Scalp Micropigmentation

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a popular non-surgical hair restoration treatment that uses tiny, layered dots to create an effect that mimics the look of real hair follicles. A skilled practitioner uses an electric tattoo device to create natural-looking effects in a style known as pointillism. The SMP process typically involves two to three sessions, spaced about a week apart, and the results can last for several years with proper care.

At Phoenix Skin Medical, Surgical & Cosmetic Dermatology, we understand that hair loss can be emotionally distressing, and our goal is to help you feel comfortable and confident again. Our team of experienced practitioners specializes in providing customized SMP treatments that are tailored to the individual needs of each patient. We use state-of-the-art equipment and pigments that are carefully selected to match your hair color, ensuring that the results look completely natural.

If you’re looking for a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution for hair loss, SMP may be the right for you. Contact Phoenix Skin today at (602) 222-9111 (Phoenix) or (480) 473-9111 (Scottsdale) to schedule a consultation with one of our experts and learn more about how we can help you achieve the full head of hair you’ve always wanted. Please note, the Phoenix location offers in-person consultations and Scottsdale can provide virtual consultations (we highly reccomend in-person in the Phoenix office).

About Hair Loss

A full head of hair is often considered a symbol of youth and vitality. However, hair loss can be a common problem for both men and women. It can occur due to various reasons such as genetics, aging, hormonal changes, stress, illness, or medical treatments like chemotherapy. Thinning hair or baldness can cause self-esteem issues and affect the overall quality of life for many individuals.

SMP involves the use of microneedles to tattoo the scalp with tiny dots of pigment, creating the illusion of hair follicles. It is a safe and effective hair loss solution that can provide long-lasting results. 

Achieve Fuller-looking Hair

If you’re experiencing hair loss due to the following conditions, scalp micropigmentation can help.

Thinning Hair

Thinning hair is a common issue affecting men and women of all ages. It refers to the gradual loss of hair density, which can lead to balding or visible scalp areas. Thinning hair can be caused by a variety of factors such as genetics, aging, hormonal imbalances, medication, and poor nutrition. Hair loss is the most obvious sign of thinning hair. This occurs when hair falls out from the scalp and is not replaced by new growth.

Before and After Photos

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Alopecia

Alopecia is a medical condition that causes hair loss on the scalp, face, or other parts of the body. It affects both men and women and can occur at any age. It is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The severity and pattern of hair loss vary widely among individuals.

Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia affects approximately 80% of men and 50% of women across their lifetime. ⁽¹⁾ While many factors can contribute to hair loss, genetics plays a significant role in male pattern baldness. Androgenetic alopecia in men is characterized by a receding hairline and thinning hair on the crown of the head. This type of hair loss is caused by the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which affects the hair follicles. 

The causes of female pattern alopecia are not well understood, but there seems to be a genetic predisposition to the condition. Women with a family history of hair loss are more likely to develop this condition themselves. In addition, hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menopause, can contribute to hair loss in women.

Cancer Treatments

Cancer treatment can be a life-saving measure, but it often comes with difficult side effects like hair loss. Chemotherapy is one of the most common cancer treatments that may cause hair loss, known as chemotherapy-induced alopecia. Hair loss can occur within days or weeks after the first chemotherapy cycle and may be temporary or permanent, depending on the type of treatment and the dosage administered.

Traumatic Scarring

Patients with scarring from neurosurgery or head trauma may benefit from SMP. Similarly, men who had a hair transplant procedure before advances in follicular unit transplantation may seek to disguise strip scarring in the back and sides of the head. ⁽²⁾

Benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation

Some of the benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation include:

Candidates

The ideal candidate for scalp micropigmentation is someone who wants a natural-looking solution to their hair loss problem. If you have been struggling with hair loss, whether due to alopecia, cancer treatment, male or female pattern baldness, or any other reason, you may be a candidate for SMP. Contact Phoenix Skin using our online form to book your personal consultation to discuss your hair restoration options.

Personal Consultation

Your personal consultation is a chance to discuss your hair loss issues with our caring staff. During your meeting at Phoenix Skin, we will take some brief details about your health and perform an examination of the area of hair loss. If you decide to move forward with scalp micropigmentation, we will schedule your appointment with one of our experienced technicians. SMP is only offered at our Phoenix location.

Procedure

Whether you are looking for a hair loss treatment or simply want to enhance the appearance of your hairline, Scalp Micropigmentation can provide a natural-looking solution. Before the procedure begins, we will numb the area to minimize any discomfort. The procedure typically takes several hours, but the results are immediate. You will leave our office with the appearance of a fuller head of hair and a renewed sense of confidence.

Results

After the procedure, there may be some redness and swelling in the treated area, but this will subside within a few days. You should avoid washing your scalp for the first three to four days after the treatment, and when you do wash it, you should use only lukewarm water and gentle, non-irritating shampoo. It’s recommended to avoid direct sunlight and wear a hat when going outside for the first week or two.

The results of scalp micropigmentation are natural-looking and long-lasting. We use high-quality pigments that won’t fade over time, so you can enjoy your new look for years to come. 

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures 

FUT

Follicular Unit Transplantation, also known as the “strip method,” is a minimally invasive procedure that involves removing a strip of scalp from the donor area, usually at the back of the head where hair is more resistant to balding. The strip is then dissected under a microscope into individual hair follicles or groups of 1-4 hairs, called follicular units. These follicular units are then transplanted to the recipient site, where hair growth is desired.

One of the advantages of FUT is that it allows for the transplantation of a greater number of hair grafts in a single session compared to other methods of hair transplantation. This makes it an effective option for patients with advanced hair loss or those who desire a fuller head of hair. It is also a preferred technique for patients who have limited donor hair available but require a large number of hair grafts.

PRP for Hair Loss

Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy is a state-of-the-art treatment that utilizes the patient’s own blood to stimulate hair growth. The procedure involves drawing a small amount of blood from the patient, which is then processed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma from the rest of the blood components. The platelets contain powerful growth factors that have been shown to promote healing and regeneration in various tissues, including hair follicles.

The platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the scalp in targeted areas where hair loss or thinning has occurred. The growth factors in the PRP stimulate the hair follicles, promoting new growth and improving the overall health of the existing hair. This treatment is non-surgical, minimally invasive, and requires no downtime, making it an ideal option for those seeking a natural-looking solution to hair loss.

Cost of Scalp Micropigmentation in Phoenix

Our team at Phoenix Skin Medical, Surgical & Dermatology ensures that our pricing is affordable, so you can take control of your aesthetic future without breaking the bank. Pricing for micropigmentation is as follows.

If you’re considering scalp micropigmentation for hair loss, give us a call or complete a simple inquiry form to schedule your consultation today.

Read the Phoenix Skin blog for more information about surgical and non-surgical procedures in Phoenix and Scottsdale.

References

1. Gokce N, Basgoz N, Kenanoglu S, et al. An overview of the genetic aspects of hair loss and its connection with nutrition. Journal of preventive medicine and hygiene. 2022;63(2 Suppl 3):E228-E238. doi:https://doi.org/10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2022.63.2S3.2765 
2. Rassman WR, Pak JP, Kim J, Estrin NF. Scalp Micropigmentation. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2015;8(3):35-42. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4382144/