Scalp Micropigmentation vs. Tattooing: Understanding the Differences
Medical micropigmentation breathes new life into the word “tattooing.” The procedure helps individuals overcome many seemingly unsolvable aesthetic problems, improving overall quality of life and restoring lost confidence.
At Medical Tattoo Centers of America, we deeply understand the psychological effects of living with hair loss, scarring, and other skin issues that negatively impact confidence. That’s why, at our one-of-a-kind facility, we create beautiful illusions using our medical micropigmentation expertise.
In this blog, our medical professionals discuss what micropigmentation involves and how it's vastly different than standard tattooing.
What Is Scalp Micropigmentation Exactly?
Scalp micropigmentation is a medical technique designed to enhance or restore lost coloring on the scalp. The procedure uses very thin needles to deposit tiny spheres of different colored pigments into the upper layers of the dermis in a layered, dot-like pattern, a technique referred to as pointillism.
The procedure does not interfere with the hair follicles, yet it creates the illusion of fuller, thicker hair. Although many people liken micropigmentation to tattooing, the two procedures are not the same. We’ll discuss the primary differences below.
Different Needles, Different Techniques
Micropigmentation utilizes an entirely different needle apparatus than standard tattooing, and the procedure also requires different training and technique mastery. Standard tattoo needles are not only far larger and less precise than those used for micropigmentation, but they also deposit pigment deep into the dermis, approximately 1.5-2 millimeters.
In contrast, medical tattooing deposits pigment more shallowly, into the upper layers of the dermis. Keeping the pigmentation shallow allows for more precise shape control (the deeper the pigment, the higher the chance that it will spread) while still maintaining permanence.
Scalp Micropigmentation vs. Tattooing: Different Pigments
Micropigmentation also uses an entirely different pigment than standard tattooing. Since there are no chemicals involved in the medical tattoo process, the risk of allergic reactions is minimal. Tattoo ink, on the other hand (depending on the type), has been well-known to cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
Different Procedures, Distinctly Different Goals
The end goal of each procedure is also different. With micropigmentation, the goal of the procedure is to either create a natural illusion of something that is no longer present (scalp micropigmentation for hair loss) or camouflage various types of skin damage (medical tattoos to camouflage scarring).
Tattooing, on the other hand, is designed to provide an artistic skin enhancement. And in most cases, that enhancement is specifically designed to stand out from the surrounding skin, not blend seamlessly with the surrounding area as is the goal of micropigmentation.
Learn More About Scalp Micropigmentation at Medical Tattoo Centers of America
If you struggle with hair loss, micropigmentation can help improve the appearance of your scalp and help you reclaim your confidence. If you’d like to learn more about the procedure and how it can help, feel free to get in touch with our compassionate team at Medical Tattoo Centers of America. Our state-of-art-facility is the first of its kind in Twin Cities and the state of Minnesota, and our extensive training and experience ensure you’ll receive the best possible care.
To learn more about our services or schedule a free consultation, give a call today at 612-770-0000 or send us a message with any questions, and we’ll be in touch promptly.