Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a remarkable, long-lasting solution for individuals looking to restore the appearance of a full head of hair without the need for surgical interventions. At MicroHair® Liverpool and Manchester, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality SMP treatments that remain visually appealing over time. But what can you expect after five or even ten years?
SMP Top-Ups Every 3–5 Years
As a general rule, SMP requires a refresh (or ‘top-up’) every three to five years. This is because the pigment gradually fades, although it never disappears entirely like a temporary tattoo might. During a touch-up:
• The lightest dots from the first session (usually the ‘test session’ to gauge colour and density) tend to fade the fastest.
• When these dots lighten, they free up space for the new pigment during your refresher, meaning there is no risk of an over-saturated or ‘overloaded’ look.
Natural Improvement Over Time
One of the lesser-known facts about SMP is that it can look even better after years
This is thanks to your body’s immune response, which gently softens each dot by creating a faint ‘shadow ring’ around the pigment while preserving the sharpness of the dot itself. The result is a more blended, natural effect that seamlessly blends with your scalp.
• This gradual change ensures the treatment looks increasingly realistic, mimicking the appearance of natural hair follicles.
Longevity and Fading
SMP, much like many other forms of tattooing, does not fully vanish within a short period. In fact, it can take 20–25 years to fade by approximately 50–70%. Thanks to its durable nature, top-up sessions are generally less expensive than the initial treatment, because you are refreshing rather than starting from scratch. This means:
• Costs remain a fraction of the original treatment price.
• The process is quicker and simpler than the initial session, making it more convenient for clients.
When to Book Your Next Top-Up
We strongly recommend scheduling your top-up at or before the five-year mark. Doing so keeps your SMP treatment looking fresh—often as good as the day it was first completed, and in some cases, even better thanks to enhanced blending and perfecting techniques developed over time.
At MicroHair®, with clinics in both Liverpool and Manchester, our team of experienced practitioners is dedicated to helping you maintain the most natural and appealing SMP results possible. Whether you’re due for your first refresher or simply curious about how your treatment will evolve, our experts are here to answer all your questions.
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Tags:
scalp micropigmentation, smp, hairline tattoo, hair tattoo, head tattoo, Manchester Liverpool, Marcin Skalp, Marcin Adam, MicroHair®.