SMP Sessions
How Many SMP Sessions Are Required, and What Is the Ideal Time Between Them?
SMP Sessions – Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a highly effective, non-surgical procedure designed to give the appearance of a fuller head of hair. Whether you’re dealing with thinning hair, complete baldness, or conditions like alopecia, SMP can provide a lasting solution.
But how many SMP sessions do you need, and what’s the ideal interval between them?
Required Sessions
How Many SMP Sessions Are Typically Required?
The number of SMP sessions needed varies depending on individual factors, such as the extent of hair loss, skin type, and the desired density. However, most people typically require 2 to 4 sessions to achieve their desired look.
Why Multiple Sessions?
Why is SMP Performed Over Multiple Sessions?
Most people typically require 2 to 4 SMP sessions to achieve their desired look for several reasons:
1. Gradual Layering of Pigment
Each session builds upon the last by layering pigments, which allows for a more natural and consistent appearance. Applying all the pigment in one session could result in pigment migration, which leads to uneven distribution or an unnatural look.
2. Healing Time
After each session, the scalp needs time to heal. This healing period allows the pigments to settle, and after the skin heals, the pigment’s actual colour becomes more visible. Subsequent sessions help refine and enhance the look based on how the pigment appears after healing.
3. Customising Density and Detail
It often takes a few sessions to achieve the right level of density and detail. The first session creates the base layer, while the following sessions fine-tune the density, colour intensity, and overall appearance to match the client’s expectations.
4. Skin Type and Pigment Retention
Different skin types retain pigments at varying rates. Some pigments may fade slightly after the first session, making follow-up sessions necessary to maintain the desired look.
5. Immune System Reaction
Spacing out the sessions helps monitor how the immune system reacts to the pigment. Since some people’s skin may absorb or respond to the pigment differently, this process ensures the artist makes adjustments in follow-up sessions to perfect the result.
6. Avoiding Over-Pigmentation
By spreading out the sessions, the practitioner can avoid over-pigmentation, leading to an unnatural or too dark appearance. Each session allows the practitioner to adjust the colour and placement based on how the pigments develop over time.
This multi-session approach ensures that the final look is natural, even, and tailored to the individual’s preferences.
Sessions Steps
What Happens in Each SMP Session?
1. First SMP Session
The first session is foundational. During this session, the technician applies a base layer of pigment across the treatment area to establish a consistent and natural-looking scalp tone.
- Duration: 2-4 hours, depending on the areas of treatment.
- Results: You may notice a subtle improvement, but this is just the beginning.
2. Second SMP Session
After the initial session, you’ll undergo your second SMP session in about two to three weeks or even four weeks. This is when the density starts to build up. The technician will add more layers of pigment to darken and define the treatment area.
- Duration: 2-3 hours.
- Results: After this session, you’ll have a clearer idea of how your final look will appear.
3. Third SMP Session (If Needed)
A third session is usually optional and depends on individual preferences. Some people may want to fine-tune the look, add more density, or darken the overall appearance.
- Duration: 1-2 hours.
- Results: After this session, your SMP treatment should be fully complete, with natural-looking, long-lasting results.
4. Touch-Up Session (Optional)
Touch-ups may be necessary over time as pigments naturally fade. Most people don’t need a touch-up until 4 to 6 years after their last session, though this depends on personal factors like skin type and sun exposure.
Sessions Number Factors
Factors Affecting the Number of SMP Sessions
1. Extent of Hair Loss
More severe hair loss may require additional sessions to build the desired density.
2. Skin Type
Individuals with oily skin might need more sessions as the pigments tend to fade faster on oilier scalps.
3. Desired Look
Some clients prefer a softer, more natural look, while others want a bolder, more defined appearance, which can influence the number of sessions.
Ideal Time Between Sessions
Ideal Interval Between SMP Sessions
The interval between SMP sessions is crucial to the process. Typically, practitioners recommend spacing each session 2 to 4 weeks apart. This interval allows the scalp to heal and the pigments to settle, ensuring that each subsequent session builds upon a stable foundation.
Healing Time
Each session involves micro-needles depositing pigment into the scalp, which requires a short healing time.
Colour Development
The pigments applied during each session may initially appear darker but tend to lighten slightly as the skin heals. The interval gives the practitioner time to assess the development of the colour and adjust as needed.
Sessions for International Patients
What should you do if you’re unable to travel monthly for your SMP sessions?
The interval between sessions can be reduced to three days, which may result in needing a retouch session sooner. That’s why I provide the retouch session free of charge, along with a 2-year warranty certificate.
Conclusion
How Many SMP Sessions Will You Need?
For most individuals, 2 to 4 SMP sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart or three days for international clients will provide the best results. However, you must consult an experienced scalp micropigmentation technician to determine the number of sessions you’ll need based on your hair loss pattern, scalp condition, and desired outcome.
