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What can I expect after each scalp micropigmentation (SMP) session?

Yesterday a new client told me that he couldn’t find any information regarding what to expect after each SMP session.

He explained that he could find plenty of before and after photos of completed SMP procedures, but nothing regarding what results to expect after each session.

This got me thinking, and doing a little online research for myself. He was right, there is a lot of information and photos of before SMP and after SMP, but very little regarding what to expect after each SMP session. Understandably some clients are anxious about what the scalp micropigmentation will look like in between each session.

So I decided to write a blog post, which highlights, what to expect during and after each of the 3 SMP sessions from a typical full procedure.  And the subsequent touch up session two months later.

Highlighting what an individual might typically expect after each Session. And answering such questions like “Is there a difference between session one and session two? And how long will session three be in comparison to session one?

Please remember that this is based on the average. Some individual’s results do differ based on immune response, pigment retention and skin chemistry/condition.

Typically before we begin your SMP procedure, we will have already met, for a consultation either in person or via a video conference call.

SMP session one

We always begin with some formal paperwork (waiver)

Followed by a brief discussion regarding the procedure, this allows you to ask any lingering questions you may have forgotten to ask during the initial consultation.

When you feel comfortable to proceed we will typically go to the hair trimming station. This is where I like to trim the hair to what I feel is the optimal length for SMP (this is presuming you’re having a full SMP and not density work).

We then begin work on your hairline design. This is a very important aspect of the process and can often take some time. Careful attention is placed on appropriate placement and design. I personally like to emphasize, a less is more mindset, as we can always add more as the session’s progress, but we cannot take it away.

SMP

Hairline design Vancouver SMP with Rob James

The scalp is thoroughly cleaned with alcohol before we begin the session.

Once we begin my clients are usually pleasantly surprised as to how painless the procedure is. However, if you do find any discomfort or sensitivity we can stop and apply numbing cream.

For a full SMP (usually two or three sessions plus touch up) you can expect to be at the studio for 3-4 hours.

All areas where we are adding microdots will be covered during each and every session. The typical dot ratio is about one dot every 1/8 to 1/16 of an inch.

Sometimes clients are a little disappointed after session one as there isn’t a significant amount to see just yet. Patience must be applied, as the best results come to those who allow the process to unfold gradually.

There maybe some redness of the scalp and this will subside within a few hours. A clean baseball cap may be worn after the session.

SMP

Typical first SMP Vancouver session results with Rob James

Once the session is completed, we will go over the aftercare and provide you with your aftercare instructions.

SMP Session two 

Session number two is typically 10-14 days after session one. Once you arrive we will take a look at the healed results and take note of any fading. We will then give the hair a trim and clean the scalp with alcohol. We can now discuss any changes that you would like to make with hairline symmetry. As mentioned more can be added, that is why I always encourage a conservative approach during the initial hairline design.

Session two will continue much like session one; all areas of the scalp receiving microdots will again be covered. We will be essentially doubling up on the density during session two. And beginning our layering process.

Same rules apply, if there is any sensitivity, numbing cream can be applied.

Once the session is over there will again be some redness that should subside within a few hours.

We will recap aftercare instructions just the same as after session one.

Clients begin to get excited after session two as the results are now becoming evident. After session two your scalp will look fuller and more of a shadow is now seen.

Vancouver SMP

Typical second session results with Rob James Vancouver SMP

SMP Session three 

Session three is commonly our last session in the process. It is here that we add further layers and added dimension. We also feather out the hairline for that natural finish. The session can be the same duration as session one and two or it can be shorter depending on a client’s retention.

After session three, the same rules apply; there will be a slight redness, which will subside within hours. Aftercare rules also apply and again must be followed.

Once the ten days of aftercare is completed it’s life as normal with your new SMP.

There are some long-term aftercare rules, which we will also go over before you leave the clinic.

Typical third session results Vancouver SMP with Rob James

Touch up 

A touch up session is included and recommended two or three months after your SMP. As you get back to life as normal, there might be some slight fading in areas. The touch up fortifies any areas, which might need some added attention.

A touch up session typically lasts one to two hours.

Hope this blog post helps to outline what to typically expect on your SMP journey.

Rob James is based in Vancouver BC and is one of Canada’s most requested scalp micropigmentation artists, known primarily for his ultra natural hairline creations.

For further information please contact info@robjamessmp.com or info@advancedscalp.com

 

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