A scalp tattoo offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional hair restoration methods. The tattoos are delicately and strategically positioned to mimic the appearance of natural hair follicles. They’re versatile and may have short downtimes. Here are a few insights about scalp hair tattoos vs. traditional transplants:
Non-Invasive Solution
Scalp hair tattoos are achieved through a non-invasive technique involving placing pigments in the skin beneath the scalp. Also known as scalp micropigmentation (SMP), the technique results in tattoos that resemble the appearance of natural hair follicles. SMP artists carefully select pigments and use layering to achieve the right density. Sessions may be scheduled several weeks apart to track settling and make informed adjustments. The pigments match your complexion and the color of your natural hair follicles; this allows them to blend naturally with existing hair. Unlike some traditional hair transplants, a scalp tattoo doesn’t involve surgery.
Traditional follicular unit extraction (FUE) and follicular unit transplant (FUT) involve harvesting hair follicles from a donor site. The follicles are then transplanted to fill in the bald or thinning areas. The process involves advanced surgery and anesthesia use. SMP is more like getting a tattoo on your scalp. No incisions are necessary, and the tiny needles create dots that heal naturally; this allows you to have a possible short recovery time.
Versatile Applications
Scalp micropigmentation uses specialized SMP machines that feature microneedles. The needles deposit tiny pigments, creating unique tattoos that resemble your hair follicles. You can use this solution to address a receding hairline caused by male or female pattern baldness. The tattoos may recreate your natural hairline; this results in a more youthful appearance.
Artists customize pigments to achieve natural follicle color variation. Whether you want the appearance of a fresh buzz cut or a faded hairline of a middle-aged adult, SMP can be tailored to meet such goals. SMP also provides a solution for thinning hair and creates the appearance of thick, dense hair. If you have long hair with thinning areas, tattoos can fill in the visible scalp to mimic the appearance of density.
SMP tattoos help conceal scar tissue, which may not grow hair. The tattoos fill up the visible scar with precise dots that blend in with the surrounding scalp and hair. Other uses of SMP include addressing medical issues like alopecia. Although SMP was originally designed for scalp hair loss, the technique can be applied to other facial hair; this includes beards, moustaches, goatees, and sideburns.
Aftercare Requirements
Traditional hair restoration surgeries have lengthy aftercare and downtime. The outcomes may also take several months to appear and go through various stages involving regrowth. SMP helps to cover any visible scars from surgeries, and it has a shorter aftercare timeframe. Depending on the severity or scale of the scar, ideal results from SMP may be achieved in a few sessions.
Initial swelling and bruising heal within a few days, and results are sometimes visible immediately. Aftercare involves staying away from swimming pools, saunas, excessive workouts, and direct sunlight exposure. After the scalp heals, sunscreen and moisturization may be sufficient to maintain the results. Adjustments are also made through layering, and routine retouches help maintain a fresh appearance. SMP allows you to refresh or adjust the style. The solution is also semi-permanent, so you can still have a bald head style.
Work With Scalp Tattoo Artists
SMP and traditional hair transplants suit different people. If you want a versatile, non-invasive, and semi-permanent solution, choose scalp hair tattoos. Surgeries suit clients who prefer natural hair follicles and qualify for such procedures. Contact a scalp tattoo artist today to find out more about their services and solutions.
