AFTERCARE FOR SMP TREATMENTS
PRE-TREATMENT
You should refrain from sun exposure within the days prior to treatment, especially if you are prone to burning. Your scalp may be sensitive causing pain during treatment and may also be rejective to pigment. If your scalp is sunburned on the day of treatment, we may need to reschedule your appointment.
Dry scalp and skin conditions such as dandruff, eczema or psoriasis MUST cleared up before treatment commences. Skin that is sunburned, dry or flaking may not heal or accept pigment properly.
Moisturising your scalp to prepare the skin for Micropigmentation is key and it is recommended to use a water-based moisturiser before treatment and after the treatment is healed. Sugar scrubs or light exfoliation of the scalp are recommended before treatment to remove dead skin 5 days before treatment.
Please refrain from using Minoxidil or other topical treatments a minimum of 72 hours before treatment.
If possible, remove wig units 7 days prior to treatment and give your scalp time to breath and clear up irritations to glue. If your skin is not in top condition, we may need to reschedule your booking.
Please ensure you eat before your appointments. Getting tattooed on an empty stomach may make you feel nauseous.
Wear dark-coloured shirts as we are working with ink and pigments may splatter.
POST-TREATMENT
Aftercare for the most part is simple: Take sensible precautions in the sun, keep your scalp clean, dry, and moisturise as needed. Follow these steps and you’ll see the best possible treatment results that will last for years to come.
Because SMP pigment is only deposited into the Papillary layer of skin, failing to follow through with aftercare may cause uneven healing, affect the overall appearance of your treatment and result in needing additional sessions. You must take care to follow these steps to ensure the best healed results and the longevity of your treatment.
Day 1 to Day 4:
Do not do anything to cause excessive sweating for a minimum of 2-4 days after sessions.
DO NOT expose your scalp to strong sunlight while healing, minimum of 7 days.
Do not fully submerge scalp in water for a minimum of 4 days post treatment.
Do not submerge your head in chlorinated water for a minimum of 7 days.
Clients may experience pigment shedding during this period - small scab like dots which shed from the skin. Completely normal part of the healing process. Do not scratch or pick as this may cause the pigment to be pulled out.
Example: When showering, do not spray the water directly onto your scalp. A Shower cap can be used if needed. You may cleanse your scalp after treatment by gently wiping with clean hands, wet wipes or a wet paper towel. No soaps and or shampoos to be used during this time.
Loose fitting hats or work hardhats may be worn after treatment and during healing. It’s important to let your skin breathe as much as possible during healing process. Beanies or tight hats causing friction or sweating must not be worn for a minimum of 5 days post treatment.
Day 5 to Day 7:
On day 5 post treatment you may gently wash your head as normal again, with WARM water, and no scrubbing. For bald heads, a light cleanser such as baby shampoo is recommended. Follow up by moisturising your scalp with a water-based lotion or very light natural oil such as jojoba.
You may shave your hair with clippers only.
Day 8 to Day 14:
Do NOT apply chemical based colours, fibres, makeup, antibiotic creams, ointments, Monoxidil or RetinA to the treated area until it is fully healed. We recommend at least 10+ days after your final session as this may cause the pigment to discolour or fade.
Do not expose your scalp to strong sunlight while healing. For shaved heads, always apply sunscreen. We recommend you stay out of strong sunlight during the initial 7-10 day settling period to avoid having to use sunscreen on your treatment area, and instead wear a hat. It is important that you do not sunburn your scalp to the point that would cause peeling, especially within the first 2 weeks following treatment.
Any sun damage which causes peeling on the healing tattoo can lead to fading and uneven treatment results. This includes after treatment is fully healed.
Wet shaving with a razor blade for 10 days after each session of the procedure.
Do not rub, pick or scratch the treated area or scabbing that may appear, as this may cause uneven healing and the impressions to be less crisp. Gently tap if you experience itching.
Keep your scalp moisturised with a water-based moisturiser or light oil once your treatment has settled. This will help to keep the scalp in good condition & helps to extend the longevity of your SMP.
Day 15:
You may now resume your normal daily routine.
LONG-TERM AFTERCARE
Exfoliate your scalp at least 2 times a month to remove dead skin cells and maintain the appearance of the pigments.
Avoid chlorinated pools, saltwater, saunas, and steam rooms for 3 week after treatment
Always wear SPF 50+ as UV rays can cause the pigment to fade
Avoid using products that use a high concentration of alcohol. To tell how much alcohol is in a product check the label. On the labels, ingredients are listed in descending order of concentration. If alcohol is one of the first ingredients it is best to avoid it.
Avoid products with AHA as this will cause pigment to fade.
If you have any questions regarding how to best look after your SMP pre and post treatment, please contact us at info@saloonsmp.com.