Scalp Micropigmentation: Everything You Need to Know

In recent years, permanent makeup procedures have significantly expanded the range of cosmetic options for clients experiencing hair loss. The most popular of these options is scalp micropigmentation. But what is scalp micropigmentation, and how does it work? Who is a candidate for the procedure, and who performs it?

If you think you’re interested in scalp micropigmentation — either as a client, or a technician — and don’t know where to begin, we’re here to help.

How Scalp Micropigmentation Works

Scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic tattooing/permanent makeup procedure intended to help the client’s hair or hairline appear fuller. Basically, micropigmentation does for the scalp what microblading does for eyebrows, but through different methods and techniques. While microblading is performed using a hand stylus, micropigmentation requires the use of a permanent makeup machine due to the thicker skin on the scalp. Additionally, scalp micropigmentation doesn’t aim to create the same type of fine, hairlike lines as microblading. Instead, it relies on depositing small, layered dots of pigment in order to create the appearance of depth, shading, and fullness. 

This procedure can benefit anyone who feels self-conscious about or uncomfortable with their hair, but it has been especially valuable and empowering for chemotherapy patients, people with surgical scars or similar scars, people with alopecia, or those with hereditary hair loss. Scalp micropigmentation is also extremely flexible and can be applied to a shaved scalp or beneath existing hair, allowing clients to define their hairline or make thinning and balding areas of hair appear thicker. 

What to Expect: Procedure, Costs, and Results

Once you’ve found a permanent makeup artist who performs scalp micropigmentation, they will set up a consultation appointment to assess your scalp and discuss your desires and options. During this consultation, they will plan pigment color, placement, and other details to make sure you understand the procedure and the plan. They will send you home with any specific care or preparation instructions you need prior to the appointment. The total cost for scalp micropigmentation varies depending on the extent of work required and prices within your local market. Generally, you can expect to pay at least $400-$500 per session, and possibly up to $1,000-$1,500.

Often, the full effect of scalp micropigmentation requires multiple sessions over the course of weeks or months. Each session typically lasts around 4-5 hours depending on the extent of micropigmentation to be performed. During the first session, the technician will place a base layer of points to create a foundation for further depth and texture to be filled in during follow-up sessions. While scalp micropigmentation can be slightly painful, your technician can apply a topical numbing agent to reduce your discomfort. Every person experiences pain differently, however, and some find that the procedure isn’t very painful at all.

Like all permanent makeup procedures, the results of scalp micropigmentation do fade over time as skin cells naturally replace themselves. The effect generally lasts around 5 years, although it could be longer or shorter depending on your individual skin care and exposure. Your permanent makeup technician will provide you detailed aftercare instructions for the days immediately following the procedure, but in order to prolong the life of your scalp micropigmentation, you should always apply sunscreen to the area if it is exposed to the sun for extended periods of time.

Scalp Micropigmentation Supplies

If you’re interested in adding scalp micropigmentation to your existing permanent makeup practice, you may already have most of the supplies you need. If you’re just getting started, however, you’ll need at least a permanent makeup machine and permanent makeup pigments. 

Visit PainfulPleasures for more news and information about permanent makeup, as well as all the permanent makeup supplies you need at the best prices you’ll find online.