Thinning hair and noticing bald spots are something that many men fear. It’s not easy to embrace despite being something so commonly shared amongst men. In fact, the number is steep, as 70% of men will start to lose their hair as they get older. So the question is how to prevent hair loss in men?
But the good news is with such a common problem, there are a few solutions on the market. Scalp micropigmentation is one of the best bets. However, not all solutions are great. Let’s talk a little bit about your options and why scalp micropigmentation may be a fit for you.
What Is Scalp Micropigmentation?
Scalp micropigmentation is the process of using microneedles that transfer pigment onto the scalp to make it appear as if you have hair. It’s the same process that microblading uses to “tattoo” eyebrows on women or men.
While the pigment is semi-permanent, the need for touch ups is minimal. It’s also a non-invasive procedure compared to some of the other options on the market. Microblading and micropigmentation are sometimes referred to as permanent cosmetics, permanent makeup, or semi-permanent makeup.
The pigmentation provides a natural-looking buzz cut and provides an appearance of thicker-looking hair follicles. Not only does the area appear thicker, but it can also stimulate the actual follicle growth and help with a receding hairline. Following a proper hair care routine including hydrating honey shampoo or conditioners or the use of other natural ingredients can really make a lot of difference.
Done By a Trained and Licensed Specialist
Micropigmentation should always be done by a trained specialist who is certified in micropigmentation for a number of reasons.
- Since micropigmentation is similar to a tattoo, if done incorrectly, the appearance can come out poorly and is semi-permanent.
- While it’s typically done in an office setting, the highest sanitation standards are required to avoid infection.
When working with a licensed specialist, you can expect the following process.
The Micropigmentation Process
An instrument very similar to a tattoo gun or tattoo pen is used to do the micropigmentation. The tattoo pen goes a few millimeters into the skin to tattoo the pigment. All licensed specialists must wear medical-grade gloves while performing the procedure.
Most scalp-micro pigmentation will take from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the treatment area and how much work is needed to be done. This includes all the preparation and the actual micropigmentation.
Your specialist will mark the area that’s being treated with non-permanent ink first. For those who are completely bald, the practitioner will help you create a desirable hairline that is often based on facial features.
Lastly, the practitioner will apply a numbing cream to your head where they will be working so you don’t feel the needles.
After Care
Your specialist will give you the necessary treatment method for aftercare as you’ll need to keep a few things in mind. Typically this includes an antiseptic to keep the area clean. Because it’s very similar to a tattoo, you will also likely receive an ointment to promote healing and keep the area moisturized.
You may also notice some redness and swelling. Your specialist may suggest that you do some light icing. The importance of scalp care after a procedure like this can be the difference between touch-ups every 4-6 years and touch-ups a lot sooner. Using quality products as well as SPF to protect your scalp from the sun are two main factors.
Preparation
When you’ve decided to do scalp micropigmentation and the day comes for your opponents, it is important to follow pre-treatment instructions for optimal results. Coming in with a clean, shampooed head is the first step. Getting rid of any build-up or oils on top of your head is key.
Don’t put any moisturizers or any products on your head or your face. This includes makeup. Consider it to be a similar clean environment to surgery but much less invasive.
Benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation
Aside from providing thicker-looking hair, there are a few benefits to consider.
- Scalp micropigmentation can help hide any scars or undesired birthmarks.
- Those who suffer hair loss from alopecia, chemotherapy, or other hair-loss-related issues can use this alternative as a mostly permanent option.
- For the amount of time you can go without having a touch-up, the process is cost-effective.
Alternatives On The Market
There are a few alternatives on the market, but ideally, scalp micropigmentation works the best for the right price. Let’s explore some of these options anyways.
Hair Transplants
Hair transplants for men are much more complicated than the other two processes because it is performed by a surgeon and is not minimally invasive. While safe, it is needed to perform by a surgeon that has a lot of skill because not all hair transplants come out well. And it’s a costly way of doing things.
Hair Systems
Hair systems tend to be both expensive and extremely high maintenance. The process is that real or synthetic hair is hand-woven to a specific base. This base is generally lace. Then the base is put onto the head.
This can be done with adhesive or tape. Then the hair for women is cut and blended. For men, this hair is a lot shorter than some women’s hair, but it can’t be a buzz-cut style. This is for men with slightly longer hair that can be combed over. It tends to fall on the less durable side and more delicate. Combine this with how pricey it is, and it’s not the best option.
Going In For a Consultation
Regardless of whether you are sure you want scalp micro pigmentation or you sit on the fence, specialists will schedule a consultation to go over the procedure and the best way of treating your hairline. In most cases, a mock-up can be done to show how the area would look after the procedure.
This is the perfect time to address any personal questions as well as go over your medical history. You may debrief any allergies you may have and talk about possible complications or precautions that may come with micropigmentation. Because of how safe the procedure is, it’s one of the best alternatives.