The procedure is also referred to as:

(1) Cosmetic Transdermal Hair Replication

(2) micro hair technique

(3) scalp pigmentation

SMP Compared to Tattoos

Is scalp micropigmentation the same as getting a tattoo? Although this method is similar to regular tattooing, there are slight differences.

• The diameter of the needle is much smaller. Regular injection needles for tattoos would be too thick for the dots to look convincing
• The shape of the SMP needles is jagged, not round. This is another detail needed to create a natural looking result
• The ink used is specially formulated for use on the scalp. Also colors can be customized to match the individual’s real hair. Black SMP colors would remain black instead of turning into a faded bluish hue which occurs with old tattoos.

Scalp Micropigmentation Versus An Actual Hair Surgery

According to Hollywood Reporter, Jaime Foxx and Vin Diesel are both examples of celebrities who have opted for scalp pigmentation. This method creates the appearance of full coverage. Instead of opting for the chrome dome look, having the subtle look of stubble gives the sense that the individual has not suffered from hair loss, but is willfully choosing to shave their head.

Some men may wonder if choose pigmentation is better than a hair restoration surgery.  The answer really depends on personal preference and an understanding of what both entail. While the use of SMP may give the appearance of a shaved head, family, close friends and associates will sooner or later learn that what they are seeing is really the result of ink, and not real hair. The individual will need to be comfortable with this.

Also, getting a hair transplant surgery versus scalp pigmentation does not need to be mutually exclusive. A real restoration procedure can be performed at a future point on top of a scalp that has already undergone treatment with ink.

For those who have dark hair and want to cover a strip scar, SMP can be applied to further reduce the color disparities between the lighter collagen tissue and the person’s scalp.  This technique – SMP may be undertaken before or after a UGraft Follicular Unit Extraction procedure.

Scalp Micropigmentation Versus An Actual Hair Surgery : Meeting the Need For Fuller Coverage

The issue of not having enough grafts is often a main reason why a person may choose scalp micropigmentation over a hair restoration. They may prefer the appearance of a shaved full head of hair over partial coverage which may result from having a very limited donor supply on the head

However, if the individual has enough body hair on areas like the beard region, the chest, the back etc., these follicles can be used to supplement the supply of donor grafts. And in many cases, this can help achieve the most desirable level of coverage possible. Patients have the freedom to style their hair however they want without committing to one particular length.

Here is an example of a patient who underwent a body hair transplant surgery.

To view his video, click here.

Read about Trichopigmentation and SMP as approached by Dr U for the illusion of hair restoration