Laurie DowningUp to 70% of all men experience androgenic alopecia. This usually starts at around the age of thirty and is more obvious as a man ages, although some men experience hair loss much earlier or later than this. The signs of balding are usually the same for all men that can be a recession in the hairline beginning at temples and slowly creeps toward the back of the head. An M-pattern can result when viewing the head from a top angle. There is also a recession in the frontal central region just over the forehead that moves gradually toward the back of the head. The vertex of the scalp will likewise exhibit hair loss that will occur in a circular pattern. This will only leave the hair in the lower areas of the head. The top area will be left fully exposed after the entire process has run its course.
The most effective method (in terms of guaranteed results) to address this condition is through a scalp micropigmentation procedure. The procedure should be followed from start to finish. The first step is to get a consultation from the specialist in order to communicate expectations, results and maintenance of the treatment. The patient is also apprised of his symptoms. Next, they determine the pattern and pigment style to be implemented during the session.
A completed SMP procedure will look pretty much like “just-shaved” hair. It is an illusion that is achieved through a stringent technical process performed by a skilled SMP technician. Knowing the differences in pigment size, shape, color, density and layering are crucial factors in creating an accurate representation upon one’s scalp. These are the main points that highlight the differences in SMP application for men of lighter skin tone compared to those that are darker. Note that all those who receive an SMP treatment are alike in the purpose for their treatment. The process of the consultation, first session, resting periods, succeeding sessions, completion and after care advice is the same. Where they differ is in the way the pigments are applied.
African American men and other ethnicities with darker skin tone such as Middle Eastern, Hispanic and Asian men have black hair most often than not. As such, the pigments required are darker. Their hair strands are also naturally thicker and less dense.
This is where a specialist’s skill comes into the picture. The SMP should be performed by one that is especially trained to apply pigments on the scalp of men with darker skin tones. The reason is that the size of these pigment deposits can result in a smudged look if applied by an unskilled technician. The occurrence of many of these smudges along the scalp can detract from the image of real hair.
Probably the most important difference is the selection of the hair pattern. African American men usually select sharper, more aggressive designs. This is perfectly suited to their features however, as the same style may look out of place on Caucasians.
