How to Upkeep My Hair Tattoo

Scalp micropigmentation artists can apply dots of pigment to cover up bald patches and scarring. Scalp Micro USA offers scalp micropigmentation treatments for Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) or Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) scar camouflage, alopecia, hair loss, and beard enhancement in New York City, Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, and South Florida. After SMP treatment, you are responsible for protecting your tattoo. Here are several methods of maintaining your hair tattoo: 

Attending All Treatment Sessions 

The amount of treatment sessions varies according to the size of the hair tattoo. The entire treatment typically requires two to four sessions. We schedule these sessions about 10 to 20 days apart to allow for healing. Talk with your artist about the number of treatment sessions you will need for your tattoo goals. To prepare for these appointments, wash and cut your hair before the appointment. 

Using Hats and Sunscreen

After receiving your tattoo, keep your scalp out of direct sunlight for four to five days. UV rays can cause premature pigmentation fading and sunburn, which can result in the micropigmentation being peeled off as the skin heals. Use head coverings such as hats to protect your head. 

An even skin texture that matches the rest of your scalp and a lack of redness are signs that your tattoo has healed. At this point, start regularly applying sunscreen to protect your tattoo from UV rays and prevent early fading. Our artists at Scalp Micro USA are able to recommend SMP-friendly sunscreens.

Avoiding Excessive Sweat and Chlorine

Avoid activities that cause you to sweat during the healing period, such as sports, heavy exercise, and yard work. This can cause a moisture buildup within the tattoo, inviting the possibility of infection and causing micropigmentation displacement. After the tattoo has completely healed, you can return to your routine. Do not enter public pools, lakes, saunas, or hot tubs for the next month to protect your scalp from moisture, chlorine, other chemicals, and bacteria. This helps keep your scalp healthy as it heals.

Applying Scalp-Friendly Lotions and Shampoos

For the first five days, do not shampoo or shave the area. To wash your scalp during this time, wash your hands with soap and water first to avoid transferring bacteria, dirt, or oils. Clean your scalp with lukewarm water and gentle soap. This soap should be antibacterial and fragrance-free. Avoid scrubbing the area. The tattoo may also be itchy during the healing process. Do not scratch, slap, or rub it. 

When you are able to use shampoo again, avoid fragranced shampoos or conditioners with sulfides. These can cause skin irritation. Use scent-free, non-sulfate hair products instead. Keeping the skin moisturized with a hydrating lotion helps make your treatment last.

Use a fragrance-free lotion with natural ingredients. If you have oily skin, look for an anti-shine scalp moisturizer. During your consultation, your artist may recommend different lotions to you. This includes hydrating itch-relief lotions you can apply during the healing period.

Scheduling Touch-Up Appointments

Scalp micropigmentation tattoos last between four to six years. The micropigmentation ink we use has no additional colors or additives, preventing discoloration or expansion. The pigmentation is placed only about half a millimeter into the skin, so you will eventually experience some fading as your skin cells replenish. 

Scalp Micros USA offers touch-up services for our clients, reapplying pigment to freshen your tattoo and stop the fading. Our artists are able to adjust your hairline and the density of the pigment. We use the same tattooing techniques as your initial treatment in the touch-up process. The length of these sessions varies according to the amount of fading. Larger touch-ups, such as whole-head micropigmentation, may require multiple sessions.

Get Hair Tattoo Services at Scalp Micro USA 

We match pigments to the color of your hair and your skin tone. This allows the pigment to blend in, helping create a natural appearance. Our artists work with you to create a treatment plan aligned with your style preferences and needs. Scalp Micro USA offers our clients free in-person, phone, or video consultations. If you plan to schedule a phone consultation, send us photos of your hair loss. To schedule a consultation and learn more about our hair tattoo services, fill out our online form or email us today.