Getting a scalp tattoo allows you to improve the appearance of your hair density without surgery. The treatment is non-invasive and provides realistic results that are hard to distinguish from your natural hair follicles. Your practitioner will customize treatment and aftercare to your needs. Here are a few of the things to expect after getting your tattoo:
Immediate Effects
A scalp tattoo, also known as a hair tattoo or scalp micropigmentation (SMP), is created using pigments deposited into your scalp. The practitioner creates tiny dots that mimic the size, shape, and color of your natural hair follicles. You’ll feel a warm sensation or tightness, which is normal after getting any tattoo. Avoid touching or rubbing the area to allow the pigments to settle without disturbance.
Disturbing the treated scalp interferes with healing and may result in uneven results. Consult your practitioner about safe and effective ways to soothe the natural itch of healing skin. Scabs may begin to form as part of natural healing and disappear after a few days as the skin beneath regenerates. Avoid washing or shampooing your scalp during this timeframe to allow healing and pigment settling without disruption. SMP practitioners also recommend avoiding direct exposure to sunlight, swimming, and strenuous activities that can cause excessive sweating.
Detailed Timeline
Your SMP practitioner will provide a detailed timeline of the healing process, including what to expect. SMP often involves multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart to accommodate healing. Multiple sessions achieve the desired outcome by adding density and addressing patches. The timeline includes immediate aftercare, including how long to wait before washing your head and the recommended products to use.
The scabs will soon harden and fall off, so there’s no need to pick them, as this may interfere with healing and pigment setting. If your scalp is dry, apply the recommended moisturizer or a product specifically designed for scalp tattoos. Avoid heavy or oily products and consult your practitioner about resuming swimming, wet shaving, and intense workouts. Saunas and sweat rooms are also bad for SMP because they may interfere with pigment settling. Expect the pigment to appear darker initially and become lighter as your scalp heals.
Common Sensations
Healing from a tattooed scalp often involves unique sensations like tightness, itching, and dryness. The initial tightness subsides after a few days as your scalp recovers from the tattooing process. Itching is common as the scalp heals, particularly when scabs start to develop. Dryness typically occurs when the skin’s natural moisture balance is disrupted. Your skin will resume producing moisturizing sebum after the scalp heals, so avoid picking or scratching. Some activities, like swimming, may result in irritation if the scalp hasn’t fully healed.
Consult your practitioner to determine the right time to resume swimming and other activities that cause sweating. You can track the different sensations and ask your practitioner if they’re normal. If the inflammation persists for too long, schedule a follow-up with your practitioner. Excessive redness and pigment loss may require professional assessment. Pay attention to the sensations you experience after using cleansers or moisturizers, and request alternatives if necessary.
Long-Term Care
SMP results may last several years if you follow your practitioner’s aftercare and maintenance instructions. As a semi-permanent solution, the pigments require occasional retouching to maintain their vibrancy. Regular inspections and check-ins with your practitioner allow you to determine the ideal time to schedule a touch-up appointment. You may also request a follow-up appointment to increase density or address new hair loss and hairline recession.
Long-term care involves moisturizing the scalp to prevent dryness and irritation, as well as avoiding harsh cleansers and exfoliants. Stay away from products with alcohol and fragrances that your practitioner prohibits. You may shave your head if you wear a buzz-cut, and schedule sessions to adapt to your changing follicle color and hairline. Touch-up sessions help fine-tune the results to match your appearance and requirements, allowing you to track your changes over time.
Speak to a Scalp Tattoo Artist Today
Scalp micropigmentation requires experienced practitioners who can help you select the ideal pigment color and achieve the desired outcome. A reliable artist will provide a detailed aftercare plan to help you heal more quickly and maintain your results. Speak to a scalp tattoo artist today to find out more about the procedure and what to expect.
