How scalp micropigmentation can tackle thinning locks

We get the skinny on Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), a treatment for thinning locks.

Hong Kong beauty salon OJO de Bella –“ojo” is Spanish for eyes – was started by SANDRA YIP with her mother in 2016. The first salon opened in Causeway Bay, while a new space – with five treatment rooms and a soothing beige and rose gold interior – opens in Tai Koo in mid-September.

Sandra talks us through one of salon’s key offerings, SMP, which can help anyone suffering from hair loss, whether it’s men showing signs of balding or women dealing with patchy hair as a result of lowered production of oestrogen and progesterone in menopause.

Tell us about the SMP procedure.

Scalp Micropigmentation is a non-intrusive, semi-permanent procedure where organic pigments are applied within the dermal layer of the scalp, replicating hair follicles to create a natural shaved head look, or adding density to a thinning crown. Thanks to the SMP colour that’s used to match with your skin complexion, the treatment works for people with pale or dark skin.

OJO de Bella use the best quality products, including pigment, machines and needles from SCALPA, the biggest SMP supplier in the US.

How does it work?

Three sessions are needed for a complete SMP treatment. The first session consists of a consultation, hairline design and general colour coverage. After two weeks, we can observe the colour retention on the scalp and decide if more pigment is needed. The third session is a final touch-up to work on details and make the look as realistic as possible.

Is it better than the alternative options?

While there are many hair-loss solutions available on the market, we strongly believe that SMP is the best. It’s has a guaranteed result, a relatively low cost, immediate effectiveness with no downtime, and is suitable for all hair-loss sufferers.

Compare some of the other common treatments:

• Hair transplant – involves surgery that can cost from HK$30,000 to $100,000 and can have significant side effects

• Hair growth serums/shampoos – may take three months to show signs of working, or may not work at all

• Medication – not suitable for everyone (depends on personal health circumstances); also, requires continued use

• Wig/hair fibre – only a useful solution when being worn, and can lead to skin allergies

What happens post-treatment?

There’s no downtime at all; clients are simply advised not to wash their hair for the first three days and to avoid direct sunlight for the best colour retention.

Scalp Micropigmentation is considered semi-permanent. Although the results will last up to five years, as all the skin naturally exfoliates itself the treated area may fade with time. If you have very dry skin, fading may occur more quickly through this exfoliation.