What is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?

SMP is a non-surgical hair loss solution where natural pigments are deposited into the scalp to replicate the appearance of hair follicles. It creates the look of a shaved buzz-cut or a denser head of hair in thinning areas.

  • Think of it like tattooing, but done with specialised techniques and pigments.

  • It works for men and women, all skin tones, and all types of hair loss.

What is a Hair Transplant?

A hair transplant is a surgical procedure where hair follicles are taken from one part of your body (usually the back of your scalp) and transplanted to thinning or bald areas.

There are two main types:

  • FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) – individual follicles are moved

  • FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) – a strip of scalp is surgically removed and dissected into grafts

SMP vs Hair Transplant – Head-to-Head
Feature SMP (Scalp Micropigmentation) Hair Transplant
Invasiveness Non-surgical, no incisions Surgical procedure
Recovery Time Minimal (2–4 days) 1–2 weeks +
Pain Mild discomfort (topical numbing used) Moderate to high (during and post-op)
Results Timeline Immediate (visible after first session) Several months (full results in 6–12 months)
Maintenance Touch-ups every 3–5 years Long-term hair care, possible repeat procedures
Effectiveness for Severe Hair Loss Excellent (even on complete baldness) Limited if donor hair is sparse
Cost £1,000 – £3,000 (depending on area) £4,000 – £15,000 (depending on grafts)
Risk of Scarring None Possible (especially with FUT)
Works with All Hair Types? Yes Less effective on curly or afro hair in some cases
Who Should Choose SMP?

SMP is ideal if:

  • You want immediate results with no downtime

  • You're completely bald or have patchy hair loss

  • You’re not ready for surgery (or don’t want one)

  • You want a clean, sharp buzzcut look

  • You have scarring (from past surgeries) you'd like to camouflage

Bonus: SMP is also great for enhancing density behind a hair transplant.
Who Should Choose a Hair Transplant?

Hair transplant may be better if:

  • You want the ability to grow longer hair

  • You have strong donor areas (lots of healthy follicles at the back of your head)

  • You’re ready for surgery, downtime, and post-op care

  • You want a more permanent solution, even if it’s costlier and slower

Still Unsure? Here’s Our Honest Take

At Scalp Kings, we’re not here to bash transplants — we just know that SMP offers unmatched flexibility, fast results, and a natural look without the risks and high price tag.

Many of our clients combine SMP with hair transplants for a fuller look. And for those who’ve had failed or patchy transplants? SMP is often the perfect fix.

Why Choose Scalp Kings?

  • We’re SMP specialists — it’s all we do.

  • 5-star rated by hundreds of happy clients

  • Tailored treatments for every skin tone and hair type

  • Private, discreet, and professional

Book a Free Consultation

Still weighing your options? Let’s talk. Our artists will assess your hair loss, goals, and recommend the best path forward — no pressure, no pushy sales.

Take control of your hair story. With Scalp Kings, confidence is just one session away.