What Is the Recovery Time After Scalp Micropigmentation?

Skin Micropigmentation is a process in which small perforations are made into the skin to create an illusion of hair by adding pigment through those perforations. 

How Does Our Skin Heal Itself? 

As we know that perforations are small holes, and when we make these holes, our body tries to correct the damage. So, whenever the skin is ruptured or perforated, the immune system comes into action to heal it efficiently. The outermost layer of our skin is called epidermis, which is relatively thick and works as a protective barrier for underlying dermis (the second layer) and glands. When a perforation is made in the epidermis, our body deals with it by launching white blood cells to close off the wound and then generates a new tissue. 

When perforation or injury extends from the epidermis to the dermis, bleeding occurs and inflammatory response begins. Clotting mechanism begins and the scab is formed within several hours. The scab covers the wound to prevent any microorganism from entering the skin. New cells are formed and after some days the wound is closed off by “contraction”. 

Same is the case with Scalp Micropigmentation therapy. During the SMP procedure, micro-perforations are made into the skin, and the ink is injected into the area. 

The recovery time varies from patient to patient but the following would be the approximate duration of the process: 

1. After the first session, the immediate response you will notice would be redness. It is a natural response as the skin is a sensitive organ. 

2. You may also notice slight inflammation, which is again, natural. The micro-perforations made throughout the area cause inflammation, but it is nothing to worry about. Inflammation is the first stage of wound healing. A soothing cream that is suitable for this process may be applied throughout the healing time period to help the inflammation and redness.
    
3. During the 2^nd-4^th days, when the redness subsides you will notice scab formation throughout the area. Scabs are protective layers. The healing process still continues under the scabs. Any caps or hats are advised during this time period to avoid any unpleasant incidents. Although it should be taken off from time to time to allow the skin to breathe.
   
   Note: Sunlight is an important factor in healing as darkness prevents healing.
    
4. As you near the end of the week, the scabs become dry and some start to fall off. It will be mostly during your 5^th or 6^th day. There might be a strong urge to pick at these scabs, but it is best to not disturb them. When the healing is done, scabs will fall off ultimately. Picking at them will not only disturb the healing process, but the pigment might come out with the scab.

5. As the scabs fall off, new skin is formed and the scalp fully heals itself. This is usually by the end of the week and the client is ready for the next session. 

How Does the Healing Effect the Pigments?  

When the skin heals after the perforations and closes off, it encloses the pigments within itself. It goes deep in some areas and shallow in other areas. Due to which the pigments may appear lighter, darker, translucent or even invisible.  This gives the physician a good idea of the next session and how to approach it and make it the best for the client!