How long does the Redness last after my Scalp Micropigmentation Treatment?

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a cosmetic procedure designed to mimic the appearance of hair follicles for those experiencing hair loss. During your SMP treatment, a practitioner will make thousands of tiny impressions, depositing pigment into the scalp using a micro-needle. Is redness normal after undergoing Scalp Micropigmentation? Absolutely, but knowing how to manage it can make your experience much smoother. 

What Causes Redness After SMP?

Redness following scalp micropigmentation is a typical reaction and is generally no cause for concern. This redness can be attributed to a few factors:

1. Skin Sensitivity: The SMP process involves using needles to deposit pigment into the upper layer of the scalp’s skin. This process and repetition can irritate the skin, especially if you have sensitivities.
2. Inflammatory Response: The procedure creates micro-wounds in the skin, which triggers the body’s natural inflammatory response. Redness is a sign of this healing process as the body works to repair the tiny punctures.

How Long Does Redness Last?

The duration of redness varies from person to person but typically subsides within a few days. For some, especially those with sensitive skin, the redness may linger a bit longer. The healing process is gradual, and as it progresses, the redness will completely diminish. For some the redness will be gone in 24 – 48 hours and you will not need to miss any work because of this treatment. Unlike hair transplants that require 7-10 days of healing, SMP you can go back to work right away, wear a hat, sleep on a pillow and live a normal life after treatment. 

Managing Redness Post-SMP

Here are some effective strategies to help manage and reduce redness after your SMP treatment:

1. Keep the Scalp Clean: Follow your SMP technician’s advice on scalp care. This will likely include a combination of dry healing  and gently washing your scalp with a fragrance free cleanser to prevent any infection and to manage sebum production, which can aggravate the skin. For Scalp Micro USA’s full aftercare click here
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight: After SMP, your scalp can be more sensitive to sunlight, which can exacerbate redness and irritation. Wear a hat or use an SPF designed for the scalp to protect the area while it heals.
3. Hydration: Keeping your body well-hydrated aids in the healing process. Water helps clear toxins from the body and can reduce inflammation.
4. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from potential irritants such as alcohol-based products or harsh chemicals in shampoos or soaps. These can increase redness and prolong the healing process.
5. Patience and Care: Give your scalp the time it needs to heal properly. Avoid picking or scratching the area.
6. Ask your practitioner to apply a post-treatment anti-redness foam to reduce some of the redness on your scalp. *Note this is a temporary solution. 

Redness after SMP is a common, harmless reaction that indicates your body is healing. By understanding what to expect and how to care for your scalp post-procedure, you can help ensure the best results from your hair tattoo treatment. Remember, each person heals differently, and maintaining an open line of communication with your SMP practitioner can provide additional reassurance and guidance as you adjust to your new look.