SMP^® vs the alternatives

Scalp MicroPigmentation (SMP^®) is rapidly growing in popularity as it gains the approval and respect of the industry and clients alike as one of the most viable hair loss treatments available for sufferers of all kinds of hair loss.

The key question is: how does it really compare against the alternative and perhaps more well-established solutions for hair loss sufferers?

Before the invention of our pioneering SMP^® technique, the only real options for hair loss sufferers were hair transplant surgery, hair systems, temporary concealers, or drugs and topical treatments.

Many of our clients had already tried traditional solutions before coming to us, and been dissatisfied with the results. In fact, our clients regularly tell us that they wish they had found us first. But you need to find the best solution for you…

Hair transplant surgery

Hair transplant surgery was the only guaranteed, ‘permanent’ hair restoration solution available before the invention of SMP^®. It therefore quickly become an internationally recognised procedure – and a multi-million pound business for hair transplant clinics around the world.

Like all hair loss solutions, hair transplant surgery offers advantages and disadvantages. It’s an invasive, surgical procedure and usually results in some degree of permanent scarring. Less invasive FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) techniques are becoming more prevalent, but these still virtually guarantee a certain amount of scarring. What’s more, if the amount of donor hair available is insufficient, many hair transplant patients require the ongoing use of temporary concealers – and potentially further surgery in the future.

 

Hair systems

For anyone who prefers not to undergo surgery, a hair system – also known as a wig, hair unit or hair replacement system – is a popular option. But it’s not a permanent solution. The main advantage is that the effect created by a hair system is immediate and relatively easy to achieve. There are, however, also quite a few downsides and difficulties that many wearers of hair systems struggle with.

Hair systems can be expensive to buy and usually involve significant ongoing costs. Many wearers also complain of poor hygiene, because the required adhesives don’t allow the skin to breathe, causing an unpleasant odour. The adhesives themselves can also cause significant skin damage over time. There is also the issue of the social stigma associated with hair systems, which results in secrecy and anxiety among many users.

 

Temporary concealers

Temporary concealers are usually sprayed, shaken or brushed onto the problem area of the head, and cling to existing hair to make it appear thicker and fuller. But the fact that at least 25% of our clients have previously tried this solution – and then come to us for SMP^® treatment – shows that there are significant issues associated with their use.

Temporary concealers may provide a suitable option for some people, and they are certainly a safe and immediate solution. But they can be very expensive to use over an extended period of time and only work if the user has sufficient hair to start with. They are not an option for people with very little or no hair. Some products can also be washed, rained, blown or rubbed off, which often makes the user feel even more conscious of their hair loss problem.

 

Topical treatments and drugs

Sales of topical shampoos and lotions have grown dramatically in recent years. A significant number of people claim to have experienced benefits by using one or a combination of topical treatments marketed as solutions for hair loss. Reported results include a slowing of hair loss, a complete cessation, or even the thickening and increasing density of remaining hair. But these solutions do not work for everyone. More importantly, once an area of your scalp is completely bald, no lotion can make your hair grow back.

Topical lotions can also be expensive if used for extended periods of time, and any benefits are usually quickly reversed if their use is discontinued. So it’s definitely a long-term commitment.

The effectiveness of drugs to combat hair loss problems will always be a subject of much debate, not least because many are known to produce undesirable side effects. Although most hair loss sufferers could cope with an itchy scalp, for example, loss of libido and erectile dysfunction are side effects that are more likely to discourage use of such drugs.

 

So how does SMP^® compare with the alternatives?

The most suitable hair loss treatment to help combat your condition is the one that works best for you. Everyone is different, so the most suitable solution for one person may not necessarily be right for another.

It’s up to you to compare all the options available to you and decide for yourself on the best course of action for you. We’ll always be on hand to offer guidance and support throughout this process, offering 100% unbiased, honest and free advice – regardless of the fact that we pioneered the SMP^® technique.

What we will certainly point out, however, is that SMP^® is a non-invasive procedure that requires no anaesthetic, incisions or adhesives. The treatment does involves a little mild discomfort, but leaves no scars and is perfectly adaptable in the event of further hair loss later on, or if your style preferences change. It’s also a relatively easy procedure for most people to fit into their everyday lives. Because it’s a permanent solution, ongoing maintenance is generally not required. While our SMP^® treatment is classified as ‘permanent’, we can easily remove any areas (including total removal) very simply without any scarring or damage to any remaining hair. This means SMP^® is totally adaptable and, in most of our clients’ opinions, means our treatment is the most flexible and best hair loss option currently available.

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