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FAQ

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  • WHAT IS SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION (SMP)?
    SMP stands for Scalp Micropigmentation, a non-surgical, permanent hair loss solution that gives the illusion of a close buzz cut hair style on a bald head or adds density to a thinning hair line or crown. The procedure can also be used to conceal scars from hair transplants, surgery and accidents. We do this by inserting pigment into the scalp, emulating tiny hair follicles. Clients walk away with the appearance of a full head of hair and their confidence restored.
  • HOW MUCH DOES SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION COST?
    Treatment fees depend on the amount of hair loss a person has and what their goals are. The average treatment falls between $2500-$4500 price range but could be less or more depending on the amount of hair loss. To know what your personalized treatment plan and quote looks like, we invite you to schedule a free consultation today. .
  • HOW LONG DOES SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION LAST?
    The initial Scalp Micropigmentation makeover typically lasts up to 4-6 years and will slightly lighten over time, but will never discolor like a regular tattoo. We offer density touch ups for a fraction of the initial treatment fee.
  • IS SCALP MICRO PIGMENTATION PERMANENT?
    Yes, Scalp Micro Pigmentation is considered a permanent procedure since we are inserting permanent pigment into the skin. The original treatment may last up to 4-6 years and will lighten over time requiring a touch-up that costs a fraction of the initial treatment fee.
  • DOES SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION HURT?
    Pain is individual, however our past clients have reported the pain being minimal, and highly tolerable for many hours at a time. Once the treatment is over, any discomfort you may feel typically subsides right away.
  • DOES SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION LOOK REAL?
    Yes. The entire concept of Scalp Micro Pigmentation is to simulate what you would look like with a full head of hair, whether you keep it short or long. Artists at The Scalp Shop pride themselves on making this look hyper-realistic, so no one knows what's real hair or SMP. Feel free to view our gallery of Before + Afters.
  • IS SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION WORTH IT?
    Clients at The Scalp Shop report that getting SMP is the best decision they've ever made. Scalp Micropigmentation works on all skin tones/hair types/hair lengths and is non-invasive, long-lasting, cost-effective, side-effect-free, maintenance-free and produces immediate results. But don't take our word for it, check out what some of our clients have said about getting SMP, here.
  • CAN I GET A HAIR TRANSPLANT AFTER SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
    Yes it is totally possible to get a hair transplant after Scalp Micropigmentation, as SMP does not inhibit or cause hair growth. Artists at The Scalp Shop specialize in hyper-realistic hairlines so a hair transplant doctor could follow our SMP hairline design for natural results. We would recommend waiting atleast 4 weeks after your final SMP session to receive hair transplant surgery.
  • CAN SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION BE REMOVED?
    Scalp Micropigmentation is typically easily reversed with correct laser removal or saline removal. Since the pigment is only deposited into the top epidermis layer of skin, it takes less sessions than a traditional tattoo (where the pigment is deposited deeper and larger in size) to remove.
  • DO I NEED TO SHAVE MY HAIR TO GET SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
    It is possible to keep your hair long, however we would need to assess the extent of your hair loss to give you our expert opinion. Scalp Micropigmentation can add the appearance of a thicker head of hair allowing some to maintain a longer hair style. However, those needing more density are typically advised to closely crop or buzz their hair. Book your free consultation to learn more.
  • CAN MY HAIR LOSS TREATMENT BE COMPLETED IN 1 SESSION?
    Usually the Scalp Micropigmentation treatment takes between 2 and 4 sessions to achieve a completed look. Sessions last anywhere from 2-4 hours each, with a 10-14 day break in between visits.
  • CAN I FINANCE MY HAIR LOSS TREATMENT?
    Yes! We have teamed up with United Credit to offer financing for people wishing to get their Scalp Micropigmentation treatment now, and pay later. Book your free consultation to learn more.
  • IS SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION THE SAME AS GETTING A TATTOO?
    No, Scalp Micropigmentation is a form of Cosmetic Pigmentation that uses completely different machines, needles and pigments. The pigments will never discolor like tattoo inks, only lighten over time. SMP also only penetrates the top epidermis layer of skin, while regular tattoos are deposited deeper into the dermis layer of skin.
  • CAN I RETURN TO WORK RIGHT AFTER GETTING SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
    In most cases yes, however there may be redness on the treated area that can last 1-3 days following your session. You are able to wear loose fitting hats or head coverings right away if desired.
  • CAN I GET SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION IF MY HAIR IS GRAY OR GRAYING?
    With Scalp Micropigmentation, we replicate the look of hair follicles no matter what color hair you have - be it gray, red, blonde, black or brown, we’ll match it. If you're concerned that your SMP will look too dark as your hair turns more gray, no need to worry as the SMP will also grow more faint over time and will match the natural lightening of your hair.
  • IS SMP SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TONES?
    Yes! Scalp Micropigmentation is the leading hair loss solution and looks realistic no matter the tone or color of your skin.
  • WILL MY HAIR STILL GROW AFTER GETTING SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
    Scalp Micropigmentation does not cause your hair to grow and does not stop your hair from growing.
  • WHAT KIND OF PIGMENT DOES THE SCALP SHOP USE?
    For our Scalp Micropigmentation and Beard Micropigmentation treatments we use the highest quality vegan, carbon-based pigment that will not turn blue or green over time like other tattoo inks.
  • WILL SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION MATCH MY HAIR COLOR?
    Yes! We expertly mix our pigment to match all hair colors. Whether it's blonde, gray, red, brown, black or something in between, we will match it.
  • HOW IS SMP DIFFERENT THAN A REGULAR TATTOO?
    We use machines that are calibrated specifically for Scalp Micropigmentation, micro-sized needles that replicate the look of hair follicles, as well as pigment that will not change color over time. Additionally, we insert the pigment into the top layer of skin, which is shallower than regular tattoo depth.
  • WHAT IS BACK 2 THE FUTURE SMP SIMULATION?
    Book your free Back 2 The Future Consultation here.
  • WHAT IF I HAVE NO IDEA HOW MY HAIRLINE SHOULD LOOK?
    No problem! We can help. Come in to the shop for a free Back 2 The Future Consultation where we mock up different hairlines for you to see on yourself. You'll know exactly how you'll look with Scalp Micropigmentation or Beard Micropigmentation before starting the actual procedure. Book here.
  • ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS WITH SCALP OR BEARD MICROPIGMENTATION?
    Unlike other hair loss treatments, Scalp Micropigmentation and Beard Micropigmentation have no side effects. Unless you're referring to the added confidence and swagger, then yes ;-)
  • DOES SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION WORK TO CAMOUFLAGE TRANSPLANT SCARS?
    Absolutely. By strategically inserting pigmented follicles on and around the scar, we can make it naturally blend in to your surrounding hair. Feel free to take a look at our gallery of Scar Work Before + Afters.
  • ARE MICROPIGMENTATION CONSULTATIONS FREE?
    Absolutely! We can take a look at your areas of hair loss and provide a free personalized treatment plan and quote either virtually, in person or on the phone. Book your free consultation today.
  • DO YOU HAVE PHOTOS OF SMP RESULTS?
    Yes, lots. Dive in to our gallery of Before + Afters to view our Scalp Micropigmentation transformations.
  • WHAT MAKES THE SCALP SHOP DIFFERENT?
    So many things. First off, the difference between good and great are the details. At The Scalp Shop, we are life-long artists who care deeply about aesthetics. Money can't buy taste but developing one's eye for decades can. Great taste backed by technical mastery translates into hyper-realistic results that are tailor made for each client. Second, is our experience. Being the first to conceptualize and perform SMP in New York City in the late 90s, we've got the time in on understanding all aspects of Scalp Micropigmentation. Third, is our Back 2 The Future SMP Simulation. Back 2 The Future removes all uncertainty when it comes to how your new hairline or facial hair will look. Before we begin any treatment, we sculpt and co-design different looks on you until everyone agrees it's perfect. We don't play white line roulette. Fourth, is our inspired space. We've curated and created everything from the art, music, films, furniture, sneakers, boots, shirts, hats, soaps, motorcycles and more that make up the decor surrounding you. You know you're in an artist's space when you enter The Scalp Shop. And fifth, is our energy. It is our mission to go above and beyond for our clients, so they know people care for them and their happiness. We also like to have fun and make people feel comfortable enough to do the same. So be prepared to laugh, relax and have a great time.
  • DO YOU ACCEPT WALK-INS?
    We do all of our consultations and treatments by appointment only. Book your free consultation today or call 646-771-1134 if you have a time-sensitive booking request.
  • MAY I BRING A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER TO MY APPOINTMENT?
    Yes, you are welcome to bring a loved one to your consultation or treatment session. However, we prefer that you do not have more than 1 person accompany you to your appointment.
  • IS THERE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION OR PARKING NEARBY?
    We are located a few blocks away from the 116th stop on the 6 subway line. If driving, there is free street parking or paid parking at the East River Plaza just 1 block away. The entrance to East River Plaza is on E. 116th St. between Pleasant Avenue and the FDR.
  • IS THE SCALP SHOP COVID COMPIANT?
    Yes. As New York State licenced practitioners, sanitization and safety has always been of upmost importance to us. In addition to our regular cleaning, we are committed to following WHO and CDC safety guidelines by adhering to a strict sanitization protocol.
  • WHERE IS THE SCALP SHOP LOCATED?
    We are located in Manhattan at 477 East 115 St. New York, NY. Our building is close to the corner of Pleasant Avenue.
  • DO YOU TEACH SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
    Absolutely. We've worked tirelessly to offer the most comprehensive Scalp Micropigmentation Certification Training so our students are prepared for greatness. You can learn all about our private and group Scalp Micropigmentation Training here.
  • HOW MUCH CAN SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION ARTISTS EARN?
    The average Scalp Micropigmentation treatment costs anywhere from $2500-$4500. If SMP Artists are seeing 2 new clients per week and are conservatively making $2500 per client, they're earning $20,000 per month and over $200,000 a year.
  • DO YOU OFFER FINANCING FOR SMP TRAINING?
    Yes! We offer financing for people wishing to begin their Scalp Micropigmentation Training now, and pay later. Learn more by filling out this short form and we'll respond shortly.
  • WHY DOES YOUR SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION TRAINING COST MORE?
    Instead of cutting corners with cheap equipment, our kits include the best, industry-leading SMP hand piece, needles, pigment and pro supplies so results are on par with ours. Part of that includes learning our Back 2 The Future SMP Simulation technique, a game-changing consultation and SMP preparation tool. We offer 2 optional post-training shadow sessions so you can be a part of the full Scalp Micropigmentation process from start to finish. Additionally, we provide access to our SMP Client Hub Software to automate your business. And lastly, we offer further post-training opportunities on a case by case basis to those who seek continued education and advancement.
  • HOW MANY CLIENTS DOES IT TAKE TO PAY OFF SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION TRAINING TUITION?
    It only takes approximately 2-3 clients to recoup your Scalp Micropigmentation Training Tuition. Compared to other cosmetic/hair/beauty schools, the return on investment is extremely high.
  • DO YOU OFFER SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION ONLINE?
    With a treatment as hands-on as Scalp Micropigmentation, we do not believe online training alone is sufficient or safe for a student to truly understand and grasp the most important elements of being a great SMP Artist. We feel it is crucial to work on live models with the guidance and supervision of educators to implement correct habits so no clients are ever "experimented" on. If you cannot attend one our NYC courses, please fill out this short survey and let us know where you'd like us to teach next.
  • ARE SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION ARTISTS IN DEMAND?
    1 in 5 Americans suffer from hair loss and since Covid, these numbers are increasing. This means at least 80 million people, according to American Hairloss Association, are struggling with hair loss. This is a fraction of the 300 million bald(ing) people worldwide making this a flush industry ripe with opportunity.
  • WHY ARE PEOPLE CHOOSING SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION AS THE #1 HAIR LOSS SOLUTION?
    Scalp Micropigmentation is the freshest and most cost-effective hair loss solution in the market. It delivers immediate results and is permanent, non-invasive, hyper-realistic, side-effect-free and suitable on all skin tones.
  • IS SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION A GOOD CAREER?
    Scalp Micropigmentation is the #1 leading hair loss solution world-wide. This high ticket service allows you to help people, be creative, choose your own hours, get your time back and earn 6 figures while changing lives. If this sounds enticing then becoming a Scalp Micropigmentation Artist could be the right career for you.
  • DO YOU OFFER SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION TRAINING FOR LARGE GROUPS?
    Yes! If you're a company looking to empower your staff with SMP Training, we can come to you. Please contact us for more details.
  • DO YOU OFFER SMP POST-TRAINING SUPPORT OUTSIDE OF NEW YORK?
    Yes, we have a system in place that will allow you the opportunity to continue your training after the Scalp Micropigmentation Training course is finished.
  • WHEN IS IT SAFE TO SWEAT AFTER EACH SESSION?
    We advise keeping the scalp as dry as possible for the first 3 days while your SMP heals. It is ok to lightly sweat on day 4 and by day 7, you are safe to resume activities that cause heavy sweating.
  • WHEN CAN I FIRST WET MY SCALP AFTER TREATMENT?
    We recommend wetting the scalp 5 days after your treatment.
  • WHAT KIND OF SKIN CARE PRODUCTS SHOULD I USE AFTER SMP?
    Have you ever had a leather baseball glove that you had to keep oiled so that the leather didn't get stiff and crack? That's what will happen to your skin without the proper moisturizer. As the body's largest organ, your skin stretches out about 20 feet. Whatever is applied to it will absorb into your blood stream, affecting you topically and biologically. What we're saying is, it's important to not just rub anything on there. We recommend avoiding products with alcohol and synthetic chemicals/fragrances to prolong the look of your Scalp Micropigmentation and keep your skin looking young and feeling healthy. Since 99% of products on the shelf contain harsh and harmful ingredients, we hand-crafted our own all natural, chemical-free Scalp + Body Butter and Scalp + Body Wash so you can feel good about what you are putting on your skin. Shop The Scalp Shop Supplies here.
  • WHEN IS IT SAFE TO USE POOLS, SAUNAS, STEAM ROOMS AND TANNING BEDS AFTER SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION OR BEARD MICROPIGMENTATION TREATMENT?"
    30 days after your final session.
  • WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO MAINTAIN MY SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
    After receiving Scalp Micropigmentation, we recommend moisturizing the scalp regularly, applying a good quality sunscreen before UV ray exposure and avoiding skin care products with alcohol and synthetic ingredients in them. Check out The Scalp Shop Supplies to help keep your SMP looking fresh while preventing premature fading.
  • HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CUT MY HAIR AFTER GETTING SMP?
    If you are keeping a closely cropped look, this answer ranges from person to person based on how quickly your hair grows. There is no clear cut rule to this, but typically people trim their hair every few days to maintain a seamless and realistic look.
  • WHAT SHAVERS DO YOU RECOMMEND AFTER GETTING SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION?
    If you are opting for a closely cropped look and lowering your hairline below your real hair, this is for you. Depending on your hair style preference, we suggest keeping your hair shaved to a close stubble or shaving all the way down to skin. Not sure which tools are the best for the job? After testing 30 different shavers, we've taken the guess work out of the equation for you. Get the right buzz cut length for SMP using the TSS SMP Perfect Stubble Shaver, or go for a smooth, bald cut using the TSS SMP Foil Shaver. Feel free to check out more of our Scalp Micropigmentation Supplies at Butcher James.
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