A Quick Guide To Hair Tattoos

Last Updated 2 years ago:

A “hair tattoo” is when designs are basically cut into your hair, typically at a barbershop. However, in this context, we are referring to bald men that use hair tattoos in order to cover up the fact that they are bald. Thousands of men around the world use this method as a cover up for their hair loss. 

The proper term for a hair tattoo is scalp micropigmentation. It is a lot more work than simply getting a typical tattoo which makes the initial name a bit misleading. Also, the technique for doing scalp micropigmentation is a lot of work and it isn’t something that you can do at a tattoo parlor. 

In simple terms, scalp micropigmentation involves depositing thousands of small pigments into the scalp within the upper dermis. This needs to be done by a skilled person who has the training to do so. When this is done, it will appear as though you have a head of hair that has been shaved. 

Now, because of this procedure, the amount of hair that you have or don’t have, doesn’t matter. It is quite different from a hair transplant surgery since hair tattooing doesn’t require any actual hair. As a result of this, you don’t need to have the majority of your hair can easily get a hair tattoo. Even in the event that you have no hair at all, you can get this procedure done. 

Now, you likely have lots of questions and we will now take a look at some of these questions and answer them. 

If I get a hair tattoo, will it cause even more of the hair that I still have to fall?

Scalp micropigmentation will not prevent hair from growing, even new hair. This is due to the fact that the ink will only be placed in the dermis layer of the skin. Hair follicles are not in this layer and are located much lower. Scalp micropigmentation and hairline tattoo treatments will not cause any damage to your hair and the hair will be able to grow back. 

Are the results realistic?

Technicians that have been properly trained in scalp micropigmentation can definitely create very realistic results. The results will appear as though you have healthy hair that is closely trimmed at your scalp which is also a great aesthetic. 

Now, keep in mind that you should carefully think about this procedure before you do it. It is best to talk to the technician so that you learn everything you need to about scalp micropigmentation. This includes the side effects, how long it will take to heal, the cost, any side effects etc. 

Is scalp micropigmentation permanent?

No one wants to lose their hair. So, if you are quite attached to your hair and enjoy grooming it, you may find it quite difficult to adjust. Due to this, many people often opt for a hair transplant. Thankfully, these treatments are a lot more affordable and easily available than before. 

With that said, if you want to hide your hair loss without getting a hair transplant, then scalp micropigmentation is a good option. It will give you the look of a buzzcut and it will actually last for many years. However, you will need to do touch ups every so often to maintain it. 

Is it possible to remove a hair tattoo?

Yes, a hair tattoo can be removed with a laser by a specialist. In order to completely get rid of the hair tattoo, you’ll need to do about 1 – 2 laser treatments. 

Does hair tattooing cause cancer?

Currently, there is no evidence that scalp micropigmentation causes cancer. 

Would scalp micropigmentation results be negatively affected by using minoxidil on the scalp?

Minoxidil is effective at stimulating hair growth. However, if you get scalp micropigmentation done and you use minoxidil too soon after, it can cause the pigment to fade. So, you should wait until the pigment is dried which is at least 2 weeks after your scalp micropigmentation procedure.