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Top 5 ways to achieve a natural looking SMP in Vancouver

August 23, 2021/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

How to get natural SMP results in Vancouver

Whether you’re looking for a completely new hairline or looking to add density to a thinning scalp, many people want something that does not look like they’ve had SMP. In other words, a natural looking head of short hair. But how do you know that is what you’re going to get?

Many people seek me out as an artist because this is pretty much all I do (natural looking scalp micropigmentation) If someone wants super sharp, super straight lines, I generally send them somewhere else because I’m sure there’s many artists who do that better than me. The beauty of SMP is that (if done properly) it can be catered to your wants, needs and style.

In my opinion natural means, unobtrusive, subtle and inconspicuous an addition to your existing hairline and scalp density that does not draw unnecessary attention. A natural looking SMP should blend seamlessly into your surrounding hair. Has a shape that is complimentary to your face and a tone that does not look out of place. Natural also means something that is appropriate for your age and stage in life, as well as something that will stay relevant as you mature.

So if you’re looking for natural looking scalp micropigmentation in Vancouver I have created a 5 point list of things which (I think) you should be looking for if you want to achieve a natural looking SMP in Vancouver. A good artist will be able to discuss these aspects of the process with you and make sure you’re on the right track.

#1 Design: Most of the time a natural hairline is never perfectly symmetrical and it is not made up of sharp right angles. The face should not be narrowly framed by a razor sharp box and the hairline should not be too low on the forehead. This will result in a narrow, short forehead and a look that just isn’t natural. A natural design can be straight and it can be lower, but it does have to compliment your facial structure and resemble your pre existing hairline to a degree. I always like to see old photos of a client’s hairline and use that as a guideline. (As a sideline, we are all different and some individuals do possess a very straight hairline).

Modest design for natural SMP results

#2 Blending: A natural SMP should blend perfectly into your surrounding short hair, there should be no heavy defining line where natural hair meets two dimensional cosmetic tattoo (SMP hair). A straight line where your SMP starts and you natural hair ends will definitely draw attention, taking away from the natural look you desire. And experienced artist will know how to blend seamlessly.

#3 Impressions: The individual SMP impressions should match your existing short hair width. I’ve seen so many SMP’s where the impressions are far too large in comparison to the surrounding natural hair. Often the contrast between SMP impressions and the client’s natural hair width is too evident and this does not allow for a convincing blend. This ultimately comes down to the artist’s cartridge selection and impression depth.

A natural looking SMP in Vancouver

#4 Tone: Using the correct pigment tone is of vital importance in achieving a natural looking SMP. Depending on my client’s skin tone and hair colour, I tend to select two tones to use throughout the process. I blend the sides into the existing short hair with an identical grey scale tone and for the top I use a tone just a tad darker than the existing hair. This will compensate for fading over time and will give a desirable fade appearance as the SMP transcends from slightly darker on top into perfectly blended sides. The hairline is also a shade lighter and less dense than the forelock and mid scalp, creating a natural feathered hairline.

#5 Artist: SMP is an art, no two artists are alike, and everyone has their own style and skill level. Select your artist carefully, knowing what style you want will help you and the artist know if you’re a good fit for one another. Initially you can choose an artist via their body of work, does it resonate with you and your desired style? Then I advise meeting an artist in person, so that you can discuss your desired end result. If you’re looking for natural, choose an artist whose work consistently looks natural. Do not expect an artist to do something completely different looking from their existing body of work. Good communication is paramount, as you will both want to have a clear understanding of what you are hoping to achieve.

Aim for experience & natural results

I tell all my clients, slow and steady wins the race when it comes to creating a great looking SMP. Do not rush and do not expect the finished result in a matter of hours. And if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is! Remember, this is your head, so do it once and do it right!

With well over one thousand SMP’s to his name, Rob James is one of Canada’s most requested SMP artists known for his ultra natural SMP results.

Rob James works out of his Vancouver SMP Clinic Advanced Scalp.

Contact info@robjamessmp.com for a free consultation.

Top Ten Reasons For Getting SMP

May 4, 2021/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Beginning to understand what SMP has to offer you all at once can be extremely overwhelming. This is especially the case if you’re still weighing all of your hair loss solutions that are available to you. (If this is you, consider reading my blog post What Options Do Men Who Are Suffering From Hair Loss Have In Vancouver? first!)

As an expert scalp micropigmentation artist who consults with a number of clients on a daily basis, I have become very familiar with the initial concerns that arise. Oftentimes, clients want to be reassured why SMP is the right choice for them.

Competing online narratives about hair loss solutions may make your decision more stressful than it needs to be. That’s why I’ve decided to break down the top ten reasons to choose SMP as your hair loss solution of choice.

If you’re new to my blog series, my name is Rob James. I am a skilled scalp micropigmentation artist and owner of my Vancouver based clinic, Advanced Scalp. I complete hundreds of SMP procedures on a yearly basis with an extensive list of satisfied clients. My SMP artistic style is ultra natural and subtle. I take pride in my work which starts with building an open conversation with my clients to ensure satisfaction.

Now that we’re acquainted, let’s jump into the list:

Safety

Scalp Micropigmentation is one of the safest hair loss solutions out there. SMP grants you freedom and security before, during and after the procedure has been completed. This is due to the fact that you won’t have to worry about long term medications, topical creams or special protocols to follow anytime during or after the procedure.

Other hair loss solutions come with risk depending on how your body may react to medications and topical creams you would have to take. With SMP, you won’t have to worry about any of these risks. You will be able to enjoy your results worry free.

2. Instant Results

Some hair loss solutions can take months before you even begin to see whether or not the treatment is working. With SMP, your results are immediate and don’t have to wait for recovery time. You won’t have to worry for months on end whether your treatment is worth your time, you won’t feel anxious about your hair transplant to take or medications to work. Instead, you’ll have the opportunity to reap the benefits of your procedure right away.

This also means, there are no expensive maintenance programs for you to follow afterwards. You will be giving yourself the opportunity to leave your procedure fully satisfied and worry free.

3. Permanence

When SMP is done correctly, the procedure can last you anywhere between 4-6 years before you have to even think about coming in for a touch up. Compared to other hair loss solutions, scalp micropigmentation guarantees results with ease. You won’t have to worry about following a long term drug regimen or go through a time consuming maintenance process to keep your hair loss solution from failing.

SMP gives you the opportunity to continue your day to day routine without any major lifestyle changes. It’s a hair loss solution that really feels like one.

4. Cost effective

Since scalp micropigmentation provides you with instant results that have a high degree of permanence, it is relatively inexpensive compared to procedures with long recovery times and post procedural maintanence. The process itself is also relatively inexpensive compared to other popular hair loss solutions such as hair transplants.

Solutions such as hair fibres or hair systems not only cost more in the long run, but cost you constant maintenance time you could be otherwise saving. SMP on the other hand is a one time initial procedure with a 2 hour refresh 4-6 years into the future.

5. Non-invasive

SMP is a procedure that does not involve any surgery, is relatively pain free and does not require any post procedural medication. The non-invasive procedure will not inconvenience your body, your schedule or your day to day routine.

6. Zero down time

With SMP. you will be able to complete your procedure in the morning and go about your regular day by early the same afternoon. Due to the non-invasive nature of the SMP procedure, it does not require any major recovery time. This makes finding the time to book an appointment even easier.

Anyone with a busy schedule can easily find time to book an appointment without worrying about major delays or inconveniences to their lives. The little aftercare that is required from SMP is just as quick and manageable as the procedure itself.

7. Looks great

When done correctly, SMP assists in creating a number of realistic aesthetics. These include the illusion of shaved hair, reducing the contrast between hair and scalp in thinning hair, and scar concealment.

If your SMP procedure is done by a skilled SMP artist, your results will look fantastic almost immediately. If your chosen artist is in popular demand, has an eye for realism and detail, and has an impressive body of work on happy clients, chances are you’re in good hands.

8. Low Maintenance

If SMP is applied correctly by an experienced artist, your next 3-5 years will be relatively maintenance free! Your only requirement once the sessions are over will be to follow some basic aftercare and keep the surrounding hair short for maximum aesthetic appeal.

9. Boosts Confidence

People ask me if there are any major side effects with SMP and I always point to the most important one. If you’ve chosen the right artist the major side effect will be a dramatic boost to your confidence and feeling of well being!

Still feeling a bit lost? I’ve got your back. As one of Canada’s most experienced and requested SMP artists, I would love to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. I complete hundreds of SMP procedures on a yearly basis with an extensive list of satisfied clients. My SMP artistic style is ultra natural and subtle. I believe SMP is an art, and I believe my background in fine arts has tremendously helped me cultivate my unique style and attention to detail. Booking a consultation means that we can evaluate your needs with my experience to devise the perfect treatment plan for you.

Are you ready to take the next step?

Vancouver Scalp micropigmentation artist Rob James @ Advanced Scalp

Call 778-917-7772 or email: info@robjamessmp.com

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.

How long does SMP last?

April 7, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Hi I’m Rob James from Advanced Scalp clinic in Vancouver. As one of Canada’s busiest SMP artists I receive a lot of questions via email on a weekly basis regarding SMP.

So through my blog I try to answer as many of the most commonly asked questions in order to educate and inform those who are interested in SMP. Clear up some of the confusion and myths and hopefully paint a clear picture as to what SMP can or cannot do for you.

I recently had a visit from a client of mine who had his SMP done two years ago and the results were still stunning. So it got me thinking about a question I frequently receive.

“How long does SMP last?”

2 years old, SMP Still looks great!

When SMP is done correctly, by an experienced artist you can expect it to last (on average) 5 years before a refresh session is needed.

However there are a few factors, which can contribute to less than desirable longevity results for your SMP. The good news is most of these factors are in your control.

For arguments sake we’ll use a full SMP as an example. My full SMP service consists of three sessions, plus a touch up session.

In between your SMP sessions you will experience fading to varying degrees, however do not be alarmed, as this is perfectly normal. Once the sessions are all over you will be required to follow some basic aftercare.

SMP aftercare for longevity

Let me set the record straight, everyone will experience fading. If someone tells you that your SMP will never fade, or can be successfully done in one session, run a mile.

Gradual SMP fading

The truth is EVERYONE will experience fading to varying degrees and at varying speeds. No two scalps are alike we all have different skin chemistry and different immune systems.

What are the reasons for fading?

As stated above everyone’s skin is different, some people’s skin is more oily, some more dry. Skin cells turn over and renew and with this a cosmetic tattoo will eventually grow lighter. These elements are to a degree out of our control. However if the SMP was done correctly you should see (again on average) your SMP retaining its structure and tone for 5 years.

Is there anything I can do to prolong my SMP longevity?

Maintain your SMP

Yes, there are absolutely things you must be doing to prolong your SMP. Proper maintenance of your scalp micropigmentation is essential and will allow you to enjoy your fresh new look for as long as possible. So lets explore a few easy but vital steps you can take to get the most out of your SMP.

Avoid sun damage

As with any tattoo UV light will fade it, however with that being said, you don’t have to completely avoid all sunlight. I tell my clients to enjoy the sun for twenty minute and then wear a hat or put on an SPF protectant and enjoy the rest of your day.

Moisturize

Make sure you keep your scalp moisturized with a natural alcohol free moisturizer. Coconut oil is a good natural choice, however it might be a little oily for some. I have another blog post on anti-shine matte moisturizers here: https://robjamessmp.com/how-to-prevent-a-shiny-scalp-before-and-after-smp/

It is recommended that during your SMP and once the SMP is complete, that you avoid using topical chemicals, which contain alcohol, such as Minoxidil or Finasteride.

Healthy lifestyle

As with all things in life a healthy lifestyle determines the outcome and longevity of many things, your SMP is possibly one of them. Healthy life usually results in healthy skin. Healthy skin usually results in a happy, healthy good-looking SMP!

What should I expect to happen over 5 years?

An SMP done by an experienced and skilled practitioner should not vanish over 5. However, it will lighten and to what degree will vary from person to person. You should not need a completely new SMP and a refresh usually will suffice. The refresh usually only takes a few hours and your SMP will be back in top shape.

A healthy looking SMP

Rob James runs the popular and successful Advanced Scalp Clinic in Vancouver Canada. Approachable, friendly Rob James SMP is always available for free consultation.

info@robjamessmp.com

Does scalp micropigmentation Hurt?

March 21, 2020/in SMP /by Cherry Mae Ortega

As a busy SMP artist based out of Vancouver Canada I receive dozens of emails on a weekly basis from individuals interested in SMP.

My blog posts serve those who might not yet be ready for a consultation or a procedure but do have questions regarding SMP.

So I try to highlight the most common questions I receive in order to help you create a clearer picture of what SMP can or cannot do for you.

One of the questions I commonly receive is

“Is scalp micropigmentation painful?”

Scalp Micropigmentation, does it hurt?

Over the past 5 years SMP has been building rapidly in popularity as a solution for hair loss and hair thinking. Firstly because it is a far cheaper alternative to a hair transplant and secondly there is very little if any down time.

However, when you mention the word tattoo, some people panic at the idea of being pricked by a needle, not once but thousands of times.

As most of you already know, scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a cosmetic tattoo procedure. One, which requires a tiny needle to deposit a pigment into the scalp thousands of times in order to create the look of thousands of micro hairs. These pigment deposits when administered correctly by a skilled and experienced artist create the illusion of a full head of shaved hair.

OK, but is SMP painful?

Well, the long and the short answer is SMP can be mildly painful for some, slightly irritating for others and virtually painless to the vast majority. As you know pain is subjective, so what feels painful to one might feel like nothing to another.

As a general rule I always ask clients if they’ve ever had a traditional tattooing. If the answer is yes, then I tell them that SMP is far less invasive or deep as their tattoo, so far less painful. And if the answer is no, I tell them that SMP is nowhere near as painful or as deep and invasive as a traditional tattoo. This seems to paint a tangible picture for the average person to understand.

Are some parts of the scalp more painful or irritating than others?

Some areas of the scalp more sensitive than others

Whilst the vast majority of people feel little to no discomfort, most will find some variance in sensation from area to area as the artist works his or her way around the scalp.

In my experience most people will find the front of the scalp particularly the hairline more sensitive than the crown. This is due in part to more nerve ending concentration in that area. Some of my clients might feel like sneezing or perhaps their eyes feel like watering when I’m working on the very front of the scalp. The sides of the head around the ears and temples can also be a little sensitive. The crown and back of the head seem to have (in my experience) very little sensation in comparison.

Does scar tissue from a hair transplant hurt more than regular tissue?

Scar tissue from FUT or FUE hair transplants can be a little more sensitive than regular tissue and is frequently easier to irritate and inflame. That’s why great care and experience must be taken when working on scar tissue.

If I feel pain or am petrified of needles what can be done?

Afraid of needles? Have no fear numbing cream is here!

If you feel discomfort, irritation or pain during your session a 5% topical lidocaine cream can be applied which will numb the skin and greatly diminish the sensation.

As well as a topical cream application, do not hesitate to ask your artist if you can take several mini breaks during the session, in order to relieve the skin.

Will my Skin turn red after SMP?

(Redness)

Once your SMP session is over you might notice that the skin looks red and irritated. This is 100% normal and should subside within a few short hours.

About Rob James

Rob James SMP at work in his busy Vancouver studio

Rob James is one of the most experienced and in demand SMP artists in Canada. Known for his ultra realistic hairline creations Rob James works out of his Advanced Scalp Clinic in Vancouver Canada. He is available for consultation at: info@robjamessmp.com 778-917-7772

What can Scalp Micropigmentation be used for?

February 26, 2020/in SMP, Uncategorized /by Cherry Mae Ortega

Scalp Micropigmentation is a diverse and practical application, which can be used for a multitude of cosmetic purposes. Ranging from concealing scars, blending alopecia patches, adding the illusion of density to thinning hair or as in it’s most common use, creating an entire head of freshly shaved hair.

SMP’s most common usage Male: Pattern Hair loss

Our most requested service here at the Advanced Scalp clinic in Vancouver is the creation of a natural looking head of shaved hair, usually this requires a full SMP service.

We are now well known on the West Coast for our ultra realistic, diffused natural hairlines. And the go to facility for Scalp micro pigmentation which not only good fantastic but also stands the test of time.

Client’s who contact us for consultation or further information on SMP generally fall within a 5, 6 or7 on the Norwood hair loss scale.

It’s during consultation where we can really access the client’s level of hair loss, skin tone, scalp condition, hair colour and of course the client’s desired style.

The true art of SMP lies is in being able to blend in our two dimensional cosmetic impressions with the client’s three-dimensional real hair, seamlessly. As well as being able to create realistic volume and density where it needs to be all whilst feathering down to an ultra realistic hairline.

Female thinning and density

Female pattern hair loss or density SMP using SMP

Creating the appearance of density underneath thinning hair requires a slightly different approach. Many times what would be dense and dark enough for a male scalp re-creation would be insufficient to mask the stark contrast between dark hair and pale scalp. (There are a few common very important misconceptions regarding density which you can read about in the blog post pros and cons of density treatments)

However if the client fulfils the requirements for us to perform a density treatment we will sufficiently reduce the contrast between scalp and hair. By peppering the scalp with an even shade which drastically reduces shine, diffusing the light and creating the illusion of denser, thicker hair.

Scar concealment:

Another popular use of SMP is to conceal scars, mainly FUT and FUE scars caused by hair transplants. When considering scar concealment make you’re your practioner has had plenty of experience and is well versed in the difficulties that can arise when working with scar tissue. Scar tissue does not always behave like normal untouched tissue. And turning a white scar into a black or blue scar is a real possibility. Scar tissue can become easily inflamed causing redness and difficulty visualizing space of impressions, scar tissue can be difficult with pigment retention or easy to penetrate too deeply causing pigment blowout. Crowding, overly darkening and an unblended finish causing your pale scar to turn black or blue is a real possibility. So make sure your chosen artist has had plenty of experience or is prepared to really take his or her time working on the scar and surrounding area.

However when an experienced practitioner who has taken into consideration the scar’s shape treats a scar properly, proximity, topography and surrounding natural hairstyle, length and volume, the results can be life changing. However, as an artist and a client receiving SMP managing realistic expectations is also a very important. Not all scars are equal not all scar will seemingly vanish, some scars are raised and will cast a shadow regardless of SMP, some are deep depressions in the skin and will also play with the light in different ways. So realistic expectations is something that must be discussed.

Alopecia

Autoimmune conditions, which affect hair follicles such as Alopecia, are often seen at our Advanced Scalp clinic in Vancouver. Alopecia concealment can be as straight forward as a small patch, which needs to be blended into the surrounding hair. Or as complex as multiple extensive areas which need to be expertly blended into one another and the surrounding hair. To total hair loss where an entire scalp need to be expertly created. With any stage of alopecia you want to make sure that the area you’re treating is no longer migrating, in other words no longer actively spreading.

Not all Artists are created equal

For all SMP applications regardless your needs the true litmus test for a successful procedure remains firmly in the artistry of the technician.

SMP isn’t a one-size fit all procedure and you cannot have a cookie cutter approach. SMP is an art and just like any art some have the eye, some do not! SMP is not a licensed, there is no pass or fail test therefore the litmus test is in the artist’s body of work.

SMP training provides only the basics of application, skin theory, hairline mock-ups, sanitation, etc. etc. Once these basics have been taught the SMP provider is on their own to ply their trade. Some with increasing experience will manage to create wonderful realistic looking heads of realistic hair. Others alas will fail to develop the needed detail orientated eye, which separates the mediocre from the excellent.

Fortunately, SMP is a visual medium therefore the proof is in the pudding!

To find out if SMP is for you contact Rob James at his Advanced Scalp Clinic in Vancouver BC for a FREE consultation.