SMP for Alopecia

Pigmentation is only suitable once hair loss has stabilised and the affected areas are no longer changing in size or shape. Active inflammation, ongoing flare-ups, or recent progression should be managed medically before cosmetic tattooing is considered. Your dermatologist or GP will need to confirm that the condition is stable. Treating unstable areas can lead to unpredictable results, pigment loss, or complications during healing. Once cleared, consultation will assess whether the patches are suitable for pigmentation and how best to plan the treatment timeline.

The pigment is designed to reduce contrast from a conversational distance, not to replicate real hair under close scrutiny. Up close, the tattooed area will still be distinguishable from natural hair, though it will appear softer and more uniform than untreated skin. The goal is visual blending, not full concealment. Results vary depending on skin tone, hair colour, and the size of the affected area. During consultation, examples of healed work on similar clients are shown to help set realistic expectations about how the pigment will appear in different lighting and at different distances.

Pigment is matched to your current natural hair color and skin tone at the time of treatment. If your hair color changes due to greying or other factors, the pigment may no longer blend as seamlessly. In these cases, a color adjustment session can be scheduled to bring the pigment closer to your updated tone. This is a normal part of long-term maintenance and does not require removal or starting over. Changes in hair loss pattern, such as further thinning or new patches, may also require additional work to maintain visual balance across the scalp.

You should wait until the flare-up has fully resolved, the skin has healed completely, and your condition has been stable for several months. This ensures the scalp is in a healthy state and reduces the risk of pigment rejection, uneven healing, or further irritation. A letter of clearance from your dermatologist or treating doctor is required before booking. The exact waiting period depends on the type and severity of the flare-up, as well as any medications or treatments you are currently using. Consultation will review your medical history and determine the safest time to proceed.

Scalp micropigmentation can be performed on all skin tones, but results vary depending on the natural contrast between your skin and hair. Lighter skin with darker hair typically shows the most defined results. On darker skin tones or in cases where the natural hair is very light, blending may be more subtle and require more sessions to achieve the desired depth. The type of alopecia also matters—scarring alopecia, alopecia areata, and traction alopecia all present differently and may need tailored approaches. Consultation includes a visual assessment and discussion of what is realistic for your specific skin, hair, and pattern of hair loss.

Yes, most topical treatments and oral medications for alopecia can be continued after pigmentation, but you should inform your practitioner of anything you are currently using. Some products, particularly those that increase skin turnover or sensitivity, may affect how the pigment heals or how long it lasts. Retinoids, strong exfoliants, or treatments that cause peeling should be avoided on the treated area during the healing period. If you begin a new medication or treatment after pigmentation, let your practitioner know, as it may influence the timing or approach for future maintenance sessions. Medical advice should always take priority over cosmetic scheduling.