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HOW TO REDUCE SHINE FROM YOUR HEAD AFTER SMP

By SMP FOR MEN2 Comments

 

HOW TO REDUCE SHINE FROM YOUR HEAD AFTER SMP

 

After your Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) treatment, the best method to keep the treatment looking as natural as possible is to:

1. Keep your hair shaved down as low as possible
2. Reduce shine from your head after SMP

There are many different products to reduce shine from your head. I will mention some of the most important ingredients to avoid and what qualities to look for when purchasing a product.

Most importantly, avoid products that contain alcohol (which can damage or fade your SMP) or harsh chemicals because they can cause a stinging sensation after shaving. You also don’t want a super heavy, thick product that leaves a greasy feeling.

Instead, look for a product that contains natural ingredients, absorbs quickly, is lightweight, and of course, has a matte finish. These products might be labeled as anti-shine, anti-oil, matte or mattifying.

A few lotions are explicitly designed for Scalp Micropigmentation, but many over-the-counter creams will work just as well to reduce shine. Other artists or clients recommended the products I will mention. There are many more lotions not listed here only because I can’t try them all out, but at least this gives you a good idea. I reviewed products in different price ranges, and you can find these lotions either on Amazon or at Sephora stores. I also had some of my clients test them out to get a better overall review. Take into consideration that you must find what works best for you, your preference, and your specific skin type, as everyone is different.

One last thing your SMP artist mentioned for long-term care of your Scalp Micropigmentation was to use an SPF. You may apply an SPF along with your lotion of choice; remember that many SPF lotions cause a bit of shine, but skin protection is vital. There will always be a bit of shine no matter what product you use. The reason for this is because of the vellus hairs and sebaceous glands. Most of our skin is covered in tiny hairs called vellus hairs that give your skin a slightly velvety look. However, with male pattern baldness, the hair follicles shrink and turn into skin cells. This means there are no hairs at all, not even vellus hairs. The scalp also contains sebaceous glands that secrete oil. We have these glands all over our skin but in high quantity on the scalp.

1. FUSE- Cosmetic Pigmentation Serum
This lotion is lightweight and easily applied with no residue or greasy feeling on your fingers or scalp. You automatically see a difference, and the matte finish is nice! I like this lotion because the scent is faint, the cream itself is very thin, and a little goes a long way. The matte finish lasts about 5 hours before a “minimal shine” returns. Overall, I think this is a great product!
Rate: 4 out of 5
$27.95 – 4 oz ($6.99/oz) Amazon

http://Fuse Cosmetic Pigmentation Serum – Scalp Micropigmentation Aftercare – Anti Shine Fragrance Free – Made in USA 4oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WSJ2RW6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5W1BG4AMRW5KPNAXX433

2. Head Lube Matte
This lotion has a light cooling mint/menthol scent and goes on very quickly. As for shine control, the matte finish lasts only for a few hours. You can work around this by applying more mid-day. Overall, it’s not a bad product for the price; it just doesn’t last as well as the others.
Rate: 3.6 out of 5
$12.99 – 5 oz ($2.60/oz) Amazon

http://HeadBlade HeadLube Matte Moisturizer Lotion for Men (5 oz) – Leaves Head Smoothe and Grease-Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ITUN2IA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_58SNT6BS1BQXBNT1S1D3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

3. Peter Thomas Roth- Max Matte-SPF 45
This is an excellent lotion for shine control. It has a faint, pleasant sunscreen smell, and it is very lightweight. It does have that sunscreen feel when you first apply it. However, it dries nicely and gives a matte finish to your scalp for a few hours. It leaves your scalp feeling great, plus it was protected by SPF 45. The matte coverage was overall good, but you will find that you will need to reapply it again mid-day, which is also great if you are out in the sun. With that said- I would recommend this overall matte and SPF coverage for your scalp.
Rate: 4.5 out of 5
$34 – 1.7 oz ($20/oz) Sephora/Amazon

http://Peter Thomas Roth Peter Thomas Roth Max Matte Shine Control Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45, Mattifying Sunscreen For Oily Skin, Water-Resistant, 1.7 fl. oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XNV9GZT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5AF8YZ0R4EMYK2GYNV76

4. Make Up For Ever- Shine Control Step 1 Primer
This light fragrance primer gave immediate results with an instant noticeable matte finish. There was no shine under direct sunlight, and it lasted about 6 to 8 hours. It does have a slight tacky-gel feel when you first apply it, but it does dry fast and becomes lightweight. This would be the PERFECT primer to control any scalp shine! I would highly recommend this product!!
Rate: 5 out of 5
$37 – 1 oz Sephora

https://www.sephora.com/product/make-up-for-ever-step-1-primer-shine-control-P468183?skuId=2424679&icid2=products%20grid:p468183:product

MAKE UP FOR EVER - Step 1 Primer Shine Control Shine Control 1 oz / 30 ml

 

A side note is always to use shampoo when washing your scalp, not soap, because it will dry your skin out. Apply the lotion after shaving, and make sure to really rub it in and apply it on your forehead as well. A good moisturizing cream to use before bed is AVEENO, while the matting lotions can be used throughout the day. Some lotions matte don’t last all day, so you may need to reapply. Remember, a little bit of shine is acceptable. Hope this helps you find the right personalized product for you to help reduce the shine from your head after SMP treatment.

https://pureinksmp.com/services/smp-for-men/

https://youtu.be/7BC3cIIgDyo

Scalp Micropigmentation | Micropigmentación Capilar [San Diego]

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February 10, 2022

5 STEPS BEFORE YOUR SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION

By SMP FOR MENOne Comment

 

5  STEPS BEFORE YOUR SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION

Before discussing the 5 steps, you need to take before your Scalp Micropigmentation, make sure you have done your research. Pick your artist by having several consultations, looking at their work on their website and social media. Do they have work similar to what you are looking for? And speak with them; you will be spending multiple appointments, each several hours long, so make sure this is someone you feel comfortable with. Although cost is essential, don’t pick an artist for their lower fees as we all know a mistake can be costly to fix.

Now that we got that out of the way let’s go into those 5 steps

  1. Understand your treatment goals and have realistic expectations

SMP is a tattoo, not hair implantation. Whether you are looking to recreate a hairline or create density for thinning hair, it is essential to understand the limitations of SMP. Although it can be a bit daunting initially, enjoy the process by finding before and after pictures on Youtube, Instagram, or Pintrest for the hairline you would like to achieve. You may opt for a very soft hairline, a receded hairline, or a sharp edge up. If you are unsure, don’t worry; your artist is always willing to recommend a look that will best suit you.

  1. Begin to moisturize your scalp 

If you completely shave your head, we recommend starting to moisturize your scalp. You can begin days to even weeks before your appointment. A healthy scalp is the best canvas for your artist. Use a non-irritating, fragrance-free soap and moisturizer and moisturize 1-2 times per day. An easy to find and acceptable moisturizer is Aveeno. We are working at a very superficial surface, and dry, tough skin will not allow the needle to enter the skin adequately to deposit the ink. If you suffer from skin conditions, including dandruff, ensure it is well treated and under control. We are unable to work if there are any present flare-ups. If you have a dry scalp, you may need a hair scrub. In addition, If you do have any of these issues, make sure to address them before your treatment date with your artist.

AVEENO: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001459IEE/ref=cm_sw_r_oth_api_i_J2Y8BC8CCTRD6JG5GE1D

  1. Avoid using alcohol-based products.

It is best to stop using any harsh topical products on your scalp for at least 48 hours before your appointment. These products include Rogain, Toppicks, or a hair system if you wear one. We need to allow your skin to be clean and clear before your appointment.

  1. Cut your hair

If you shave, it is best to do it the night before. This way, we can minimize the redness and soreness the clippers, razors, or foil shaver may cause. It also saves on treatment time. However, if you have never shaved before and prefer us to do it, we are well equipped to provide that service for you.

  1. Eat and Hydrate

Plan on being at your appointment anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. Make sure you eat and, if possible, avoid blood thinners, like caffeine, alcohol, or aspirin.

https://pureinksmp.com/services/smp-for-men/

Scalp Micropigmentation | Micropigmentación Capilar | Hair Tattoo [San Diego]

Pictures provided by: Canva

December 19, 2021

5 IMPORTANT AFTERCARE STEPS FOR SMP

By SMP FOR MENOne Comment

5 Important aftercare steps for SMP

You are either interested in getting Scalp Micropigmentation, or you just had your treatment done; now, what do you do next. First of all, SMP is very low maintenance, and soon enough, you will be resuming your everyday life but with much more confidence and less stress because you will stop hiding underneath a hat. Following are the 5 most important aftercare steps for SMP.

STEP #1- Stop using any alcohol-based products

Read labels carefully; Rogaine and some shampoos contain alcohol, for instance, Head & Shoulders. The high alcohol content will extract the ink that was just placed. Also, consider this for long-term care; your SMP will last longer.

STEP #2- Do NOT get your head wet

You can use a shower cap or keep your head out of the water stream and avoid too much steam while showering for the first 4 days. On day 5 you may rinse your head with cold water and shave if you’d like. After day 7 you may resume routine care and shampoo your head with a mild shampoo.

STEP #3- Avoid excessive sweating

Stay away from gyms and saunas for the first 4 days. Also, gyms can be places where bacteria may be harvesting, and you want to prevent any chance of infection. If you do happen to sweat, pat your head dry very gently with a paper towel.

STEP #4- Treat your SMP gently 

There are tiny scabs attached to the pigment underneath your skin. Before your skin heals completely, these scabs need to be treated very carefully, so avoid touching or rubbing your scalp. If possible, avoid wearing a hat for the first 4 days. If you must wear a hat, make sure it is clean to prevent infection. Also, if your work requires you to wear a hardhat, I recommend carrying around several clean bandanas, wearing them loosely, and changing them often whenever moisture is present.

STEP #5- Avoid the Sun

Sun does the most damage to your skin and your SMP. Like any tattoo, the more it is exposed to the sun, the faster it will fade.

I recommend placing a dark clean towel on your pillowcase for the first week to avoid ink or oil on your pillowcase.

SMP has no actual downtime. You can walk out of the studio, and no one will know you had SMP done. You will notice some redness, and it may feel like you have a sunburn on your scalp, but that goes away in a couple of hours.

 

LONG TERM AFTERCARE

Apply a minimum of 50+ SPF whenever you know you will be out in the sun or protect your SMP with a hat. You will require touchups more frequently if you are out in the sun and the SMP begins to fade. Also, chlorinated pools can make the SMP fade quicker. On the other hand, you had SMP treatment to live a more unrestrictive life, so take off that hat and enjoy life. SMP is low maintenance, and a touchup is much less expensive than your original treatment because the foundation is there. All you need is a refresher, and you may want to get this done anywhere between 1 to 5 years. The critical point is to keep your scalp healthy; you can do this by moisturizing your scalp, and we are here to keep your SMP looking fresh.

 

AVEENO LOTION: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001459IEE/ref=cm_sw_r_oth_api_i_J2Y8BC8CCTRD6JG5GE1D

SPF MATTE LOTION : http://Peter Thomas Roth Peter Thomas Roth Max Matte Shine Control Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45, Mattifying Sunscreen For Oily Skin, Water-Resistant, 1.7 fl. oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XNV9GZT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5AF8YZ0R4EMYK2GYNV76

https://pureinksmp.com/services/smp-for-men/

HOW TO REDUCE SHINE FROM YOUR HEAD AFTER SMP

Scalp Micropigmentation | Micropigmentación Capilar | Hair Tattoo [San Diego]

Pictures provided by: Canva

December 18, 2021

WHAT IS SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?

By SMP FOR MEN5 Comments

WHAT IS SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?

According to a 2014 survey by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, approximately 35 million men and 21 million women suffer from hair loss. It is normal to lose about 50 to 100 scalp hairs each day. If you start to find more than that falling out, say in your hairbrush, clothing, sink, or tub, and as well notice your hair generally thinning, you may be experiencing hair loss.

Harvard Health has categorized some of these reasons for hair loss:

⦁ Hereditary pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia: Most typical type of hair loss, for some men, can even begin during their teenage years
⦁ Telogen effluvium: Occurs two to three months after a significant bodily stress
⦁ Drug side effects: commonly affect the entire head.
⦁ Symptom of a medical illness: either from a deficiency, imbalance, or systemic disease
⦁ Tinea capitis: A fungal infection of the scalp
⦁ Alopecia areata: An autoimmune disease
⦁ Traumatic alopecia: caused by hairdressing techniques or over-treatment with strong chemicals

If you are struggling with hair loss, then this blog is for you. Many are unaware of many services, treatments, and hair systems available to them. Some of these treatments can become very costly. What if I told you I have a solution that won’t break the bank and does not require topical medications or surgery.

That’s correct; scalp micropigmentation, known as SMP, can be your perfect solution. I will help answer any questions you may have in regards to this topic. I also had many unanswered questions about SMP because I also suffer from hereditary female pattern hair loss.

I will explain what scalp micropigmentation is, how it is applied and who is a candidate for scalp micropigmentation.

Scalp micropigmentation is the simulation of hair follicles using micro tattoos. SMP can give the look of a recently shaved hairstyle or create the illusion of density to fine thin hair. In these cases, the micro tattoos are placed around the existing hair without causing damage.

Scalp micropigmentation is both suitable for men and women.

After your treatment, you can style your hair without the concern that your scalp will be as visible as when you come out of a swimming pool. The point is to reduce the contrast between the scalp and the existing hair.

The pigment is deposited on the superficial layer of the scalp, causing very minimal discomfort. SMP is not the same as a traditional tattoo; the pigment, needles, and machine are different. We use an ample selection of colors and scales of gray to combine with all skin colors.

SMP is applied over three sessions, and each session can last from one to four hours, depending on the amount of coverage the client requires. The results will be seen immediately. We use a gradual technique to assure proper consistency and density. Every client is different, and we will find a style that will suit you. We can produce a defined hairline, one much softer and natural or one in between.

Scalp micropigmentation can also be used to camouflage alopecia or cover scars that were caused by hair transplants or accidents.

The healing time after SMP treatment is not long at all. You will notice redness and a bit of swelling the first day after treatment. You will need to avoid the sun at all costs and avoid sweating for the first week after each session.

It is essential to understand that scalp micropigmentation is not hair, nor will it help regrow hair; it is simply a type of tattoo. But it will not look like a tattoo; it will look like hair follicles.

It fades differently compared to a traditional tattoo, in a more natural form. It will also not turn blue over time.

On a pain scale between one to ten, most clients feel a two or three. Some clients say it feels as if their scalp is being scratched and sometimes even fall asleep.

We do not recommend scalp micropigmentation if you suffer from skin conditions.

https://pureinksmp.com/services/smp-for-men/

Pictures provided by: Canva

Scalp Micropigmentation | Micropigmentación Capilar | Hair Tattoo [San Diego]

October 4, 2021

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