Scalp Micropigmentation: A Medical Tattoo Process for Hair Loss

August 2013 in “ Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America ”

William R. Rassman, Jae-Hong Pak, Jin-O Kim

scalp micropigmentation SMP hair loss thinning hair hair follicles cosmetic purposes shaved head scars hair transplant scarring alopecias pigment bleeding depth control donor supply medical tattoo bald patches

TLDR SMP is a medical tattoo for hair loss, improving appearance and camouflaging scars, but requires skill and has limitations.

The article discusses scalp micropigmentation (SMP), a medical tattoo process used to address hair loss and thinning hair. SMP involves tattooing the scalp with specialized ink to create the appearance of hair follicles. The technique can be used for cosmetic purposes, such as enhancing the appearance of a shaved head or camouflaging scars from hair transplant procedures. It can also be used to blend in bald patches caused by scarring alopecias. However, the article notes that the technique takes considerable time to learn and the limitations must be understood by the surgeon. Pigment bleeding is a potential complication that can be controlled with careful depth control and patient education. Overall, SMP is a valuable option for individuals who have a depleted donor supply and cannot get the final results they need from hair transplant procedures.

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