Why aftercare matters
Aftercare protects the tiny impressions while the skin settles. Good aftercare helps the pigment hold cleanly and keeps the result even between sessions.
Poor aftercare can soften the result too early, irritate the scalp or make the next session harder to judge. See also: how long SMP takes to heal.
The first few days
Keep the scalp dry, avoid sweating heavily, do not shave over the treated area straight away, and avoid touching or picking the skin. The scalp may look darker at first before settling.
Follow the specific timing Mark gives you, because aftercare can vary slightly depending on your skin and session.
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.
Simple care is usually enough. SMP is low maintenance, but it is not no maintenance.
A simple aftercare timeline
Day of treatment. The scalp can feel warm and look slightly red or darker than the final result. Leave it alone and keep it clean and dry, as Mark advises on the day.
The first few days. Avoid washing the treated area unless you have been told you can. Stay out of the sun, keep away from heat and steam, and resist the urge to touch, scratch or pick at any flaking.
The first couple of weeks. The skin settles and a light dry layer may flake away on its own. If you have a second session, it is usually about two weeks later, once the area has settled enough to build on.
After your final session. The healed result is judged once the skin has fully settled, which is when the colour looks its truest. Mark checks it with you and your 12-month guarantee on eligible treatments starts from here.
What to avoid while it heals
Typical advice is to avoid anything that sweats, soaks or irritates the scalp until Mark says it is safe: heavy workouts, saunas, steam rooms, swimming pools, sea water and hot baths that wet the head. Do not use sun beds, and keep the scalp out of strong sun.
Skip harsh scrubs, exfoliating washes and alcohol-based products on the treated area, and do not shave over it until you have been told when. Your specific timings can differ depending on your skin and how many sessions you are having, so follow the plan you are given rather than a generic list.
Looking after it long term
Once fully healed, the biggest thing you can do is protect the scalp from the sun. Strong sun is the main reason SMP fades faster, so wear SPF or a hat on bright days. Keep your shaving routine steady and use a gentle cleanser rather than aggressive exfoliation.
A well-cared-for result usually lasts around 3 to 7 years before a refresh is worth considering. A top-up costs £300 and is a shorter appointment. Read how long SMP lasts for more on timing.
When to get in touch
If something does not look or feel the way Mark described, send a photo on WhatsApp and he will tell you whether it is normal. Mild redness, tightness and light flaking are common. Anything that looks infected, is increasingly painful or makes you feel unwell needs a doctor, not a photo to your artist.
Send clear photos on WhatsApp and Mark will tell you what is realistic for your scalp, your hair loss pattern and your budget.
Quick answers
When can I wash my head after SMP?
Follow your clinic aftercare, but 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.
Can I swim after SMP?
Avoid swimming pools and sea water until Mark confirms the skin has healed. Chlorine and salt can irritate fresh work, so wait until you are told it is safe.
Can I wear a hat after SMP?
A clean, loose hat is fine for sun protection once Mark says it is safe. Avoid anything tight, sweaty or dirty over the treated area in the first few days.
What if my scalp flakes after SMP?
Light flaking is a normal part of healing. Let it fall away on its own and do not pick it, because that can lift pigment out with it.
When do I start using SPF after SMP?
Keep the scalp out of the sun while it heals, then use SPF 30 or higher once it is fully healed. Sun is the main thing that fades SMP early.