Ask the awkward questions
before treatment.

SMP is a cosmetic treatment that places small pigment impressions into the scalp to replicate the visual pattern of closely cut hair follicles. It can be used to create a shaved-look effect, reduce scalp contrast through suitable thinning areas, or camouflage certain scars.

No. SMP changes the visual appearance of the scalp. It does not create physical hair, restart follicles or stop future hair loss.

The aim of specialist SMP is to avoid that look. Pigment selection, impression size, spacing, depth, hairline softness and gradual density all matter. The result should read as shaved follicles rather than a block of colour.

No practitioner can promise that nobody will ever notice anything, but a well-designed result is intended to blend naturally into your overall appearance. Overly low, dark or sharply edged hairlines are more likely to look artificial, which is why Hair Request favours conservative design.

It is long-lasting, but the appearance changes over time. Pigment can soften and fade, and refresh work may eventually be appropriate. How quickly this happens varies with skin, sun exposure, lifestyle and the original treatment.

Most SMP plans are built over multiple sessions rather than completed in one visit. Your exact plan depends on the treatment area, skin, existing hair and how each layer settles.

Session length varies significantly with the amount of scalp being treated and the stage of the treatment. Your estimated appointment length will be discussed as part of your plan.

Sensation varies by person and by scalp area. Many clients tolerate SMP well, but no responsible practitioner should tell you that every person feels the same thing.

Building gradually allows earlier work to settle before density and tone are judged again. It reduces the temptation to overwork the scalp or make the treatment too dark too quickly.

Fresh work can appear stronger and the scalp can show temporary redness or irritation. The final settled appearance should be judged after the skin has had time to recover.

You should be involved in the design, but the job is not simply to draw whatever line is requested. Forehead shape, temples, age, existing hair and long-term believability all need to be considered together.

All implanted pigment can change in appearance as it ages. Correct pigment choice, placement and conservative treatment are important in reducing unwanted colour shift, but maintenance may still be needed over time.

UV exposure can affect cosmetic pigment over time. Sun protection and sensible scalp care form part of the long-term maintenance conversation.

Some transplant scars can be visually softened with SMP, but scar tissue varies in texture and colour. It must be assessed before a realistic outcome can be discussed.

This is exactly why the treatment plan should consider likely future change, not just today's photograph. Additional work may be needed later if untreated areas continue to thin.

The cost depends on the treatment area and likely number of sessions. Hair Request confirms the planned treatment and quote after assessment rather than publishing a one-price-fits-all figure.

Yes. Send clear photographs of the front, both sides, top and back via WhatsApp for an initial conversation. Photos are useful for triage, although some decisions still require an in-person assessment.

No. The purpose of the consultation is to decide whether the treatment makes sense for you and what a realistic plan would be.

The Old Rectory Business Centre, Springhead Road, Northfleet, Gravesend DA11 8HN. Consultations and treatments are by appointment.