SMP – Our Techniques

Dr Bertram Medical-Grade SMP performed with Precision & Safety.

Home » SMP – Our Techniques

Non-Medical Office Procedure

Last Updated: 6 Nov 2025

Scalp Micropigmentation is conducted as a day procedure with the same clinical standards applied to surgical interventions.
The process involves the precise application of specialized pigments using micro-fine needles to create the appearance of natural hair follicles.
Each aspect of the procedure, from needle selection to pigment formulation, is carefully customized based on the specific treatment area, individual skin characteristics, and desired aesthetic outcome.

Consultation for Procedures

For individuals seeking information about our medical-grade SMP, an initial online assessment is available through our Whatsapp contact.
The SMP team at Dr Bertram Hair Transplant provides a factual assessment of your condition and discusses potential treatment approaches.
A formal meeting with our consultants can be arranged for cases where SMP may be appropriate.

Technical Methodology

East Meets West – Best of SMP Technique

In 2011 we heard of “Scalp Micropigmentation”, a non-surgical treatment for hair loss. Similar to tattoo, a small amount of pigment specifically manufactured for SMP is delivered to the very top dermal layer of the skin. Deeply impressed by the result, we decided to include SMP in our service. Based on his work we gradually developed our own technique. Since 2012 we have been lSMP techniques.

Many practitioners claim that SMP is different from tattoo. But what are the differences? The oldest evidence of human tattoos is believed to be from 3370 BC. With 5,100 years of history tattoo is obviously a safe way in coloring the human skin, if performed properly. Our current technique has been developed based on the many different kinds of SMP and tattoo techniques we learned.

We use tested pigments that less likely to blur or fade overtime. The needles we use penetrate much deeper than other techniques for better and lasting result. Our staff has been fully trained overseas in the latest technique.

East

Sak-Yant tattooing is a form of tattooing originally introduced from the Khmer Empire. It remains popularin Cambodia and Thailand, and becomes a trend after Angelina Jolie showed off her back tattoos at ‘First They Killed My Father’ premiere in NYC.

Sak-Yant consists of sacred geometrical, animal and deity designs accompanied by Pali phrases that offer power, protection, fortune, charisma and other benefits for the bearer.

Sak-yant are traditionally tattooed by Magic Practitioners or Monks using a metal rod sharpened to a point called a khem Sak. We learned the Khem Sak technique from a Buddist monk in the Temple.

West

Dr William Rassman is the founder of the NHI Medical in USA and a world leader in hair transplant technology. He is recognized as “Father in FUE” and “Pioneer in SMP”. In 2013 Dr Rassman arranged Live Patient SMP Demonstration for us in his Los Angeles office.

Pigment Application Techniques

Our approach incorporates principles from both modern tattooing equipment and traditional techniques, adapted specifically for medical scalp application.
We utilize advanced rotary machines that provide consistent needle movement and depth control, essential for creating uniform pigment deposition.
The equipment selection focuses on devices that offer precision and stability, ensuring each micro-dot replicates the natural appearance of hair follicles while minimizing tissue trauma.

Customized Treatment Parameters

Each procedure is tailored through careful consideration of multiple technical factors.
Needle sizes are selected based on the specific scalp area being treated, with finer needles used along hairlines and slightly larger sizes for broader coverage areas.
Penetration depth is precisely controlled to place pigment in the optimal dermal layer for both retention and natural appearance.
The angle of application follows natural hair growth patterns, and pigment colors are custom-mixed to match the patient’s natural hair color and skin tone.

How Is Our SMP Performed

Our SMP is affordable and performed as a Day Procedure. A proprietary formula of pigment (ink) is applied to the scalp with micro-fine needles using an electric device.

Needle sizes, penetration depths, angles, pigment colors and distribution rates are selected carefully depending on:

the specific area of the scalp being treated at the time,
the skin tone of the individual, and
the desired final appearance.

This is to create thousands of tiny impressions in giving the illusion of fuller hair in a balding scalp.

Medical-Grade Materials

Our Ink

Why Choosing the Right Ink is Critical ?

Ink is the “end-all-be-all” when it comes to the best in SMP results.
Only the highest quality of ink would achieve natural looking result that last for years.
We therefore from trial and error selected an ink with a high pigment load and is not packed with fillers.

Orgainic

Our Ink is completely organic.

Vegan

Our Ink is completely vegan safe.

Safe

Our manufacturer in USA has been producing pigments since 1995. Our ink is precisely custom-made to reduce complications such as infection, skin allergy, and scar. The Safety Data of our Ink which meet the EU-Regulations:

Contains no REACH substances with Annex XVII restrictions;
Contains no substance on the REACH candidate list;
Contains no REACH Annex XIV substances;
Contains no substance subject to REGULATION (EU) No 649/2012 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 4 July 2012 concerningthe export and import of hazardous chemicals;
Substance(s) are not subject to Regulation (EC) No 850/2004 of the European Parliamentand of the Council of 29 April 2004 on persistent organic pollutants and amending Directive 79/117/EEC

No Carcinogens

Testing of aromatic amines with carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic and sensitising properties was negative according to CoE Resolution ResAP (2008).

Our SMP Safety Protocols

Comfort Management

To ensure patient comfort while maintaining procedural efficacy, we perform SMP under Level One Conscious Sedation with local anesthesia.
This approach allows for adequate pigment depth placement—essential for long-lasting results—while eliminating the discomfort associated with needle penetration.
The controlled depth achieved through proper anesthesia enables optimal pigment retention without compromising patient comfort during the procedure.

Infection Control Measures

The procedure is conducted in an aseptic clinical environment using single-use disposable equipment to prevent cross-contamination.
All patients undergo appropriate medical screening.
Our infection control protocol follows medical standards that typically eliminate the need for routine antibiotic prophylaxis while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Post-Treatment Care Protocol

Proper aftercare is essential for optimal healing and long-term color retention.
Patients receive specific instructions including avoiding water exposure, steam rooms, and swimming pools for the first four days post-treatment.
Sun protection is strongly emphasized, with recommendations to wear protective headwear when outdoors, as reduced sun exposure significantly improves pigment longevity.
Moisturizer application is advised to soothe the treated area and support the healing process, ensuring the best possible outcome from the procedure.

conditions of use

Medical Disclaimer

Information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be interpreted as promotional material or as claims of superiority over other techniques or providers.

Individual results may vary, and no outcome can be guaranteed. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about medical treatment.

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.