Hair loss solution offering both scalp micropigmentation and hair transplants as effective options. SMP creates an illusion of thicker hair with pigment deposits, while hair transplant restores the natural growth of hair by relocating follicles. This guide will compare both treatments on the basis of their benefits, longevity, and suitability for different individuals.
What is Scalp Micropigmentation?
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is considered to be a non-invasive cosmetic process that includes the need for natural pigmentation on the epidermis layer of the scalp. This procedure creates a hair tattoo resembling a fresh and induction cut or provides density to thin hair. Such a procedure requires a skilled technician using specialized equipment to create an illusion of hair follicles on the scalp. After the completion of this process, it gives the appearance of a natural hairline, irrespective of hair loss.
What is the Hair Transplantation process?
Hair transplant is a widely used solution for hair loss issues all over the world. This process involves moving hair follicles from one part to the other part of the scalp which is to cover the balding area. After the completion of the process, the transplanted hair grows like other natural hair allowing the person to style their hair as they please. The hair transplant process can also be taken as a successful option for people preferring traditional looks.
Scalp Micropigmentation as an Alternative to Hair Transplant
Scalp micropigmentation is undoubtedly one of the most often-used non-surgical hair treatments. It lasts for quite a long period. Depending on a person’s course of therapy, the effects will last for 3 to 6 years. A scalp can be revitalized with just a little touch-up session. Touch-ups don’t need to be done frequently and are simple to perform. According to a study, scalp micropigmentation showed a 90-95% success rate with patients. This process is safe because it guarantees visible and long-lasting results.
On the contrary, a hair transplant procedure also comes with certain benefits such as offering a permanent solution for hair loss, natural-looking results, and boosting the self-confidence of an individual. This process also required very minimal maintenance and was cost-effective in the long run. It involves the transplantation of healthy hair follicles from the areas that are resistant to hair loss to balding areas.
Risks of Scalp Micropigmentation and Hair Transplant
In a 2021 study, people receiving SMP procedures did not face any adverse health effects but few of the participants had an allergic reaction. In a questionnaire, it was revealed that 80% of the participants were satisfied with the outcomes of SMP, and all participants recommended that procedure to those who are facing baldness issues. SMP shows a very high success rate as compared to hair transplant as it does not rely on the hair follicle health. It is a very delicate and complex process that requires good care, expertise, and skills. Such a procedure must be done by an expert who is a board-certified specialist to ensure successful results.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) listed the following risks of SMP process:
- Infection: Contaminated ink or unsterile equipment can transmit infections such as hepatitis, HIV, and bacterial skin infections.
- Allergic reactions: Allergic reaction is rarely seen, but few people might have an allergy due to pigments present in ink.
- Keloid formation: If people are vulnerable to keloid scars, they are considered to be suitable candidates for SMP. The keloid scars are thick, few people might develop raised scars after trauma or injury on the skin.
According to researchers, the demographic hair transplant trends show in 2022 approximately 87.3% of hair implantation recipients were found to be male. While a very small number of women used this procedure to restore their hair, there is a significant increase in female patients seeking this process. The hair transplant procedure is also risky as it comes with different complications such as:
- Scarring: In hair transplant, modern techniques such as FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) are used to minimize scarring, but some scars are unavoidable, especially when it comes to older techniques like FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation).
- Infection: After the surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at recipient or donor sites.
- Nerve damage: In a few cases, nerve damage can result in numbness or altered sensation in the scalp.
- Bleeding: Bleeding to some extent can occur during and after the process, but excessive bleeding might also occur.
Conclusion
Scalp micropigmentation and hair transplant provide distinct solutions for hair loss with distinct advantages. SMP is a non-invasive and low-maintenance hairline tattooing process that comes with a high success rate. This process is also ideal for people looking for an illusion of density without surgery. Hair transplants provide a permanent look but it comes with high costs, risks, and recovery time. Therefore, SMP is the better option for individuals looking for a quicker, safer, and affordable hair restoration process.
