Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) typically involves some level of discomfort, but the pain experienced during the procedure (when done correctly) is generally manageable but does vary from person to person.

Generally speaking a conventional tattoo is more uncomfortable than Scalp Micropigmentation. When applied by an experienced artist, scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is relatively painless. With over 2000 SMP sessions under my belt,  I am yet to have a client that could not tolerate it. In fact the vast majority of my client’s will fall asleep at some point during the procedure. 

Here are some factors to consider:

Pain Tolerance: Pain perception varies among individuals. What may be uncomfortable for one person may be more tolerable for another. If you have a low pain threshold, you may experience more discomfort during SMP.

Sensitivity of the Scalp: The sensitivity of your scalp can affect the level of discomfort during SMP. Some areas of the scalp may be more sensitive than others, and the level of discomfort may vary accordingly.

Numbing Agents: Before starting the SMP procedure, a topical numbing cream or local anesthetic may be applied to the scalp to minimize discomfort. These numbing agents can help reduce pain and make the procedure more tolerable.

Needle Sensation: SMP involves the use of a micro-needle or tattooing technique to deposit pigments into the scalp. While the sensation is often described as similar to a light scratching or pricking feeling, it can vary depending on the individual’s pain threshold.

Duration of the Procedure: The duration of the SMP procedure can impact the level of discomfort. Longer sessions may lead to more fatigue and increased discomfort compared to shorter sessions.

It’s important to discuss with your chosen SMP artist before the procedure has begun regarding pain expectations as they can inform you about what to expect. Once the procedure has begun communication is also important as your SMP provider can make adjustments, provide breaks if needed, and ensure your comfort to the best of their ability.

Remember, while some discomfort is normal during SMP, the pain is usually manageable and temporary. If you have specific concerns about pain, it’s recommended to discuss them with your SMP artist during the initial consultation so they can address your specific needs and provide appropriate guidance and support.

Rob James is one of Canada’s busiest and in demand SMP artists, known for his ultra realistic  natural style. Rob works from his busy Vancouver Clinic, Advanced Scalp. 

Rob is always open to questions, queries and in person consultations regarding SMP. 

Many people are just learning about the wonders of scalp micropigmentation (SMP). The prospect of gaining their hairline back can be very exciting. However, there are a few fundamental things you should know about the procedure before embarking.

And one of those things is, “does SMP fade?

When done correctly by an experienced artist SMP can be life changing in a positive way.

Over the next series of blog posts I will be going over the basics of what SMP is, what is involved and what are the most common questions I receive during my consultations.

One question I receive on a regular basis is, “Does SMP fade?”

This is a common question that deserves a thorough answer.

Does SMP fade?

Will my SMP fade over time?

The short answer is, SMP does fade, and if done correctly it will lighten gradually over 3-5 years.

If applied incorrectly it could last a lifetime, and will no doubt look horrendous.

On average your SMP should last about 3-5 years before a refresh is carried out (preferably by the same artist).

The refresh should only take around 2 hours to revamp. Usually a well-placed darker scatter is enough to return the SMP to its original aesthetic.

A refresh does NOT mean that you have to go through all three sessions again.

It’s important to note, that this is based on an average. Some people might need a refresh after 2 years. And some (not many) will have to come back in for a refresh after only one year.

Why does SMP fade?

SMP fading is primarily down to two things.

One is your own immune system ability to hold on to the pigment. Immune systems have a tendency to whittle away at anything foreign in the body to varying degrees.

Another reason could be down to an individual’s lifestyle, excessive sun exposure, excessive sweating, and excessive skin exfoliation.

It is important to follow the aftercare immediately after the procedure as well as over the long term.

A good SMP artist should be able to explain the healing process and aftercare rules in detail.

Again, I can only go on averages, some individuals have great retention, whilst other have poor retention.

Why do conventional tattoos last almost a lifetime, but SMP will fade out over 5 years?

SMP a superficial cosmetic tattoo compared to a traditional tattoo

The reason why a conventional tattoo will last such a long time and your SMP will fade out in a handful of years are all down to needle and pigment depth.

A conventional tattoo is applied at a much deeper depth with a very different needle size and process.

 If SMP were applied at the same depth, using the same process as a conventional tattoo, the results would not look like real stubble at all. In fact it would probably be discoloured, blotchy and look like a matte finish tattoo.

SMP dot placement on the other hand is placed at a very superficial depth in the dermis. This area is not rich in blood vessels, thus it is able to retain shape and not spread with dilution.

However on the downside, due to it’s proximity to the surface of the skin it does not last as long. As it is more exposed to the elements (UV) and the skin’s natural exfoliation cycles.

If SMP is done correctly the fading should be uniform over the years and as long as the surrounding hair is kept consistently short, the SMP should look good for a long time.

Will my SMP eventually completely fade away?

Some people want to know, if they do not like the SMP but do not want to remove it via laser, can they just wait for it to completely fade?

In short, yes, you can, but again only if it is done properly.

If done properly and blended successfully into the surrounding hair, your SMP should eventually fade to almost nothing.

Keep it Light

If a client insists on super dark and super dense, they must understand that as the pigment fades it perhaps will not fade uniformly. Resulting in a patchy appearance or matte look.

Make sure your SMP is done correctly

An over zealous practitioner can also cause blowouts in an attempt to satisfy a client’s want for darker and denser results. This is why experience and good communication is essential.

So, in closing, SMP can look great years down the line as long as some fundamental rules are followed.

About Rob James SMP

Rob James is an experienced SMP artist who runs Advanced Scalp Clinic in Vancouver Canada. For more information on SMP or to find out if you’re a suitable candidate, contact Rob James at his Vancouver SMP studio: info@robjamessmp.com

As one of Canada’s busiest SMP artists I consult with many potential clients on a weekly basis.  Most of the questions I answer revolve around the SMP procedure and the desired look the client wants to achieve. However, occasionally someone asks me “How will the SMP look years from now?”

This is a very good question and one I think deserves some attention.

So today’s blog post I will try to answer this often overlooked question.

So, how will your SMP look in years to come?

How will my SMP look years later?

First off let’s assume that you have done your homework, you’ve searched for good, experienced artists, who are creating work you like. You’ve had your consultation with your chosen SMP artist and you’ve set a date to begin your SMP.

(In order to answer this question correctly I can only go on my own experience and style as a reference.)

Typically, my own SMP style focuses on realism and a natural aesthetic. Over the years I have learnt to stick to and perfect the one style, and that’s subtle realism. My goal with every SMP is for it to go unnoticed, nothing makes me happier than when a client returns to my clinic and says, “I love it, and no one has said a thing” to me this is a result.

However, one of the downsides to a subtle, realistic SMP (in my experience) is longevity. It might not last as long as a heavy, solid SMP. A good SMP is finding that happy medium between realism and longevity.

As with all tattoos, conventional and cosmetic there will always be fading. On average I tell my clients that my style of SMP will last anywhere between 3-5 years before a touch up is needed. However some will perhaps need a small touch up after 2 years, whilst others won’t need to touch it for 5 years. This all depends on your own individual immune system as well as how you follow the aftercare.

A conventional tattoo will last a lifetime, primarily due to the pigment depth and placement technique. SMP due to its shallow depth and delicate placement technique will not. The reason being is that for an SMP impression to look like a hair follicle, the pigment must be placed at a shallow depth, with a very tiny needle. Bad SMP is often simply due to pigment depth (too deep) and/or needle size (too thick) resulting in patchy, discoloured blobs, throughout the scalp.

So after several years how will the average properly applied SMP look?

SMP on the left, faded & in need of refresh / SMP on right, immediately after refresh

When applied properly and aftercare is followed adequately, the SMP should evenly fade throughout. The pace of fading does vary from client to client. On average after about 3 to 5 years you will need what is called an SMP touch up. The touch up is not a completely brand new SMP, as the base tone from your original SMP is already there. The touch up usually takes about 2-3 hours to complete and usually brings the SMP back to what it was like 3 years prior, essentially a fresh SMP.

If an SMP which is done correctly and is simply left alone, it will eventually completely fade away.

When an SMP becomes heavy and monotone looking,

This is usually the result of an initial SMP being applied too dense, heavy, dark or deep, and the pigment has merged into one. This risk is also possible if a client insists on too many touch ups in too short a period of time.

A heavy, deep SMP faded out after several years

To minimize these risks, it is best to always wear your surrounding hair as short as possible and to apply a subtle, lighter SMP. It is better in my opinion to have a touch up after two years than be stuck with something unrealistic looking that you’re not happy with.

For more information regarding the correct application of SMP or to find out if SMP is for you. Please do not hesitate to contact me at my Vancouver SMP clinic, Advanced Scalp with Rob James. I am always more than willing to answer any SMP related questions.