• What is Scalp Micropigmentation?

What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), often referred to as a hair tattoo or scalp tattoo, is a non-surgical solution for hair loss that uses advanced micropigmentation techniques to replicate the look of real hair follicles. By applying tiny, fade-resistant pigment dots across the scalp, this procedure creates the appearance of thicker, fuller hair — perfect for anyone experiencing thinning hair, bald spots, or total hair loss.

Whether you’re aiming for the look of a clean buzz cut or want to add density to thinning areas, SMP can deliver natural-looking results for both men and women. It’s especially helpful for those affected by:

  • Alopecia areata
  • Chemotherapy-related hair loss
  • Male and female pattern baldness
  • Hormonal hair loss, including PCOS

At SMP Ztylez in Little, Queens, NY, we specialize in custom-tailored scalp micropigmentation treatments that restore confidence, one hair follicle at a time.

The Process

During a scalp micropigmentation (SMP) procedure, our skilled SMP artist uses micro-needles to carefully deposit natural-looking pigments into the upper dermis layer of the scalp. These tiny pigment dots are designed to replicate the appearance of real hair follicles, creating the illusion of a closely shaved head or increased hair density.

Each treatment is customized to your natural hair color and skin tone, ensuring a seamless, realistic result. The process typically takes place over 2–3 sessions to build up pigment gradually and achieve even, consistent coverage. Whether you’re looking for a sharp new hairline tattoo, a bald head tattoo, or subtle density treatment, SMP delivers long-lasting, fade-resistant results without the downtime of surgery.

Ideal for both men and women, scalp micropigmentation is your solution to looking confident and feeling restored — especially if you’re searching for SMP in Little or hair tattoo services in Queens, NY.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), also called a hair tattoo or scalp tattoo, is a non-surgical procedure that uses micro-needles to apply tiny pigment deposits into the scalp. This creates the illusion of natural hair follicles and is ideal for hairline restoration, thinning hair, or a bald head tattoo look.

Is SMP just for men?

No. We specialize in natural-looking scalp micropigmentation for men and women. Whether you’re dealing with female hair thinning, alopecia, or receding hairlines, SMP is designed for all genders and hair types.

How many sessions will I need?

Most clients need 2 to 3 sessions to achieve full coverage and realistic results. Sessions are spaced out to allow healing and gradual pigment layering.

Couldn’t I just go to a tattoo artist?

SMP requires specialized training, scalp-focused equipment, and fade-resistant scalp pigment. Traditional tattoo artists don’t have the tools or pigments made for the scalp, which can lead to discoloration or unnatural results.

Is the procedure painful?

Clients generally experience minimal discomfort. It feels like light scratching or tapping. Many clients find it relaxing and even fall asleep during their session.

Will I need to take time off of work?

SMP is a non-invasive hair loss solution with minimal downtime. Most clients go back to work the same or the next day.

Are the results permanent?

Scalp Micropigmentation is a form of permanent cosmetics. You can expect results to last for many years. Some fading may occur after 4-6 years. At that point, a one session touch-up may be necessary. For men, it is recommended to keep your existing hair at a short buzz cut length. This will ensure the most natural result possible. However, for men with an existing hairline, we can work density into the thinning areas. Women are not required to cut their hair.

Do I need to keep my hair short?

It depends on your desired outcome. For full scalp tattoo treatments or baldness coverage, a buzzed look is recommended. For hair density treatment, you can keep your current hairstyle as SMP blends in with existing hair.

What if my hair goes gray/white?

Actually, this makes very little difference to the shade of your shaven hair follicles. A great many of our clients have gone grey after their treatment, or are in the process of going grey when they have their treatment applied. After many successful treatments we have yet to hear from a client who has experienced an issue, as although the change is very apparent in men with longer hair, shaven follicles look almost identical, even after greying.

What if I had a hair transplant?

People who have had one or more hair transplants are great candidates for SMP. Impressions can be added to existing hair to make it appear fuller without damaging the transplanted hair. This a great option for people who don’t want to endure the cost, down time or scarring associated with additional surgeries. SMP can also be used to conceal scars left by previous transplants.

How much does it cost?

(Receive a copy of our updated pricing guide by clicking the pricing link located at the top of the page) Male and female pattern baldness, density treatments, and alopecia vary in price depending on the severity of hair loss. You will be given an up front quote at the free consultation and that quote will not change, regardless of the amount of sessions needed. There is no tax on the procedure and financing is available through PayPal Credit with 6 months no interest!

How real will the Scalp Micro-Pigmentation (SMP) look?

A typical scalp hair from a normal caucasian male is about 77 micrometers in diameter (67 Um in those of Asian descent, and 120 Um in those of African descent). Typically, SMP dots placed in the dermis are 90 to 150 micrometers in diameter. This might seem a bit larger than a real human hair, but when viewed from six inches or further away, the size is indistinguishable from real hair follicles. Often, even close family members standing one foot away (0.3 meters) cannot tell where your real hair ends and the SMP begins.

In terms of hairline style, what are my options?

This is an important decision, however there are a multitude of options available to you. Ultimately this would be dictated to a certain extent by whether you wanted a 100% natural appearance, or if you wanted to opt for a more daring, chiselled hairstyle. We would always advise our clients to follow their natural hairline and to choose an age-appropriate appearance, however each hairline is as individual as the client who chooses it.

What if I want to change my look or even reverse the process?

SMP pigmentation can be removed with an electro-optic Q switched laser, which is used to heat and break-up the SMP pigmentation for easier absorption by phagocytes in the dermis. SMP is fairly easy to remove in most cases because the pigment is not deposited as deeply as normal tattoo ink. The electro-optic laser however, is very expensive and therefore, many clinics which advertise laser removal do not actually own one. We can say that with the feedback received so far, the amount of clients wishing for true SMP® reversal or total removal is less than 1%.

Can SMP be used to conceal hair transplant scars?

Yes. To date we have treated several men who wished to camouflage their linear (strip) or pitted (FUE or plug) transplant scars. Every scar is unique, and we quote a camouflage estimate as a percentage on a case by case basis. We have achieved some awe-inspiring results in this area, making some very large and visible scars almost indiscernible. Please contact us so we can assess your scar fully and provide a camouflage estimation.

What brand pigment does your clinic use?

We exclusively use 5PM Shadow which is a tried and true pigment made in a 100% vegan process, which means 100% organic carbon pigment. 5PM Shadow is a concentrate that can be mixed and diluted to create 2 to 60 shades depending on our client’s skin tone and specific needs, with no color change guaranteed. A (MSDS) Material Safety Data Sheet is available upon request.