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Hair Tattoos: Exploring the Art of Scalp Micropigmentation

Danny White June 29, 2023

We are all aware of the traditional tattoos where the ink engraves into the skin. However, a new fad is making rounds called Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) where ink intertwines with follicles. 

As per statistics, one in five men (20%) in their 20s are concerned about balding. If you’re also worried about balding, don’t worry. A full head of hair can be faked by tattooing the scalp. 

In this article, we’ll dive deep into hair tattoos, how they work, their benefits and what factors you should consider when choosing a reputable Scalp Micropigmentation clinic in Sydney.

What are Hair Tattoos? 

You may have heard of this trending term “hair tattoos” if you’ve researched treatments for hair loss. They conceal thinning hair and give the impression of a full, buzzed-cut mane. Here’s the deal: they’re just getting started now.

Your ancestors probably never even considered getting a hair tattoo. Until roughly 20 years ago, most people with bald heads had tattoos of anchors or, if they were particularly inventive, eyes on the back of their heads (we’re leaning towards the latter option).

Hair tattoos, also known as scalp tattoos, are a form of scalp micropigmentation aimed at giving the appearance of a full head of hair and concealing hair loss.

How Do Hair Tattoos Work, Exactly?

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), the method used to create hair tattoos, differs from conventional tattooing. It involves the placement of tiny pinpoints of colour into the skin rather than broad strokes. 

These needles rotate 100–150 times per second, applying a microdroplet of pigment to the skin at each touch with the upper dermis to mimic the appearance of real hair follicles on the scalp.

A professional operator will microneedle pigments as close to the skin’s surface as possible. It will utilise a variety of dot sizes and pigments to simulate the appearance of actual, natural hair cut close to the scalp. 

SMP gives the appearance of fine, tiny dots rather than the smoother texture of a traditional tattoo. It’s because the ink is put close to the surface layer of the skin. Thin hair or a receding hairline can be concealed in this way. 

One example of localised SMP is hairline tattoos used to conceal hairline regression.  Or hair tattoos near the back of the head to conceal scarring following hair transplant surgery. 

However, tens of thousands of small dots spread out over multiple sessions are often required to cover the entire scalp. The time it takes to complete micro scalp pigmentation might range from several hours to several days, depending on the severity of your hair loss and the amount of dots needed. 

Benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

There are several benefits to getting a hair tattoo in Sydney as a means of treating hair loss – 

  • Having a Full Head of Hair

A scalp tattoo can make it seem as though male-pattern baldness does not affect the thickness of one’s hair.

  • Perceived Density Increases

Although scalp tattoos are most commonly used to simulate a buzz cut, they can also be utilised to give the impression of greater density to a longer cut, particularly in thinning places like the vertex scalp. 

  • Long Lasting Results

Hair tattoos stay long, while hairpieces must be updated and re-fitted every few months. The appearance of a conventional hair tattoo will last for years.

  • Convenient Process

Although a tattoo machine is used for Scalp Micropigmentation, most people report less pain than a regular tattoo since the needles only reach the superficial layers of the skin.

  • Shows Results Quickly

Hair tattooing results are often seen after the scalp has healed, which takes about a week. However, it might take up to six months after a hair transplant for the results to become apparent.

How to Find a Good Sydney Clinic for Scalp Micropigmentation?

With an abundance of SMP clinic options in Sydney, it can get tricky to pick one. However, it’s vital to consider a few factors before deciding on your final call. Here are the factors you must consider – 

  • Reputation

The credibility of a medical facility is crucial. They should put you at ease with top-notch customer service, high-quality “before and after” photos or films. You should also look for facilities that have free consultations without pressure to commit and glowing recommendations from satisfied clients.

It’s also crucial that whoever performs your SMP process is competent, has the necessary training, and has extensive expertise. If you’re still sceptical, have them send you some “before and after” pictures to compare.

  • Read Online Reviews

You may read what others think about the SMP clinic. Find reviews on Google, Trustpilot, and Facebook, both positive and negative. If someone has been doing hair tattoos for a long time and is proficient at them, they are likely to have many positive and negative evaluations. Go through them to get a general idea of what your shortlisted SMP service is like.

  • Assess Past Work

The strength of one’s portfolio indicates one’s competence and dependability. The SMP expert should have before-and-after pictures and videos of clients of different races to show you. It is essential that they have dealt with a similar situation before and you get to see the final product. You may also reach out to their past clients to get an honest opinion. 

Conclusion

Confidence and self-esteem can take a serious hit when one loses their hair. But Scalp Micropigmentation can profoundly alter your life and restore your self-confidence. Take time and research to choose the most qualified professional to perform Scalp Micropigmentation in Sydney. Remember that fixing an error is much more difficult and time-consuming than avoiding it in the first place.