How Much Does Scalp Micropigmentation Cost?

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that creates the appearance of natural hair follicles on the scalp. If you’re considering SMP, one of the first questions you’ll probably have is how much it costs.

SMPMap helps you understand scalp micropigmentation pricing by country and city, along with answers to common questions about the treatment, sessions, results, and what can affect the final price.

Whether you’re researching SMP in the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, Ireland, or another location, our goal is to give you a realistic starting point before you speak with a practitioner.

Scalp Micropigmentation Cost by Country

SMP prices can vary considerably depending on where you live. The amount of hair loss, treatment area, practitioner experience, and number of sessions can also affect the total cost.

Explore our cost guides by country:

United States
How much does scalp micropigmentation cost in the USA?

Canada
How much does scalp micropigmentation cost in Canada?

United Kingdom
How much does scalp micropigmentation cost in the UK?

Australia
How much does scalp micropigmentation cost in Australia?

Ireland
How much does scalp micropigmentation cost in Ireland?

Scalp Micropigmentation Cost by City

Looking for the cost of SMP in a particular city? Our city guides look at typical pricing for different types of SMP treatment, including full scalp treatment, hairline SMP, thinning hair, and scalp scar camouflage.

United States

• New York City
• Los Angeles

Canada

• Toronto
• Vancouver

United Kingdom

• London
• Manchester

Australia

• Sydney
• Melbourne

Ireland

• Dublin
• Cork

As the site grows, we’ll continue adding city-specific SMP cost information.

How Much Does Scalp Micropigmentation Cost?

There isn’t one standard price for SMP.

A small hairline treatment can cost considerably less than full scalp SMP, while extensive hair loss may require several sessions and a larger treatment area.

As a general guide, complete SMP treatments can range from around $1,500 to $5,000+, depending on the country and treatment required.

The most important thing when comparing prices is to find out whether a quoted price is per session or for the complete treatment.

What Affects the Cost of SMP?

Several factors can influence how much you’ll pay for scalp micropigmentation.

Amount of Hair Loss

Someone with a receding hairline will generally need less treatment than someone with extensive or complete hair loss.

Treatment Area

SMP can be used for:

• Hairline restoration
• Thinning hair
• Crown coverage
• Full scalp treatment
• Scalp scar camouflage

Larger treatment areas generally cost more.

Number of Sessions

SMP is usually performed over multiple sessions. The number required depends on the treatment area and the result you’re trying to achieve.

Practitioner Experience

Experienced SMP practitioners may charge more than newer providers. When comparing prices, it’s worth looking at the practitioner’s previous work rather than choosing based solely on price.

Location

SMP prices can be very different between cities and countries. A treatment in New York, for example, may cost considerably more or less than a similar treatment in another market.

What Is Scalp Micropigmentation?

Scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic procedure that uses specialized equipment to place small amounts of pigment into the scalp.

The pigment is applied in tiny impressions designed to resemble individual hair follicles. When done properly, the result can create the appearance of a closely shaved head or make thinning areas appear denser.

SMP is commonly considered by people experiencing:

• Male pattern hair loss
• Female pattern hair loss
• Receding hairlines
• Thinning hair
• Extensive baldness
• Certain scalp scars
• Some forms of alopecia

SMP does not grow new hair. It is a cosmetic treatment designed to change the appearance of the scalp.

How Long Does SMP Last?

SMP is considered a long-lasting cosmetic treatment, but the pigment can gradually fade over time.

How long it remains noticeable depends on factors such as the individual’s skin, sun exposure, lifestyle, aftercare, and the technique used by the practitioner.

Some people eventually choose a touch-up to refresh the treatment.

Is SMP the Same as a Tattoo?

SMP and traditional tattooing both involve placing pigment into the skin, but they aren’t the same procedure.

SMP uses specialized equipment, pigments, needle configurations, and techniques designed specifically for the scalp. The goal is to create extremely small follicle-like impressions rather than traditional tattoo artwork.

SMP vs. Hair Transplant

SMP and hair transplantation are very different approaches to hair loss.

A hair transplant involves surgically moving hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another.

SMP doesn’t transplant or grow hair. Instead, it uses pigmentation to create the visual appearance of hair follicles.

For someone who prefers a closely shaved hairstyle, SMP can be an alternative to consider. The right option depends on the individual’s hair loss, goals, budget, and expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions About SMP

How much does scalp micropigmentation cost?

SMP can cost anywhere from approximately $1,500 to $5,000+, depending on the country, city, treatment area, practitioner, and number of sessions.

How much does full scalp SMP cost?

Full scalp SMP generally costs more than treating a hairline or small thinning area. The price can range from approximately $2,000 to $5,000+ depending on location and the extent of hair loss.

How much does SMP cost for thinning hair?

SMP for thinning hair can be less expensive than full scalp treatment because a smaller area may need to be treated. The exact cost depends on the amount of thinning and the size of the treatment area.

How much does hairline SMP cost?

Hairline SMP is generally less expensive than full scalp SMP because the treatment area is smaller. Prices vary substantially by city and practitioner.

How many SMP sessions are needed?

Many treatments require 2–4 sessions, although the number can vary depending on the treatment and the desired result.

Does SMP grow hair?

No. SMP does not stimulate or grow new hair. It creates the appearance of hair follicles using cosmetic pigmentation.

Is SMP permanent?

SMP is long-lasting but isn’t necessarily permanent in appearance. Pigment can gradually fade, and some people eventually choose a touch-up.