Tricopigmentation

Tricopigmentation is commonly referred to as temporary scalp micropigmentation, which is a pretty accurate descriptive. Whereas a permanent procedure will need top-ups every 3-5 years or so with pigment remaining in the skin for 20+ years, tricopigmentation is refreshed almost entirely every 12-18 months.

People sometimes consider tricopigmentation a safer option, or an opportunity to test drive their new look and maintenance regimen before committing long term using permanent SMP. However, most people who choose tricopigmentation do so with the intention of getting it regularly topped up, and have no plans to revert to the permanent option. It is a great choice those who wish to alter their hair line in the future to suit their age.

The availability of a temporary procedure definitely encourages more people to resolve their hair loss issues because tricopigmentation is less daunting for those who are yet to be convinced that SMP is the right solution for their needs. If, after their procedure, they feel like they made a mistake, the pigments will fade on their own over a relatively short period anyway. This removes much of the anxiety from the decision.

If you’ve already taken the time to look into scalp micropigmentation, you’re probably aware of tricopigmentation. With more than 400 scalp tricopigmentation clinics around the world at the moment, tricopigmentation clinics have exceptional standards and technicians. Tricopigmentation (also sometimes known as pigmentalia) is the procedure of introducing quality shaded pigments into the epidermis layer of the skin in order to replicate natural and life-like hair follicles. The ink is introduced using a specialised digital micropigmentation gun utilising some of the finest needles for a truly effective result. Undergoing tricopigmentation can improve your confidence and quality of life, giving you that boost that you need.

The tricopigmentation technique is becoming more and more common and relies on a highly-trained practitioner’s skilled in the use of precision needles and advanced skin pigments to colour the upper layer of the skin – known as the epidermis. The pigments used are permanent compared with normal cosmetic pigments but are referred to as semi-permanent in that, as the skin in the epidermis gradually replaces itself, they’ll fade over several years and will require to be topped up through a number of follow up procedures.

Modern tricopigmentation is derived from scalp micropigmentation. Each deposit is designed to replicate an individual shaven hair follicle – giving a more realistic look and feel. When thousands of deposits are combined and blended with any existing real hair, the result is an incredibly realistic simulation of a full head of shaved hair.

Primarily, the most obvious difference between tricopigmentation and scalp micropigmentation is that the pigment for tricopigmentation is only inserted into the epidermis layer of the skin (the top layer). With scalp micropigmentation or hair tattoo, the pigment is inserted into the dermis layer of the skin. Pigment inserted into the dermis layer of the skin works very much the same as a traditional tattoo in such way that the pigment stays permanently in the skin and won’t fade as much as a semi-permanent tattoo. The issue with the latter is that over time you will usually find that the inks in the dermis layer of the skin ‘bleed’ a little which results in blurring and consequently move away from the appearance of a natural hair follicle. Also permanent hair tattoo follicles are not adaptable and without further cosmetic procedures, and therefore, cannot be amended over time to match the naturally aging hairline. Tricopigmentation provides the most realistic and effective look.

The average treatment for tricopigmentation can last from 1-2 years. But with regular top-ups, tricopigmentation treatments can last a lifetime. After one year, the treatment will usually start to fade due to the natural exfoliation effect in the epidermis layer of the skin, so with regular top-up treatments, new pigments can be re-introduced to keep that perfect follicle look. Tricopigmentationis is semi-permanent in nature which means that within years, if you want your hair to fade back to its natural unblemished state, it will.

It’s so important to talk openly and honestly with your practitioner about your specific requirements from the outset. This is in order to gain a realistic understanding of what to expect. It’s also important to establish that the products and tools used are certified, clean, and to a high standard – so research is essential in the early stages in order to find the right technician. Simple and straightforward communication between you and the cosmetic practitioner can put your mind at rest and reassure you that all tools and techniques are professional and above board.

In terms of the process, some technicians will use a pre-procedure anaesthetic, while others don’t. If a pre-procedure anaesthetic is required but the technician is not a physician or working under the direction of a physician, it will be an over-the-counter level anaesthetic which can be quite effective. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this will be discussed in your consultation beforehand and you’ll know what to expect upon arrival when it comes to the tricopigmentation procedure. When you choose the right technician, you can be safe in the knowledge that they will practice will only one-time-use accessories and medical tools. If a pre-procedure anaesthetic is required, the practitioner will use a sterilized needle will be used before the procedure begins. Depending on your requirements, aftercare instructions are normally provided and some technicians provide products depending on what procedure you choose.

The length of a tricopigmentation procedure really depends on how much hair loss you have experienced and which areas are to be treated. Unlike most scalp micropigmentation treatment that is carried out in a single sitting, a tricopigmentation procedure is usually carried out in around three sittings in order to achieve the best results. In addition, by carrying out the treatment in three sittings, the clients comfort levels are well catered to.

There are a number of reasons that someone may want to undergo tricopigmentation. Traditionally, it’s used on people who suffer from hair loss. However, it can also be applied with great results in the following cases:

  • Alopecia universalis
  • Alopecia areata
  • Baldness
  • Hair thinning
  • Before and after a hair transplant
  • After the removal of a hair system
  • Scar camouflage.

Tricopigmentation really can improve the quality of your life and boost your confidence no end. It’s especially beneficial if hair loss is getting you down and you want to restore your hair to its former glory.