If you’re dealing with any form of hair loss, you might have heard about scalp micropigmentation as a potential solution. But is SMP worth it? In short, yes. The only catch is choosing a reliable, reputable, certified artist to do it for you.
Here’s a quick yet comprehensive look at who might be interested in SMP, what you need to know about pricing, and is it really worth it at the end of the day. Let’s get started.
Should I Get Scalp Micropigmentation?
If your hair situation is impacting your happiness, confidence, and quality of life, you certainly should consider it. SMP is an excellent solution to various hair loss problems, it doesn’t hurt and it’s not invasive, and it’s suitable for women as well as men.
It can help remedy the appearance of thinning hair due to age or postpartum hair loss, male pattern baldness, receding hairlines, and similar occurrences. It can also be immensely helpful to people with alopecia.
If you’re wondering about the color, no worries – SMP works for people with fair or graying hair as well.
Scalp micropigmentation isn’t just for hiding bald spots, either. It can be done on heads with longer hair, too, to improve the visual volume and create an illusion of greater thickness and fullness, or to camouflage a scar. The same can be done for beards.
So, at the end of the day, if you’re wondering Should I get scalp micropigmentation? – the only one who can answer that is you. If any of these scenarios we covered sounds like you, you should consider scalp micropigmentation.
But you should know one thing – SMP is not cheap. Read on for all the information on the costs you would be looking at, how they’re formed, and how to get the best value for your money.
Image source: Instagram @protosmp
How Much Will It Cost Me?
We’re not going to lie, SMP is a fairly pricey treatment. On average, the cost of scalp micropigmentation in the US ranges from $2000 to $4000, but the way that cost is broken down varies between artists.
The overall price is determined by several factors, including:
- The size of the area treated
- The type of treatment (s.g. scar camouflage, hairline correction, full head micropigmentation)
- The total number of SMP sessions necessary
- The artist’s exclusivity and experience
- The location of the facility
- The tools and materials used
- The cost of aftercare products
- Maintenance touch ups down the line
SMP typically includes 3 sessions, and always 2 at a minimum: first the initial treatment, and then one or more mandatory touch up sessions to improve pigment saturation.
Some artists charge the initial session and two touch ups as one item. Some charge only the first treatment and first touch up together, and all subsequent touch ups separately.
Still others charge each session independently. Some artists offer free consultations before the initial scalp micropigmentation appointment, while others charge for the consults too.
In addition, keep in mind that scalp micropigmentation is a form of cosmetic tattoo and the method of implementing pigments is different from traditional tattooing. As they fade over the years, you’ll need refresher sessions, and each of those is charged as a standalone.
There are no rules.
It’s also a good idea to research a few permanent makeup businesses in the area and see how the artists differ. Try to find one who offers a good balance of quality and experience while not breaking your bank.
For more detailed insight into SMP pricing and what affects it, check out our Guide on Scalp Micropigmentation Costs.
Image source: Instagram @scalp_by_song
NOTE
Always check all pricing and payment information with the artist you’re considering before you book an appointment, even before you come in for a consultation. Be clear on their pricing system and payment timeline to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Is Scalp Micropigmentation Worth It?
The short answer is: yes, absolutely. The improvement in appearance and the dramatic boost to your self-confidence and quality of life is worth every penny.
The total cost upfront can seem daunting, but you have to remember what it entails. Depending on the type of SMP you get, you can predict with decent accuracy how big of an expense you might be looking at:
- Correctional treatments like scar camouflage and hairline tattoos lean towards the lower price ends.
- Bald patches are priced by size.
- The larger the area treated, the more costly the appointment, with full scalp micropigmentation being the most expensive.
In return, you get immediate results which will last you 4-8 years on average.
The style of scalp micropigmentation – tiny dots – is subtle, so your cosmetic tattoo will appear natural and blend into your everyday look no matter your original hair situation.
Best of all, SMP is customizable and adjustable. You can adapt your scalp tattoo to match the changing rhythm of natural hair loss that occurs as we age.
As long as you choose an experienced, certified artist, and follow their prescribed scalp micropigmentation aftercare routine post-treatment, you’re guaranteed to have a visually voluminous head of hair – or a tidy buzz cut – for many years to come.
If you decide that SMP is worth considering for you, check out our Ultimate Guide on Scalp Micropigmentation for more detailed information on all aspects of this versatile treatment.
Image source: Instagram @jm.hairline
The Verdict
Scalp micropigmentation is a great solution for various hair loss problems, including male pattern baldness, postpartum hair loss, and alopecia. It can also help those with scars or those who want to increase the visual volume of their hair.
While the price of SMP can be high, it varies depending on several factors, including the area treated, the type of treatment, and the artist’s experience. That means you have room for adaptation and can choose a provider whose payment pattern fits your budget and timeline.
Despite the cost, the improvement in appearance and self-confidence is worth the expense. With proper care and maintenance, the results can last 4-8 years on average, making SMP a worthwhile investment.
Cover image source: Freepik
