How to Make Your Scalp Tattoo More Vibrant

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a popular method for permanently creating the appearance of a buzz-cut hair style. Little dots resembling hair follicles are tattooed onto the scalp to put the hairline back where it belongs and conceal any bald spots. While SMP is considered a permanent remedy, the ink may begin to fade after a few years, which can decrease the appearance of thickened hair. It can be touched up, but there are ways to keep it as vibrant as possible for longer to prolong the need for a touch up.

In order to prevent fading and keep your micropigmentation looking good, follow these care recommendations.

Ensure Your Artist Uses the Best Quality SMP Ink

Scalp micropigmentation ink is not the same thing as regular tattoo ink. It expands differently into the skin because its purpose is to mimic the appearance of hair follicles. Confirm with your SMP artist that a specially formulated and thoroughly tested SMP specialized ink like Folicule’s SMP Ink is used so that you get the best-looking micropigmentation from the start. The Folicule SMP ink also contains natural ingredients to reduce inflammation and support optimal healing after the procedure. 

Don’t Touch Your New ‘Do

Tattoos are tiny open wounds until they’ve had time to heal. Not only will your scalp be sensitive to touch for a few days, but it will also be more susceptible to infection with so many little openings for bacteria to get through. Avoid touching, scratching, combing, and exposing your scalp to water and sunlight for 3-5 days after the procedure as these actions can increase the risk of inflammation and bacterial infections. Scratching the area before it’s completely healed can pull the ink from the skin

Wait to Wash

After about 5 days, you can wash your scalp with a gentle cleanser. Your skin is due to be cleaned by this point, but harsher products like hair-growth ointments or dandruff shampoos can be irritating on the skin while it’s healing. This is a great time to use Folicule Scalp Cleanser as it contains ingredients that are gentler on the scalp. Tea tree oil and jojoba seed oil can help decrease redness and inflammation for a smoother healing process. 

Wait at least ten days before using harsher products on your scalp. If you are scheduled for several consecutive treatments, it is likely that they are around 10 days apart, in which case it would be best to continue to use the gentler Folicule Scalp Cleanser throughout the entire scalp micropigmentation process.

Limit Sun Exposure

The sun is a tattoo’s worst enemy. Even micropigmentation ink can be affected by extended sun exposure. After your scalp micropigmentation is fully healed, a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen should be used and frequently reapplied to your scalp during your time in the sun. Wearing a hat is also a great option for reducing UV ray exposure to your SMP ink.

For brief periods of time in the sun where protection from exposure is not needed, you can use Folicule Scalp Anti-Shine to reduce the sun’s shiny glare on your skin. This product is also beneficial for reducing shine in indoor lighting.

Moisturize

All tattoo artists will agree that moisturizing a tattoo is one of the best ways to keep it looking new and vibrant. For long-term care, use Folicule Scalp Mattifying Moisturizer to keep the skin and ink looking their best while also reducing shine.

Thanks to their natural ingredients, Folicule products are the healthiest choice for the entire SMP process, from preparing for your first procedure to maintaining your ink for the years to come. For more information about how these products can improve your scalp micropigmentation experience, please visit our website at folicule.com.