SMP Treatment
Full SMP Treatment - from £1600
A complete scalp micropigmentation treatment that recreates a natural hairline and even density across the scalp.
Our Full SMP treatment uses the latest scalp micropigmentation techniques to restore the look of a full head of closely-shaved hair - a defined, natural hairline and even density. Each treatment is tailored to your skin tone, features and the look you want.
Typically 2-3 sessions, about 4 hours per session.
Who it suits
Full SMP suits men with more advanced hair loss - a receding crown, a bald top, or a head that's largely cleared - who like, or are ready for, a closely-cropped style. If you already shave down, or you're tired of working around what's left, this gives the whole scalp an even, intentional look rather than a patchy one. It isn't about regrowing hair; it's about the confident appearance of a sharp, shaved head. Women's thinning is usually better served by our female density treatment.
What the session is like
We start by designing your hairline together - drawn on, adjusted and agreed before any pigment goes in, so it frames your face the way you want. From there, density is built across the whole scalp in layers over two to three sessions, a few weeks apart. It's staged on purpose: it lets the first layer settle, lets us deepen the shade and refine the shape, and keeps the finish soft and believable rather than flat or too dark, too soon.
Your result
Once your sessions are complete, the aim is a soft, defined hairline and an even covering of tiny pigment impressions across the scalp - the look of closely-cropped hair, a natural "five-o'clock shadow" rather than bare skin. It blends with any hair you keep shaved down and reduces the contrast between scalp and stubble. It recreates the appearance of density, not real hair, and every scalp settles differently, so individual results vary. You'll see the kind of work we do on our results page.
Aftercare
Because the whole head is treated, the whole head needs care. For the first few days keep the entire scalp dry and don't wash it, and avoid anything that makes you sweat - gym, hot showers, saunas - along with swimming and direct sun, all of which can disturb settling pigment. No shaving until the scalp has healed. Once it has, moisturise lightly and use SPF on the bare scalp whenever you're out, as sun is what fades the look fastest. Full written aftercare is provided.
Common questions
Do I have to shave my head for full SMP?
To get the genuine shaved-head look, yes - the treatment recreates the appearance of closely-cropped stubble across the whole scalp, so it's designed to be worn buzzed or shaved down. You don't need to be fully shaved at the consultation; we'll plan the right clipper length with you. If keeping longer hair matters to you, a density treatment may suit you better, and we'll say so honestly.
Will it look obvious or fake?
Done well, it shouldn't. The pigment is applied as thousands of tiny impressions matched to your skin tone and natural follicle size, and the shade is built up gradually rather than in one heavy pass - that's the whole point of staging it across sessions. From normal viewing distance it reads as short, evenly-shaved hair. It's a cosmetic effect rather than real hair, so up very close it is what it is, but the goal is always a soft, believable finish.
What if I'm only partly bald now but my hair loss is still progressing?
That's common and worth talking through at consultation. We can treat the whole scalp now for a uniform look, or focus on the areas that need it and blend with what you have. SMP doesn't affect your own hair, so it sits alongside any further changes rather than working against them - and if your remaining hair thins later, the work can often be extended or topped up. How a scalp changes over time differs from person to person, so individual results vary, and that's something we'll keep talking about as we go.
Does scalp micropigmentation hurt?
Most clients describe SMP as mild discomfort rather than pain - comparable to a light scratching sensation. Numbing options are discussed at consultation. Sessions last a few hours, and any redness usually settles within 24-48 hours.
How long does SMP last?
Scalp micropigmentation typically lasts around 3-7 years before it softens enough to want a touch-up. Longevity depends on skin type, sun exposure and aftercare. A short touch-up session refreshes the look when needed.
Is SMP permanent?
SMP is long-lasting but not strictly permanent. Pigment sits in the upper layers of the skin and fades gradually over years, which is why occasional touch-ups keep it looking sharp. This also means the look can evolve with you.