How to Prepare for Scalp Micropigmentation + Aftercare Guide
FAQ: Scalp Micropigmentation Preparation & Aftercare
This scalp micropigmentation preparation and aftercare guide explains how to prepare for your SMP appointment, what to avoid after each session, when you can wash or shave your scalp, and how to support a smooth healing process.
Whether you are based in Christchurch, elsewhere in New Zealand, or travelling for treatment, this guide will help you know exactly what to do before and after your session. scalp micropigmentation service page
PRE-TREATMENT
How to prepare for scalp micropigmentation
- Moisturize your scalp to ensure it is in the best condition
- If you wear a hair system, remove it early enough for the scalp to settle
- Avoid sunburn before the appointment
On the day of your SMP session
- Wash hair to remove any hair fibres, hair thickening spray, gels, moisturiser
- Shave your head with clippers, shaver or a razor
- Pain Relief: paracetamol, taken around twenty minutes to half an hour pre-treatment session
- Do not drink coffee, tea (black/green), alcohol on the day of treatment (they are working as a blood thinner)
- Bring a cap to wear it after the treatment
AFTERCARE
SMP healing timeline:
- Day 0–4:
The scalp may look darker, sharper, or slightly red immediately after treatment. Keep the scalp dry, avoid sweating, and do not touch or shave the area. - Week 1:
Any mild dryness or flaking usually begins to settle. The pigment may start to soften in appearance as the skin heals. - Week 2:
By week 2, the scalp is usually healing well, and this is when we normally see you for your follow-up session. Scalp micropigmentation is typically completed over 3 sessions, allowing the pigment to be built up gradually for the most natural result. - Week 4–6:
By weeks 4–6, the pigment becomes more stable and settled in the skin, creating a soft, natural appearance that resembles real hair follicles.
What to avoid after SMP (first 4 days)
- No showering head (first 4 days)
- Heavy exercise and sweating
- Swimming pools, ocean water and spa pools
- Sauna and steam room
- Direct sun exposure
- Hair fibres, sprays and thickening products until the scalp settles
- aggressive shampoos or exfoliating products
For 21 days after each treatment you should:
- Not going swimming
- Do not use Sauna or Steam room
- Avoid exposing your scalp to sunlight. Scalp micropigmentation FAQ
This guide is based on the aftercare instructions used for scalp micropigmentation clients at Dasha Cosmetic & Medical Tattoo in Christchurch, New Zealand.
FAQ: Scalp Micropigmentation Preparation & Aftercare
When can I wash my head after scalp micropigmentation?
Avoid washing your scalp for the first 4 days after each SMP session. This helps the pigment settle properly in the skin. After that, you can resume gentle washing as advised, using mild products and avoiding harsh scrubs or strong shampoos.
Can I sweat after scalp micropigmentation?
No. Avoid heavy sweating for the first 4 days after each session. This means no gym workouts, running, hot yoga, or any activity that causes excessive perspiration, as sweat can interfere with the healing process.
Can I shave my scalp after SMP?
Do not shave your scalp for the first 4 days after treatment. After that, shaving can usually be resumed gently, following your practitioner’s advice. For the first 21 days, avoid shaving closer than a No. 1 guard to protect the healing skin.
Can I touch my scalp after scalp micropigmentation?
It is best not to touch, rub, or scratch the treated area during the first 4 days. Even if the scalp feels slightly dry or itchy, touching it can irritate the skin and affect healing.
Can I use moisturiser after scalp micropigmentation?
Do not apply moisturiser during the first 4 days after treatment. Once the initial healing phase has passed, you can usually introduce a gentle moisturiser if needed and if advised by your practitioner.
Can I go swimming, to the sauna, or into a steam room after SMP?
No. Avoid swimming pools, saunas, and steam rooms during the first healing stage. These should be avoided for at least the first 4 days, and ideally until the scalp feels settled and healthy again.
Can I go in the sun after scalp micropigmentation?
Avoid direct sun exposure during the early healing period. Once the scalp has healed, protect it with SPF 50 whenever it is exposed to the sun. Good sun protection helps maintain the colour and overall appearance of your SMP over time.
Should I shave my head before a scalp micropigmentation appointment?
If your treatment plan includes a closely shaved look, you may be asked to shave your scalp before your appointment. This depends on your treatment style, hair density, and the look you are trying to achieve, so it is best to follow the instructions given before your session.
Can I drink coffee or alcohol before scalp micropigmentation?
On the day of treatment, it is best to avoid coffee, black tea, green tea, alcohol, and energy drinks if you have been advised to do so. These can increase sensitivity and may contribute to bleeding during the procedure.
What should I do on the day of my SMP appointment?
Wash your hair or scalp before your appointment, avoid blood-thinning stimulants if advised, and bring a clean cap to wear afterwards. Wear comfortable clothing and arrive with your scalp clean and free from heavy styling products.
What does the SMP healing timeline look like?
Immediately after treatment, the scalp may look slightly darker, sharper, or a little red. In the first week, the skin begins to settle and the pigment may start to soften in appearance. By week 2, healing is usually progressing well, and this is when we normally see clients for their follow-up session. Scalp micropigmentation is typically completed over 3 sessions to build the result gradually and naturally. By weeks 4 to 6, the pigment becomes more stable and settled in the skin, creating a soft result that resembles natural hair follicles.
Is redness after scalp micropigmentation normal?
Yes, mild redness immediately after treatment can be normal. It usually settles within a short time as the scalp begins to heal. If you ever feel unsure about your healing, it is always best to check in for personalised advice.
Can I travel after scalp micropigmentation?
Yes, many clients travel for treatment. If you are travelling after your session, keep the scalp protected, avoid rubbing the area, bring a clean cap, and continue following the same aftercare instructions once you get home.
Do I need a follow-up session after SMP?
Yes. A follow-up session is a normal part of scalp micropigmentation. SMP is usually completed over 3 sessions so that the pigment can be layered gradually for a soft, realistic, and well-balanced healed result.
Why is aftercare so important after scalp micropigmentation?
Good aftercare helps the skin heal properly and supports the best healed result. Scalp micropigmentation is designed to heal softly and naturally in the skin, so following the right preparation and aftercare instructions is an important part of the overall treatment.
Where are you based for scalp micropigmentation?
I am based in Christchurch, New Zealand, and I work with clients both locally and from other parts of New Zealand. Many clients travel for their scalp micropigmentation sessions, and this preparation and aftercare guide is designed to help both local and out-of-town clients know exactly what to do before and after treatment.
What scalp micropigmentation treatments do you offer in Christchurch?
I offer scalp micropigmentation for both men and women, including treatments for alopecia, hormonal hair loss, hairline restoration, and scar camouflage after hair transplant surgery. This also includes working with clients after hair transplant procedures to camouflage FUT and FUE scars and add density where needed. My approach is centred on soft, natural-looking healed results that wear beautifully over time.
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