Table of Contents
Table of Contents
SMP does not cause any direct physical damage to the existing hair follicles and it does not prevent future growth. In fact, when done correctly, SMP is designed to complement one’s existing hair, giving the illusion of more volume and coverage than what would be achieved naturally. The procedure involves injecting small dots of pigment into the dermal layer of the scalp that mimic individual strands of hair.
Does SMP affect my hair growth?
The only direct way in which SMP could cause permanent damage is if it was performed incorrectly. If a practitioner uses too much pigment or injects too deeply into the skin, it can affect existing blood vessels and create scarring on the scalp. This could potentially lead to irreversible damage and permanent loss of hair follicles in those areas. As such, it’s important to find a trained practitioner who understands how to properly perform this treatment in order to minimize risks associated with SMP.
In addition to causing potential physical damage to hair follicles, some people worry that chemicals used in SMP may interact with other treatments they may be taking for alopecia or other causes of baldness, resulting in further hair loss or complications. However, there is no evidence that suggests any negative interactions between these chemicals and existing treatments for thinning hair or alopecia-related issues.
Ultimately, Scalp Micropigmentation is an entirely safe procedure as long as it is performed by a qualified practitioner who follows proper protocols while administering the injections. It poses very little risk of causing additional hair loss or hair follicles due to physical damage or adverse reactions from chemicals used during treatment but should still be done with caution since it affects delicate tissue on your scalp.
The Science: Why SMP Doesn’t Harm Hair Follicles
Hair Follicle Depth vs. SMP Needle Depth
- Hair follicles reside in the deep dermis, about 4 mm beneath the surface.
- SMP needles only penetrate about 1 to 2 mm, just enough to deposit pigment in the upper dermis, far above the follicles.
This shallow technique ensures the integrity of your natural hair growth remains untouched.
No Heat or Chemicals
Unlike laser treatments or certain medications, SMP uses non-reactive pigments and does not involve heat or harsh chemicals that could disrupt the scalp’s ecosystem.
SMP Is Follicle-Friendly
In many cases, clients who still have some natural hair find that their hair continues to grow normally after SMP, often making the treatment look even more natural over time.
Benefits of SMP Without Follicle Damage
- Safe for All Hair Loss Types
Whether you’re dealing with androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, or scarring, SMP works without interfering with the underlying condition.
- No Downtime or Risk of Hair Shedding
Unlike some hair loss treatments, SMP does not involve hair shedding or follicle trauma. You can resume normal activities the same day.
- Compatible With Other Treatments
Planning a hair transplant or using minoxidil? SMP doesn’t interfere. It’s completely safe to combine SMP with PRP therapy, laser treatments, or transplants.
Common Misconceptions About SMP and Hair Follicles
- “Tattooing your scalp will block hair growth.”
False. The pigment is deposited so shallowly that it doesn’t clog pores or obstruct follicle activity.
- “The procedure kills hair roots.”
Also false. SMP is too superficial to interact with the hair root structure at all.
- “SMP scars the scalp permanently.”
When performed by a trained SMP artist, the technique uses ultra-fine needles and does not cause scarring. In fact, it’s often used to hide existing scars.
Who Is SMP Best Suited For?
- Men and women with thinning hair
- People with alopecia
- Clients with hair transplant scars
- Individuals seeking a shaved-head look
- People with patchy hair loss or uneven hairlines
Since SMP is non-damaging to hair follicles, it’s perfect for those not ready for surgery or looking to enhance the effects of other treatments.
