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Frequently asked questions
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How do you design the perfect hairline for SMP?Choosing the right hairline is a very personal process. We believe that each individual hairline, shape and softness should be completely bespoke to the individual. We have a specific method that will ensure that any hairline you do choose will be the most natural for you, this is included as part of your consultation. You can also reference any of the work you see from our previous clients. With your ideas and our expertise, we will work together to build your dream hairline.
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Do you match the direction of natural hair growth with SMP?Not exactly. While we consider your natural hairline and overall pattern, the goal of SMP—especially with our “Undetectable” approach—is to create a result that looks organic, not overly uniform. The scalp is treated like a blank canvas, and we use carefully placed, randomized impressions to mimic the natural density and flow of hair growth. Amie’s artistry is what brings the treatment to life, ensuring each result is tailored specifically to your head and looks effortlessly real.
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Do I need to shave my head for Scalp Micropigmentation?For optimal results, we typically recommend shaving your hair down before treatment—especially if you're going for a full SMP look. If you're receiving a density treatment to fill in thinning areas, you can grow your hair back afterward or may not need to remove any hair. . While it's possible to perform SMP through longer hair, doing so can sometimes affect how well the results hold and appear. Not sure what’s best for you? Book a free consultation and we’ll guide you.
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Does scalp micropigmentation work on darker skin tones?Absolutely. Scalp Micropigmentation works on all skin tones. For darker skin tones, there is less contrast with the pigment, so just be patient with your results and trust the process.
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Can I get Scalp Micropigmentation after a hair transplant?Yes—SMP is a great way to enhance the results of a hair transplant by adding the appearance of additional density, especially in the donor or thinning areas. We typically recommend waiting 6 to 12 months after your transplant to allow the scalp to fully heal before beginning SMP.
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Is Scalp Micropigmentation a safe treatment?Yes—SMP is a very low-risk, non-invasive procedure with minimal side effects or complications when performed by a trained professional. Amie is a licensed and experienced practitioner with years of expertise in scalp micropigmentation, so you can feel confident you're in capable hands. If you have any specific health concerns, we always recommend checking with your doctor before beginning treatment. We're also happy to answer all your questions during a free consultation to make sure you feel completely informed and comfortable moving forward.
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Will SMP damage my existing hair or interfere with hair growth?Not at all. SMP does not harm existing hair or follicles—in fact, the micro-needling process can sometimes even encourage hair growth by stimulating the scalp. Amie brings a deep understanding of hair and scalp health to every treatment, and her expertise allows her to assess your unique situation and offer guidance that supports both your results and overall hair wellness.
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Is Scalp Micropigmentation permanent?Yes, SMP is considered a permanent solution. However, over time—typically between 2 to 5 years—you may notice some gradual fading. While it won’t completely disappear, a touch-up can refresh the look if needed. Some clients also choose to remove previous SMP work done elsewhere using laser treatments before starting fresh with Amie. If that’s your situation, we’re happy to guide you through starting again with a clean slate.
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Does SMP color fade or change over time?The pigment used in SMP is designed to retain its tone and not change color once healed. That said, slight shifts in appearance can occur depending on your skin's undertones—this is rare and usually only happens if the pigment is placed too deeply or applied too heavily. When done correctly by an experienced artist, your results will fade gradually over time without any unexpected color changes.
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How is SMP different from a traditional tattoo?While both SMP and traditional tattoos involve placing pigment into the skin, SMP is a highly specialized technique designed to mimic the look of natural hair follicles. It uses different tools, pigments, and depth to achieve a realistic, hair-like effect. As with any tattooing procedure, it’s important to thoroughly research your artist and ensure they have experience specifically in Scalp Micropigmentation before moving forward.
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What is scalp micropigmentation (SMP) and how does it work?Scalp Micropigmentation, or SMP, is a cosmetic tattoo that mimics the look of natural hair follicles. It’s a great option for people experiencing thinning hair or hair loss. Using a specialized machine, tiny pigment dots are placed in the scalp to create the illusion of a fuller head of hair or a clean, freshly shaved look. It’s non-surgical, long-lasting, and works well for all hair types and skin tones.
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What to Expect During an SMP ConsultationYou can get in touch with us by phone, text, or by filling out the consultation form on our website. Once we hear from you, someone from our team will follow up to schedule a time for you to chat with Amie. Consultations are completely free and can be done in person or over a video call—whatever’s easiest for you. There’s absolutely no pressure to book. During your consult, Amie will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and offer honest, personalized recommendations based on your hair goals and lifestyle. It’s the perfect time to learn more about the treatment and what kind of results you can expect. Ready to take the first step? You can request your consultation [here].
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Is Scalp Micropigmentation Right for You?If you're experiencing hair loss and want a non-surgical, long-lasting solution, Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) might be exactly what you're looking for. This treatment is versatile and effective for a variety of hair loss concerns, including: • Male-pattern baldness – Creates the look of a clean, buzzed haircut. • Thinning hair – Adds the illusion of fullness by blending pigment into the scalp. • Alopecia – Helps camouflage areas of patchy or unpredictable hair loss. • Transplant scars – Covers scarring from previous FUT or FUE procedures. SMP isn’t one-size-fits-all, so we offer free consultations to make sure it's the right fit for your goals. Let’s talk about what’s possible for you.
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Is SMP painful, and what should I expect?Most clients describe the sensation of Scalp Micropigmentation as mildly uncomfortable, typically rating it between a 2 and 5 out of 10 on the pain scale. While the procedure isn’t considered painful, sessions can last up to 3–4 hours, so it's normal to feel a little fatigued. You're always welcome to take breaks—your comfort is a top priority. We’ll be with you every step of the way to make sure the experience is as easy and relaxed as possible.
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How much does SMP cost?The cost of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) varies depending on the amount of coverage needed, but most clients can expect to invest between $1,200 and $3,500. A personalized quote is provided after a consultation to assess your hair loss pattern, density goals, and desired style. If you are interested in this service, a consultation is required before booking.
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When will I see the final results of SMP?You’ll notice a visible difference right after your first session, but the most dramatic change typically happens after the second. The full treatment process usually wraps up within 30 to 45 days, giving your scalp time to heal between sessions and allowing us to layer in detail and density for a natural-looking finish.
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How long does the SMP process take?Scalp Micropigmentation typically takes three sessions to achieve the final result, with each appointment lasting about 3 hours. We usually schedule the second session about 1 to 2 weeks after the first to quickly build up density and give you a more complete, natural-looking appearance early in the process. The third and final session is spaced out a bit more—usually 3 to 4 weeks later—to allow the scalp time to heal and for us to fine-tune the details. Your exact timeline may vary depending on your needs, and we’ll go over everything in detail during your consultation.
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Can I work out after getting SMP?Yes—but it's important to give your scalp time to heal. While we understand the urge to jump right back into your routine, especially if you’re active, we strongly recommend avoiding intense workouts and sweating for the first 4 days after your session. Sweat contains salt, which can interfere with how the pigment settles and may affect your final results. SMP is an investment in yourself, and giving your scalp proper time to recover helps ensure the best outcome. Don’t worry—we’ll provide full aftercare instructions and ongoing support as part of your treatment plan.
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Will my scalp be red or sore after SMP, and how long does it last?Mild redness is completely normal after your SMP session. For most people, it fades within 6 to 24 hours, though in some cases it can last up to 72 hours. The area might feel slightly sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions and are here to support you every step of the way to make sure your healing goes smoothly.
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How much does SMP cost at Sovereign SMP?We know pricing plays a big role in your decision. That’s why we’re transparent and upfront about costs. A full price estimate is always provided during your consultation and tailored to your unique hair goals. Here’s a general idea: • Full treatment for typical male-pattern hair loss ranges from $1500 to $2500. • Sovereign SMP charges an hourly rate of $150 (much like a traditional tattoo artist.) We encourage you to choose an artist based on skill, experience, and trust—not just price.
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Are payment plans or financing options available for SMP?Yes—we do offer flexible payment options to make your treatment more manageable. A $100 booking fee (per appointment) is required to reserve your sessions with Amie, and that amount will be applied toward your total cost. The remaining balance is typically split between your appointments based on the hours spent working. If you’re interested in a custom payment plan, we’re happy to talk through options during your consultation. Cash payments receive 5% off the service charge. We’re also in the process of adding a financing option, which we hope to launch in 2025!
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