Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a fine needle to deposit tiny dots of pigment onto the scalp. SMP creates the appearance of hair follicles, which can be used to camouflage baldness or thinning hair. The treatment is thought to have originated in Asia, but it’s gaining popularity worldwide as an alternative to hair transplants.
One of the primary reasons behind this is the cost. According to HairScience, the cost of a FUT hair transplant starts from $12,000 upwards, on average. However, the cost of scalp micropigmentation is less.
In this blog post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how much scalp micropigmentation costs and how it is determined.
Understanding Scalp Micropigmentation
According to Ink2Scalp SMP Studios, scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic procedure designed to restore hair in people who have lost it. It’s not a medical treatment but rather one that can be used to cover up bald spots. When placed below the epidermal cells, the pigments give the appearance of fullness to thinning hair.
SMP involves tattooing tiny dots onto an area where there is no longer any natural growth. These dots create the illusion of individual strands when viewed from afar. And because they’re so small, they don’t look fake or unnatural.
The cost of SMP depends on several factors, such as:
- How much work needs to be done
- How many sessions are required
- Whether you want color added to your design
According to an article from Medical News Today, the average cost is around $2,000–$4,000. However, what you pay for your specific case can vary widely based on various factors. For instance, factors like the expertise of the SMP practitioner, location, number of sessions required, etc., can change how the cost of SMP is determined.
Scalp Micropigmentation Cost Breakdown
The cost breakdown for scalp micropigmentation (SMP) encompasses several components. Firstly, an initial consultation fee is typically charged by SMP practitioners to assess the client’s needs and discuss expectations. This consultation fee may vary based on the expertise and reputation of the practitioner.
Following the initial consultation, the client incurs fees for each SMP session. The number of sessions needed depends on factors such as the desired density, the size of the treated area, etc.
Pigmentation costs constitute another significant aspect of the overall expense. This includes the cost of the pigments used in the SMP procedure. The quality and brand of pigments can influence the overall outcome and longevity of the treatment. Clients should be aware that higher-quality pigments may come at a higher cost but can contribute to a more natural and long-lasting result.
Maintenance costs should also be considered when budgeting for SMP. While SMP is a semi-permanent solution, touch-up sessions may be required over time to maintain the vibrancy and appearance of the pigmentation. Maintenance costs are variable and depend on individual factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and exposure to environmental elements.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Scalp Micropigmentation
A lot of people are facing baldness and even losing confidence because of it. A news article from Korea JoongAng Daily highlights that SMP can help improve confidence by creating a natural-looking hairline. Hence, the demand for SMPs has been on the rise. And as the demand increases, so do the costs associated with the product or service.
However, the growing demand is not the only factor influencing the costs of SMP; there are many more:
Expertise and Reputation of the SMP Practitioner
The quality of your scalp micropigmentation procedure is directly related to the experience and reputation of your SMP practitioner. As stated in an article in Best Health Magazine Canada, SMP is not strictly regulated. That means anyone can take a weekend course in Canada and say he or she is a certified SMP practitioner.
However, if you want a natural-looking hairline, it is important to research the practitioner’s expertise and reputation. Therefore, it is a vital factor influencing the overall cost of SMP.
Geographic Location
Prices tend to be elevated in urban areas with higher living costs and increased demand for cosmetic services. Conversely, in rural or less populated regions, where overhead expenses are lower, scalp micropigmentation costs tend to be more affordable.
Additionally, variations in local economic conditions and competition among practitioners contribute to the geographical disparities in pricing. Factors such as the cost of living, business operating expenses, and regional market trends all play pivotal roles in shaping the pricing.
Consider the example of Toronto, Canada. Since it is one of the biggest cities in Canada, the price can be a little higher. Scalp micropigmentation cost in Toronto can range from $1,500 to $4,000. However, this also ensures that the quality of scalp micropigmentation will be excellent, as only qualified artists can survive in that competitive area. Also, the cost is still lower compared to several states in the USA.
Another example is New Jersey. According to the New Jersey government website, permanent cosmetics practitioners and trainees must complete a 100-hour basic course to do scalp micropigmentation. This shows better knowledge and experience, which can impact the results. Hence, the costs of SMP in New Jersey can be higher than the average price.
Number of Sessions Required
The number of sessions required to complete a treatment depends on the severity of your hair loss. One session may be needed if you’re in the early stages. On the other hand, suppose you’ve been balding for some time and have a large area to cover. In that case, achieving your desired results could take two or three sessions.
The size of your scalp also plays an important role in determining how many sessions will be required for your SMP procedure. Each session takes around two hours to complete. This means more time spent under anesthesia, which increases costs significantly.
Additional Costs and Considerations
There are several additional costs and considerations when looking at the total cost of scalp micropigmentation. These include:
- The cost of materials: High-quality pigments specifically designed for SMP can contribute to the overall cost. These pigments are often specialized to mimic the natural color and texture of hair. The cost of the needles, machines, and other equipment used during the procedure can vary.
- Aftercare: Post-treatment care is crucial for the healing process. To ensure proper healing and color retention, patients may need specialized shampoos, ointments, or other products. These products may come with additional costs. Some clinics include follow-up appointments as part of the initial cost, but others may charge separately for these visits.
- Travel and accommodation costs: If the clinic is located in a different city or requires travel, individuals should factor in accommodation costs.
To conclude, the cost of scalp micropigmentation is determined by several factors. These can include the size of the area that needs to be covered, the number of colors needed, etc. As with any cosmetic procedure, thorough research and consultations with reputable clinics are essential to make an informed decision and achieve satisfactory results. Remember that investing in a skilled practitioner and quality service is crucial for a successful and natural-looking outcome.
