Scalp Micropigmentation Melbourne: Hair Tattoo Clinic in North Melbourne
Start Your SMP Journey Today!
Foli Sim’s scalp micropigmentation Melbourne studio is on Level 2, 55 Flemington Road, North Melbourne, a short hop from the CBD. Artists Kelly Dawes and Dave Ticconi lead hair tattoo treatments here, experienced across every pattern of hair loss. Consultations are free and private, whether you come in, call, or join by video.
- Established 15 years
- 10,000+ happy clients
- FREE consultations
- FREE digital SMP simulations available
- Australia's most experienced SMP clinic
Reviewed by Kate Dawes, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Foli Sim; Trichologist (IAT), 30+ years in hair loss · Last reviewed September 2026
Welcome to Foli Sim – Scalp Micropigmentation Melbourne Clinic
At Foli Sim, we specialise in custom scalp micropigmentation (also frequently referred to as a hair tattoo or SMP) in Melbourne to help benefit and address those with hair loss, thinning hair, and scarring on their scalp. Our SMP approach is personalised and tailored, with a focus on precision, and performed by top industry professionals. Experience exceptional results with Foli Sim.
Our Melbourne clinic is located at our state-of-the-art studio on Flemington Road in North Melbourne. Our Scalp Micropigmentation services at our Melbourne clinic are led by two highly skilled artists, Kelly Dawes and Dave Ticconi.

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The Melbourne studio
- Monday to Friday
- 9am – 6pm
- Saturday & Sunday
- By appointment
Get To Know Your SMP Artists In Melbourne

Kelly Dawes
SMP Artist, Melbourne
Kelly Dawes boasts an exceptionally impressive and internationally recognised resume within the hair tattoo and Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) industry.

Dave Ticconi
SMP Artist, Melbourne
Dave Ticconi, possesses a foundation of robust technical expertise that has allowed him to successfully navigate and excel within the competitive Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) industry.
Why Choose Us for Scalp Micropigmentation in Melbourne
- Providing outstanding scalp micropigmentation (SMP) services since 2011
- Our studios are certified and approved by the health department
- Our artists have earned international acclaim with multiple awards
- All our artists hold industry-standard infection control certifications
- We use medical-grade equipment and specially formulated SMP pigments
- Enjoy a 12-month guarantee from completion of your 3rd session
- Fully insured
Melbourne SMP Pricing Guide
Depending on your level of hair loss, these are some estimates of what you may typically pay for your SMP treatment. Given that every situation is unique, you will need to have a free consultation in order for us to give you a personalised quote. We also have phone or video consultations available for your convenience.
If time is an issue you can send us your images by Email, WhatsApp, or Text and we’ll send you a written quotation. For more information, please visit the scalp micropigmentation cost page.
Affordable SMP Services With Interest-Free Financing
At Foli Sim, we are firm believers that everyone should be able to afford and access scalp micropigmentation services, which is why we offer fair and affordable pricing and interest-free finance options through our partner ZipMoney. If you have any questions about our finance options, please give us a call on 1300 668 490 or via our Contact Us page.
Wondering what treatment costs?
Our indicative pricing guide sets out what treatment typically costs by degree of hair loss. Your confirmed quotation is prepared personally after a free consultation.

What is Scalp Micropigmentation?
Scalp Micropigmentation (also known as SMP, or hair tattoo) is a semi-permanent cosmetic treatment for hair loss, which involves precise hair tattooing techniques to mimic the appearance of hair follicles. SMP involves using microneedles to insert pigment into the scalp to create the appearance of individual hair follicles, which in turn hides baldness, thinning or receding hair, as well as scalp scarring. The result of SMP is a natural, long-lasting, and highly effective solution for those seeking an alternative to hair transplants or other more invasive hair restoration methods. For baldness, a hair tattoo provides a buzzcut look that mimics your natural hairline, and for thinning hair it provides the illusion of more volume.

What to Look For When Choosing an SMP Practitioner in Melbourne:
Research is important when considering any type of cosmetic procedure, and scalp micropigmentation in Melbourne is no different as it is very technical and requires a great deal of training to perform with excellence.
Here are a few points to keep in mind when selecting the best SMP services in Melbourne:
Positive reputation in the industry: Reputation is important because it lets you know how experienced your practitioner is with the procedure, and how long they have been in business. The best artists don’t just hold the necessary credentials, they have trained with the best, have several years of practice on heads of all shapes, sizes, and ethnicities, and have a reputable standing in the industry. Founded in 2011, Foli Sim is one of Australia’s leading providers of scalp micropigmentation.
Good before and after pictures of clients: The proof is in the picture. Before and after photos are a great indicator of quality. Only the best hair tattoo artists can produce quality and natural results. They must be able to provide you with photos of their work, and even more importantly, they have to be a good fit for you.
Trained artists and a licensed clinic: While they are often compared, cosmetic tattoo artists and tattoo artists are not necessarily qualified to be hair tattoo artists and they shouldn’t be confused with one another. The ideal SMP practitioners are registered to perform it, hold certificates from well-known SMP treatment facilities specialising in the art, and have completed the relevant Safety, Hazard, and Infection Control courses for their area. All our artists at Foli Sim have been trained and many have received certifications from leading SMP institutes.
Hygienic environment: The cleanliness of your clinic is important because you want to make sure that your skin is being treated with high-quality products and tools. A reputable clinic will have sterilised instruments, single-use needles, gloves, and equipment. You should also look for well-lit rooms with good ventilation. All Foli Sim studios are approved by local authorities / Health Departments.
Why Choose Us For Scalp Micropigmentation in Melbourne?
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a highly personal procedure that requires a high level of trust between the client and the practitioner. Foli Sim, is one of Australia’s leading SMP providers with a positive reputation in the industry. Our trained artists at our Melbourne clinic, Kelly Dawes and Dave Ticconi are certified by leading SMP institutes and have several years of experience working on heads of all shapes, sizes, and ethnicities. They produce quality and natural results that can be seen in our before and after photos. Our clinics are licensed, hygienic, and adhere to the highest standards of safety and hygiene with sterilised instruments, single-use needles, and a clean and well-lit environment. You can rest assured that your skin will be treated with high-quality products and tools.

Get to Know Scalp Micropigmentation: FAQs
- A safer non-surgical alternative to hair transplants
SMP involves no surgical incisions and requires no medication with possible side effects. It is a treatment that is minimally invasive, has no downtime, and has an easy recovery process. Our highly skilled SMP artists complete all work to the highest of standards – ensuring no risk of scarring, infection, or other post-procedure complications. - A low-maintenance solution
As SMP uses a tattooing technique, it is a more permanent solution to hair loss and negates the need for donor hair (which isn’t viable for everyone). With a hair tattoo, the only maintenance you may require is a touch-up for slight fading, or if there has been further hair loss since the original treatment was completed. - More cost-effective
SMP is a more affordable option than alternative hair loss treatments, with the guide price for mild hair loss starting at $500 and a confirmed quotation provided after a free consultation. Price is determined by your level of hair loss, and whether you require further touch-up sessions in the future due to continued hair loss or fading. At Foli Sim, we offer flexible payment plans to make scalp micropigmentation in Melbourne as accessible as possible. - Longer lasting
The issue with many other hair loss treatments is that they’re either a temporary fix or a painful ongoing process that gives diminishing returns. SMP itself is longer lasting and as previously stated, only required minimal maintenance over time. - Boosts self confidence
The effect that hair loss can have on an individual’s quality of life cannot be understated. The great benefit of choosing a hair loss treatment option like SMP is that you’re able to leave the anxiety of hair loss behind and embrace a new look and new found self confidence that a hair tattoo can provide you. - Suitable for all genders
Despite being a more male dominated treatment, SMP for women is growing at a rapid pace and becoming a viable option for women who are dealing with thinning hair and other hair loss issues.
- A safer non-surgical alternative to hair transplants
Hair loss, hair thinning, or a loss of hair volume is a common concern that impacts people of all ages. No matter what your level of hair loss is, it can be an emotionally impactful experience. Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is the ideal solution for people experiencing most forms of hair loss, including:
- Male pattern baldness
- Female pattern baldness
- Thinning hair
- Alopecia areata
- Scalp scarring (including FUE/FUT scarring, strip scarring, plug scarring, alopecia scarring, and accident scarring)
Each individual case needs to be seen by our team in order to give a tailored estimate of the costs associated with SMP. You can visit our SMP pricing page to see some of the different pricing tiers that Foli Sim sit within. To answer the question, this is an estimate on the costs of scalp micropigmentation services in Melbourne based on your level of hair loss.
- Mild hair loss: $500 – $1,200
- Medium hair loss: $1,500 – $2,500
- Advanced hair loss: $2,500 – $3,500
These figures are a guide only. A confirmed quotation is prepared for you personally: book a free consultation in person, by phone or by video, or send photographs by email, WhatsApp or text and we will send a written quote.
We explore the differences between SMP and a traditional tattoo in our blog – however the short answer to this is no. For our scalp micropigmentation treatments we use specialised needles which are usually smaller than those which are typically used for a regular tattoo. The same goes for the ink use in the SMP pigment which is formulated to not change colour over time. You can explore the article linked above for a more comprehensive breakdown on this.
The great thing about scalp micropigmentation is that it’s a very low maintenance hair loss treatment. Ideally, if you’d like to keep your SMP looking in top condition, we’d recommend coming back for a touch up every 3 to 5 years. This time range does vary from person to person, so we do recommend speaking with a member of our time if you’re ever unsure whether you need some maintenance work.
This is a question we get asked all of the time, and is a common myth in the industry. No, SMP will not cause any further hair loss or affect your current hair growth patterns.
Another common question is in relation to the pain associated with receiving a hair tattoo. Many clients have differing experiences, with some saying they hardly feel a thing, while others have some slight discomfort. Typically it is less painful than receiving a traditional tattoo and much more bearable over the course of your treatment.
Naturally, like most cosmetic procedures, there are a few risks associated with SMP, particular when done by an inexperienced technician. Some of the potential risks of SMP to be aware of are:
- Skin irritation or infection due to unsterilised needle heads, unsanitary equipment or clinic space.
- An allergic skin reaction from the specialised pigment applied to the scalp.
- A possibility of scarring due to improper technique from the SMP artist.
- Uneven or patchy-looking results due to improper technique or equipment.
It’s imperative that you conduct thorough research into finding an experienced and qualified scalp micro pigmentation specialist who can help to provide quality work for your specific situation.
Since scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical procedure, the recovery process is typically straightforward and quick. Many individuals can resume their normal routines almost immediately. However, there are a few important considerations and precautions to take following your SMP treatment.
- For the first 48 hours post-treatment, it’s best to avoid any intense exercise or activities that cause excessive sweating.
- It’s advisable to keep your scalp out of direct sunlight for the initial days after your treatment.
- Wearing a hat or other protective covering can make this easier.
- Protecting your scalp from sun exposure generally enhances the long-term results of your SMP. Always apply SPF 50 sunscreen to your scalp when spending time outdoors.
- After your final treatment session, try to avoid swimming, steam rooms, and saunas for at least a month.
Level 2, Suite 221/55 Flemington Road, North Melbourne VIC 3051. It is a purpose-fitted studio just north of the CBD, on the main Flemington Road corridor. Sessions run in private treatment rooms upstairs rather than at street level, so allow a moment to find the building entrance on your first visit, or call 1300 668 490 and the team will direct you.
Flemington Road is a major tram corridor running out of the CBD towards Royal Park and Flemington, so trams stop close to the studio and the trip from the city centre is short. North Melbourne and Macaulay stations are also within reach for train travellers. Check the current route and stop on the Public Transport Victoria journey planner before you travel, as services do change.
There is metered street parking in the surrounding North Melbourne streets and some off-street options nearby, but Flemington Road itself carries heavy traffic and has clearway restrictions at peak times. Since a session can run for several hours, check the time limits on any bay carefully. Many clients find the tram less stressful than circling for a space, particularly during weekday peaks.
Kelly Dawes and Dave Ticconi. Kelly has an internationally recognised record in the hair tattoo and SMP industry. Dave brings strong technical expertise and has built a solid reputation in a competitive field. Both are certified by leading SMP institutes and have years of experience working on heads of all shapes, sizes and ethnicities. You will meet your artist at your free consultation.
Our Melbourne studio is at Level 2, Suite 221/55 Flemington Road, North Melbourne VIC 3051, a short tram ride from the CBD. It is our only Melbourne location, so there is no risk of arriving at the wrong address. Kelly Dawes and Dave Ticconi treat clients here, and free consultations are available in person, by phone or by video before you commit to anything.
We treat clients from Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and the Gippsland region regularly. Sessions need healing time in between so they cannot all be run in one trip, but we can usually shape a schedule that reduces the number of journeys into North Melbourne. Mention your travel when you enquire, and consider a free video consultation first so your first drive in is a treatment session.
SMP is technical work and training standards vary, so it pays to research. Look for:
- A genuine reputation and years of practice, not just a certificate
- A substantial before-and-after portfolio of cases like yours
- Artists registered and trained specifically in SMP: a cosmetic or body tattooist is not automatically qualified
- A licensed, hygienic clinic with sterilised instruments, single-use needles and good lighting
Your first visit is a consultation rather than treatment. Your artist assesses your scalp and pattern of loss, discusses the look you want, explains the process and gives a recommended number of sessions and a personalised quote. It is confidential and obligation-free, and it is the right moment to ask everything you have been wondering about. Bookings are confirmed within 24 hours.
Consultations can often be arranged fairly quickly, but treatment sessions with a specific artist and a preferred time slot need more notice. Weekends and after-work appointments go first. If you are working towards a fixed date, start early: a full plan runs across several appointments with healing gaps. Call 1300 668 490 for current availability at the Melbourne studio.
Yes. Kelly and Dave can show you work relevant to your own situation at your consultation, which is far more useful than a general gallery: a result on a scalp like yours tells you more than twenty on scalps that are not. Our locations and results pages carry examples too. If a clinic anywhere cannot produce photographs of comparable cases, treat that as a warning sign.
North Melbourne is one of the closer inner suburbs to Melbourne Airport, and Flemington Road connects towards the CityLink and Tullamarine corridor, so the drive is short by Melbourne standards outside peak hour. Airport bus services into the city, followed by a tram out along Flemington Road, are a practical alternative. Allow extra time if you are arriving on the morning of a session.
Yes, and some clients prefer to. Hair loss decisions are personal and a second opinion in the room can help, particularly at the consultation stage when the hairline design is being discussed. Treatment happens in private rooms and sessions can run for hours, so let us know in advance if someone is coming along and we will make sure there is somewhere comfortable for them to wait.
News From Our Melbourne Location

15 June 2026
5 things every aspiring SMP practitioner in Melbourne needs to know first

18 May 2026
What women with frontal thinning should know about SMP in Melbourne

6 March 2026
What to Expect from SMP Treatment in Melbourne

26 February 2026
Best SMP Clinics in Melbourne: What to Look For

13 February 2026
SMP Cost in Melbourne: Pricing Guide and Factors to Consider

17 March 2025
How SMP Is Camouflaging Hair Transplant Scars At This Melbourne Clinic

12 December 2019
Foli Sim has a New Melbourne Studio!
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Book A Free, No-Obligation Consultation With Foli Sim
Book a free, confidential, and obligation-free phone, video, or in-person consultation with Foli Sim. We are also proud to offer virtual consultations from the comfort of your home. Our friendly SMP artists available at our Melbourne clinic will discuss the process, recommended number of sessions, desired results, and pricing with you during a Zoom or phone call consult. Take advantage of this opportunity to ask any questions and feel confident in your decision-making process. Simply book your virtual consultation below and we will confirm your appointment within 24 hours.
Call us
1300 668 490Text or WhatsApp
0425 869 926Book online
Request a consultationWhat clients say most in Melbourne
100% of these clients rated Foli Sim five stars, from 286 Google reviews in Melbourne. The themes below are counted straight from what they wrote.
- Would recommend Foli Sim5 mentions
“Highly recommend Kelly and the Foli Sim team if you're thinking about getting SMP done.”
- Delighted with the outcome4 mentions
“I had my original scalp micropigmentation done by Kelly at the North Melbourne clinic back in 2022, and I’ve been so happy with the results.”
- Natural, undetectable results3 mentions
“It made my hair look noticeably thicker right away, and over the years, I’ve had so many people comment on how great and natural it looks.”
- A real lift in confidence3 mentions
“This is life changing!”
What our clients say in Melbourne
I had my original scalp micropigmentation done by Kelly at the North Melbourne clinic back in 2022, and I’ve been so happy with the results. It made my hair look noticeably thicker right away, and over the years, I’ve had so many people comment on how great and natural it looks. I’m back with Kelly for a touch-up now, and the service and attention to detail are just as top-tier as the first time. Highly recommend Kelly and the Foli Sim team if you're thinking about getting SMP done.
Thanks Kelly for a good job done on my SMP. Absolutely recommend Foli Sim. It is a professional service. Kelly is great artist & a nice human being. I wish her all the best for a good life & fulfilling career.
I had a touch-up session with Kelly while Dave was away for surgery, and I'm really happy with the experience! I've had previous SMP work done by Dave and have been very happy with the results. Kelly did a fantastic job building on that work, carefully touching up the areas that needed attention and improving the overall density and blending while keeping everything looking natural. Kelly was warm, friendly and easy to chat to throughout the session, which made the couple of hours fly by. We ended up talking about everything from family life to fitness and meal preparations 😆, and she made the whole appointment very comfortable. Most importantly, she took great care with my SMP. She carefully touched up the areas that needed attention, improved the overall density and blending, and respected the work that had already been done. The result still looks natural, which was exactly what I wanted. You can tell Kelly genuinely cares about her clients and takes pride in her work. I'm really grateful for the time and attention she put into my treatment. A big thank you to Kelly for the care and attention she put into my treatment, and wishing Dave a smooth recovery from surgery as well. Highly recommended. 🙌
This is life changing! My confidence has skyrocketed. No longer wearing hats to hide under. Kelly is an absolute artist! Her attention to detail, symmetry, instinct and caring nature resulted in a very natural and flattering effect, far exceeding my expectations. The experience was easy, comfortable, affordable and exciting. Thrilled I took this step! Highly recommend and encourage to consult with Kelly for outstanding results.
Dave did my SMP and did a fantastic job. He tailored my SMP to my skin and hair colour, individualising my result so well. He is a top guy, easy to talk to and I had every confidence in him and his work, love the result.
Completed my SMP with Kelly, I ensured to do my research before completing the procedure and Foli Sim ticked all the boxes. Great price in comparison to other places and can't recommend Kelly enough, with almost a decade of experience in the field, my first session nerves and concerns quickly subsided as she answered all my queries with professionalism and confidence. Super happy with the results. Thanks again!

