golden Valley, Columbia Heights, Roseville, Richfield, and the greater Minnesota area.
