5 Top Tips to Care for Your Scalp After SMP

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) can be a real game-changer. It’s an instant confidence boost and an easy way to take control of hair loss. But once the treatment’s done, it’s important to look after it properly to keep it looking fresh.

Taking care of your scalp doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, but a little effort goes a long way. Whether it’s right after your treatment or years down the track, good aftercare helps your SMP stay sharp and natural-looking.

Here are our top 5 tips to help you get the best out of your SMP and keep your scalp in top shape.

1. Moisturise regularly

Keeping your scalp moisturised is one of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain your SMP. A well-hydrated scalp not only looks healthier but also helps prevent dryness and flakiness that can make your treatment appear dull.

Everyone’s skin is different—some people deal with dryness, while others might struggle with excess oil. Finding the right moisturiser that works for your skin type is key. Look for lightweight, non-greasy products that hydrate without clogging your pores. Ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, and willow bark extract are great for keeping your scalp feeling fresh and looking its best.

2. Keep it clean

A clean scalp is a happy scalp, and keeping it fresh is key to maintaining the sharp look of your SMP. Even though you might not have a full head of hair anymore, your scalp still produces natural oils and sheds dead skin cells, which can build up over time.

Using a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo a few times a week will help remove dirt, oil, and sweat without stripping your skin. Avoid anything too harsh, as it can dry out your scalp and affect the appearance of your SMP. Look for products with natural ingredients like:

• Tea tree oil: This ingredient already exists in many commercial shampoo products, but it can be purchased alone as a type of serum that will minimise flakiness.
• Coconut oil: For an antibacterial moisturiser that also gives excellent results against fungal growth look no further than coconut oil.
• Hemp seed oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, hemp seed oil deeply hydrates the scalp without clogging pores. It helps to balance oil production, making it ideal for both dry and oily scalps.
• Olive oil: Yes, a little drizzle of olive oil goes great in what we eat, but it’s also a millennia-old wonder at treating skin with its antioxidants and vitamin E.
• Jojoba oil: Jojoba is great at treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and rashes.

3. Protect your scalp from the sun

The sun can be one of the biggest threats to your SMP. Just like any tattoo, SMP can fade over time with too much sun exposure. The UV rays break down the pigment, causing it to lose its sharpness and appear lighter than it should.

If you’re spending time outdoors, it’s a good idea to take extra precautions to protect your scalp. Applying a high SPF sunscreen (at least SPF 50) can help shield your SMP from harmful UV rays. Choose a sunscreen that’s lightweight and non-greasy to avoid clogging your pores.

Wearing a hat is another simple way to add an extra layer of protection, especially during peak sun hours. Whether it’s a cap, beanie, or wide-brimmed hat, covering up can go a long way in preserving the look of your SMP for years to come.

4. Avoid excessive sweating early on

In the first few days after your SMP treatment, it’s important to take it easy and avoid anything that might cause excessive sweating. Activities like intense workouts, saunas, or even spending too much time in hot weather can lead to sweat mixing with the healing pigments, potentially affecting how well they settle into the skin.

Sweat contains salts and oils that can interfere with the healing process, leading to uneven fading or premature lightening of the pigment. It’s best to hold off on heavy exercise for at least 4 to 5 days after your procedure to give your scalp the time it needs to heal properly.

Once your scalp has fully healed, sweating won’t be an issue—but keeping it clean and moisturised will ensure your SMP continues to look fresh and natural.

5. Stick to a simple grooming routine

Keeping your SMP looking sharp doesn’t require a complicated routine—just a few simple habits can make all the difference. Regularly shaving your head with an electric foil shaver or razor helps maintain the clean, freshly buzzed look that SMP is known for.

If you’re wondering when to shave after SMP, it’s best to wait around 7 to 10 days after your final session to avoid irritating the scalp while it’s still healing. Once healed, shaving every couple of days will keep your SMP looking its best.

After shaving, be sure to rinse your scalp with lukewarm water and apply a light moisturiser to keep your skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Avoid harsh products like alcohol-based aftershaves, as they can dry out the scalp and affect the appearance of your treatment.

By sticking to a simple grooming routine, you’ll keep your SMP looking crisp and natural for the long haul.

Recommended SMP aftercare products

At Foli Sim, we offer a range of aftercare products specifically designed to nourish and protect your scalp following treatment. Our products are formulated with hemp seed oil, a natural, non-comedogenic ingredient packed with anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties to support scalp healing.

Here are our top SMP aftercare product recommendations:

Best SMP moisturisers

• Foli Sim Mattifying Scalp Cream – This lightweight, non-clogging cream hydrates while reducing unwanted shine, making it perfect for daily use. Formulated with hemp seed oil, niacinamide, and aloe vera, it keeps your scalp moisturised and looking fresh without feeling greasy.
• Foli Sim Scalp Balm – Designed for post-treatment healing, this all-natural, vegan balm helps soothe and hydrate the scalp, reducing scabbing and itchiness during the healing process. Its formula is packed with antioxidants to support skin recovery.

Best SMP cleanser

• Foli Sim Scalp Cleanser – This gentle, foaming cleanser is safe to use 24 hours post-SMP. It helps remove dirt and excess oils while preserving the scalp’s natural balance and reducing the risk of irritation or infection.

Best sunscreen for SMP protection

• SPF 50+ Sunscreen – Choose a non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum sunscreen with a matte finish to avoid shine while ensuring protection from harmful UV rays. Applying sunscreen daily helps prevent premature pigment fading and keeps your scalp healthy.

Ready to keep your SMP looking its best?

Proper short-term and long-term care is key to keeping your SMP looking fresh and natural. At Foli Sim, we’re here to help—whether you need expert aftercare advice, top-up sessions, or the right products to maintain your look.

Book your free consultation today and let us keep your SMP looking its best!