Posts

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.

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

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