Scalp micropigmentation is an increasingly popular method of masking baldness, giving the effect of thicker hair or a completely shaved head with natural-looking “stubble.” However, many people who opt for this procedure wonder if they will be able to undergo a hair transplant in the future. Scalp micropigmentation vs. transplantation – does the pigment in the skin interfere with such a procedure? Will transplanted hair grow properly in the micropigmented area? In this article, we’ll take a look at how micropigmentation affects the possibility of hair transplantation and what to consider when planning both procedures.
Scalp micropigmentation – how does it work?
Micropigmentation is a procedure involving the introduction of a special pigment into the upper layers of the scalp, creating the illusion of short hair or optically thickening the hairstyle. It is non-invasive and permanent (the effect lasts for several to several years), but requires periodic touch-ups.
This treatment is used in various cases:
- in men with advanced baldness,
- in people who do not qualify for a hair transplant,
- for masking scars from hair transplants,
- for visual thickening of hair in men and women with thinning hair.
Micropigmentation does not affect hair structure or growth, as the pigment is not inserted as deeply as the hair follicles.
Scalp micropigmentation vs transplantation
Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves taking hair follicles (usually from the back of the head or other parts of the body) and transplanting them to areas affected by baldness. The primary transplant techniques are:
FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) – a strip of skin with hair follicles is taken from the donor area and transplanted to another location,
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) – individual hair follicles are taken and implanted into the scalp.
Several questions arise in hair transplantation after micropigmentation:
1. Does the pigment interfere with the transplant?
The pigment used in SMP is placed in the epidermis, which is shallower than the hair follicles. Hair transplantation takes place at a greater depth, so the pigment itself should not impede the process. However:
- if the micropigmentation was done unprofessionally and the pigment was deposited too deeply, scarring can occur, which can make the transplant more difficult,
- darker pigment may make it more difficult for the doctor to assess the natural arrangement of the hair and accurately place the transplanted units.
2. Will transplanted hair grow properly on micropigmented skin?
Yes, if the skin is healthy and there are no scars, the transplanted hair should accept and grow normally. The pigment in the skin does not block hair growth or function because it does not penetrate the hair follicles.
However, people who have had micropigmentation may have a visually different post-transplant effect – if the pigment was applied to the transplant target area, the newly growing hair may look denser than natural, or there may be differences in skin color between the pigmented and unpigmented areas.
What to do if you are planning both procedures?
If you are thinking about micropigmentation, but do not rule out a hair transplant in the future, it is worthwhile:
1. Consult a trichologist before SMP – the specialist can assess whether micropigmentation will not negatively affect a possible future transplant.
2. erform micropigmentation in a reputable office – properly performed SMP will not damage the skin and will not affect a later transplant.
3. Consider transplantation before micropigmentation – if you are planning both procedures, it is better to transplant hair first and perform SMP later for visual thickening.
4. If you’ve had SMP and want a hair transplant, it’s a good idea to remove the pigment with a laser – removing the pigment can help achieve a more natural effect after the transplant.
Trichologist advises
A history of scalp micropigmentation is not a contraindication to hair transplantation. SMP, or scalp micropigmentation, involves inserting a pigment shallowly under the epidermis to mimic the appearance of natural hair on a shaved head and create a visually thickening effect. Prior to hair transplantation, the doctor evaluates the condition of the scalp, because in some cases, if the pigment was inserted too deeply, or if there is scarring from SMP, it can hinder the implantation of the hair follicles.
Hair follicle harvesting is most often performed using the FUE technique, which is less invasive and allows precise harvesting of hair follicles bypassing the skin with pigment. Micropigmentation and hair transplantation can complement each other if properly planned. Micropigmentation can give the illusion of greater density, especially in the early stages of new hair growth after transplantation, when the hair is still short and does not offer its full density.
The pigment in the skin may fade over time, and the growth of transplanted hair may not perfectly cover the micropigmented areas, which may require pigment correction or additional transplant sessions in the future. It is recommended that you wait a certain amount of time after micropigmentation before opting for a hair transplant. If you had a hair transplant first and then plan to have micropigmentation, wait a minimum of 6 months for the hair to fully regenerate and reach a certain length. Then you can better plan for micropigmentation.
Summary – Scalp micropigmentation vs transplantation
Micropigmentation of the scalp does not preclude hair transplantation, but requires an appropriate approach. The pigment does not block hair growth, but it can make it difficult for the doctor to assess the skin and the distribution of transplanted follicles. If you’re planning both procedures, it’s a good idea to have a hair transplant first, and then perform micropigmentation for optimal results. It’s also a good idea to consult with a specialist who can advise on the best solution to suit your needs.
You can read more about hair transplantation HERE. If the problem concerns you, we invite you to CONTACT us. You can also make an appointment ON-LINE. Visit us on Instagram and TikTok.
See the effect of a hair transplant at Kierach Medical Clinic:
