How to choose between Scalp Micropigmentation and Microblading

Scalp micropigmentation is a non-invasive treatment for hair loss. The idea of the treatment is to create a pigmented appearance on your scalp that would reduce the prominence of hair loss or balding. This gives an illusion of fullness on the head for people who are at the beginning stages of hair loss. For individuals who have medical conditions such as alopecia areata(patchy hair loss), this treatment drastically reduces patches on the scalp and gives an evened out colour replicating a naturally shaved head.

On the other hand, microblading is a very similar technique used on the eyebrow, especially in individuals who have thin brows. In this technique, pigments are used to draw hair-like strokes that replicate the natural brows and create a fuller eyebrow.

Both these techniques can be understood in simple terms to be similar to the traditional tattoo. In scalp micropigmentation, the procedure could be called ‘scalp tattoo’ and microblading can be referred to as ‘hair tattoo’. While the latter creates an illusion of tiny hair follicles on the head, in microblading actual hair strokes are drawn on the eyebrow.

Let us now dive deep into both the procedures to understand them in their entirety.

SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION

What is scalp micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation is non-surgical and uses microneedles to deposit pigments on the outer layer or epidermis of the scalp. The area to be treated is marked out and the procedure is performed to depict the natural appearance of hair follicles. If the person is balding or losing hair due to conditions such as unexplained hair loss, alopecia areata, chemotherapy, cancer or so, this procedure can be considered as an alternative to surgical hair loss treatments.

How long does a scalp micropigmentation last?

A scalp micropigmentation treatment could last for over 8 years. Since our skin undergoes the natural process of exfoliation, this treatment cannot be considered permanent or lifelong. This offers a semi-permanent solution with occasional revisits to touch up or redo the procedure.

Is scalp micropigmentation painful and does scalp micropigmentation look fake?

A micropigmentation procedure is not very painful, although patients could experience mild irritability or pain. Cosmetologists often apply a numbing product on the scalp before the treatment is done. The best part of the outcome of the treatment is that the results do not look fake. Individuals gain enough confidence and trust in the procedure due to the results that are close to the appearance of a natural hairline.

Can you remove scalp micropigmentation?

It is also easy to correct a scalp micropigmentation procedure done by using laser techniques. This makes it a good choice for patients who would want to try the results and not fear it being permanent. It is really important to choose the right doctor for the procedure to avoid any infections or complications.

What are the post-procedural care and side-effects that one must be aware of?

Scalp micropigmentation could take four to five hours for completion of a session and most patients need at least two to three sessions to get desired results.

Post-procedural care is a very important aspect of the treatment.

• Individuals must avoid direct sunlight from falling on the scalp for the first 5 days. If the patient is needed to be out, a hat would be the right solution to avoid sunlight.
• It is advisable to take a shower before the treatment as patients would not be able to take a head shower for over five days post the procedure.
• They should also avoid swimming pools, steam rooms or getting any sort of hot showers especially in the region of the scalp.

The treatment comes with a few side-effects in some people while in most cases there is no long-lasting reaction. Some of these include:

• Itchy scalp
• Redness
• Too large dots
• Swollen lymph nodes
• The bluish colour on the dots

Do you have to shave your head for scalp micropigmentation?

It is not necessary to shave the head for scalp micropigmentation.

How much does scalp micropigmentation cost?

Scalp micropigmentation in India would cost between INR 20,000 to INR 80,000 for each session. The price could vary depending on other factors such as city, clinic, the extent of baldness and others.

Does Scalp Micropigmentation damage hair follicles?

No, the procedure does not damage the hair follicle since it is not done deep inside the scalp. Hair could grow back in the region of the treatment naturally.

Can you get a hair transplant after micropigmentation?

Yes, individuals could choose techniques such as hair transplant after scalp micropigmentation. There is no risk or complications in taking up any other hair related treatments.

Scalp micropigmentation before and after

 

Scalp micropigmentation reviews

Patients express great relief to hair loss and balding concerns and are happy with the results of this non-invasive treatment. A review from one of the patients who underwent treatment at Tamira.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zuzBzHeBcE

Who should avoid scalp micropigmentation treatment?

Individuals with certain skin conditions such as psoriasis, skin lesions /breakouts or who have the tendency to develop keloid or scar tissue must avoid the treatment. One must report all the medical conditions to the cosmetologist to take an appropriate decision.

EYEBROW MICROBLADING

What is eyebrow microblading?

Eyebrow microblading is done using a five-point needle or microblading pen which deposits pigments while creating hair-like strokes on the eyebrow which makes it look fuller. Women spend hours ensuring their eyebrows look a certain way and appear more full and neat. With microblading, the eyebrows could stay your desired way but without having to take a lot of effort.

How long does microblading last?

This tattoo like technique will leave the eyebrows as is for at least 2 years. Touch-ups might be necessary between this period if individuals notice a difference in the results.

Is eyebrow microblading painful?

The procedure takes close to 30 minutes to one hour for completion of each session and patients often require 2 sessions. A numbing product is applied to the region before the procedure which will keep the patient free of pain. However, some people do experience a sensation while the procedure is done.

What is the cost of eyebrow microblading?

In India, microblading procedures cost between INR 25,000 to INR 50,000. The exact cost of the treatment will vary depending on the city and hospital of choice.

What is the post-procedural care for microblading?

Some of the most important post-procedural care are listed below.

• Individuals must avoid vigorous rubbing or any rough touch on the eyebrow for at least 10 days
• The area must be kept completely dry for the first week
• Activities that are strenuous and that lead to excessive sweating must be avoided. Swimming is also not advised until recovery.
• Creams and medications must be taken as advised by the cosmetologist

What are the side effects of microblading?

Individuals experience minor side effects such as swelling, redness and uneasiness on the skin due to healing. These symptoms would disappear in one week’s time. Some long term side effects that are rare include discolouration, infection and eyebrow losing its shape.

Who should avoid eyebrow microblading?

Individuals with skin conditions such as rashes, eczema(dry skin) or other skin conditions on the face must avoid the treatment. Individuals who are on medication such as blood thinners must also avoid the treatment. It is very important to report all the medical conditions to the cosmetologist to understand the risk and benefits of undergoing the treatment.

Is micropigmentation better than microblading?

Apart from eyebrow microblading, individuals could also opt for eyebrow micropigmentation. In the case of micropigmentation, the pigments are sent deeper into the skin and hence the results stay longer. The results of microblading last for close to 1.5 years while in micropigmentation it can last up to 3 years.

In micropigmentation, the results appear more uniform compared to microblading. However, the pigments used in microblading are considered to be safer. Both the techniques work as a semi-permanent makeup solution and it is completely an individual’s personal choice on which technique to go for.

What are the pros and cons of the microblading technique?

The pros of the microblading technique are that it appears natural and is suitable for fine hair and fills in scattered areas and gives a fuller appearance.

The cons are that it is not suitable for all skin types. It works best on dry and normal skin. People with very oily skin might not get the desired results of microblading. Regular revisits for touch up might be needed, this could be anywhere between every 2 to 3 months. Individuals might still have to apply a little makeup to bring the results of microblading to their fullest. If performed by an inexperienced cosmetologist, the procedure could do more harm than good. Any inefficient work might result in an uneven shaped eyebrow. The experience can be even traumatic to some individuals if done inappropriately.

It is very important to consult a board-certified cosmetologist for any cosmetic related treatments. This will ensure that you are in safe and efficient hands and can expect good results.