Scalp Micropigmentation

Most men are extremely self-conscious about their hair and want to get their younger look back.

Hair transplants can work well, but they are expensive, involve surgery and depend on having enough donor hair. Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical option that looks very natural, just like real hair, with long-lasting results.

SMP is done with small dots of pigment implanted into the skin with a very thin needle on a tattoo machine. The dots are the exact same size as the hair follicle making it nearly impossible to tell the difference between the real hair and the SMP.

Because the needle vibrates at such a high speed, each dot mimics the look of a hair follicle, and the pigment sits in the same skin layer where hair follicles form — resulting in a very natural look.

Hairline restoration for men and women

Thinning hairlines and bald patches affect both men and women, and can result from genetics, aging or lifestyle factors. SMP is a non-surgical way to create the illusion of fuller, denser hair — for density work on thinning hair or a full hairline rebuild.

Designed around you

Hairline work requires an understanding of skin, pigment selection and artistry. Your artist takes into account your hair color, skin tone and the natural direction of your hair growth to design a hairline that blends seamlessly and complements your features.

Who is scalp micropigmentation for?

Men with a receding hairline or full baldness who want a clean, defined shaved-head look. Women with thinning hair who want the part line and crown to look denser while keeping their hair long. People with alopecia who want to fill in patchy areas. Hair transplant patients who want to camouflage FUE dots or a FUT strip scar, or add density between grafts.

Built up in layers

SMP is applied over more than one session, with time in between for the scalp to heal. Layering lets your artist adjust density and shade as the dots settle, which is what keeps the result soft and natural instead of flat.

Scalp micropigmentation vs hair transplant

A transplant moves real follicles and can restore growing hair, but it is surgery with a recovery period. SMP is non-surgical, has minimal downtime and works whatever your donor supply, but it creates the appearance of hair rather than new growth. Many clients combine the two: a transplant for the hairline and SMP to add density behind it or hide scarring. Read the detailed comparison of scalp micropigmentation vs hair transplant.

What affects the price

The size of the area is the biggest factor. A hairline or scar camouflage sits at the lower end of our range and full-head coverage for advanced hair loss at the higher end. Your exact quote is given at a free consultation. See our full guide to scalp micropigmentation cost in Los Angeles.

Healing and aftercare

The scalp may look slightly red for a day or two. For the first days after each session, avoid washing the scalp, heavy sweating, swimming and direct sun, and follow the written aftercare your artist gives you. Over the long term, sunscreen on the scalp keeps the pigment from fading early.

1. 01

   Confirm your appointment

   Double-check the date and time of your appointment and confirm with the studio to avoid any misunderstandings. Being punctual and organized helps you start your PMU journey on the right foot.

2. 02

   Fill out consent forms

   Have all necessary consent forms filled out before your visit. This saves time during your appointment so you can focus on discussing your desired look with your artist. Please be aware that services may be filmed and used for social media marketing (an additional consent form must be signed).

3. 03

   Avoid caffeine and alcohol

   In the days leading up to your appointment, avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol. They can thin your blood and increase bleeding during the procedure.

4. 04

   Hydrate your skin

   Drink plenty of water in the days before your appointment. Well-hydrated skin holds pigment better and gives a more even color payoff.

5. 05

   Avoid retinol products

   Retinol increases skin sensitivity and thins the skin, making it more prone to bleeding. Avoid retinol on the treatment area for at least one week before your appointment.

6. 06

   Get a good night’s sleep

   Being well-rested helps you feel more comfortable during the procedure and promotes better healing afterward.

7. 07

   Communicate clearly with your artist

   Think about the look you want beforehand and be ready to share your expectations, preferences and any concerns, so you and your artist are on the same page.

We offer a 3-day scalp micropigmentation training course year-round — one of the highest-ticket services in permanent makeup, and a natural second skill alongside microblading.