Different Skin Types in Scalp Micropigmentation

Working with different skin types in SMP

There are so many skin types, that identifying skin tones and textures and applying pigments and treatments correctly can be quite complex and difficult to navigate. In this tutorial, Marc discusses how adaptability is key when considering varying skin types and textures so that your pigment and application can be tailored for best effectiveness. In his honest account, drawn from personal experience, Marc shares his top tips for treating tougher skin and explains how occasionally a client’s skin type is susceptible to change in between appointments.
Here, you’ll learn about adjusting your needle size, increasing your hang time where required, and reducing and minimising the pain that might be felt by your client during treatment time. Marc suggests that your ability to troubleshoot during sessions is something that can only be gained through experience, but this tutorial will equip you with the foundations to get started with your best foot forward.
Marc from Creative Scalps talking on Scalp Micropigmentation skin types Blog post Cover image

Lets talk about skin

We want to talk about skin types, and by skin types, we’ve got different types of skin tones. That is the shade of skin that somebody is, so going from lighter to darker and we are going to talk about that a little bit later. By skin type, I’m talking about is the firmness of the skin. You’re going to get some skin that is firm like on your knuckle, and you’re going to get some skin that is quite fleshy like on your Palm and anything in between.

As well as having that, you’re also going to get times when the skin is quite loose and baggy and it moves around, you’re going to get other times where it’s tight, so you’ve got a couple of factors that come into play. We’ve got the fleshiness of the scalp. We’ve also got the looseness of the skin. Coupled together, we need to be really adaptable in every situation. We don’t always know right at the start of each treatment how it’s going to react. We’ll have a first session client and he comes to me. He’s got beautiful skin. It’s quite tight. It’s not too fleshy. That’s probably your ideal client. He’s been well moisturized. The skin is quite soft to work on and you can have the dream client and you work through.

He comes back for his second session, something’s changed. Now it’s toughened up, so you’re going to have to be adaptable. He comes back for his third session. Now it’s loosened off, it’s okay. You’re back to where he was in the first session. When we are working through each individual client, we need to be adaptable. We need to learn what approach to make for each different skin type. I’m going to give you a few options…
To learn more about scalp micropigmentation and skin types, why not check out our SMP master class hosted by the award-winning Scalp Micropigmentation artist Marc Allen.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION

Advantages and Disadvantages of scalp micropigmentation

If you are struggling with your hair loss and have tried vitamins and supplements, treatments and special shampoos, then you might be feeling all out of options. With hair transplants being a long, expensive and difficult process, it could feel as though your dream of having your hair back is out of reach.

However, you can get a realistic-looking head of hair back again thanks to scalp micropigmentation (SMP). But what are the advantages of this new way of recreating your hair? And what are the disadvantages of SMP? We dive a little deeper to find out. Read on to discover more.

The  Advantages

1. Scalp Micropigmentation Looks real

Scalp micropigmentation is a process by which a small amount of black pigment is delivered to your shaven scalp with a needle. This is carried out all over your head to replace the look of balding hair with a well-groomed realistic look. Since SMP delivers the look of a sharp buzz cut, you always look ready for business, and it looks completely real. This is a relief since so many hair treatments can result in uneven or unconvincing results.

2. SMP Lasts a very long time without needing a top-up

SMP can be carried out across a few sessions to get the best results, but once you have finished your sessions, you do not need to go for a top-up for between four to six years. The ink does naturally fade, so you will eventually need to book another appointment, but the length between these times provides real freedom, as well as value for money.

3. SMP Works for practically every hairstyle

While you might think that SMP could be restrictive, it isn’t! It can work for nearly every hairstyle to give you the look you want. Whether you have short hair, long hair, grey hair, male pattern baldness or alopecia, SMP can work really well with all styles.

4. Scalp Micropigmentation is Safe

There is no danger or risk involved with SMP. The pigment is non-toxic and safe for use, and you should not feel any ill effects from having this treatment, nor should it be too unpleasant or painful to have carried out.

5. SMP is Cost-effective compared to the transplants

Hair transplants are another popular choice for those looking to get a full head of hair back again. And yet, as we mentioned previously, these transplants are prohibitively expensive for most people. When it comes to SMP, your financial outgoing is much smaller, and there is a lot more time before you need to top it up. It's a win-win situation for your wallet and the look of your hair!

6. Scalp Micropigmentation Easy to maintain

There is no upkeep required when it comes to scalp micropigmentation. You do not need to invest in expensive products, or dye your hair, to achieve an ongoing great look. However, you will need to shave any parts of your hair that do grow naturally if this is spoiling the overall look you want to maintain. But that’s a small price to pay compared to other treatments available.

The Disadvantages

1. There are some bad SMP artists out there

You need to be very careful when it comes to selecting the artist who does your scalp micropigmentation. Even if you have a favourite tattoo artist, they will likely not be trained in this highly precise and detailed work. Make sure that you take your time finding the right SMP artist for you, and ask to see their work. They will usually work in a much more clinical setting and have a proven track record of impressive SMP work. If you don’t do this, you risk allowing a bad artist to alter your hair for a long time to come.

2. If you no longer want SMP, removing it can be a pain

SMP is essentially a tattoo, and we all know how hard tattoos are to remove. When it comes to SMP, the process is similar and painful. If you aren’t sure about SMP being right for you, then it is best to wait until you are sure, because removing it can be a big headache.

3. It's more difficult to change up your look

Similarly, while it is great that scalp micropigmentation is made to last, this can make changing up your look a challenge. If you are someone who loves to alter your hair, SMP is quite restrictive, due to its semi-permanent nature, so keep that in mind before jumping into it.

4. You will need to shave

As SMP does not actually implant any new hairs, but rather creates a realistic buzzed look, the hair you have that grows through will need shaving. We know we mentioned this before, but it bears repeating; a head of SMP hair will not be completely free from a little maintenance work.

So, there you have it! As you can see, there are some disadvantages to choosing scalp micropigmentation, but the advantages outweigh them quite a bit. However, you should always think carefully and consult with a professional before seriously considering SMP as the right choice for you.

Done correctly, and by an expert, SMP could be the solution to your hair loss to give you the confidence you need!