How long does SMP take to heal?
Most people settle enough in the first few days to feel comfortable, and the colour then softens as the top layer of skin heals. If your stage needs another session, it is usually about two weeks later, once the area has settled enough to build on. The final healed look is judged after your last session.
The first few days
In the days after treatment the scalp can look darker, slightly warm or a little dry. This is normal. Keep the scalp dry, avoid heavy sweating, do not shave over the treated area straight away and avoid touching or picking the skin. Follow the specific timing Mark gives you, because aftercare can vary slightly depending on your skin and session.
Between sessions
The colour can look darker at first, then fade back slightly. That settling is useful: it shows Mark how your skin holds the pigment, so he can build the next layer correctly. Sessions are spaced about two weeks apart.
The final result
Once healed, SMP should look like a natural close-shaved hair pattern. The best results look calm, soft and believable in daylight. See what a finished result looks like on the results page, and follow the whole journey on our SMP before and after timeline.
Long-term care
Once healed, protect the scalp from strong sun, use SPF, keep your shaving routine consistent and avoid harsh exfoliation over the treatment. SMP is low maintenance, but it is not no maintenance. A top-up session (£300) refreshes faded pigment when you are ready.
Why aftercare matters
Good aftercare protects the tiny impressions while the skin settles and keeps the result even between sessions. Poor aftercare can soften the result too early or irritate the scalp. Read the full SMP aftercare guide.
Send clear photos on WhatsApp for a fixed price and your aftercare plan before you start.
Quick answers
How long does SMP take to heal?
Most people settle enough in the first few days to feel comfortable, and the colour then softens as the top layer of skin heals. If you need another session, it is usually about two weeks later. Mark gives you the exact aftercare timing for your skin and session.
Will my scalp look darker after SMP?
Yes, it can look darker, slightly warm or a little dry in the days after treatment. This is normal. The pigment then softens as the skin heals.
When can I wash my head after SMP?
Follow the aftercare Mark gives you. Most clients avoid washing the treated area for the first few days.
Can I go to the gym after SMP?
Avoid heavy sweating in the early healing window so the pigment can settle properly.
When can I see the final result?
The final healed result is judged after your last session, once the skin has settled. It should look like a natural close-shaved hair pattern, soft and believable in daylight.