WHAT IS SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?

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A healthy head of hair can have up to 2000 active follicles per square inch. When a man starts to notice the signs of genetic hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness, feelings of anxiety or low self-esteem often follow.

 

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a revolutionary cosmetic technique that is non-invasive. It doesn’t require any surgery and is very similar to the process of getting a tattoo. SMP is a hair simulation technique that can give the impression of a full head of shaven hair, add the appearance of hair density, and/or conceal sparse or bald areas. A client seeking SMP services should only go to a qualified and experienced professional to be sure of achieving the safest and best results.

 

The trained and certified SMP technicians at 2nd Studio use sterile, precision, micro-needles with very fine points to deposit natural pigments into the epidermal layer of the scalp, replicating the growth pattern of real hair follicles. The scalp pigments used at 2nd Skin Studio are of the highest possible quality to ensure zero irritation, and optimal result. Custom pigment shades are selected and blended for complete alignment with the skin tone of the client for a perfect, undetectable finish. Depending on the client's individual requirements, multiple pigment shades are sometimes used to create a style that best suits the client’s facial structure and skin tone.

 

An SMP procedure is usually split into 2-3 sessions of 2-4 hours each. In the hands of an expert professional, the discomfort is minimal, averaging about a 3 on a scale of 1 (no pain) to 10 (very painful). Topical anesthetics may be used to lessen any discomfort. Super fine needle points and the skill of the tattooist work in tandem to allow only superficial penetration wounds which heal almost immediately.

 

The most realistic scalp micropigmentation hairlines are indistinguishable from a natural buzz cut or razor shaved look, since the SMP artist follows the follicle density and pattern of the client’s remaining hair.

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WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF SMP?

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• SMP is SAFE! In fact, the needle penetration is shallower than an ordinary tattoo and the scalp starts healing almost immediately. At 2nd Skin Studio, organic pigments are used, meaning that adverse reactions are virtually non-existent.

 

• Unlike the artificial appearance of a hair system or wig, scalp micropigmentation is almost indistinguishable from real hair The tiny needle points deposit just the right amount of pigment in the right shape to mimic the density and pattern of genuine hair follicles.

 

• SMP allows clients to choose a flattering hairline, accentuating the facial structure and rendering the clients overall appearance a lot more striking or natural (depending on client preference).

 

• SMP is cost effective and doesn't require regularly recurring expenses.

 

• The level of discomfort is extremely mild. Topical anaesthetics can be applied to the scalp if necessary, and the consumption of a mild anti-inflammatory tablet like ibuprofen can take care of any residual tenderness after the procedure.

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WHO IS SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION FOR?

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Scalp Micropigmentation is for any man or woman suffering from mild to chronic hair loss, whether it be from hormonal imbalances, hereditary tendencies, illness, injury, or any other other reason.

 

For male clients, the artist consults with the client and designs a hairline in keeping with the clients overall appearance, age and preference. The requirement is usually for the recipient to keep his hair shaved, although often they are able to maintain a longer length if they have sufficient hair density remaining.

 

For female clients, the purpose is to reduce the contrast between the hair and scalp, leading to variations in pigment selection and approach, although the technique is ultimately very similar. For women with diffused, thinning hair, or hair loss in isolated patches, scalp micropigmentation provides a camouflage solution to make these problems much less obvious.

 

Injuries, surgical procedures and hair transplants leave behind noticeable scars, that often cause the bearer to become anxious and self-conscious. Scalp micropigmentation is very effective at hiding these scars without having to resort to invasive scar revision surgery.

 

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a common procedure, used to cover the symptoms of alopecia areata, genetic hair loss, erratic hair thinning and hair transplant scars. The fact that it is much less painful, less expensive and a lot safer than conventional solutions adds to its appeal. Clients do not need to go under the knife or save for months to afford scalp micropigmentation. In the hands of an experienced artist, clients are able to find lasting closure and greatly reduce, or even remove their hair loss related anxiety completely.

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A TYPICAL SMP TREATMENT, STEP BY STEP

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THE CONSULTATION ~ This can be done in person at 2nd Skin Studio, but can often be handled via phone and email/text communication. You will be provided with a procedure plan and rate estimate.

 

SESSION ONE ~ The purpose of this session is to create shape, style and definition in full scalp procedures, and to add the first layer of follicular density in full scalp, thinning hair and scar camouflage procedures. This procedure also helps us determine the proper shade of pigment, and assess how your skin reacts to the but it's not finished yet!

 

SESSION TWO ~ This is the WOW Session! Another layer of follicular densification is added, creating tighter, thicker follicles, and a more finished look. For some, this is their last session, however many require a third or even fourth session to achieve their desired result. This is more common for coverage of larger areas, or for clients with very dense and/or dark natural follicles.

 

MAINTENANCE ~ This is the EASY part! Just don't sweat, shave or wash shalp for one week. That's it! After that, protect it with sunblock and we'll see you back for a touchup in 5-10 years!

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OUR SMP TEAM ~ 

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Lucas O'Donnell is a certified Scalp Micropigmentation Technician.  He specializes in SMP at 2nd Skin Studio, and constantly strives to perfect his craft.  He received his training through both Scalp International and a 2nd Skin Studio apprenticeship, and is also a college student studying web design.

 

Andrea O'Donnell has over 30 years of experience in the professional makeup, body art and permanent makeup industries.  She was trained in SMP at Scalp Micro USA in New York City and Scalpa International. Andrea currently specializes in permanent makeup, microblading, scalp micropigmentation, areola repigmentation, pigment removal, and professional body painting.

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Both Lucas and Andrea are equally qualified to provide excellent Scalp Micropigmentation services to meet the specific needs of each individual client at 2nd Skin Studio. 

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