Now you have agreed to go ahead with SMP treatment, arriving at the clinic to start the treatment can seem pretty daunting at first. Although you would have already had a free consultation, you will naturally have some nerves once you arrive for the first scalp micropigmentation session.
Skalp SMP is completed in three sessions. Many people ask what they should expect when they arrive for their first Scalp Micropigmentation session. We have an FAQ page answering the most common SMP questions, which can help you to prepare for the treatment as a whole. But if you know what’s to come at your first session then you will feel more relaxed and confident. Here is an in-depth review of what to expect at your first SMP session.
1. A warm introduction
When you arrive for your first scalp micropigmentation session the first step is to fill out some paperwork and make a payment. After this, you will discuss your treatment options with your chosen practitioner, get an idea of your desired look and agree on your hairline style. We offer a free virtual mock-up at every consultation, so if you have that to hand it may help to discuss your preferred look. We want you to feel completely comfortable before we begin. You can ask any questions you may have and our practitioners are always happy to help. They all have scalp micropigmentation themselves so have first-hand experience to offer.
2. Designing your new hairline
Once you have finished the discussion it’s time to outline your new hairline. The practitioner will use either wax or white makeup pencil to draw the hairline on your scalp. This allows you to check it in the mirror and adjust it until you are satisfied. It may take a little while to find the exact placement. But don’t worry as this is completely normal and it’s important to get it right.
3. Getting prepared
Next, the practitioner will choose the correct pigment to color match and assess the density required. They will also need to check your scalp for any scars or blemishes and discuss if you want to keep them. It is entirely up to you if you wish to keep your small scars in place, alternatively, they can be camouflaged with the SMP treatment. Sometimes it is a good idea to leave them to further enhance the authenticity of the micropigmentation.
4. Starting the Scalp Micropigmentation treatment
Once all of this is complete the practitioner will prepare the pigment and machine, and begin the treatment.
The first Scalp Micropigmentation session lasts anywhere between two to four hours, depending on the size of the area to treat (including the paperwork, hairline prep, and initial discussion)
You will sit upright or lie down on a padded massage chair during each session. We advise you to wear loose clothing so you can relax and be comfortable. The first SMP session is where the first ‘layer’ of pigmentation is applied to the scalp. It creates the outline for the practitioner to follow in the second and third sessions.
5. Staying comfortable & enjoying the process
Some people are concerned that SMP will hurt. However, you’ll notice that it barely causes any pain once you adjust to the sensation; the longer you are in the session, the less it will bother you.
Ways to pass the time during your first Scalp Micro session :
- bring along a book to read
- use earphones to listen to an audiobook or podcast
- chat with your practitioner.
- request your own music to be played out loud
- close your eyes and rest
- listen to a meditation
During the treatment, your practitioner will take regular breaks to help them remain focused and allow you to stretch.
This gives you around 15-30 minutes to go to the toilet, take a smoking break, get lunch or grab a drink of coffee or water. If you want to check on the progress there is usually a hand mirror available you can use.
6. Finishing up the first session
Once finished, the practitioner will discuss what was achieved in the first session and go over any notes for next time. There will be at least a week in-between your first Scalp Micropigmentation session and the second, to allow your skin to heal and pigmentation to settle.
Finally, you will be provided with some protective AnD cream and run through the aftercare advice. Before saying goodbye you can confirm your second session date, then you are all set.
What will your SMP treatment look like after the first session?
The first session will be a lighter and less ‘full’ version of the final result. You may have a higher hairline after the first session than the desired look so that you can gradually lower it.
Updated 19th May 2022.
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