Scalp Micropigmentation Aftercare: A Step by Step Healing Guide

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a natural-looking solution for thinning hair and hair loss, and how you care for your scalp afterward shapes how it heals. This guide follows the general aftercare Val gives her clients at HD Beauty by Val in Bedford, serving Halifax and the surrounding area. It also flags the points where Val will give you instructions specific to your scalp. If you are still getting ready for your appointment, start with our guide to preparing for your permanent makeup appointment. Having other treatments done too? See our eyebrow aftercare guide.

Scalp Micropigmentation Aftercare at a Glance

• Evening of your appointment: ask Val whether the damp paper towel step applies to your scalp

• First 24 hours: no workouts, tanning, facials or spas, and do not touch or clean the area

• After 24 hours: wash gently once a day with a mild cleanser, and follow Val’s advice on products

• Full 8 weeks: no exfoliants, and no Retin A or strong skincare products on or near the treated area

• Throughout healing: protect your scalp from the sun, and do not pick or scratch

  
  

The Evening of Your Appointment

For most treatments, Val asks clients to press a clean, damp paper towel on the treated area for 1 minute that evening, to lift lymph that has built up on the surface. Ask Val at your appointment whether this step applies to your scalp and how to do it. A larger area may need a different approach.

The First 24 Hours

For the first 24 hours, avoid working out, tanning, facial treatments and spas. Do not touch or clean the treated area. Keep your hands off your scalp, and avoid anything that rubs the area, such as tight hats or headbands.

After 24 Hours: Gentle Daily Cleansing

Once the first 24 hours have passed, start washing the area gently once a day with a mild cleanser. Do not scrub, and do not use anything that contains exfoliants. Ask Val which cleanser or shampoo is best for your scalp and when you can return to your usual one.

Hair Products, Shaving and Styling

Because SMP sits on your scalp, you will have questions that are specific to it. Ask Val at your appointment when it is safe to shave or trim the area, use shampoo and conditioner, apply styling products or hair dye, and wear hats or helmets. Until she tells you, do not put anything on the treated area that she has not approved.

What Healing Looks Like: Flaking, Color Loss and Color Changes

While your scalp heals, expect some flaking, loss of color and color changes. This is normal. Your color moves through stages, from dark to light, before it settles into its intended shade, so your scalp will not look final while it is still healing. Do not pick, scratch or peel flaking skin, and ask Val what to do if the area feels itchy.

Not sure whether what you are seeing is normal? Read Is This Normal? Flaking, Color Change and Fading.

Weeks 1 to 8: Protect Your Color

Until you are fully healed, about 8 weeks, avoid Retin A and any strong skincare products on or near the treated area, and keep exfoliants off it for at least 8 weeks.

Sun protection matters for your scalp. Val’s general guidance keeps sunscreen off a treated area for 8 weeks, so ask her what she wants you to use on your scalp and when. In the meantime, a loose, clean hat or cover is a simple way to protect it.

Once you are healed, see How Long Does Permanent Makeup Last? to learn how color softens over time.

Your Follow Up

Permanent makeup treatments are often built in stages. Touch up options on the booking site are listed for brows, lips and eyeliner, so ask Val what follow up she recommends for your scalp and when. Our touch up guide explains how follow ups work for other treatments.

When to Contact Val

If something does not look or feel right, call Val at 902-497-7392 or email hdbeautybyval@gmail.com. If you notice increasing pain, swelling, spreading redness or discharge, contact Val right away, and see your doctor if you are worried about infection. This guide is general information and not medical advice.

Thinking About Scalp Micropigmentation?

Wondering how an appointment goes? Read What to Expect at Your First Permanent Makeup Appointment. Have questions about comfort or safety? See Permanent Makeup Myths and Facts. SMP is priced from a starting amount, and you can read what each treatment costs in How Much Does Permanent Makeup Cost in Halifax?

Not sure if SMP is right for you? Start with a Personalized Consultation and talk it through with Val. When you are ready, book Scalp Micropigmentation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scalp Micropigmentation Aftercare

How long does scalp micropigmentation take to heal?

Val’s general aftercare allows about 8 weeks for full healing. During that time your scalp flakes, loses some color and changes color, moving from dark to light before settling into its intended shade. Val will confirm what to expect for your scalp.

Can I wash my hair after scalp micropigmentation?

For the first 24 hours, do not touch or clean the treated area. After that, wash gently once a day with a mild cleanser. Ask Val which products to use and when you can go back to your usual shampoo.

Can I wear a hat after scalp micropigmentation?

A loose, clean hat can help protect your scalp from the sun while you heal. Avoid anything tight that rubs the area, and ask Val when you can wear hats and helmets normally.

Is it normal for my scalp to flake and look lighter?

Yes. Flaking, loss of color and color changes are a normal part of healing. Do not pick or scratch.

Do I need a follow up session after scalp micropigmentation?

Permanent makeup treatments are often built in stages, so ask Val what follow up she recommends for your scalp.

Ready to wake up flawless?

Book your appointment online, or call 902-497-7392.Questions? Email hdbeautybyval@gmail.com.HD Beauty by Val, 1175 Bedford Highway, Bedford, NS