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Finding the best Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) artist in Vancouver

Finding the best Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) artist in Vancouver requires careful research and consideration. But please remember that SMP results are subjective, what might appear awesome to one person, is perhaps not so awesome to another. However, regardless of your style preferences there are some solid rules to follow in order to at least reduce the pack down to a handful of experienced artists.

SMP Artist

Finding a quality SMP artist in Vancouver is a process of elimination

First and foremost, start with a full understanding of what SMP is and what it can and can’t do for you.

Research Online: Start by conducting an online search for SMP artists in Vancouver. Look for artists’ websites, online portfolios, and social media profiles to get a sense of their work and style.

Read Reviews and Testimonials: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Look for feedback on the artist’s skills, professionalism, and overall experience. Websites like Google, Facebook are good sources for reviews. (As a side note) unfortunately many people can now fake reviews, or sabotage other artist’s reviews in order to furtherthemselves, so be cautious.

However, I personally like to believe that quality artists do not behave in such ways, as they let their work speak for itself..

Look for Before and After Photos: Check the artist’s website or social media platform for before and after photos of their SMP work. This will give you a visual representation of their capabilities and the quality of their work. However, make sure it is the artist’s actual work and not an “example” of what they could possibly do. A good quality artist is proud of their work and is not afraid to show it off. Afterall, the proof is really in the pudding when it comes to SMP.

Quality before and after work is essential in the decision making process

Check for Certifications and Training: Ensure that the SMP artist is certified and has undergone proper training in scalp micropigmentation. Look for evidence of training from reputable SMP organizations or institutions.

Attend Consultations: One of the most important aspects during your search for the best Scalp Micropigmentation(SMP) artist in Vancouver for you is to attend an in-person consultation. During the consultation, discuss your specific needs and concerns. This is also a good opportunity to ask questions about the process, their approach, and to see if you feel comfortable with the artist.

Request Client Referrals: Don’t be afraid to ask the prospective SMP artist for client referrals or testimonials. Speaking with previous clients can provide valuable insights into their own experience with the artist and the results they achieved.

Seek Recommendations: Reach out to other professionals in the hair, skin, tattoo business, such as dermatologists,beauty experts, hairdressers, barbers in Vancouver for recommendations on who they think is the best SMP artist in Vancouver.

Consider Experience: Look for an SMP artist with substantial experience in performing scalp micropigmentation.Experience often translates to better results and a deeper understanding of different scalp types, conditions, and what can or cannot be done. With experience there is less of a chance of a terrible job being performed.

Compare Prices: This is a tricky one, it’s always good to get price quotes from the SMP artists you are considering. However, don’t solely base your decision on price alone. Quality and expertise often comes at a premium, a good artist is often booked up for months in advance and therefore is likely to be more expensive. So cost should not be the primary factorin your decision.

Trust Your Instincts: After doing your research and meeting with artists, trust your instincts and choose the Scalp Micropigmentation artist with whom you feel the most comfortable and confident with.

Check Licensing and Safety Measures: For peace of mind, ensure that the SMP artist operates in a licensed and sanitary environment, following proper safety and hygiene protocols is important. A good artist will like repetition in a familiarenvironment, namely a clean, sterile studio or clinic.

Look for Natural Results: Finally, SMP is a visual medium, what you see is what you get, so look for an SMP artist who can achieve natural-looking results that blend seamlessly with existing hair and skin tones.

By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you’ll be better equipped to find the best SMP artist in Vancouver, one who can provide you with excellent results and a positive overall experience.

Best SMP Artist

Rob James SMP artist working from his Vancouver based studio

Rob James is a Vancouver based SMP artist working out of his busy Scalp micropigmentation clinic, Advanced Scalp. Rob is alway happy and grateful to provide help and information to those who are interested in Scalp Micropigmentation.

info@robjamessmp.com

How to find Vancouver’s best Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) artist

Finding Vancouver’s best scalp micropigmentation (SMP) artist is a purely subjective endeavor. What works for you and your specific needs can be a highly personal quest.
However here are some helpful tips on how to find a selection of quality artists to visit, in order to hopefully make an informed decision.

SMP Clinic

Finding Vancouver’s best SMP artist is a personal journey, however here’s what you can be on the lookout for.

Research Online: Start by conducting a thorough online search for SMP artists in Vancouver. Use search engines and social media platforms to find local artists and their portfolios. Look for artists who have a strong online presence, positive reviews and a large portfolio of quality work.

Check Reviews and Testimonials: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients of SMP artists in Vancouver. Websites like Google and Facebook often have reviews that can give you insights into the artist’s skills, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. However, again make sure the artist in question has an abundance of quality work on display, unfortunately many people can now fake reviews or sadly sabotage other artist’s reviews, in order to damage a competitor’s reputation and further their own.

Visit Vancouver SMP Artist’s Websites: Visit the websites of leading SMP artists in Vancouver and learn more about their work, style, qualifications, and experience. Look for before and after photos of previous clients to assess the quality of their SMP treatments and to see if their style suits you.

SMP Artist

Research, ask questions, see work.

Look for Certifications and Training: Check if the SMP artist you’re considering is certified and has received proper training in scalp micropigmentation. Look for affiliations with reputable SMP organizations and certifications from recognized training institutions.

Attend Consultations: Narrow down your list of Vancouver’s best Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) artist to a few SMP practitioners who you think may be a good fit. Schedule consultations with each of them to discuss your specific needs and expectations. During the consultation, ask about their process, their style, the products they use, and ask to view additional examples of their work.

Ask for Referrals: If you know someone who has undergone SMP in Vancouver, ask them who they think is Vancouver’s best scalp micropigmentation (SMP) artist. Find out about their experience and if they would recommend it.

Check Social Media: SMP artists often showcase their work on social media platforms like Instagram. Check the artist’s Instagram profile to see their latest works and interactions with clients.

SMP Artist

Compare Prices: Get price quotes from the SMP artists you are considering. However, keep in mind that quality should be the primary factor in your decision, rather than price. Often a highly experienced artist, who is in demand, will charge a premium.

Seek Recommendations: Reach out to hair professionals, dermatologists, or beauty experts in Vancouver for recommendations on who they think is Vancouver’s best Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) artist. reputable SMP artists they may know.

Trust Your Instincts: Finally, after conducting thorough research, reviewing portfolios, and meeting with artists, trust your instincts and choose the SMP artist who you feel most confident in.

Remember, SMP is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure, so take the time to find an experienced and skilled artist to achieve the best results. At the same time remember that Scalp Micropigmentation is a subjective aesthetic.

About Rob James:

Rob James is one of Canada’s busiest and most popular SMP artists. Known for his natural style, Rob works out of this Vancouver based Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) clinic, Advanced Scalp.
Feel free to contact Rob for a consultation or conversation regarding Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP). Rob is alway happy and grateful to help and advise.

Does Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) look fake?

A question and concern  I receive frequently during consultation is “Does Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) look fake?” 

It’s a very good question and a genuine concern. In my opinion many scalp micropigmentation procedures do indeed look fake. There is a reason for this, but the good news is, it is easily avoided. 

SMP

Fake looking SMP vs Natural looking SMP

SMP, when performed by a skilled and experienced scalp micropigmentation (SMP) artist, should not look fake (as long as you’re willing to listen to an experienced artist).  The goal of SMP is to create a natural-looking appearance of closely shaved or cropped hair follicles, simulating the look of a fuller head of hair or adding density to thinning areas. However the newly implanted pigment should blend in seamlessly to the surrounding short hair. 

The key to achieving a realistic result lies in the technique and artistry of the SMP artist. A skilled artist will carefully consider factors such as hairline design, pigment selection, needle placement, and seamless blending to create a natural effect that blends into your existing hair or skin tone.

Additionally, the quality of the pigments used is crucial in ensuring a realistic outcome. High-quality pigments are formulated to mimic the color and texture of natural hair follicles, resulting in a more authentic appearance.

It’s important to choose an SMP artist who has a proven track record, a diverse portfolio of successful treatments, and positive client testimonials. Before committing to the procedure, ask to see before-and-after photos of their previous clients to assess the realism of their work (and please make sure it is their own work and not heavily edited).

I cannot stress enough that often fake looking SMP’s or bad looking SMP’s are the result of poor communication between artist and client. If you have been doing SMP long enough, you will have run into client’s who want the impossible or insist on going dark and super straight. This (in my experienced opinion) is the recipe for a fake looking SMP down the road. As over time the SMP will become washed out and there will be no tonal graduation to soften the appearance, it will just resemble a solid tattoo. 

By selecting a reputable SMP artist and following proper aftercare, scalp micropigmentation can provide a realistic solution for hair loss and create the appearance of a fuller head of hair without looking fake.

Remember that the final appearance of SMP can also be influenced by factors such as proper aftercare, skin type, and individual healing characteristics. It’s essential to follow the post-treatment instructions provided by your SMP artist to ensure optimal healing and long-lasting, natural-looking results.

SMP Artist

Natural appearing SMP is a result of density and tonal graduation as well as needle depth

Rob James is Canada’s go-to artist for natural hairlines. Rob operates out of his Vancouver BC based clinic Advanced Scalp. 

Rob is always open and available to help, guide and assist anyone with questions regarding Scalp micropigmentation.

info@robjamessmp.com

www.robjamessmp.com 

Is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Painful?

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.

SMP Treatment

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 SMP Artist

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. 

How to find the best SMP artist in your area

SMP Artist

 Determining who the best SMP artist is can be a subjective and dizzying task. One glance through social media accounts and it seems everyone is making the same grand claims: “#1” “The best”

So how is one supposed to navigate through the wild waters of self proclamation and exaggeration to find some semblance of truth.  

Well much of it depends on individual preferences, location, specific needs and clear concise communication. It’s essential to conduct your own research and consider factors such as the artist’s experience, reputation, client reviews, before-and-after photos, and qualifications. This will help you find an SMP artist who aligns with your expectations and requirements.

To find the best SMP artist for you, I recommend following these three simple steps:

  1. Experience and Expertise: A crucial aspect is the SMP artist’s experience and expertise in the field. Look for an artist who has a proven track record and significant experience specifically in scalp micropigmentation. Everyone puts their best foot forward, so make sure you check their portfolio of  before-and-after photos to assess the quality, consistency, and naturalness of their SMP work. Consider how long they have been practicing SMP and whether they have received specialized training or certifications. An experienced artist is more likely to have a deep understanding of SMP techniques, various hair loss patterns, skin types and the ability to create realistic and aesthetically pleasing results. A good artist will be able to tell you what works and what doesn’t work. 
  2. Client Testimonials and Reviews: Reading client testimonials and reviews is an effective way to gauge the satisfaction levels and experiences of previous clients. Look for feedback from individuals who have undergone SMP treatments with the artist you are considering. Check platforms such as Google, Yelp, social media, or SMP-specific forums to gather insights into the artist’s professionalism, communication skills, customer service, and overall client satisfaction. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective and make an informed decision.
  3. Consultation and Communication: The consultation process is a crucial step in selecting an SMP artist. During the consultation, assess the artist’s ability to understand your specific needs and expectations. Effective communication is key as it allows you to discuss your desired outcome, ask questions, and receive professional advice. A good SMP artist will listen attentively, provide clear explanations, and offer realistic insights into what can be achieved based on your unique situation. They should also address any concerns you have and ensure you feel comfortable and confident about the procedure.

 Good communication is vitally important in achieving quality results. An experienced SMP artist will tell you what is achievable and what isn’t, what will look good and what will not, what will age well and what will not. I always remind my client’s to adopt a conservative approach to SMP, slow and steady wins the race, you can always add more, you cannot take away. 

Rob James runs one of Canada’s busiest SMP studios, Advanced Scalp Vancouver BC. Rob brings a vast amount of experience and knowledge into every consultation and procedure. Feel free to reach out to Rob for unbiased and detailed advice. 

Does SMP Fade?

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?

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?

traditional tattoo

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.

SMP artist

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

5 Ways To Avoid a Bad SMP

“I’ve seen many bad SMP’s online, how do I avoid this?” 

 This is a question I get during consultation all too often. So, I thought I’d address this important question with a blog post. 

 First off, let’s make a distinction between a poorly applied SMP, one, which is full of heavily blown out areas and needs to be removed. And a well applied SMP but is just not appropriately placed, or thought out.  

However for the sake of this blog post we will combine the two and consider them both bad SMP”s. 

 1: Work within sensible parameters 

 When considering SMP it is important to have realistic expectations. Many people see something online and (through no fault of their own) naturally assume SMP can create whatever they have seen.

Work within a sensible style range

This might be possible in some cases, but the real question to ask is would this be appropriate for me? This is also the task of a good SMP practitioner to help guide the client, instead of just agreeing and attempting to create whatever the client wants.  

Experience has shown me that the best results come to those who keep their SMP within realistic boundaries, which are age and stage appropriate, with a seamless continuation of their surrounding hair density and tone.

2: Do not drastically lower hairline 

Work as closely to your natural hairline as possible

As mentioned above many times a client will arrive with photos saved from social media. Although in many cases these are helpful, sometimes the look cannot be achieved (without risking a bad looking SMP). So the most important thing to do when looking at reference photos, is to look at the before images. Does the particular model you’re looking at have a similar hair loss pattern, similar hair tone, similar hair density, similar head shape, similar skin tone and are they a similar age as yourself.  

There are also times when a client will bring along a photo of their hairline from 20 years ago. Again, nothing wrong with this, but we must be realistic and age appropriate when it comes to hairline placement. An 18-year-old hairline will not look good on a now 42-year-old head. 

The important thing to remember is that you can always add to a hairline in increments over the subsequent SMP sessions, until you’ve found your perfect placement. Do not rush it, many times what you think will look good, might end up not looking so good. 

My mantra whilst working on clients is, “you can always add more, you cannot take away” and “slow and steady wins the race”. 

3: Avoid an unnatural shape, tone and density

A good SMP (in my opinion) blends perfectly into the short surrounding stubble.  And matches the naturally existing tone and density. In my opinion the surrounding hair should be kept to a 0.5mm or shorter on a daily basis (or close to it).

If too long, you run the risk of creating too much of a contrast between three-dimensional hair and two-dimensional cosmetic tattoo. You also run the risk of the natural hair stubble drowning out the SMP in tone as the natural stubble when too long becomes too dark.


Appropriately place hairline is key to a good SMP

If a hairline is too low, too sharp or the sides brought forward too much, it will box in the forehead, and this will not look good either (no matter how well the SMP has been applied). 

If the tone of the SMP is too dark this will eventually take on a monotone, muddy look and will not match the surrounding stubble. This can often happen if the SMP practitioner has not cut the surrounding hair short enough, as they will end up trying  to match the SMP with hair that is too long. 

The same applies when the tone is too light, after 24 hours of hair growth; the growing darker stubble will drown out the SMP out too quickly. This issue will only compound over time as the SMP lightens. 

If the SMP practitioner continues to apply a tone, which is too light or too dark you will end up with monotone effect. 

If the impressions are too densely packed in without any tonal changes (layering) the SMP will also take on a heavy monotone aesthetic. 

In all cases it is always best to match the surrounding density and take the tone a tad darker, to compensate for 24 hours of hair growth and the SMP fading over time. 

4: Choose an appropriate style

It goes without saying; try not to be too radical with your SMP style. A good artist will be able to guide you as to what will look good and what will not.

An important thing to hold in mind is to try to think about the future when considering your SMP style. What seems to be appropriate now, might not look so good in 5 years time. 

So you want to get something that ages as gracefully as you do, think classic, conservative. Not too young of a hairline and not too old. And remember you can always add a touch here and there to your hairline over time.

Age appropriate style, something that will age well with you

Also try not to get something that is completely different from your former existing hairline. For example, if you once had a peaked hairline, it’s probably best not to get a hairline, which is now as straight as an arrow. You don’t have to go back to exactly what you had, but try to get something, which is in the middle, and leave room for subtle modifications as the session progress.

5: Seek Experience and Reputation

When it comes time to select an SMP artist to work with, try to choose an artist who’s style resonates with you. It’s best not to choose someone who has a “signature” style, which is completely different from what you desire and expect them to do something out of their comfort zone. 

I always encourage all potential clients’ to have many consultations with SMP artists, as you will want to work with someone who you have clear, concise communication with. 

There are many good SMP artists out there, just choose someone who has your best interests at heart, has a good track record and who you communicate well with.

Lastly one of the most important keys to a good SMP is patience. A quality SMP cannot be rushed and a quality SMP is not created in one session. 

Rob James is one of Canada’s busiest SMP artists, working out of his Vancouver SMP studio, Advanced Scalp. 

Rob is always open and enthusiastic to share his knowledge and love of SMP.  

 

info@robjamessmp.com

 

 

 

 

How does SMP look after years?

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.

 

How much does SMP cost in Vancouver?

As one of Canada’s busiest SMP artists based in Vancouver, I receive many emails each week from individuals interested in SMP. However, frequently I get email or DM’s with a simple question “How much does SMP cost?”

This is a very difficult question to answer without specifics on the individual’s hair and hair loss situation.

When I receive a generalized none specific question like this, I can only provide a broad range of my SMP prices. As it is impossible for me to see the individual’s own hair loss pattern and therefore give an accurate price.

So in order for me to best advise, I always recommend that they come in for an in person consultation. If this is not possible, then I will request they send me some photos of their scalp or do a Face Time consultation.

This way I can assess their hair loss, hair colour, hair pattern and hair density, and once I’ve seen this, I can provide an accurate price.

Price of SMP

As a general rule my own personal prices here at my Vancouver SMP clinic are based on the five procedures which, on average I perform on a regular basis. These are as follows:

  • Full SMP: $3200-$3600 (Occasionally $4000)
  • Full male/female density: $2800-$3200
  • Crown density: $1800-$2200
  • Hairline density: $1800-$2200
  • Scar concealment: $1200-$2200

I believe in being as transparent as possible with my procedure prices and expectations.

However, these are an “average” price example, of course there are always exceptions.

Most full SMP’s are achieved in 3 sessions and cost between $3200-$3600

Most full SMP’s and full density treatments will be achieved in 3 sessions. Hairline and crown densities can be achieved in 2 sessions, as well as most scar concealment treatments. All sessions come with a complimentary touch up, 2-6 months after the final SMP session.

Price is based on hair loss and sessions needed

As mentioned earlier, there are exceptions to every rule; the prices and the amount of sessions recommended are based on past results and my averages. Occasionally and for reasons out of my control some individuals may fade faster, have pigment retention issues and therefore might require additional sessions.

Also as mentioned earlier, I do not give final prices without seeing an individuals scalp either in person or via Face Time or photos.

Many times I will suggest to an interested individual to take a look at my Instagram page @robjamessmp . Once there, they might find something similar to what they are looking for.

As a side note, most of the SMP’s on my Instagram page are full SMP’s, therefore three sessions plus a touch up. Prices of which, would range from $3000 to $3600.

If you have any questions regarding SMP or SMP pricing in Canada, do not hesitate to contact me for a consultation.

I am always available to offer free advice and information from

Our Vancouver based SMP clinic.

 

Is SMP better than a hair transplant?

As one of Canada’s busiest SMP artists a frequent question I receive is:

“Is SMP better than a hair transplant” or “should I get SMP rather than a hair transplant?”

It’s important to note SMP and a hair transplant are very different procedures with very different results, so let’s explore this topic further.

Hair transplant vs. SMP

Is SMP better than a hair transplant?

As you probably know a hair transplant is a medical procedure where actual hair is harvested from the back of the recipient’s head and transplanted on to other areas, where the hair has thinned or disappeared from (usually hair line to crown).

If the transplant is successful the individual will generally want to keep their hair a little longer, rather than sport a shaved look, which is traditionally the SMP aesthetic.

Asking the right questions

So, the primary question you need to ask your client when they are trying to choose between hair transplant and SMP, is what is their long-term hair goals? Do they want to grow their hair? Maintain it at the current length? Cut it short? Or add density to their existing hair? The answer will help guide the client and SMP artist.

SMP Artist

Adding density to transplanted area short hair

Adding density for longer hair

If they want to sport a dense super short, shaved look then I would absolutely recommend SMP. However if they want to wear a fuller head of mid length to long hair, then only a transplant can accomplish this.

However, there are those who receive a hair transplant and then choose SMP to help conceal scarring as well as to increase the appearance of more volume (density treatment).

When done properly this is often a good pairing of the two procedures.

Pros and cons of a hair transplant

Several things to keep in mind when it comes to a hair transplant are:

Cost, a hair transplant is significantly more expensive than SMP.

Scarring, weather you’re receiving an FUT or FUE, there is always scarring to contend with.

Down time, a hair transplant is a medical procedure, with a significant amount of down time and recovery.

Continued hair loss, many times a recipient will receive a transplant to a certain area of the scalp, but continue to lose hair elsewhere.

Rejection, sometimes the newly transplanted hair is not suitable and fails to grow.

Pros and cons of SMP

Several things to keep in mind when it comes to SMP are:

Longevity, SMP will not last forever (about 3-5 years before refresh is needed).

Realism, SMP is a two dimensional cosmetic tattoo, which can only produce the illusion of increased short hair or conceal bare scalp and lighter coloured scar tissue.

Quality: SMP results can vary greatly depending on your selected artist’s experience, your skin chemistry or immune response as well as your aftercare adherence.

It is difficult to change the style or repair heavy, blown out areas without laser removal. For these reasons experienced guidance, clear communication, realistic expectations are vital in order to avoid negative outcomes.

Adding density to longer transplanted hair

About Rob James:

Whether you’re considering a hair transplant or SMP, it is always advisable that you sit down with an experienced practitioner. This way you can garner all of the right information in the right order and make the best possible decision.

My mantra when it comes to SMP is, slow and steady wins the race and you can always add more, you cannot take away.

Rob James works out of his private clinic in Vancouver BC and is always available for a stress free, pressure free information session regarding SMP.