What is SMP

SMP is not tattoo and rquires specially prepared SMP-pigments.

20 Years of Expertise : Every Step Performed in Hong Kong By Doctors

Is SMP a permanent tattoo like body art?

No. While SMP uses a tattooing process, it is a distinct specialized cosmetic technique. It uses different tools, pigments, and depth than traditional tattoos. Critically, SMP pigments are designed to soften and fade naturally over 4-6 years, allowing for future adjustments, whereas traditional tattoo ink is permanent and can discolor.

Sara’s Comment:

SMP is a non-surgical, medical-grade cosmetic procedure that implants specialized pigment into the scalp to replicate the appearance of hair follicles. It creates immediate visual results—such as the look of a buzzed head and added density with no downtime. Recognized by the ISHRS as a cornerstone hair loss remedy, SMP is a temporary cosmetic enhancement that typically lasts 4-6 years before requiring a touch-up.

Content-index

4 Advantages of Dr Bertram's SMP

1. No Surgery No Scarring
  • No need to cut any scalp tissue
  • Minimally invasive
  • No unsightly scar
  • Immediate Visual Effects
2. Safe & Pain Free
  • Safe when done by trained professionals using sterile tools and pigments.
  • performed under local anesthesia
  • Deeper needling, longer ink retention
3. Save Money
  • Cheaper than hair transplant
  • Save money – less hair fibre needed
  • Last up to 4–6 years with touch-ups
4. Minimal Downtime
  • Immediate results with no downtime.
  • Reume work next day
  • Hairwash allowed next day

How does SMP work to create the appearance of hair?

A trained practitioner uses a micro-needle to deposit tiny, layered dots of pigment into the superficial dermis of the scalp. Each dot is strategically placed to mimic the shadow of a natural hair follicle at the skin’s surface. The pigment color is carefully matched to your complexion and any existing hair to create a seamless, undetectable result.

How does SMP differ from a traditional body tattoo?

SMP is a specialized cosmetic procedure requiring distinct tools, techniques, and expertise.

  • Objective: SMP uses tiny, layered dots of pigment to mimic hair follicles from the skin’s surface. Traditional tattoos create solid lines or shaded artwork.

  • Technique & Depth: Pigment is placed at a more superficial, consistent depth in the upper dermis for a soft, natural look.

  • Pigment Formula: We use organic, iron-oxide-based pigments formulated to cool to a natural gray/black hue over time, unlike tattoo ink which can turn blue or green.

  • Medical Context: Performed in a clinical setting by practitioners trained in scalp anatomy and hairline design.

What are the primary uses and benefits of SMP?

SMP is a versatile tool for both men and women, offering immediate cosmetic improvement.

  • For Extensive Baldness: Creates the clean, defined look of a full, closely shaved head.

  • For Thinning Hair (Diffuse Alopecia): Adds the visual illusion of density between existing hairs, reducing scalp show-through.

  • For Scar Camouflage: Effectively conceals scars from FUT surgery, FUE procedures, or injuries.

  • Key Benefits: No surgery or downtime, immediate results, and a low-maintenance solution that enhances confidence.

Is SMP the right procedure for your hair loss concerns?

SMP is a versatile solution for both men and women, but it is not a substitute for hair growth. It is ideal for creating the illusion of shaved-head stubble, adding density to thinning hair, or camouflaging scars from previous transplants or injuries. A consultation determines if your goals—such as reducing scalp visibility or masking scars—align with what SMP can achieve.

What can you expect during and after the SMP procedure?

The process is methodical and typically requires 1-2 sessions for optimal results.

  • Consultation & Design: We map your hairline and plan pigment placement based on your facial structure and goals.

  • Procedure: Using sterile, single-use micro-needles, pigment is deposited in multiple layers. Topical anesthetic ensures comfort. Each session lasts 2-4 hours.

  • Immediate Aftermath: The pigment will appear darker and more intense for 5-7 days before softening as the skin heals.

  • Healing & Final Look: Minor flaking occurs within a week. The true, softened result is visible after 10-14 days. A second session is usually needed 4-6 weeks later to perfect density and color match.

What is the procedure and maintenance like?

SMP is a multi-session process performed in a clinical setting.

  • The Process: Typically requires 2-3 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to build up density and perfect the color match. A topical anesthetic is used for comfort.

  • Healing: Mild redness subsides within hours. Pigment appears darker for 5-7 days before softening to its final tone as the skin heals.

  • Longevity & Maintenance: Results last 4-6 years on average. Fading is gradual and natural. Sun protection (SPF 50+) is crucial to prolong results. Periodic touch-ups are recommended to maintain optimal appearance.

How does SMP fit within the complete hair restoration toolkit?

The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) describes SMP, FUE, and FUT as the “Triple Crown” of hair loss solutions. SMP is often used:

  • As a Standalone Solution: For clients who prefer a buzzed aesthetic or are not candidates for surgery.

  • As a Complementary Procedure: To enhance the density and definition of a hair transplant result or to fully conceal the donor scar from an FUT procedure.

Key Takeaways

  • Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedure: SMP is a specialized form of medical tattooing that creates the illusion of hair follicles or density.

  • Temporary by Design: Unlike traditional tattoos, SMP pigments are formulated to soften and fade over 4-6 years, allowing for future adjustments as styles or hair loss changes.

  • Versatile Application: It is effective for bald head styling, density enhancement, and scar camouflage.

  • Part of the Modern Toolkit: Recognized by the ISHRS as a core hair loss remedy, it is often combined with surgical techniques for comprehensive results.

  • Requires Professional Expertise: Optimal results depend on a practitioner skilled in color matching, hairline design, and follicular replication.

  • Long-Term Maintenance: Sun protection is critical to preserve pigment, and periodic touch-ups may be necessary over the years.

Considering SMP? Get a Professional Assessment.

An ethical SMP consultation will determine if it’s the right solution for your goals. Send clear photos of your scalp for a free preliminary review. Our specialists will explain what realistic outcomes SMP can provide for your specific situation and how it could integrate into your overall hair restoration plan.

36

MEDICAL - DISCLAIMERS

Images & Information shown are for reference only

Information on this website is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute personalized medical advice. It is not intended to promote our service or imply superiority over another.

Individual results in hair restoration vary significantly and no outcome can be guaranteed. The before-and-after images shown represent possible results — not promises. We recommend seeking independent medical advice to discuss your options … Read More

Pre-Consultation Review

Ensure You're a Good Candidate for hair transplant

Why pay for a consultation if you’re not a candidate? Start with our free WhatsApp assessment — the first step in our ‘No-Regret’ protocol to see if hair transplant is a realistic solution for your hair loss.

Still Have Questions ?

If you want to get a personalized answer from our medical team, you can reach us using this form here. We will cantact you as soon as possible.

Our Quality & Safety Standards

Our practice adheres to guidelines established by leading international organizations in Hair Restoration.

ISHRS

International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery is the leading global medical association that establishes international practice standards and patient safety protocols.

ABHRS

The American Board of Hair restoration Surgery represents the highest standard. To maintain rigorous certification requirements the physician must demonstrate surgical expertise.

WFI

Worls FUE InstituteI serves as the premier educational body focused exclusively on Follicular Unit Extraction methodology. The institute ensures consistent application of safe FUE.

This site is registered on wpml.org as a development site. Switch to a production site key to remove this banner.