Aftercare for Scalp Micropigmentation
Scalp micropigmentation heals quickly and lasts several years. However, like any tattoo, there are certain measures you should take to support the healing process following the procedure.
In this blog, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about aftercare for scalp micropigmentation and provide instructions for how to care for your hair tattoo, from immediately after the procedure to months and years down the road.
It should be said though, that every patient is unique. We provide general aftercare instructions below, but for the best possible results, you should consult with your doctor or technician for a personalized care regimen. (We provide this when you choose Medical Tattoo Centers of America!)
Can I Wash My Hair After Scalp Micropigmentation?
If possible, don’t wash your head for at least four days after scalp micropigmentation. It’s normal for your hair tattoo to have some scabbing during the first few days of the healing process, so if you wash your head while it’s scabbing and peel scabs off, you may disrupt the healing process and cause scarring.
We can’t stress it enough: Let your scabs heal naturally!
What Happens If You Sweat After Scalp Micropigmentation?
Activities that promote sweating should be avoided after scalp micropigmentation for the same reason that you shouldn’t wash your head: It can hinder your scalp’s healing process and affect the quality of your results.
If you sweat heavily in the first few days after scalp micropigmentation, it’s possible that the pigment will be affected, because the tattoo hasn’t had enough time to heal.
How Long Does Scalp Micropigmentation Take to Heal?
Scalp micropigmentation utilizes very thin needles to deposit pigment in the outermost layer of your skin, the epidermis. When the tiny points perforate your skin, your body responds by forming scabs within hours, covering the small wounds to prevent microorganisms from entering your skin. Along with scabbing, many scalp micropigmentation patients experience redness and inflammation.
The time it takes for redness and inflammation to subside and scabs to heal naturally varies from patient to patient. In general, you can expect this to happen by the end of the week after your appointment.
However, even though your tattoo may look healed after a week, there are certain activities you should avoid for about a month (more on that in the aftercare instructions below).
Does Scalp Micropigmentation Fade?
Yes, scalp micropigmentation fades even though it’s considered permanent.That’s when your aftercare is scheduling a touch-up!
Depending on your lifestyle and aftercare experience, your male or female scalp micropigmentation may need a touch up after three to seven years.
Factors that contribute to your hair tattoo’s lifespan include:
● Your immune system
● The type of pigment used
● Quality of the original procedure and touch-ups
● Sun and UV ray exposure
Aftercare Instructions for Scalp Micropigmentation
Carefully following our aftercare instructions will help ensure that your hair tattoo heals nicely and looks great for as long as possible.
For the first few days after your procedure:
● Try not to touch, rub, or scratch your scalp.
● Do not wash your head.
● Avoid sun exposure.
● Do not exercise or do anything to cause profuse sweating.
About five days to a week after your procedure, you can start getting back into your normal routine:
● By day five, you can wash your scalp with warm water and gentle soap.
● Start using a non-scented moisturizer twice a day to prevent dryness.
● You can wear hats and beanies again.
● Avoid wet shaving with razor blades for 10 days after the procedure.
Long-term aftercare:
● For a month after your treatment, avoid pools, saltwater, saunas, and steam rooms.
● Avoid heavy sun exposure to your scalp from now on. UV rays are damaging for the treated area.
● Wash your head with fragrance-free, antibacterial soap for the first 30 days.
● Use an exfoliating cleanser to remove dead cells and keep your tattoo looking fresh.
● Avoid any skin/hair products with a high amount of alcohol.
Free Consultation for Scalp Micropigmentation in the Twin Cities
Medical Tattoo Centers of America offers a variety of innovative hair loss solutions, including scalp micropigmentation and tricopigmentation. These non-invasive procedures are designed to help our patients gain the illusion of thicker, fuller hair. We’re happy to recommend the ideal hair loss solution for your unique needs and condition. Schedule a free consultation today!