The main difference is the durability over time of the treatments that are performed with these techniques. A tattoo is permanent while Tricopigmentation/Scalp Micropigmentation is designed not to be, this is so that the faded blue-ing effect associated with tattoos is avoided.
With Scalp Micropigmentation or Tricopigmentation, the colour remains in perfect condition for a period ranging from 6 months to 12 months after which it will need a top-up/touch up treatment to maintain the proper colour. This way Tricopigmentation becomes permanent and at the same time avoids the blueing effect of a permanent scalp tattoo. This is a very important feature of advanced Tricopigmentation technology and clearly distinguishes it from simply tattooing the scalp
The Scalp Tattoo is a permanent technique, colour and shape deteriorate over time, causing undesirable and unnatural effects. Think of a blurred/faded old tattoo!
After several years a scalp tattoo tends to look more like a grey-blueish even shade rather than real hair follicles. The only way to remove the tattoo is with a special laser treatment. Which is expensive and can take several costly sessions to complete.
Scalp Micropigmentation allows the client and technician to modify or refresh the result as and when needed. If the clients decide it does not want to keep the scalp micropigmentation he or she can simply let it fade away within 2-3 years.
The replication of real shaven hair on the scalp is a highly specialised process, and should only be attempted by those with specific knowledge in this field. Unfortunately, there are now many tattoo artists and permanent makeup artists that have not been properly trained. What they do not realise is that it takes months of training and years of experience to perfect the SMP technique, and is best completed by those who can invest much of their time in performing this treatment.
