How To Prevent Scalp Shine

SMP, or Scalp Micropigmentation – sometimes called a “hair tattoo” – is a procedure designed to give the impression of a thicker, fuller head of hair. It is trendy among those experiencing non-surgical hair loss.

Many people opt for Scalp Micropigmentation as an affordable, effective, less invasive hair transplant alternative. It’s a highly reliable approach and does not come with the risks associated with transplants.

However, once complete, it is possible for the overall impression of micropigmentation to be negatively affected by scalp shine. If the skin on your head has any kind of sheen, it can draw greater attention to hair loss and potentially obscure the effects of SMP.

In this article, the team at Follic Inc., experts in a wide range of SMP approaches, explain how to manage scalp shine to achieve the best possible results for your new look.

What Causes Scalp Shine?

Scalp shine in itself shouldn’t be considered a problem at all. Healthy skin will invariably have a natural shine to it – as we will explain in greater detail below. However, if you want to use Scalp Micropigmentation to give a realistic impression of thicker hair, a sheen on your skin may detract from the overall effect.

Scalp shine is usually caused by the natural production of oil. In almost every part of your body, your sebaceous glands produce sebum – a type of oil that helps to preserve your skin and keep it healthy and hydrated. We need it to maintain the normal functionality of our body and to protect us against bacterial and fungal infections.

However, much of the oil produced by the scalp is usually absorbed into the hair – a process that can be significantly diminished with hair loss. This results in shine that can lead to a less-than-natural effect following SMP.

Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to help reduce this shine. We’ll explain some of them below.

How Can I Reduce Scalp Shine?

There are several ways to lessen the effects of scalp shine. Proper ongoing maintenance is a key element of SMP aftercare and should include the use of sunblock and moisturiser, as well as regular cleansing.

Not only will this keep your skin healthy, but using the right products can strongly reduce its shine and improve the effects of Scalp Micropigmentation.

Using a high-SPF sunblock (of factor 30 or above) is vital to good scalp health following SMP. Not only can it reduce the effects of ageing on your skin and keep it healthy, but it can protect against serious conditions such as melanoma and carcinoma skin cancers.

The way you shave your head – something that is necessary following an SMP procedure – can also affect the level of shine on your scalp. We highly recommend following the direction in which your hair grows, rather than against it, when you shave. The resulting “stubble”-like texture will help to dull any shine.

It may also be a good idea to use cosmetic matte products for scalp shine, such as loose powder. This will reduce the reflectivity of your skin.

You can also use cleansing wipes to remove oil when you’re out and about. Simply carry them with you and use them as and when needed. Of course, in the process of doing this, you will remove any other products from your scalp, so you will need to reapply each time you use a wipe.

You can learn more about SMP aftercare by contacting the team at Follic Inc.

Our Product Recommendations

It’s always best to use oil-free products where possible – including moisturisers and cleansers. After all, the oils on your skin will usually be the key cause of scalp shine.

We recommend Palmer’s Cocoa Butter as a high-quality moisturiser. It’s ethically and sustainably produced and features natural ingredients along with vitamin E. It’s important to note that your skin may feel a little greasy when the product is first applied, but it will quickly absorb.

Of course, it’s important to be selective with anything you put on your skin if you have sensitivities, allergies or any conditions like psoriasis, eczema or dermatitis. If you fall into this category, we recommend the use of Eucerin cream containing 5-10% urea.

This product should be used before, during and after your SMP treatments to keep your skin properly protected and healthy.

Avoid Harmful Ingredients

In any bid to prevent scalp shine after SMP, we highly recommend that you take note of the ingredients in each product you use and avoid anything that may be harmful to your skin.

With some chemicals causing allergic reactions and others resulting in dry, tight, flaky skin, it’s always best to do your due diligence when choosing cosmetics and skincare products.

Parabens, propylene glycol, retinol, alcohols, certain dyes and fragrances, astringents, petroleum-based products, mineral oils and some acids can be irritating or even toxic to the skin and may have particularly negative effects for those with sensitivities and skin conditions.

Always read the labels of your products and look up anything you are unsure about, being careful to check the reliability of your sources when you do so.