SMP Practitioner Safety Checklist

Scalp micropigmentation is only as safe as the practitioner and equipment. Before booking, verify every item on this checklist — and ask for proof, not promises.

New, sterile needles and ink per session
Practitioners must use fresh, single-use needles and ink to prevent HIV or Hepatitis transmission.

Visible sterilization protocol
Ask to see how equipment is sterilized and whether the workspace follows clinical hygiene standards.

Medical screening before treatment
You should be screened for keloid-prone scarring, granuloma history, blood-related cancers, and relevant medications.

Dermis-level depth demonstrated
SMP must deposit pigment in the dermis — shallower than traditional tattooing. The practitioner should explain depth control.

Pigment quality and color matching
Pigment should be iron-oxide based and matched to your skin tone under natural light, with a patch test first.

Written aftercare instructions
Includes cleaning, sun exposure limits, and expected fading timeline (typically 7–32 months before touch-ups).

MRI safety disclosure
Pigment can interfere with MRI scans — you should be informed of this risk and tell your radiologist about the SMP.

Portfolio of healed results
Photos of healed work (not just fresh) from clients with your skin tone.