Hair pigmentation is a cosmetic treatment in which micro-fine pigment dots are placed between the hair follicles on the scalp. They mimic short-cut hair and make thinning areas appear denser.
The method is known as micro-hair pigmentation, micropigmentation or SMP for short. It does not create new hair and may require several sessions.
What is hair pigmentation?
In hair pigmentation, small pigment dots are placed between existing hair follicles. They look like very short-cut hair, so that areas with thinning hair can appear visually fuller.
The treatment alters the visible contrast between the hair and the skin. This creates the impression of thicker hair, even though the actual number of hairs remains the same. Hair follicles are not stimulated, and no new hairs are implanted.
Visually, the pigmentation may resemble a tattoo. However, the colour pigment is distributed in many individual dots to create the impression of short-cut hair on the scalp.
Experience with the procedure and meticulous technique are essential for a natural result. The size and distribution of the dots must match the existing hair pattern. This is particularly important for the transitions at the hairline and along the hairline.
When is scalp micropigmentation an option for women experiencing hair loss?
Hair pigmentation may be considered to visually thicken thinning hair. Scalp scarring may also be a reason to consider it. Whether a natural result can be achieved depends on the individual’s hair pattern.
Women experiencing hair loss may also consider the treatment. In cases of hereditary hair loss in women, hair pigmentation and hair transplantation are different treatment options. It is not possible to conclude that one procedure is generally superior to the other.
In the case of scalp scars, the pigment is intended to reduce the visible colour difference compared to the surrounding area. It is not possible to give a reliable probability of success for this application.
How natural does the result look?
The realistic aim of the treatment is to achieve visual density. An immediately visible result following pigmentation does not mean that new hair has grown. The effect is created solely by the dots applied.
How natural the hair pigmentation appears depends largely on the practitioner’s experience with the procedure and its careful execution. The treatment alters neither the actual hair density nor the subsequent course of hair loss.
There is some uncertainty regarding how long the results last. In a small case series, the visible density decreased slightly at the 6-month follow-up. How long the pigments remain unchanged overall has not yet been sufficiently investigated over the long term.
Over time, the result may fade, meaning a touch-up may be required. In an older study on the pigmentation of scalp scars, this was the case for around 22 per cent of those treated. This figure cannot be generalised to all cases of scalp micropigmentation.
How does the hair pigmentation treatment work?
During the treatment, many small pigment dots are gradually applied to the targeted areas. The colour pigment is intended to blend into the existing hair pattern.
- First, it is determined which areas are to be visually thickened and how the transitions should be shaped.
- The pigment dots are then gradually applied to the scalp.
- In further sessions, the density and distribution can be adjusted until the desired hair pattern is achieved.
A published treatment protocol specified three sessions. However, the number required may vary from person to person. The figure given is therefore not a binding standard for every treatment.
If several sessions are required, the total time involved may be up to 20 hours. How this treatment time is distributed across the individual appointments depends on the planned scope of the treatment.
What are the known risks and side effects?
Temporary redness and swelling may occur following scalp micropigmentation. These reactions were observed in one study; their frequency was not specified.
In a case series involving 42 further patients, neither side effects nor complications were reported. The patients were satisfied with the cosmetic result. Observations in such a limited group do not rule out risks in other patients.
As well as skin reactions, an unsatisfactory cosmetic result can also be distressing. Knowledge of hair pigmentation and a meticulous technique are therefore important. The size and distribution of the dots should look natural; the same applies to the transitions.
How long do the results last, and when is a touch-up needed?
Post-treatment care initially focuses on possible temporary skin reactions. Even before the treatment, it should be clarified who you can contact in the event of redness or swelling.
Later on, the pigmentation may appear less dense or fade. It is not possible to say with certainty in advance whether or when a touch-up will be required.
How does it differ from a hair transplant?
Hair pigmentation and hair transplantation are based on different principles. With pigmentation, the visible thickening is created by dots, whilst with transplantation, donor hairs are transplanted.
| Procedure | Intended for | Duration | Possible advantages and disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair pigmentation | For people who wish to achieve the appearance of thicker hair; also described for women with hereditary hair loss | Several sessions may be required, totalling up to 20 hours | The hair may appear thicker. The actual amount of hair does not increase, and the long-term durability is unclear. |
| Hair transplantation | Described as another option for hereditary hair loss in women | It is not possible to determine a specific duration from the available information. | Hair is transplanted. This is a fundamental difference between this method and pigmentation, which has a purely cosmetic effect. |
Which doctors carry out hair pigmentation?
Hair pigmentation is offered, amongst other places, at centres specialising in dermatology and cosmetic surgery. When choosing a provider, you should pay particular attention to their proven expertise in the procedure and their meticulous technique.
During the initial consultation, you should discuss the desired outcome and the expected number of sessions in detail. The plan will depend on your skin type and existing hair. The chosen colour should be individually tailored to your natural hair colour. Consideration should also be given to how to manage any subsequent fading, as well as the shaping of the hairline and parting.
These questions may help you during the initial consultation:
- Is the treatment suitable if the scalp is bald or if there are bald patches or receding hairline?
- How many sessions are planned for the intended area?
- How will the colour and dot size be tailored to my skin type?
- Into which layer of the skin is the pigment deposited?
- Is my hair loss classified as alopecia areata, and what does that mean in terms of suitability?
- What is the procedure if a touch-up is required?
You can find specialists in hair pigmentation at the end of this text.
Frequently asked questions about hair pigmentation
Does hair pigmentation cause new hair to grow?
No, the treatment does not cause new hair to grow. The pigment dots mimic short-cut hair.
How many sessions are required?
One published protocol recommended three sessions. The actual number required may vary depending on the extent of the treatment.
How long do the results of hair pigmentation last?
The long-term durability of the results has not yet been sufficiently studied. The pigment may fade over time, and a touch-up may be required.
What side effects have been observed?
Temporary redness and swelling were observed following treatment. The frequency of these side effects was not specified.
