Have you recently gone through the Scalp Micropigmentation procedure, or are you in the exciting process of getting one? If yes, this article is for you!

Scalp Micropigmentation aka SMP is a revolutionary cosmetic procedure that has changed the narrative for those experiencing hair loss concerns. They no longer have to cover their heads using hats or head scarves – they naturally feel confident about their looks. But as the saying goes, nothing good comes easy; this same adage applies to hair SMP. To achieve vibrant and long-lasting results, one has to follow the aftercare guidelines carefully. If not, you might as well be doing zero work.

Fortunately, we are here to ensure that this doesn’t happen. In today’s article, we will shed light on the aftercare guidelines you should follow from the moment you are in the hair SMP clinic to the post-process after the procedure. Stick around to learn more!

Scalp Micropigmentation Aftercare Guidelines

Pre-caring Guidelines Before an  SMP

We all want to have a seamless experience, right? Well, it’s essential that you pay good attention to the pre-care guidelines. They include;

• Do not take any pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen before the procedure. This is because your SMP practitioner will apply a numbing cream to help ease the discomfort, usually a 2 on a scale of 1-10.
• At no point should you drink alcohol or caffeine a day before the procedure. You need to be in the right mind for a seamless experience.
• If you have dry skin, make sure you moisturise your scalp with a water-based moisturiser.
• Know which areas are in dire need of an SMP treatment and show that to your practitioner before the process.

Immediate Aftercare Guidelines After Scalp Micropigmentation

After undergoing the Scalp Micropigmentation procedure, which roughly takes 2-4 hours, you will see a lot of colour on your scalp. You may also experience a little discomfort, which eventually goes away. Scabs will also occur, so don’t freak out when you see them. This is what you should do instead;

1-4 Days After the Treatment

Avoid water exposure: Within the first 4 days after the hair SMP treatment, you will want to keep your scalp clean. However, showering or soaking your head in water should be one of your options. We get that you need to clean the scabs but don’t be tempted to water. Instead, gently use a damp, clean towel to clean your scalp area.

Avoid vigorous exercises and sweating: As much as you are a fitness enthusiast, you want to refrain from vigorous exercises if you don’t want that hair tattoo to fade quickly. You see, although the colour pigments are permanent, exposing them to fluids at the early stages results in premature fading. Additionally, avoid taking more fluids that can make you sweat.

Do not touch your scalp: It’s normal to have the urge to touch your scalp and feel the after results of Scalp Micropigmentation but within the first four days. We recommend keeping those fingers away from your scalp. Your fingers contain bacteria that may spread to the scabs, causing infections.

5-14 Days After the SMP Treatment

Use mild shampoo: We bet that you already missed using shampoo by now. The good news is that after 5 days, you can now use shampoo on your scalp. However, if your shampoo has sulphate, you might want to keep that away. At this stage, you should only use a mild sulphate-free shampoo and lukewarm water for faster healing.

Avoid scratching: While after 7 days, it’s okay for you to shave using an electric foil shaver, that doesn’t mean it’s okay to bring those fingers back and start scratching. As mentioned above, it can result in infections, altering the healing process.

Long-term Care After Scalp Micropigmentation Treatment

15-30 Days After SMP Treatment

Moisturise your scalp: Yes, you read that right! By this time, you are almost ready to return to your normal routine. So keep that moisturised after you shower and before heading to bed.

Avoid sun exposure: Ensure you apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30-50 if you must go to the sun. If not, ensure you wear a hat or a head scarf. Exposure to the sun causes premature fading.

Avoid chlorinated pools and steam rooms: Again, the Scalp Micropigmentation pigments are still fresh on your scalp. So avoid swimming in chlorinated pools or visiting steam rooms and saunas.

Avoid using AHA products: Harsh hair products may alter the colour of the pigments, so refrain from using such products. Also, avoid using AHA products that contain more alcohol. Less alcohol won’t do a lot of damage as compared to more.

Ready to visit that Scalp Micropigmentation clinic? Keep these pre and aftercare guidelines in mind. They will go a long way in ensuring you get consistent, natural-looking, and long-lasting results. Additionally, ensure you go for follow-up sessions as your hair SMP practitioner prescribes you.