How Much Does Scalp Micropigmentation/ a ‘Hair Tattoo’ Cost?
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) also known as a hair tattoo is a cosmetic treatment that is used to create the appearance of hair. Scalp micropigmentation treatments aren’t as invasive as a hair transplant and they involve the use of a fine needle and ink that tattoo tiny dots on your head/ scalp.
Hair loss can be a fairly stressful experience, but it is quite common. In males, for example, the Canadian Dermatology Association found that about 50% experience male pattern baldness. If other hair loss treatments like a hair transplant, for example, aren’t an ideal option for you, investing in an SMP hair tattoo can be the way to go.
An SMP hair tattoo can give you your confidence back and you can focus on other important aspects of your life. When it comes to this treatment, a common concern is around the scalp micropigmentation cost. The cost involved with this treatment depends significantly on your individual needs and the amount of hair loss experienced.
On this page, we will walk you through everything you should know about the scalp micropigmentation cost. This includes information on what you should expect to pay for the treatment, the factors that influence the cost, any recurring costs and more.
What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?
SMP (also known as a hair tattoo) is a non-surgical hair loss solution that provides the illusion of a natural hairline by tattooing tiny dots onto your scalp, the pigmentation will match your skin tone and any existing hair on your crown. The process is similar to a typical tattoo, however, the needle used is finer, mimicking the look of normal hair follicles.
Many choose to go down the hair tattoo path to treat hair thinning hair or hair loss as it provides immediate results and is low maintenance. It is a cost-effective option compared to alternatives and is open to pretty much anyone who is suffering any kind of hair loss. From a receding hairline to covering hair transplant scars a hair tattoo can provide the look of thicker hair and no one would ever know the difference!
How Much Does a Hair Tattoo Cost?
The scalp micropigmentation cost will vary depending on your individual situation (including the size and complexity of the treatment area) and the exact pricing requires an initial consultation. While an initial consultation is required to assess your individual situation, we can provide some guidance on what you might pay for your hairline tattoo.
Average price ranges for various levels of hair loss:
Hair Loss Type | Average Price |
Mild Hair Loss | $500 – $1,200 |
Medium Hair Loss | $1,200 – $2,400 |
Advanced Hair Loss | $2,400 – $3,400 |
Scarring | $750 – $1,500 |
Alopecia | $800 – $3,800 |
Hair Tattoo vs Hair Transplant Cost
A hair tattoo is a cost-effective option compared to many of the other treatments available. One other treatment that you might be considering is a hair transplant. From a cost perspective only, a hair tattoo is the clear winner. As a hair transplant is a surgical option, more costs are involved and we have found that it can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000.
Main Factors That Influence SMP Cost
As we have previously mentioned, several variables will impact the price of your hairline tattoo. When we put together a quote for scalp micropigmentation these are the areas that have the biggest influence on price:
1. Severity of Hair Loss
The amount of hair loss experienced will have a major impact on how much the treatment will cost. You shouldn’t expect to pay as much for minor thinning hair compared to significant hair loss. If you’re experiencing male pattern baldness, it will depend on how far it has progressed as larger areas require more sessions and detail.
2. Skin Type
Your skin type also comes into place here. Special care is required for certain skin types, like dry, oily or scarred skin, for example. It is also important to confirm you won’t have an allergic reaction to the treatment, so additional steps are put in place to combat this as well.
3. Presence of Scars
Scar tissue from previous treatments like FUT/FUE or scars from injuries that require camouflage take additional time. SMP is one of the best hair loss solutions to treat scars, but it is important to note the additional time, care and skill that is required to ensure proper camouflaging of the area.
4. Desired Style and Density
Your preferences can influence the amount of the treatment. For example, if you would like a much thicker hair look, this will likely take more time and therefore increase the price of the procedure. Your scalp micropigmentation artist can provide guidance on the optimal coverage for your full head of hair.
Are There Recurring Costs After a Scalp Micropigmentation Procedure?
A scalp micropigmentation procedure can be the solution to all your hair loss problems, but in your decision-making process, it is important to understand the recurring costs involved. Scalp micropigmentation is a long-term investment and the occasional touch-up is likely required after the procedure has been completed.
The initial procedure will typically involve two to four sessions (which are a few hours each) to provide the optimal final result you are looking for. After your second or third session, your artist will discuss the appearance of your scalp and hair, to determine if another session is required.
Touch-ups may be required every three to five years as a result of pigment fading. This is completely normal as your hair tattoo can fade in the sun, among other things. On top of this, INKD SMP offers a free 12-month top-up session to resolve any hairline changes, fading and more, to ensure you achieve your optimal appearance.
Payment Options for a Hairline Tattoo
The good news is that there are many different pricing options available at INKD SMP. On top of that, we also offer flexible payment plans. We offer payment plans as part of our service to make scalp micropigmentation more easily accessible to our clients.
We have partnered with well-known financial providers and offer payment plans/ other payment options including:
- Debit/ Credit Cards
- PayPal
- Afterpay
- Stripe
Our financial partners are among the most well-known and trusted in the country. We can also offer payment plans like PayPal’s “Pay in 4” (as long as you are qualified from PayPal’s end) and this eases the initial upfront expense of scalp micropigmentation.
Our team is here to accommodate you every step of the way and you should view scalp micropigmentation as a long-term investment in your self-confidence. When it comes to hair loss solutions, a hair tattoo is one of the most cost-effective.
Why Choose INKD SMP for Your Hair Tattoo?
So, what sets INKD SMP apart from the rest of the hair tattoo experts going around. Well, there’s a lot if we are being honest! Our dedicated and expert team is one of the major ways we differentiate ourselves from others. In fact, Ana James, the owner of INKD SMP, was recently honoured with the ‘Best SMP Artist International Award’ at the Meeting of Minds global SMP conference!
Our wide-ranging experience is another reason you should choose INKD SMP! We have experience with hair loss treatments impacting both men and women. From a receding hairline to advanced hair loss, we have experienced it all and can provide a personalised experience.
We also offer a no-obligation consultation where we take the time to understand your situation and develop a realistic plan to resolve a multitude of issues on your scalp like thinning areas or hair loss across your entire scalp. Our free consultation is available in a range of options including in-person, video or through photos.
For your hairline tattoo, we also use advanced techniques and high-quality pigments. Over the last few years, we have developed our signature 3D REALISM technique that ensures a natural and realistic appearance. We begin with a conservative approach and then continue building up density until you are satisfied with your appearance (all while offering a 12-month guarantee for a touch-up or two if required).
If you want visual proof of the amazing work we do to improve the hairline of our clients (both men and women), you’ve got it! Check out some of the before and afters here:
INKD SMP Testimonials and Case Studies
You don’t just have to take our word for it! We have many scalp micropigmentation success stories from previous clients, which you can read more about here. One client that we would like to shine a light on is Nicole, who regained her confidence after a battle with cancer.
One of the bravest women we know, Nicole tried all different types of hair loss solutions for nine years to no avail. Nicole explains “I just felt so confident in your (INKD SMP’s) approach” and “I feel like I have hair again”. We are so happy to provide such great results to Nicole and you can see her before and after results here:
You can watch Nicole’s full story here:
How to Get Started with INKD SMP
If you’re interested in an SMP hair tattoo, getting started with INKD SMP is easy! Head to our “Contact Us” page to fill out your details. The consultation process can take place in person or online, whichever is most convenient for you.
We offer a free consultation, so we can learn a little bit more about you, take a look at your head and scalp area to provide a personalised approach to your hair loss or thinning. We are here to support you every step of the way, so reach out to take the all-important first step!
Scalp Micropigmentation Cost & General FAQs
There are a few FAQs that our clients have when we meet them, so we thought we answer some of the most common questions surrounding SMP:
Does scalp micropigmentation hurt?
Scalp micropigmentation mimics the look of real hair follicles by tattooing fine dots onto your scalp. Most clients rate the pain at a two or three out of 10, but if you are concerned about pain, speak with your artist beforehand.
Are there payment plans available?
Yes, there are payment plans available like Afterpay and PayPal’s “Pay in 4”.
How long does scalp micropigmentation take?
We want to ensure a natural-looking hairline tattoo, so we take our time during the process. Each session will usually take around two to four hours and two to four sessions are usually required in total.
What is the price of SMP for mild hair loss?
For mild hair loss, you are looking at an average price of between $500 and $1,200. Remember, the tattoo price can differ depending on several personal factors, so it is important to book your consultation to understand the exact price.
What is the price of SMP for medium hair loss?
For medium hair loss, the average price is between $1,200 and $2,400. Again, personal factors will come into play and may result in a price out of this average range.
Is SMP suitable for women?
SMP is a suitable option for thinning hair or loss of hair experienced by women. It can cover up hair loss-related issues can get your head and hair looking as natural as possible.
Will SMP look natural?
Yes, scalp micropigmentation is designed to create a natural look on your crown and others likely wouldn’t know the difference (unless you told them!).
Final Thoughts
SMP can work wonders for your self-confidence! No more hiding behind a hat or feeling worried about how you look. This procedure can help a wide range of people suffering from a loss of hair. If you want the look of more hair on your head, SMP is an effective solution that is more friendly to your wallet compared to other options.
Book a free consultation with us today and see just how quickly you’ll get your confidence back!
