Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a process that deposits pigments into the shallow skin layer of your scalp. This procedure can be helpful if you have thin hair or are experiencing hair loss. A qualified practitioner can assess your scalp and perform the procedure to meet your needs. Here are general instructions to keep your hairline tattoo fresh:
Avoid Sun Exposure
Avoid sun exposure a few days after scalp micropigmentation treatment. UV rays and sunlight can lead to premature fading, and exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn and sun damage to your scalp. Protect your scalp from harmful UV rays by wearing a hat.
Apply sunscreen if you need to go outside and your tattoo will be exposed. Avoid sun-blocking lotions or sunscreens with alcohol, as they can contribute to dryness and may irritate the area. Applying sunscreen and wearing a hat can prevent UV radiation from breaking down the pigmentation’s molecules.
Avoid Excessive Sweating
Excessive sweating can interrupt your healing process. Avoid activities that can make you sweat too much, such as:
- Intense exercise
- Saunas
- Steam rooms
- Sun exposure
Stay away from such activities for several days or more until your scalp heals. Sweating can affect newly planted pigments and cause fading.
When you limit sweat, you can help keep the area fresh, clean, and safe. You can resume gym and other workout activities after a few weeks when your scalp recuperates. You can use a paper towel or facial wipe to reduce sweat during the healing process.
Refrain From Touching, Picking, or Scratching
Avoid scratching, touching, or picking the treated area. When you touch your scalp, you can introduce bacteria and increase the chances of infections. Scratching your scalp could also cause the skin to peel during the days after the session. Picking the treated area can lead to damage, unevenness, and fading.
Scabs may develop, but they tend to fall off naturally. Avoid picking at them. When you scratch your scalp during the healing process, you could open wounds. If you feel itching or irritation, place a tissue over your hairline tattoo and apply gentle pressure for relief.
Keep Your Scalp Moisturized During the Healing Process
After the scalp micropigmentation procedure, scabs can appear. You can manage this issue by moisturizing your scalp. Apply a light moisturizing gel to the affected area to help promote healing. Use natural moisturizer in the morning and evening to control dryness or flaky skin.
Choose an alcohol-free and non-perfumed moisturizer to avoid harming your scalp. You can use aloe vera gel, extra virgin oil, or coconut oil as moisturizers during your healing stage. Applying moisturizer can help maintain the appearance of your SMP. You may need to wait for a couple of weeks after the procedure to use a regular moisturizer.
Avoid Swimming During the Healing Process
Avoid swimming for several days after your treatment since it can expose your scalp to harsh chemicals. Chlorine in swimming pools can affect the effectiveness of dye pigments. This chemical can also cause damage or cause the tattoo to fade prematurely.
You may need to avoid swimming for up to a month after your scalp micropigmentation procedure. After a month, you can check with your practitioner to see if you can resume swimming.
See an Experienced Practitioner for Touch-ups
Touch-ups can help maintain the appearance of your tattoo. Consult with an experienced artist to determine how many touch-ups you need. In some cases, your immune system might try to remove the ink from your body. Practitioners deposit ink beneath the epidermis layer of your skin, meaning cells can treat the ink as a foreign substance and expel it.
Your skin type and time in the sun can also lead to fading. You can visit a practitioner for assessment and an additional procedure. An SMP touch-up can help you add density to your hairline.
Book an Appointment for Your Hairline Tattoo
If you want to keep your hairline tattoo fresh after treatment, follow aftercare instructions. These instructions can help your tattoo heal right and maintain color for longer. Find a trained scalp micropigmentation artist to help you add color to your hairline. A trained and certified artist can perform the procedure and offer additional aftercare tips.
