SMP as a New Career Choice: Your go-to guide
Article by Emma Furlong | Date Published 13th August 2024
Considering a new or advanced career in Scalp Micropigmentation: Here is everything you need to know.
In this guide we explore the evolution of scalp micropigmentation, the benefits of embarking on a new career in this field, and the transformative impact hair loss solutions can have on individuals' lives. Discover everything you've ever wanted to know about scalp micropigmentation in this all-in-one guide.
About the author
My name is Emma Furlong and I have worked in hair loss for over 17 years, gaining invaluable experience working with two industry-leading non surgical hair providers, and through my own aesthetic practice. I've repeatedly witnessed first hand the life-changing benefits that effective hair loss solutions can bring, and I'm passionate about providing treatments to those in need.
My love for micropigmentation in its many forms led me to specialise in providing total hair loss solutions. Today, I'm proud to be the lead trainer for FTG's hair loss division where I write and deliver SMP training, offer trichological advice and lecture globally.
I'm deeply committed to ongoing education, maintaining industry standards, and collaborating with hair restoration professionals to offer the best possible solutions to those affected by hair loss.
Table of Content
SMP is a non-surgical, minimally invasive micropigmentation technique that caters to a variety of hair loss conditions, including male and female pattern baldness, alopecia, and scarring from hair transplant surgery.
Each client/patient will have a customised treatment plan that meets their individual's needs, taking into consideration their desired outcome and existing hair pattern. The result is a realistic simulation of hair that can either provide a shaven head look or creates the illusion of increased density in thinning areas, known as densification.
The treatment involves using specialised needle cartridges to implant coloured pigments/inks into the scalp, meticulously replicating the appearance of natural hair follicles.
To view more SMP before and after results, head to our FTG Clinics gallery
Micropigmentation has been a popular solution for decades, predominantly in brow replacement. However, in the early 2000s, the industry began to evolve with the introduction of additional micropigmentaion treatment solutions from areola micropigmentation and skin camouflage to hair loss (SMP).
Hair loss is not limited to the scalp. Hair loss can also effect brows, beards, sugical scarring and more. Advances in needles, pigments, and devices has transformed the non surgical hair loss market. We can now offer more treatment options, have greater understanding of hair loss conditions, all leading to precise, natural, and long-lasting results.
This evolution highlights the field's growth and its ability to adapt and provide innovative treatments.
Scalp micropigmentation is one of the fastest-growing hair loss treatments, offering a non-surgical solution for hair loss for both men and women. Initially, SMP primarily catered to men with male pattern baldness. However, significant advancements have expanded the range of treatments available.
Today, SMP addresses various degrees of hair loss for both male and females, providing a treatment choice that considers current hair loss and anticipates future changes, tailoring treatments to each individual's specific needs. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for SMP due to the versatility and customised solutions this treatment now offers.
A career in SMP offers substantial rewards for technicians, including personal fulfillment, financial opportunities, and creative satisfaction. For clients, SMP can provide a life-changing solution, to boosting confidence and offering a practical, long-lasting, and non-surgical option.
Meet Chloe Heyworth: A Success Story in SMP
Hop on over to our blog featuring Chloe, who trained in SMP and has never looked back. Chloe's journey in the SMP industry with Finishing Touches Group has been nothing short of inspiring. She recently had the honor of speaking at a BHARS conference, a highlight of her carrer so far.
Discover Chloe's story and learn how her dedication and passion for SMP have transformed her life and the lives of her clients. Read more about her experience, the challenges she overcame, and the milestones she achieved.
A strong work ethic, dedication to the skill and a desire to master the intricacies of hair loss conditions and concerns distinguish top SMP practitioners from the rest.
This profession is not simply about applying "dots" to the skin; it requires a deep understanding of the causes of hair loss to tailor treatments effectively. Without this knowledge, a technician cannot provide the best possible solutions for their clients.
In addition, SMP requires a unique blend of essential skills and personal qualities to achieve successful outcomes. Key skills include a keen attention to detail, artistic ability, and precision. Attention to detail is crucial for replicating the natural appearance of hair follicles accurately, ensuring a seamless result and/or realistic blend.
Artistic ability allows technicians to create natural hairlines and density patterns that complement each client's unique features and future proof planning in the event of further hair loss.
Precision is paramount, as the application of pigment must be meticulously controlled to achieve consistent and natural results.
For those interested in pursuing a career in SMP, it's crucial to choose a comprehensive training programme that covers not only the practical treatment applications but also the essential clinical knowledge. Always look for a training course that provides in depth education to ensure technicians can deliver high-quality results effectively for both male and female clients.
Theory based learning should cover as a minimum:
• Setting up a service & licencing
• Health and Safety
• Understanding of scalp anatomy & physiology
• Specific hair loss conditions such as alopecia and pattern baldness.
• Contra-Indications and limitations
• Session planning
• Alternatives to SMP and combination treatments.
• Needle choices
• Long and short lasting pigment/ink options
Hands on learning
Your trainer should cover various elements, such as hairline design, blending, depth, pressure, and colour choices.
Working initially on latex skin and moving onto live models, learning the art of creating natural-looking hair follicles replication on patient volunteers.
Practice makes perfect and therefore the more hands ons practical application you can achieve both on course and as part of online learning will prepare you for your future career.
Choosing a good training company for SMP involves several key considerations to ensure you receive comprehensive education and support:
1) Skilled Instructors: Look for trainers who are experienced practitioners themselves, actively offering SMP treatments. This ensures they have real-world expertise and can teach from practical experience but also have extensive knowledge of hair loss and the correct solutions.
2) Support and Mentorship: A good training company should offer ongoing support and mentorship. They should be available to answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you navigate challenges as you start your career in SMP.
3) Student-Centered Approach: The focus should be on you, the student. Choose a training provider where your learning and development are prioritised over the trainers' private practice. This ensures you receive personalised attention and dedicated teaching.
4) Comprehensive Curriculum: Ensure the training curriculum is thorough and covers all essential aspects of SMP, from theory to practical application. This should include hands-on practice, understanding of different techniques, client consultation skills, and safety protocols.
5) Reputation and Reviews: Research the reputation of the training company. Look for reviews and testimonials from past students to gauge their satisfaction with the training, support received, and overall experience.
6) Fit for Your Needs: Every student is different, so choose a training academy that aligns with your learning style, career goals, and schedule. Speak directly with the academy to understand how they can meet your specific needs.
What to avoid!
"See One, Do One, Teach One": Steer clear of trainers who have only recently trained themselves. Quality training comes from quality professionals have a wealth of all round experience of hair loss knowledge and SMP application.
Online Only - You need to train in person on live models under the guidance of a trainer and academy that is able to offer you level 4 education.
When choosing Finishing Touches Group as your training provider for Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), you are selecting a programme designed to exceed industry standards in both education and practical application.
Our curriculum is meticulously written to ensure that you gain not only the technical skills necessary for performing SMP but also the in-depth clinical knowledge that underpins successful and safe practice.
With a focus on delivering high-quality results for both male and female clients/patients, our training covers all essential aspects, including health and safety protocols, understanding scalp anatomy, and mastering techniques for replicating natural-looking hair follicles.
Additionally, our programme emphasises hands-on experience, providing ample opportunities to practice on live models and latex skin, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet the challenges of your future career.
FTG stands out as a training provider due to our commitment to student success and ongoing support. Our instructors are seasoned practitioners with real-world SMP experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge and practical insight to the training environment.
We prioritise your learning and development with a student-centered approach, offering personalised guidance and support throughout your training and beyond. Our comprehensive curriculum is complemented by a strong support network, ensuring you receive the attention needed to build confidence and proficiency.
With a reputation built on excellence and a proven track record of satisfied students, FTG is the ideal choice for those serious about a career in SMP.
Check out what our students say about us! And then get in touch with us TODAY to book your place our course and start your SMP journey with us.
In the field of Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), selecting the right tools is crucial for achieving optimal results. A safe and reliable device, paired with a suitable needle cartridge, is essential for creating precise and long-lasting, natural looking outcomes.
When selecting a device, comfort plays a significant role due to the extended hours required for SMP treatments. The device should feel comfortable in the technician's hand, taking into account the hand size and weight distribution. An ergonomically designed device that prevents wrist strain by balancing its weight toward the middle or front is preferred, as it helps reduce hand fatigue and ensures consistent quality throughout the procedure.
We have 2 choices: Launching SOON - call for more details - 01444 414744
1) FTG's Vogue V2 is the perfect solution if you are pursuing a career in hair loss (SMP and Scalp Treatments). With over 17 needle variations covering SMP, beard infills, brow replacements, scarring and skin rejuvenation. This also comes with a 2 year warranty and loan service so you can rest assured that you are investing in quality.
2) Dermamaster Pro - a wireless handpiece which was developed for micropigmentation. Its ergonomic design means that you can expect a perfectly weighted handpiece which give maximum comfort and minimal wrist strain over extended working hours.
With a Dermamaster Pro you can benefit from variable stroke lengths, high quality construction and hybrid capabilities.
The essentials of setting up a scalp micropigmentation service
Whilst we understand that this endeavour may seem overwhelming at first, rest assured that the rewards will be well worth it! The following information is invaluable to assist you in navigating the requirements involved in establishing your new business.
You can purchase our "Setting up a Service" online guide here.
The legal stuff - Getting a license
You will need a local authority special treatment license. In the UK this is mandatory (obtained through the Environmental Health Officer). You must renew your special treatments licence every year before the previous licence expires.
Start by finding your local council: https://www.gov.uk/find-licences/massage-and-special-treatment-premises-licensing. Contact the Environmental Health Officer who will guide you through the procedure of obtaining your license and how much it will cost. Your premises might be inspected before you’re given a licence.
Most councils require the following as a minimum:
• Washable Floor
• Hand Washing Faciliteies
• Good Ventilation
• Clinical Waste Collection
Insurance - it's a must!
All UK SMP technicians MUST have insurance to practice. While you are completing case studies, student insurance is required which is upgraded to full cover once you have completed your course and assessment in full and are qualified.
SR12 - Health & Safety Executive rules to follow.
This is a document set out by the Health and Safety Executive as a guide to safe working practices. Follow it to the letter and you won't go far wrong! Link to SR12
Clinical Waste Collection
Clinical waste is the term used to describe waste produced from healthcare and similar activities that may pose a risk of infection, for example, swabs, bandages, dressings, etc, or may prove hazardous.
Contact you local council for a list of suggested companies to contact for your clinical waste collection.
Level 4
You will need a Level 4 in Scalp Micropigmentation to offer treatments. In the first instance contact your council to find out their requirements for education. Do not commit to a training academy until you know whether your certification or qualification will be accepted. This can be a costly mistake so do your research.
Changes are a foot and their is ongoing discussions currently in parliament about the possible change to OFQUAL qualifications only being accepted for those offering non-surgical aesthetic treatments.
Watch this space for more updates as they are made public.
Shopping List
I love a check list! Here is what you will need to set up your clinic ready to offer treatments.
• Special Treatment Licence
• Insurance
• A designated treatment room
• Bed or Massage Chair
• Adjustable Stool
• Trolley (ideally 3 tier)
• Device
• Needles
• Ink/Pigment
• PPE
• Correct Aftercare
You will need a Level 4 in Scalp Micropigmentation to offer treatments. In the first instance contact your council to find out their requirements for education. Do not commit to a training academy until you know whether your certification or qualification will be accepted. This can be a costly mistake so do your research.
Changes are a foot and their is ongoing discussions currently in parliament about the possible change to OFQUAL qualifications only being accepted for those offering non-surgical aesthetic treatments.
Watch this space for more updates as they are made public.
Full Shaven Head Effect:
One of the most popular applications of SMP is to create the appearance of a full-shaven head. This option is particularly appealing for individuals who require full coverage due to the level of male patterned baldness they are experiencing. This option benefits from minimal upkeep and immediate results.
Density for Thinning Hair
By strategically placing pigments among existing hair, SMP creates the illusion of thicker, fuller hair. This treatment option is suitable for both men and women, which is non-invasive, long-lasting, and can be added to over time if hair loss increases.
Scar Coverage
SMP is an effective solution for covering scars, whether from injury, trauma, or surgical procedures like Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). Scar coverage with SMP helps individuals feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance, reducing the psychological impact of visible scars.
Scalp Micropigmentation offers a versatile and effective solution for a range of hair loss issues. Whether opting for the full shaven head look, adding density to thinning hair, or covering scars, SMP provides a realistic, low-maintenance, and confidence-boosting option. Its ability to cater to individual needs while delivering consistent and long-lasting results makes it a compelling choice for those seeking to improve their hair appearance without the need for surgical procedures.
Key Advantages of SMP
The versatility of SMP extends beyond just its application options. Here are some of the overarching benefits:
Customisable Treatment: Each SMP treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs, considering factors like skin tone, hair color, and desired outcome.
Long-Lasting Results: While touch-ups may be needed over time, SMP provides long-lasting results, maintaining its appearance for several years.
Non-Surgical: SMP is a non-surgical procedure, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals who might not be candidates for traditional hair restoration surgeries.
Cost-Effective: Compared to surgical hair restoration methods, SMP is generally more affordable and offers a high return on investment in terms of appearance and confidence.
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