Scalp Micropigmentation, Answered.
General SMP
What is scalp micropigmentation?+
SMP is a non-surgical hair-loss treatment where thousands of precise pigment deposits are placed into the upper dermis of the scalp to replicate the look of real hair follicles. Results are immediate and non-invasive.
How many sessions do I need?+
Every Scalpworx procedure includes three sessions, spaced 3–4 weeks apart. All three are included in your quote.
How often are touch-ups needed?+
3–5 years between touch-ups with proper daily sun protection. UV is the primary factor in fading.
Does SMP work on gray hair?+
Yes. Pigment shades range from black to gray. Buzzed scalps read gray naturally as the pigment settles. Long-hair clients plan shade strategy with Justin at consultation.
How much does SMP cost?+
Most full procedures at Scalpworx run $2,000–$4,500 all-in, including all three sessions. Smaller areas cost less. See our pricing page for details.
Is SMP available for women?+
Absolutely. SMP for women reduces contrast between scalp and hair so thinning areas visually disappear. See our women's page.
Is SMP painful?+
Most clients report minimal discomfort. Topical numbing creams are used throughout each session.
How much hair is needed for density work?+
Enough for pigment to blend behind. A thin veil works; a truly bare scalp is a full restoration, not density. Justin will assess honestly.
How long does a treatment session take?+
Session 1 is typically 3–6 hours. Sessions 2 and 3 are shorter — about half the length of session 1.
Is SMP removable?+
Yes — with laser removal, typically 1–2 sessions. We refer clients to Premier Image Cosmetic & Laser in Sandy Springs when needed.
What pigments do you use?+
We use professional-grade, carbon-based SMP pigments specifically formulated for scalp micropigmentation. They are designed to fade gracefully to a natural gray rather than shift to unnatural colors.
What is pigment rejection?+
Pigment rejection occurs when the skin doesn't hold the pigment as expected — often due to skin type, aftercare compliance, or excessive bleeding during a session. Our three-session model is designed to correct for this so final results are consistent.
What needles do you use?+
We use single-use, medical-grade needles designed specifically for SMP. Needle configurations and depths are matched to your skin and hair pattern.
Is redness after the procedure normal?+
Yes. Mild redness for 24–48 hours is normal and part of the healing process. It typically settles quickly.
Will my first procedure look too dark?+
The first session intentionally lays a lighter foundation. If anything, initial results appear darker for a few days before the scalp exfoliates and settles. Final tone is dialed in over sessions 2 and 3.
SMP Candidacy
Who makes the best SMP candidate?+
Anyone experiencing hair loss, thinning, scarring, or alopecia can be a great candidate. SMP works across all skin tones, hair colors, and hair textures. The best candidates come in with realistic expectations and a willingness to protect their scalp from sun after healing.
Should I seek a consultation?+
Yes — consultations are free and give you a chance to review candidacy, hairline design, pricing, and the full process with Justin before committing to anything.
What does a good density candidate look like?+
Density SMP works best when there is still existing hair to blend behind. A thinning veil creates the visual foundation for pigment to hide the scalp underneath. Fully bare areas are treated as a buzz-cut restoration instead of density.
Do hair transplants impact SMP?+
SMP pairs extremely well with hair transplants — both to camouflage scarring and to add density to areas that thinned again after transplant. Existing transplant scars can typically be concealed effectively.
What scar concealment can I expect?+
Most FUT strip scars and FUE dot scars can be dramatically reduced in visibility. Complete invisibility depends on scar tissue, texture, and surrounding hair. Justin will assess your scar honestly at consultation.
Preparing & Aftercare
For the full step-by-step guide, see our Preparing for Your Procedure page.
How should I prepare for my procedure?+
Full preparation instructions — including what to do the week before, 24 hours before, and the day of your appointment — live on our dedicated prep page.
What does aftercare look like?+
Aftercare varies slightly for buzz cut vs. density procedures. Both aftercare PDFs are available on the prep page. Following aftercare instructions is critical for pigment retention.
Office Accommodations
Where is the office located?+
6065 Roswell Road, Suite 620, in Sandy Springs, minutes from I-285 and GA-400. Free on-site parking at both the lobby level and lower garage.
Where are procedures performed?+
All procedures are performed in our private procedure room on the 6th floor of our Sandy Springs suite. The room is fully sterilized between clients.
Can I use my phone or laptop during the session?+
Yes. Feel free to bring your phone, tablet, laptop, headphones, or a book. Most clients watch shows, work, or nap through their session.
Are food and drinks available?+
We stock complimentary snacks and beverages in the office, and have a refrigerator and microwave available. You are also welcome to bring your own food.
Can I bring someone with me?+
Yes — please limit your party to one additional person.
Procedure Statistics
How long do procedures typically take?+
Session 1 is 3–6 hours. Session 2 is 2–4 hours. Session 3 is 1–3 hours. Density and scar work generally sit on the shorter end; full-scalp buzz cut restorations sit on the longer end.
What percentage of clients complete all 3 sessions?+
Over 95% of Scalpworx clients complete all 3 included sessions. The three-session model is what allows us to deliver consistent, natural-looking results.
What percentage need a second touch-up within 90 days?+
Fewer than 10% of clients need a second touch-up within the 90-day included window. When one is needed, it is included at no additional cost.