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Abbie Gardiner has racked up a wealth of commercial experience in the makeup artist industry since launching Abbie Beauty in 2006. She has added scalp micropigmentation(SMP) to her list of services in 2019. We caught up with Abbie to find out more about this procedure.
What is scalp micropigmentation?
It is a non-surgical, long-lasting hair loss treatment during which natural pigments are applied within the dermal layer of the scalp, either replicating a natural shaved head or in other cases, adding the illusion of more hair density in my longer hair clients. SMP can also be used to conceal scars from hair transplantation and hide the visual impact of burns, alopecia or scars on the head. Scalp micropigmentation can be performed on all skin types and hair colours as the pigment is custom blended for each client needs.
Who would you recommend SMP to and do you treat both men and women?
I would recommend SMP to anyone that is experiencing hair loss. Either adding back your natural hair line or filling in any bald areas that have been worrying you. I have had numerous women with hair loss issues book in sessions with me for more hair density as hair loss is not just a male problem.
How has this helped your clients?
I have been blown away watching reactions from my clients. It can often be quite an emotional experience. Their confidence blooms before my eyes. They are beyond grateful and often say they feel and look 10 years younger. As this is a semi-permanent procedure, I feel so happy watching my clients leave with so much confidence. I have heard numerous times: “You’ve just changed my life.” It is incredibly rewarding.
Is there a special reaction story from one of your clients?
I had a wonderful session with a gentleman that had recently separated and wanted to get back out dating again. He had shared that he no longer had confidence and was so conscious about his balding hairline. After our first session of SMP he broke down, it was a very emotional experience.
Seeing someone’s confidence and excitement grow before your eyes is a wonderful thing. I feel I am doing something so meaningful for my clients. It is life-changing.
What made you want to get into SMP as opposed to the common beauty treatments?
I have worked closely with people for almost 20 years as a makeup and hair stylist. Enhancing how someone looks and feels has been a very important part of my trade, but this has always been temporary. During this time, I had so many clients share their stories with me about their thinning hair. I then started my research into this area. I instantly knew this is my calling. SMP is relatively new to New Zealand but has been a very popular answer to hair loss issues overseas for almost 20 years. It is the best feeling knowing I have enhanced someone’s life with these semi-permanent results. I feel I have found my calling.
