When it comes to scalp micropigmentation (SMP), one of the most common questions that clients ask is, “How long does SMP last?”
This blog provides an in-depth look at what individuals can anticipate five years post-treatment. We’ll discuss the appearance of scalp micropigmentation after 5 years, the reasons for potential fading after the initial SMP process, and provide practical advice on maintaining SMP results long-term.
Contact Edge Scalp Ink today for more information about SMP and the results you can expect.
How Long Does SMP Last?
Scalp micropigmentation is known for its durability, and it can provide you with long-lasting results. SMP is semi-permanent: this means that the pigment will always be present in the skin, but the human body naturally causes fading in the surface layers as the years go by.
Typically, SMP is long-term. Results can last for 3-5 years, but it’s important to understand that the longevity of your SMP treatment can vary depending on several factors. Factors that affect the duration of your hair tattoo include your skin type, sun exposure, and overall care.
SMP Over Time: What You Can Expect
Scalp micropigmentation evolves subtly and naturally with your skin. While the pigment stays in place for years, its appearance may change slightly over time. Here’s a timeline of what you can expect from the moment your treatment is complete through the years that follow:
Scalp micropigmentation should always be done in multiple sessions. Most can be completed in three treatments. The only time a single session is appropriate is for a touch-up treatment.Our four-day scalp micropigmentation aftercare guidelines should be followed after each treatment.
Below, we outline what you can expect following your SMP, all the way from day one after your first treatment to day 30 after all sessions are complete.
Immediately After Treatment
Right after your first session, the scalp may appear slightly red or sensitive, and the pigment might seem darker than expected. This is all part of the process—the color will soften as your skin begins to heal.
Month One
By the end of the first month, you’ll likely have completed all of your SMP sessions. The redness will have subsided, and the pigment will have settled into a more natural shade. At this point, you’ll see your final look should be visible—defined, realistic follicles that blend seamlessly with your natural hair or provide the appearance of a close shave.
1 to 6 Months Post-Treatment
During this period, your SMP will continue to look fresh and well-defined, especially if you’ve followed proper aftercare and limited sun exposure. Any fading is typically subtle and not noticeable to others.
At the 1-Year Mark
At the 1-year mark, most people still enjoy defined SMP results with little to no visible fading. If you have oily skin or spend a lot of time in the sun, you may notice a slight softening of the pigment—but touch-ups are usually not needed yet. By scheduling annual check-ups, your SMP practitioner can assess your results and keep your treatment looking its best.
2 Years After SMP
By the two-year point, some people choose to come in for a light touch-up to restore definition. The pigment may look slightly lighter than it did at first, but the overall shape and density of your SMP should still be intact. If the treatment was done well and maintained properly, it will still blend naturally with your hair and skin tone.
3–5 Years After Treatment
At this stage, most people notice more visible fading of their SMP results, especially with regular sun exposure. While the treatment still looks natural, its definition may soften. A maintenance touch-up every 3–5 years can restore contrast and refresh pigment for a more defined look.
What Does Scalp Micropigmentation Look Like After 5 Years?
When monitoring your scalp micropigmentation after five years, it’s natural for some changes to occur to the pigmented cells in your skin. Over time, the pigments in your hair tattoo may gradually fade or pixelate, and the color may soften. However, SMP is designed to maintain a remarkably natural appearance in both men and women, even after five years.
Instead of a harsh contrast, the fading of high-quality pigments creates a subtle and realistic look, similar to natural hair. Some clients report liking the treatment even more after five years.
Properly executed scalp micropigmentation treatments will continue to blend seamlessly with the skin for a hyper-realistic look, and with a few maintenance steps—including touch-ups when needed—, you can ensure it remains at its best.
Reasons Fading Happens To Scalp Micropigmentation After 5 Years
Fading of SMP can occur due to various factors, including:
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can cause fading since the UV light can break down the pigment over time. Protecting your scalp from the sun is crucial to maintaining SMP longevity. You don’t have to walk in the shadows; just use a sunblock with a high SPF rating or occasionally wear a hat on mostly sunny days.
- Skin Type: Pigments may fade quickly in individuals with oily skin, requiring frequent touch-ups to add more pigment. It can take a few extra sessions for your SMP artist to deposit enough pigment in the treatment area to make up for the dilution caused by the excess oil.
- Improper Aftercare: Neglecting proper aftercare can lead to premature pigment fading. It's essential to follow post-treatment instructions as carefully as possible
- Lifestyle Factors Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications can affect the body's ability to retain pigment.
- Age: As we age, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic, which can affect pigment retention.
- Body's Immune System: Individual immune system responses can influence how the body reacts to the pigment.
How to Maintain SMP Results
Although maintaining optimal results for your scalp micropigmentation after five years and beyond requires very low maintenance, we do recommend the following tips to ensure that it continues looking its best long-term:
Avoid Intense Sunlight
Protect your scalp from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing a hat or using sunscreen. If you will be swimming
Use the Right Products
Choose hair care products that do not contain harmful chemicals such as phthalates, fragrances, or parabens. Harmful chemicals are not healthy for your skin and can prematurely break down the SMP pigment.
Maintain Proper Hygiene
Keep your scalp clean and healthy by following a regular skincare routine. Avoid using harsh shampoos or excessive exfoliation.
Use an Exfoliating Cleanser
Periodically perform skin exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, which can make the pigments appear faded. Keeping your scalp moisturized is key to making the pigment look its absolute best.
Get an SMP Touch Up
As the years go by, it’s advisable to schedule a touch-up with your scalp micropigmentation artist. A touch-up will refresh the pigmented cells in your skin and will help maintain the desired look. Your touch up appointment will be shorter than your first SMP appointment, often requiring just one session that lasts one to two hours. Additionally, the price of your touch-up will be lower than your original SMP procedure, as there is less pigment used and the appointment does not take as long.
There are only a limited amount of touch-ups that should be performed on a scalp. Too many pigments deposited may lead to skin saturation, and this can cause blow-outs, darker spots, or discoloration in the treated area.
Signs You May Need an SMP Touch-Up
Even with proper care, scalp micropigmentation can gradually fade over time. Here are some common signs that it might be time to schedule a touch-up:
- The pigment has noticeably lightened compared to your original results
- The hairline appears less defined or has lost its sharp edges
- The treated area no longer blends seamlessly with surrounding hair
- You’ve experienced significant sun exposure or skin changes
- The overall look appears patchy or uneven
- You want to refresh or slightly adjust your style
Schedule an SMP Treatment or Touch Up With Edge Scalp Ink Today
If you’re experiencing hair loss or hair thinning, Edge Scalp Ink is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain your desired scalp micropigmentation results. Whether you’re considering your first cosmetic treatment or need a touch-up after several years, our SMP specialists are here to provide an enduring solution.
Contact us today to schedule your scalp micropigmentation treatment or touch-up and enjoy the confidence and natural look that only scalp micropigmentation can provide even after five years.
