SMP TRAINING VANCOUVER WITH ADVANCED SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION

January 15, 2021/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

“With 1 in every 5 people experiencing some form of hair loss there’s little wonder why Scalp Micropigmentation is taking off in a BIG way!”

SMP is still in its fledgling stage and Demand is high for skilled technicians. So whether you’re looking to add another valuable string to your already impressive skillset or looking to start your own stand-alone SMP business now is the time.

Get trained and get trained right!

Advanced Scalp Micropigmentation Training, SMP Training in Vancouver with Best Artist Rob James

The Advanced Scalp SMP training program

At Advanced Scalp Vancouver we explore every aspect of the SMP business, through a combination of classroom theory and practical hands on experience with live models. Students are exposed to an interactive and immersive journey into the world of scalp micropigmentation. Reinforced with valuable continued support as you venture into the workplace and take on your own clients.

SMP Immersion Training in Vancouver

Our 3-day intensive training specializes in the successful application of Scalp micropigmentation and it’s myriad of uses for hair loss.

Understanding the foundations of the Scalp Micropigmentation business and the fundamentals of hair loss and scar repair. You will learn how to perform hair replication, transplant scar camouflage and hair density to the highest degree.

From Consultation to application

A major part of the SMP business is client consultation and customer acquisition.

From initial contact to the client consultation I will walk you through the numerous scenarios, questions and queries one faces on a daily basis as an SMP provider.

Training with Advanced Scalp is a hands-on immersive experience with a small highly focused student to teacher ratio. I take great pride in ensuring all my students are educated to the highest possible industry standards.

Advanced Scalp’s approach to training is designed with one word in mind “practicality”. I know what it takes to become a well-rounded SMP artist and how to operate a successful, organized, clean practice. With that in mind I’ve broken down the entire course into relevant, formulated modules both practical and theory. From consultation to application I’ve identified key areas in training, which are vital for successful SMP results and career longevity.

However there’s more to running a successful SMP business than just being a talented technician.

Drawing from my own hands on experience of running a busy customer driven SMP clinic I bring a valuable entrepreneurial perspective to the course. Which encourages and guides students to explore the business aspect of SMP whilst tying together all the necessary practical components.

About Rob James SMP

Born in the UK Rob James is one of Canada’s most in demand SMP artists, known for his ultra realistic style. Rob James SMP works out of Advanced Scalp Vancouver.

Always happy to consult and advise wherever he can.

Contact Rob @ info@advancedscalp.com

For examples of his latest work Instagram @robjamessmp

Scalp Micropigmentation Vancouver

December 1, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Advanced Scalp with Rob James SMP

Scalp Micropigmentation, what is it and what can it do for me?

Both men and women are affected by a variety of hair loss issues ranging from alopecia to male/female pattern baldness.

The SMP process uses a tiny disposable needle attached to a mechanical tattoo machine. This needle is dipped into a pigment, which is then deposited at a superficial level into the scalp.

These deposits, if administered correctly perfectly mimic hair follicles, helping the recipient restore the look of a full head of hair.

A skilled and experienced artist can replicate the appearance of natural hair follicles, which in turn can add density to thinning hair, cover up scar tissue from hair transplants or as it is more commonly used, create the illusion of a full head of shaved hair for men.

What is the SMP treatment process?

SMP treatments are usually split over two or three sessions, these sessions are between 2-4 hours in length. Session time varies depending on the extent of the hair loss and other factors.

At Advanced Scalp in Vancouver each session is held a minimum of ten days apart from one another. Followed by a final touch up session two months later.

SMP Aftercare:

SMP is unique in so far as there is little to no downtime, unlike a hair transplant where there is a significant healing process. Also there are simple and manageable aftercare instructions are followed in between sessions.

Your chosen SMP artist should explain the nuances of the procedure during your initial consultation as well as after each session. Including what to expect and what to look out for. Expect some fading to take place in between each session. I always tell my clients that it can be between 5-20%. However everyone is different with different skin and immune responses to the pigment. However on average the desired density is achieved between 2 to 3 sessions.

SMP is a technical, specialized process, which take years and much repetition to perfect. For optimal results your procedure should be performed by an experienced and technician with and eye for detail. Try to find an artist with an extensive portfolio and style, which suits your tastes.

An important side not is that all procedures should be carried out in a sterile, clean environment, which has been certified by health and safety in your province and city.

Where can I find Scalp Micropigmentation in Vancouver Canada?

Rob James works out of his private clinic Advanced Scalp Micropigmentation, situated in Vancouver Canada. Rob is one of Canada’s most experienced and requested artists, known for his ultra realistic and natural style. If you are looking for a cost effective, permanent solution for hair loss, Rob James is the Vancouver SMP specialist who can provide you with the right information.

Rob James’ work can be found on Instagram @robjamessmp

Advanced Scalp clinic, Vancouver SMP specialists.

Scalp Micropigmentation Training In Vancouver

November 18, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Careers in SMP

Demand for high quality technicians in the cosmetic arts is one of the fastest growing career sectors. SMP is yet another broader aspect in the booming cosmetic arts field. There are an endless number of males and females suffering from hair loss and hair thinning problems. SMP is already a multi million dollar industry and still in it’s fledgling stage.

Adequately prepare yourself from the get-go and fast track your career with the right SMP training.

Hands on practical Training is essential

Advanced Scalp Vancouver SMP Training

With Advanced Scalp our unique skill set and superior application leaves little room for competition in the market.

Along with marketing, sales, social media and your referral business, we explore all the necessary tools an SMP artist must master in order to jumpstart their career without a vast investment.

Advanced Scalp offers continued field support to all of our students when needed.

Rob James Advanced Scalp’s head teacher is an in demand SMP artist with an impressive back catalogue. SMP is a highly visual and tactile medium, so an emphasis on hands on and practical training is maintained throughout the course.

Advanced Scalp’s students are equipped with the very latest in skills, technology and methods to help give them the confidence and competitive edge needed.

Scalp Micropigmentation is one of North America and Europe’s fastest growing careers, and also one of the most lucrative.

Advanced Scalp has assisted many students into successful SMP careers

Get set to jump-start your new career the right way with Advanced Scalp

The appearance, style and realism of SMP have drastically changed over the last couple of years. People are looking for a higher grade of artistic skill and hair recreation. SMP has gone from the standard mono colour matte look to a high quality, realistic effect indistinguishable from real hair and a level of professionalism to match.

This is where Advanced Scalp students are set to soar

Not only will you be heading into a relatively untapped, immensely lucrative and in demand industry you’re also playing an integral part in helping others.

High demand for highly skilled artists

Well-trained artists are desperately needed as the industry continues to take flight and gain in popularity.

Scalp Micropigmentation gives you the flexibility of either working for yourself, working for an established clinic or as an add-on service to your existing aesthetics business.

With treatment prices ranging between $800 – $4000 and start up, training costs comparatively low, you can expect a quick return on your investment.

However, as SMP grows in popularity so is the demand for excellence, you’re always only as good as your last procedure, so you need to ask yourself “What will separate me from the pack?”

About Rob James

Rob James is one of Canada’s most in demand SMP artists. Known for his hyper realistic hairlines and subtle graduations and fades. Working out of his Vancouver based Clinic Advanced Scalp, where he holds monthly training courses.

Affable, approachable, Rob James is always ready to help answer prospective SMP artists and welcome them into the profession.

SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION AFTERCARE

October 14, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Many times during consultation at Advanced Scalp I will be asked what exactly is the scalp micropigmentation aftercare procedure. And how does it compare to other cosmetic procedures.

Rob James at Advanced Scalp micropigmentation clinic Vancouver. Every Client will receive thorough instruction prior to and after each SMP session.

As a side note, every client who has their SMP procedure with Advanced Scalp in Vancouver will be given detailed written instructions immediately after their scalp micropigmentation session with Rob James.

However for those who are simply curious or are still in the information gathering stage, here are my aftercare guidelines.

At advanced Scalp we work in a highly sterilized environment at all times

You’re advised to adhere to the following guidelines:

Do not touch your scalp with unwashed hands after your SMP procedure as they may have bacteria and cause an infection.
Do not scratch or rub the newly pigmented area, do not pick any micro abrasions (scabs) while it is healing as infection could occur as well as pigment being removed with the healing skin.
Do not use any products that contain alcohol or AHA on the newly pigmented area as it will excessively dry the scalp and fade your pigment.

DAY 1 -3:

Avoid touching, showering or shaving the treated area.

Avoid any physical activities that may cause excessive sweating.

When showering, do not wash your head or get any water on it.

Avoid swimming, swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms and tanning beds.

DAY 4 -10:

Gently wash your scalp with warm water do not aggressively scrub the scalp or exfoliate. After showering gently pat dry.

Apply a natural moisturizer two times daily, to prevent dryness and flaky skin. I recommend using a non-perfumed, alcohol free moisturizer such as virgin coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil or a simple all natural moisturizer.

If the hair on top of the scalp grows too long in between SMP sessions or if you need to shave your head, I advise using an electric clipper such as an Andis T outliner. If you still have micro abrasions avoid shaving all together. Do not take a wet razor to the scalp for at least 10 days.

You are now permitted to perform activities which may cause you to sweat lightly, such as light cardio and lifting light weights.

DAY 10:

At this point you may use shampoo. Gently massage the scalp using a natural, mild soap such as an infant shampoo. You may also get back to your usual gym/cardio routine and sweat as much as you’d like. If you’re in the middle of your SMP sessions it is at this point where you will probably be coming back in to continue your SMP sessions.

Following the aftercare protocol is an important aspect of maintaining superb SMP results

15 days after your completed procedure

All regular activities including swimming, saunas, steam room, tanning booths are now permitted.

I recommend using a quality non-greasy SPF sunscreen for everyday use and scalp protection.

Continue to moisturize daily with a natural, simple moisturizing cream.

Try to avoid direct, intense sun exposure as best as possible.

If you have any further questions regarding the SMP process or aftercare protocol please do not hesitate to contact Rob James, Advanced Scalp clinic, Vancouver.

Why do I get a flaky Scalp after my SMP sessions?

October 5, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Occasionally I get asked “why is my scalp so flaky after my SMP sessions?” Let’s explore this question.

There are a few reasons why your scalp might become flaky a few days after your SMP session.

SMP and a Dry Scalp

One reason is that during your SMP session your scalp receives thousands of tiny micro abrasions. These tiny micro abrasions, which deposit the pigment into the upper layer of the dermis, are essentially causing superficial damage to the skin. This causes the blood to congregate into that area in order to begin the healing process.

Over the coming days these tiny micro abrasions will dry and possibly flake off adding to the volume of naturally occurring dry skin turnover.

(It’s important to note that not all scalps are the same, everyone will react differently, and we can only go on the average individual.)

All SMP recipients will have a certain amount of redness after each SMP session. However some scalps will go more red and for longer than others. Some people may find that their scalp itches a few days after their SMP session. Most of these things on average are all quite normal, so do not panic, just follow the aftercare and try to keep the scalp as clean as possible.

Whilst some people will naturally have a minimal amount of dry skin, others might have an excessive amount of dry and flaky skin based on their healing and skin chemistry.

Often oily skin if not washed on a regular basis will cause a build up of oil, which in turn dries on the scalp and can appear as dry, flaky skin.

Regardless of your scalp condition I find the following protocols help to reduce dryness and flaky skin in the weeks following your SMP.

Excessively oily scalps can become excessively dry due to not being able to wash the scalp with soap for seven days after the treatment.

Cleanse the scalp

Immediately after your SMP session it’s imperative that you do not get the scalp wet for at least 3 days. After 3 days you can wet the scalp with warm water but no soap, shampoo or conditioner for another 5-7 days. If an individual is used to washing their scalp on a daily basis with shampoo the sudden change to not washing hair can cause a build up of dry skin, as the skin is not being exfoliated as before. This in turn can turn into dry, flaky skin.

If you’re someone who is suffering from an excessively dry scalp I will recommend using a very simple natural cleanser after four days to help prevent a build up of extra dry skin. However I usually like to make this decision when seeing my client for their second session.

Keep it moisturized

I always encourage my client’s to keep their scalp moist during the healing period. Recommending a natural, light, simple moisturizer or oil. There is a plethora of moisturizers available, however avoid anything with alcohol in it as this will eventually dry out the skin.

I personally tell clients to use a tiny amount of coconut oil or olive oil.

After Care

Following a good aftercare routine will help to ensure a quality end result.

If you have any further questions regarding scalp micropigmentation or have been thinking about getting SMP contact info@robjamessmp.com

Rob James is a Vancouver Scalpmicropigmentation artist working

Does SMP look real?

September 10, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Rob James is a Vancouver Scalp Mircopigmentation Artist operating out of Advanced Scalp Clinic.

Many people ask, will my SMP look real?

Let’s explore that question.

What makes an SMP look real and what makes an SMP look fake?

Start by looking at images online of styles of SMP, which you like. Ask yourself, would that style of SMP suits me? Get feed back from friends and family. Once you have decided on a style, seek a reputable artist within your town, city, province or state whose work and experience suits your needs.

SMP is a purely visual medium the proof of an artists work is in the final results.

Do you like the straight, sharp lines of an edged up style SMP? Or do you like a soft-feathered hairline? Or perhaps a broken up, diffused hairline. What is your natural, existing pattern? Is it peaked? Straight across? Or slightly receding?

I think asking yourself several questions first is always a good first step.

Such as:

Will this style suit my face?

Will it age appropriately with time?

Will it bring unnecessary attention?

Is it completely different from my original hair?

Personally my SMP style is ultra natural, I like to perfectly blend into your surrounding existing hair, recreating the stubble to what it would look like if you had a full, natural head of shaved hair.

Peaked or rounded I like to diffuse the hairlines to give them that natural soft appearance.

So, once you’ve chosen your appropriate style, the next thing to research is the SMP application.

The way your SMP procedure is carried out is essential to it’s realism.

Style can never compensate for a badly administer scalp micropigmentation. So consult with your chosen artists and choose wisely.

How do you choose wisely? Look through an artist’s body of work, if it resonates with you, if the style and manner of the work suits your vision, that’s a good start.

Communication

Make sure that you’re both on the same page regarding your vision.

You will be with your chosen artist for many hours over many days, so make sure you feel comfortable in their presence and at their respective studio/work space.

Best of luck!

If you’re in British Columbia Canada and are interested in finding out more about Scalp micropigmentation, contact info@robjamessmp or call 778-917-7772 for a free informative consultation.

SMP for hair transplant scars

August 25, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

I get a lot of inquires regarding scar concealment for hair transplant scars.

Whether from FUT (harvest strip scars) or from the more modern technique FUE (circular plug scars) I have had great success with both. SMP if done correctly can be a fantastic option to help improve the visual aspect of scaring.

A difficult FUT concealment

However, not all scars and not all skin are created equal and there are some important aspects of the process you should be aware of before rushing to an SMP clinic and expecting great results.

Scar tissue comes in many shapes and colours

SMP can fully or partially conceal unsightly scars. However, the varying degrees of success do depend on the following factors: The skill level and experience of the artist, the surrounding hair colour and density and lastly the shape, colour and condition of the scar itself.

Scar tissue behaves differently from regular healthy tissue so it must be approached in a very conservative manner or the results can be less than ideal (or in some cases worse than before.)

For example, and easier FUT concealment might consist of a scar, which is flat, thin and lighter than the surrounding tissue. This scar is also surrounded by dense dark hair. This would be a relatively easy concealment for an experienced artist.

However on the other hand as scar which is cratered or protruding, wide and surrounded by sparse hair can be very tricky indeed. As is a scar which is darker in colour to the surrounding skin.

FUE scars can also be problematic if they are large, plentiful and surrounded by sparse hair.

Before embarking on SMP for your scar concealment it’s imperative to seek out the advice of an experienced SMP artist who has an extensive and successful history working with scar tissue. Ask to see their scar concealment portfolio.

Scar tissue, in some cases does not act like regular healthy tissue

Scar tissue can often be thin and hollow or thick and tough, either way it doe’s not take pigment as well as surrounding healthy tissue. So the SMP artist must approach scar tissue very conservatively and cautiously, adding to the concealment process in increments.

When SMP for scar concealment when applied correctly can be life changing

Before SMP

After carefully applied SMP

When applied correctly SMP can work wonders for scar concealment. However, with a boom in SMP practitioners, make sure you do your homework!

Visit a handful of artists in your city and ask the right questions. Take a look at their scar concealment portfolio, and make sure it’s the artist’s actual work. It is advised that you do not look just for the cheapest option as often this means inexperience. And you could end up spending more money with painful laser removal and an SMP re-do.

Rob James is a busy SMP artists working out of his Vancouver based Scalp micropigmentation clinic, Advanced Scalp.

He is always available to advise and help.

info@robjamessmp.com

778-917-7772

Why does SMP fade?

August 1, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

This is a common question that I frequently receive and an aspect of SMP, which I do thoroughly explain to all my clients prior to their SMP procedure.

When a client asks “Will my SMP fade?” my answer and advice is always as follows:

Will my SMP fade?

Fading takes place at various stages of the process and differs greatly from person to person.

If you’ve had SMP done you might have noticed this for yourself.

So why does this happen?

And is there anything I can do to stop it?

Fading first becomes apparent in between your multiple sessions.

And hopefully your SMP artist has informed you of this so as to avoid any panic.

The reason for this initial fade is your very own immune system; it recognizes something foreign and tries to take it away. This fading process varies from person to person. Some can see a 5% decrease in impressions in between sessions while others can see up to 20%.

However, as the session’s progress and the density increases the fading becomes less and less apparent. Also in my experience I believe the initial SMP fade from session one is the most aggressive. By session two and three it’s as if the body decreases its attack on the pigment (this is from my own observation).

In between sessions you will want to adhere to the aftercare protocols in order to mitigate additional fading

Fading takes place at various stages of the process and differs greatly from person to person.

If you’ve had SMP done you might have noticed this for yourself.

So why does this happen?

And is there anything I can do to stop it?

Fading first becomes apparent in between your multiple sessions.

And hopefully your SMP artist has informed you of this so as to avoid any panic.

The reason for this initial fade is your very own immune system; it recognizes something foreign and tries to take it away. This fading process varies from person to person. Some can see a 5% decrease in impressions in between sessions while others can see up to 20%.

However, as the session’s progress and the density increases the fading becomes less and less apparent. Also in my experience I believe the initial SMP fade from session one is the most aggressive. By session two and three it’s as if the body decreases its attack on the pigment (this is from my own observation).

In between sessions you will want to adhere to the aftercare protocols in order to mitigate additional fading

To maintain a great looking SMP, aftercare is vitally important

And these are some of the reasons why. The skin takes time to heal after an SMP session, the thousands of micro impressions need to seal over and form a tiny scab. So it’s important to wait at least 3 days before allowing water to get on the scalp so as not to wash away the newly formed micro abrasion.

It’s also important not to apply products to your scalp especially those containing alcohol as this can irritate and unduly dry the scalp. Heavy sweating is not encouraged for at least three days after your SMP session so as not to force the pigment out of the healing impressions. Do not aggressively rub the scalp with a towel or your hands as this can prematurely knock off the micro abrasion, taking the pigment with it.

And of course no burning the scalp via sun exposure as this causes damage to the skin and eventually causes excessive skin to flake off.

Once all the SMP sessions are completed and the ten-day aftercare period is over you may return to life as normal.

However your skin will also do what it naturally does, which is shed. This shedding of the skin will eventually cause the SMP to fade.

You certainly can mitigate and slow down the fading by adopting a good skin care routine.

Do not expose the scalp to excessive sun; wear sunscreen or a cap when in direct or extreme sunshine.

Do not aggressively exfoliate the scalp with exfoliating products. Do not use a moisturizer containing alcohol as this has a drying affect on the skin. Do use a moisturizer that is natural and contains healthy skin fortifying, protective ingredients.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle and keep your skin well hydrated.

Rob James is a Vancouver Scalpmicropigmentation expert who works out of Advanced Scalp clinic in Vancouver Canada.

He is always ready to help answer all SMP related questions.

info@robjamessmp.com

778-917-7772

SMP For Women

July 14, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Is SMP for women?

As you may know SMP is effective in treating a variety of hair loss issues in men. But what about women? Can they also use the benefits of SMP for their hair loss issues?

Like men, women can also suffer from hair loss issues. Events such as hormonal changes, surgery, stress, medication, hairstyles and procedures can cause thinning hair and hair loss in women. SMP for women is a rapidly growing area of SMP.

Although the techniques remain same, male and female SMP needs will differ when it comes to application.

While the majority of men receive SMP treatments to replicate the shaven hair look, the primary goal of SMP treatment for women is to decrease the stark contrast between bare scalp and thinning hair, thus creating the illusion of more density.

Female SMP is on growing demand

As an important side note it’s also not necessary for women to shave or altar their hair before SMP sessions. Instead, the SMP technician deposits pigment by parting the hair section by section. The result of which provides denser looking follicles, reducing the contrast between the hair and the scalp, and creating the appearance of thicker hair.

Most applications for female SMP will take place over 2 or 3 sessions separated by a minimum of ten days. A touch up session will follow 2 months later.

There are some aftercare instructions to follow in between sessions and after the entire procedure, which we go over thoroughly before, and after your sessions.

Feel free to call 778-917-7772 or email: info@robjamessmp.com to book your Free consultation with Advanced Scalp.

Rob James SMP Advanced Scalp

Rob James is the owner/artist at Advanced Scalp Vancouver Scalp micropigmentation clinic. Vancouver’s premier Scalpmicropigmentation clinic and training facility.

Vancouver SMP

June 22, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

What is SMP?

SMP is the abbreviated name for Scalp Micropigmentation. SMP is essentially a cosmetic tattoo used as a solution for hair loss.

SMP uses a tiny disposable needle attached to a mechanical tattoo machine. This needle is dipped into a pigment, which is then deposited at a superficial level into the scalp.

These deposits mimic the appearance of tiny hair follicles, helping the recipient restore the look of a full head of hair.

When the procedure is done correctly by a skilled and experienced artist, it replicates natural hair follicles perfectly. It can be used to add density to thinning areas of the scalp, cover up scar tissue from hair transplants or as it’s more commonly used, create the illusion of a full head of shaved hair.

SMP Treatment process:

SMP treatments are usually split over three separate sessions, each session is between 2-4 hours in length. Session time varies depending on the extent of the hair loss and other factors.

Each session is held a minimum of ten days apart from one another. Followed by a final touch up session two months later.

SMP Aftercare:

Unlike a hair transplant there is little to no downtime. A minimal amount of aftercare is required in between sessions as well as after the entire procedure. Your artist will inform you on the steps to be taken in between and post SMP.

SMP is a technical, specialized process and should be performed by an experienced and highly trained technician with an eye for natural detail. All procedures should be carried out in a sterile, clean environment.

Where can I find SMP in Vancouver Canada?

Rob James is one of the most experienced artists in Canada, known for his ultra realistic style. If you are looking for a cost effective, permanent solution for hair loss, Rob James is the Vancouver SMP specialist who can provide you with the right information.

In order to find quality Vancouver SMP services visit and view an artist’s recent work on platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. Rob James’ work can be found on Instagram @robjamessmp