Guidelines and information for Hair Scalp Pigments

                             M.T.E.C Ltd. Director Dawn Cragg MBE    
58a Bridgegate, 

Retford, 

 Nottinghamshire.

 DN22 7UZ( Office – +44(0)1777 860500
Personal line - +44(0)7875 498145
Web – www.dawncragg.net
e-mail – dawn@dawncragg.net

Guidelines for Hair Scalp Pigments

(For hair scalp only. NOT to be used near the eye or eyebrow area.)

Mei-cha^® is proud to announce Hair Scalp Pigments. The Hair Scalp Pigment Series is a highly concentrated version of selective organic hair scalp colours made exclusively for hair scalp procedures only; sometimes referred to as Scalp MicroPigmentation (SMP).

SMP is a permanent cosmetic ‘tattoo’ that resembles the very short hairs of a closely shaved scalp. It is an alternative technique that offers a different styling option for men and/or women who do not want or are not eligible candidates for hair transplant surgery.

SMP can be used for a variety of scalp conditions that include: Genetic androgenic alopecia (AGA) otherwise known as male pattern baldness (MPB), scarring alopecia from a variety of autoimmune diseases of the scalp (e.g. alopecia areata, alopecia totalis), and scarring from neurosurgical procedures or burns. It is also used to manage the unnatural appearance that is associated with outdated hair transplant procedures and is also an option for men who are totally bald. It is essentially the process of having a person’s scalp tattooed with tiny dots that look like stubble, giving the appearance of a short ‘buzz-cut’(‘Grade 1’) hairstyle. This is a non-surgical procedure, but should only be performed by experienced technicians trained and qualified in the art of Scalp Micropigmentation.

SMP is a great enhancement to hair transplant surgery by creating a thicker look to the transplanted area. Today’s hair transplant surgery can create a completely natural appearance using a person’s own hair to provide fullness in thinning areas. The SMP process adds to the look of fullness by reducing the contrast between a person’s scalp and their hair colour or to shade small areas where hair is thinning to also make hair look thicker. It can also camouflage scars found on the scalp, including those that form from ‘Strip Harvesting’. Scalp micropigmentation at least gives a person the appearance of some hair or a hairline.

Like a tattoo, SMP is a permanent procedure. However, although similar to a tattoo, it is a technique that uses different needles and specialised pigments. The result resembles a closely shaved head of hair.

The use of SMP is vast and uses a specialist technique. The pigments used for these types of procedures are a specially formulated range of organic pigments. Mei-Cha^® have years of renowned experience and knowledge in the pigmentation industry. Coupled with intense research they have been working to produce high quality, safe pigments, made specifically for the application of SMP, which do not include heavy metals such as lead, and are iron-oxide free. Mei-Cha’s^® aim was also to develop long lasting, natural scalp pigment shades that are true to colour but fade gradually over time.

Mei-cha^® has developed the perfect solution; the Hair Scalp Pigments, designed for the EXPERIENCED TECHNICIAN to achieve a safe, high quality, natural looking, true to colour, healed version of hair, with scalp shades designed to the client’s desire.

What we have accomplished is to use selective organic colours as a base, greatly increasing the density value, by utilising a creamy texture that maintains the consistent, long lasting formula during use. The Hair Scalp Pigments offer so many options in the choice of shades, correctors and additives. Refer to the Colour Identification Chart (CDC) for additional information.

What makes the Hair Scalp Pigments different from the typical permanent cosmetic pigments?

The hair scalp pigments are organic which produces deeper; more intense colour but are longer lasting pigments and made as a highly concentrated formula. However, these specific pigments are not yet certified by the FDA- Food and Drug Administration.  (i.e. FD&C and D&C organic pigments are certified by the FDA for topical cosmetic use only (USA). On the other hand, these specific Hair Scalp Pigments are allowed in the EU as safe for tattooing, provided that the specific pigment/s have passed the EU resolution ResAP (2008)1. All Mei-cha^® pigments are tested according to these resolutions, providing a high level of safety and a minimum health-risk for our customers. The EU specifications require continuous testing and re-certification every 18 months, by which Mei-cha^® abides. They have passed all the EU Resolution’s stringent testing; meeting the guidelines within the European Union.

Why Organic Pigments for Hair Scalp Procedures?

Organic Pigments are the same as the deep, strong, intense tattoo pigments used to create the works of art depicted on skin tattoo designs. Traditional Organic Pigments may discolour, but that is dependent on the type of pigment used, the depth to which the pigment was placed into the skin, and the amount of sun exposure. The techniques used in SMP (pointillism, or ‘dots’) can lose its definition over time and that is greatly dependent on technique, sun exposure to the area, client health history, and many other contributing factors. The key to minimizing these effects is to use organic scalp pigments that Mei-cha^® has created. Since the scalp covers a broad area of skin, iron-oxide pigments used here could migrate over time. This look is greatly minimized using Mei-cha’s^® organic-based pigments, special techniques, and specific instruments and needles for this procedure.

Don’t Organic Tattoo Pigments Change Colour Over Time; such as Grey, Blue, or Orange, etc?

There is always the possibility for the pigment to change over time. There are various factors which can contribute to pigment loss and/or colour changes. These factors include - but are not limited to - the area of the body being pigmented, sun exposure, client age & health conditions, medication taken, pre/post-care treatments, etc. Discolouration is highly dependent on the type of pigment used, the depth of which the pigment is placed in the scalp, the machine & needles used, and the experience of the technician. Each individual client absorbs pigments differently and at different rates, particularly when dealing with scalp tissue. There is always a chance of the colour changing slightly.

The Hair Scalp Pigments created by Mei-cha^® are pre-neutralised, which means they have the bases already manufactured within the pigment to neutralise the red, green, orange, and blue, that is responsible for colour changes. However, it is important to colour-match properly. The pigment selected should be matched appropriately to tone with the client’s skin and hair colour although the stubble from white hair (and most colours of hair) looks grey close to the skin. It is important to choose the correct colour to obtain that natural look. (Remember, dark hair turns to grey later in life).

Another key point is pigment colours that contain titanium-dioxide (white) will fade faster than those with iron-oxide. Also sunlight also increases fading. Clients should be advised that titanium-dioxide will turn black if exposed to laser. Caution is advised when using pigments that contain titanium-dioxide and a sunscreen should be applied to protect pigment colour.

Since SMP is the same principle as a tattoo in that pigment is deposited underneath the skin with a needle, Mei-Cha^® has created this range of pigments that can be custom-blended, making it easy to create that specific skin or hair colour.

What does the Pigment Colour Look Like after the Procedure?

Typical to a tattoo or permanent cosmetics application, immediately after the procedure the scalp will look slightly pink, somewhat similar to sunburn. This pinkness will fade within 48-72 hours. In lighter skin-tones the pink will be more noticeable. The appearance will be that of a full head of hair that has a closely shaven look. The pigmentation may appear more pronounced until the scalp has been washed, the excess pigment removed, and healing has settled in. Dependent on the client, type of skin, etc., the pigment will fade as it settles in after the healing process. A re-touch should be scheduled after one month to fill in the areas missed or faded.

What if the Client Wants the Procedure Removed?

The treatment is permanent, but it can be adjusted (and in some cases reversed). A laser-removal process can be performed unless a pigment containing titanium-dioxide (white) has been applied. In this case a removal gel is available to technicians who have been trained in this special technique by Dawn Cragg MBE. 

What are the Do’s & Don’ts related to the Hair Scalp Pigments?

·        Consumer Caution and Alerts. Since these are highly concentrated versions of selective organic lip colourants they are much stronger and therefore an allergic reaction is more likely to occur. Disclaimer, waiver, and consent forms are required and should always be completed and signed by the client, although a disclaimer may not be acceptable in a court of law.

·        Patch/sensitivity testing is essential. (Refer to ‘Patch Test Guidelines’ for further details/instructions on patch-testing.)

·        The Hair Scalp Pigments should be used by experienced technicians trained in scalp techniques.

·        CAUTION: The Hair Scalp Pigments should be used on the scalp area only!

·        The Hair Scalp Pigments should only be mixed with other Hair Scalp Pigments. These pigments should not be mixed with iron-oxide based pigments, other organic pigments, or other manufacturer’s pigments.

·        24 hours prior to treatment the client should not take the following substances:-Alcohol, stimulants i.e. painkillers like ibuprofen, tea, coffee, soda/cola containing caffeine or any other substances that contain stimulants.

GENERAL AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS.

·        AVOID EXPOSURE TO SUN, TANNING BEDS, & UV RAYS. Use effective sunscreen, 50SPF or higher for protection. Since this is the scalp area and easily exposed to the sun, if SPF is not used, a hat is recommended to avoid sun damage as this will affect both the pigments used and the longevity of the Scalp MicroPigmentation procedure.

For 7 – 14 days after the procedure:-

·        DO NOT TOUCH THE AREA. – Do not scratch, rub, or pick the scabs. Do not use any shampoo.

·        MINIMIZE WATER EXPOSURE

·        AVOID shaving or washing the scalp.

·        AVOUD USING LOTIONS ON THE AREA, including cosmetic creams, exfoliating cleansers, Aloe Vera, etc.

·        AVOID WORKING IN THE GARDEN OR OUTSIDE. Dirt and pollutants from the environment may cause infections.

·        AVOID sweaty exercise

·        AVOID seafood, salty, and spicy foods i.e. curries.

·        AVOID SWIMMING, long, hot, steamy baths, showers, and Jacuzzis.

·        AVOID chlorinated swimming pools for a minimum of one (1) month.

·        Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.

·        Laser removal may cause discolouration, particularly if any of the Hair Scalp Pigments used contain titanium-dioxide.

These Hair Scalp Pigments comply with all European Union (EU) requirements for Tattooing & Permanent Cosmetics as outlined in Directive 76/768/EEC, ANNEX II, ANNEX III PART I & II, EU-Resolution ResAP (2008)1

The uses are endless. We hope you enjoy these new products that will provide the confidence and convenience which technicians and their clients deserve.