Alex James SMP

SMP FAQ | Scalp Micropigmentation Questions Answered

Everything You Need to Know About SMP & Our Services

Honest Answers to Common Questions

Get instant answers to the most common questions about scalp micropigmentation, our other services, and what to expect.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? WhatsApp Alex directly: +447763875362 for immediate answers.

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Scalp Micropigmentation Questions

SMP is a permanent hair loss solution for all types of hair loss in men and women. It’s quick, affordable and there’s no downtime. Contrary to other hair loss remedies, SMP works 100% of the time.

Using a needle that is 75% smaller than a tattoo needle and organic carbon-based pigment, impressions are made with light taps into the most superficial layer of the skin. This replicates the exact appearance of shaved hair stubble. Over the course of three separate sessions, a new custom hairline is created and density is built up on the scalp.

Scalp Micropigmentation lasts 2-5 years or as long as you want it to with top-up sessions. As it naturally lightens up, mainly due to UV exposure, it always keeps the illusion of a shaved scalp and a touch-up is done to bring in a more crisp freshly shaved look.

Most clients shave their head every few days with a 0.5 clipper or a foil shaver. However, it’s personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer. Simply, whatever length you feel looks best on you when you look in the mirror.

All clients are different – some clients can experience slight discomfort during the treatment whereas others may not. Most describe it as a light scratching sensation. Pain relief can be taken prior to the treatment, such as Paracetamol, Co-Codamol or Ibuprofen. Where possible please refrain from using aspirin as this is used as a blood thinner and may cause bleeding.

No, this is specially formulated carbon-based pigment used only for Scalp Micropigmentation. It cannot change color because the pigment does not have any constituent colors in it.

Yes, absolutely. When hair is shaved, the follicles are on a grey scale, whether it be very light or very dark or in between. You don’t see color until the hair strand begins to grow out. This is why white, red and blonde hair can also be matched up with a lighter shade of Scalp Micropigmentation pigment for a perfect blend.

A full Scalp micropigmentation treatment typically takes 3-4 appointments of around 2-3 hours each to complete. We space each appointment 7-14 days apart for healing between each treatment session.

3-5 days following your treatment, you can wash your head gently with water. Wait ten days before using any products like shampoo, soap, lotion, etc. You will be given aftercare instructions at your 1st appointment.

You should avoid sweating where possible until at least 5 days after your treatment. After 5 full days, you can sweat lightly, and heavy sweating by day 10.

There will typically be redness for a day or so after treatment. The pigment may initially appear darker than the healed result, which can take a week or so, where it will soften and settle into your skin.

Yes, its UV light that fades your SMP quicker. Avoid sunbeds and on hot days use spf 20+ sun cream or wear a hat. 

Pricing & Payment Questions

Our transparent pricing starts from:

  • Receding Hairline: £1,250
  • Full Head Coverage: From £1,550
  • Scar Camouflage: From £150 per scar

All prices include your free consultation, all required sessions, and 6-month warranty. See our [pricing page] for complete details.

Using a needle that is 75% smaller than a tattoo needle and organic carbon-based pigment, impressions are made with light taps into the most superficial layer of the skin. This replicates the exact appearance of shaved hair stubble. Over the course of three separate sessions, a new custom hairline is created and density is built up on the scalp.

We offer three payment methods:

  • Pay as you go: Split cost across your 3 sessions (most popular)
  • Single payment: Pay upfront with no payment tracking between sessions
  • 0% Finance: Spread cost over 4 months through PLIM Finance (subject to credit approval)

We include a free 4th session if necessary to perfect your treatment. Additionally, all treatments come with a 6-month warranty covering any touch-ups or adjustments needed. During consultation, we show you Alex’s own SMP work and extensive before/after photos so you know exactly what to expect.

Hair transplants typically cost £3,000-£10,000, require multiple surgeries, and take 9-12 months to show results. SMP provides instant results at a fraction of the cost with no surgical risk. See our detailed [SMP vs Hair Transplant comparison].

Process & Booking Questions

After your consultation, we’re typically booking 2-3 weeks ahead. Alex will work with your schedule to get you started as soon as possible based on availability and your flexibility.

Yes! Our lead artist Alex has had SMP treatment himself, so you will immediately see the finished product during a consultation. We also have extensive before/after photo galleries showing real client results.

Absolutely. Clients regularly travel from across the UK for Alex’s expertise. Since treatment requires 3 sessions spaced 2-3 weeks apart, many clients plan their visits accordingly. WhatsApp Alex: +447763875362 to discuss scheduling that works with your travel plans.

Treatment Combination Questions

Yes, many clients combine treatments for optimal results:

  • SMP + PRP: PRP can strengthen existing hair while SMP adds density coverage
  • Laser removal + SMP: Remove unwanted tattoos/old SMP before new treatment
  • Scar camouflage + full SMP: Address scarring while creating complete coverage

Alex will advise the best combination approach during your consultation.

Yes, we’re specialists in SMP removal and can safely remove unwanted SMP work. SMP removal typically takes 2-3 sessions and costs significantly less than tattoo removal. We can then provide new SMP if desired.

Other Services Questions

  • Tattoos: Typically 8-12 sessions for complete removal
  • PMU/Eyebrow tattoos: Usually 1-3 sessions
  • SMP removal: Generally 2-3 sessions

Our competitive laser removal prices make us a popular choice for clients traveling from across the UK.

Medical & Suitability Questions

Very few conditions prevent SMP treatment. The main consideration is scalp health – conditions like active psoriasis may require treatment first. Overall, your scalp needs to be in good condition for optimal results. We’ll assess this during your consultation.

Minimum age: 18 years old
Maximum age: None – we’ve successfully treated clients in their 70s
Age is less important than your overall health and realistic expectations about results.

Yes, if you have a regular tattoo on your head, we can create SMP follicles around it so it looks natural and blends seamlessly. Alex will assess the existing work during consultation to determine the best approach.

Still Have Questions?

WhatsApp Alex directly: +447763875362

Alex personally handles all consultations and can answer your specific questions immediately. Most clients prefer WhatsApp as it’s quick, convenient, and lets you share photos easily for initial assessment.

Free consultations available:

In-person at our Rossendale clinic

Video call with photo assessment

Initial WhatsApp discussion

Ready to get started?
Book your free consultation today and get honest advice from someone who truly understands your situation.