SMP Aftercare Guide: How to Care for Your Scalp Post-Treatment
- Aesthetic Ink Team
- Mar 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 18
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a transformative solution for hair loss, but proper aftercare is crucial to maintaining long-lasting, vibrant results. Follow this detailed SMP aftercare guide to ensure optimal healing and avoid common issues like fading, irritation, or uneven pigment retention.

Immediate Aftercare: The First 3 Days
Avoid Washing the Scalp – Keep the treated area completely dry for at least 72 hours after your SMP procedure.
No Sweating – Refrain from exercise, saunas, or activities that cause excessive sweating.
Avoid Touching the Scalp – Let the micro-wounds heal undisturbed to prevent infections.
No Direct Sun Exposure – Stay away from sunlight to prevent pigment fading or irritation.
Washing & Moisturising: Days 4-7
Gentle Washing – From Day 4, cleanse the scalp using lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.
Pat Dry, Don’t Rub – Gently pat your scalp dry with a clean towel.
Light Moisturising – Apply a non-greasy, fragrance-free moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated and prevent excessive dryness.
The Healing Phase: Weeks 2-4
Resume Regular Washing – By week 2, you can return to your normal shower routine using mild shampoo.
Avoid Scrubbing or Peeling – Let any scabbing or flaking naturally fall off.
Sun Protection – Use an SPF 50+ sunscreen or wear a hat when outdoors to prevent premature fading.
No Swimming or Sauna – Stay out of chlorinated pools, steam rooms, and hot tubs for at least 4 weeks.
Long-Term SMP Maintenance
Keep the Scalp Hydrated – Use a light, alcohol-free moisturiser daily.
Exfoliate Occasionally – Gentle exfoliation once a week can help prevent dead skin build-up.
Use Sunscreen Daily – SPF 50+ is essential for protecting the pigment and keeping your SMP fresh.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Stay away from strong anti-dandruff shampoos or alcohol-based products.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping Moisturiser – Dry skin can cause premature fading.
Overwashing – Too much cleansing can strip away natural oils and affect healing.
Ignoring Sun Protection – Sun exposure is the #1 cause of SMP fading.
Using Harsh Products – Strong chemicals can degrade pigment quality over time.
Final Thoughts
Proper scalp micropigmentation aftercare ensures that your SMP remains sharp, defined, and long-lasting. At Aesthetic Ink, we provide expert guidance and top-quality SMP treatments. Follow these steps, and enjoy your new, confidence-boosting look for years to come!
Need personalised aftercare advice? Contact Aesthetic Ink today for professional support and maintenance tips!
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