Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)
Hair loss can feel like something you just have to live with. But here at FadezByBoda, we believe every person deserves to feel confident walking out the door. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a proven, non-surgical solution that recreates the appearance of a full head of closely-cropped hair, or adds density behind thinning areas so you look like yourself again.
What Is Scalp Micropigmentation?
SMP is a cosmetic tattooing technique that uses ultra-fine needles to deposit tiny dots of medical-grade pigment into the upper layers of your scalp. Each dot mimics the look of a natural hair follicle. Done correctly, the effect is indistinguishable from a freshly shaved head or a denser set of roots beneath your existing hair.
Unlike a hair transplant, SMP requires no scalpels, no downtime, and no months-long recovery. Most clients complete the process in two to three sessions spaced a few weeks apart, and results typically last five to eight years before a simple touch-up is needed.
Who Is SMP For?
SMP works beautifully for a wide range of people and conditions:
Men experiencing male pattern baldness or a receding hairline. Women dealing with thinning hair, widening parts, or postpartum hair loss. Anyone with alopecia areata or other patchy hair loss. Clients looking to camouflage transplant scars or radiation-related scalp changes. People who want a clean, low-maintenance shaved-head look without actually being bald.
No matter your skin tone, hair color, or stage of hair loss, we customize every treatment to match your complexion and give you results that look completely natural.
Licensed, Certified, and Trained Specifically in SMP
Not everyone offering SMP has the credentials to back it up — and that matters when someone is working on your scalp. At FadezByBoda, you're in the hands of a licensed tattoo artist with a dedicated SMP certification. That combination means you get the technical precision of someone who deeply understands how pigment behaves in skin, plus the specialized training to apply that knowledge specifically to scalp work — hairline design, pigment depth, dot sizing, and natural blending across all skin tones.
When you sit in our chair, you're not a practice run. You're getting work done by someone who has put in the hours to do this right.
The FadezByBoda Difference
We're not a walk-in shop offering SMP as a side service. It's what we do. Every session is approached with precision and care — from mapping your hairline to match your facial structure, to selecting the exact pigment shade for your skin, to layering the dots to achieve realistic depth and density. We take our time because your confidence is worth it.
SMP Pricing & Sessions
Pricing Starts: $1,000
Most full SMP treatments consist of 2-3 sessions. Pricing varies depending on the area of coverage needed. We encourage you to reach out for a personalized consultation — there's no pressure, just an honest conversation about what's possible for you.
Ready to book? Call or text us today: +1 (319) 423-4848
Frequently Asked Questions
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SMP uses specialized needles, pigments, and techniques designed specifically for the scalp. Unlike traditional tattooing, SMP deposits pigment at a much shallower depth and uses pigments formulated to maintain their color over time without turning blue or green. The goal is to replicate the look of individual hair follicles — something a standard tattoo machine and ink are not designed to do. The result looks natural in a way that a regular tattoo on the scalp simply would not.
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SMP works well for a wide range of people — men with male pattern baldness or a receding hairline, women experiencing thinning or widening parts, anyone dealing with alopecia, and clients who want to camouflage scars from a previous hair transplant. It's also a great option for people who want a clean, shaved-head look without the daily upkeep of actually shaving. As long as you're in general good health and have realistic expectations about the results, there's a good chance SMP is a strong fit for you. The best way to know for sure is a quick consultation — we'll give you an honest answer based on your specific situation.
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Most clients describe the sensation as mild to moderate discomfort similar to a light scratch. We apply a numbing cream before each session to keep you comfortable throughout. The scalp varies in sensitivity depending on the area being treated, and the vast majority of our clients find the process much more manageable than they expected.
Serving Clients Across Eastern Iowa & the rest of Iowa
FadezByBoda offers SMP to clients throughout the Iowa City–Cedar Rapids corridor. Click your city below to learn more: SMP in Iowa City | SMP in Coralville | SMP in North Liberty | SMP in Cedar Rapids | SMP in Marion Also see: Our Barber Shop Services