SMP

Note: This page is for educational purposes. Bernstein Medical does not currently offer Scalp Micro-Pigmentation services.

What is Scalp Micro-Pigmentation (SMP)?

Scalp Micro-Pigmentation (SMP) is a non-surgical, medical-grade tattoo procedure that involves the placement of tiny pigment deposits within the upper dermis of the scalp that simulates the appearance of naturally growing hair. For people who are balding or thinning, the goal of the SMP treatment is to create an illusion of thicker, fuller, stronger hair by simulating the look of individual hairs.

What are the main uses for SMP?

1. A Shaved Look
   Creating a shaved look using SMP has become increasingly popular with people who want to mimic the appearance of a closely cropped full head of hair. This procedure simulates the uniform appearance of growing stubble similar to when the hair reaches a length of between .1mm (1 guard) and .5mm (0 guard) growth on a shaved scalp.
2. The Appearance of Density
   SMP can increase the appearance of density in areas of thinning hair by decreasing the color contrast between the scalp and hair in patients with longer hair lengths.

   This thickening effect can be particularly beneficial for:

   • Men and women with all over diffuse thinning
   • Patients who want to reduce, or eliminate, the use of camouflage products used on a daily basis
3. Scar Concealment
   SMP is an effective procedure to help conceal and reduce the visibility of scars. These can be due to trauma to the scalp or from a variety of surgical procedures including FUT, old punch graft donor sites, FUE, craniotomy, and scalp reductions.
4. Augmenting a Hair Transplant
   SMP has become very valuable tool to enhance the appearance of hair transplant procedures by giving the appearance of added density. This can be beneficial for patients who have undergone previous surgeries but who did not receive the growth they were hoping for or still appear “thinner” than they would like.

Before and After Photos of SMP Procedures

SMP Patient VNB before treatment (left) and after three SMP sessions (right)

Patient VNB has an FUT scar he wanted to conceal. SMP was used to camouflage the scar and was blended above and below for a natural effect. He has straight, salt and pepper hair of medium thickness. His “after” photos were taken after his third session of SMP.

SMP Patient ZLZ before treatment (left) and after two SMP sessions (right)

Patient ZLZ has thinning on the top and crown of head. SMP was used to give the effect of overall, even thickness throughout the head. He has straight, salt and pepper hair of medium thickness. His “after” photos were taken after two sessions of SMP.

SMP Patient QYZ before treatment (left) and after three SMP sessions (right)

Patient QYZ has overall thinning mainly in the crown and top of head. SMP was used to add overall density to the areas of concern to create a fuller effect and disguise the appearance of scalp showing through the hair. She has wavy, brown, fine hair. Her “after” photos were taken after her third session of SMP.