Tattoo hair simulation is a permanent cosmetic procedure which masks the appearance of thinning or balding spots by using ink to mimic the appearance of hair follicles. The treatment is sometimes referred to under the names hair follicle replication, cosmetic transdermal hair replication and micro hair tattooing (including derivatives of those). Companies offering the technique use specific pigments, specialized techniques, and different needles than traditional tattoos, but the process is basically the same. A tattoo artist uses a needle to insert a dye permanently into the skin. The success of the procedure depends on the tattoo artists ability to place the images in a pattern and density which mimic the recipients natural hair.
Who could benefit from this treatment?
Men who prefer their head very closely shaved can use this treatment to fill in bald patches or replace a receding hairline. The scalp tattoo will blend in with the surrounding hair follicles, giving the appearance of a full head of (shaven) hair. A scalp tattoo can also be used to create the illusion of a crisp hairlinethe hairline can be illustrated in whatever shape or style a man prefers.
How long does it take?
The treatment is usually completed in one session lasting between 2 to 8 hours; one follow-up session is required.
What are the downsides?
Tattooed hair is not actual hair; it is a representation of a full hair follicle. This treatment will not add any fullness or body to the appearance of the scalp. It can only work with extremely close-shaven haircuts. Once the treatment is performed, it is irreversible. Should you change your mind and tire of shaving your hair close, the hair tattoo would need to be covered in order to conceal the plug-like images. Overall, this is most likely not a procedure that would work for everyone.