1. Unmatched Hands-On Training — 12 Live Models (Exclusive to Pigment Lab)

Unlike most SMP courses that offer minimal or simulated practice, Pigment Lab provides the highest volume of real clinical experience in the industry.

What makes our training unique:
• Work on 12 live models — the highest number offered by any SMP school in the UK.
• Train inside a fully licensed clinical environment, following professional clinical standards.
• Perform real procedures under the direct supervision of a Senior SMP Artist.
• Leave with portfolio-ready work, genuine technical confidence, and the skills to treat paying clients immediately after graduation.

This level of real-world exposure is exclusive to Pigment Lab and cannot be replicated in standard SMP training programmes.

2. Official VTCT & ITEC Level 4 SMP Qualification (Internationally Recognised)

Pigment Lab delivers the VTCT & ITEC Approved Level 4 Certificate in Scalp Micropigmentation, the most respected and recognised qualification in the industry.

Accredited, approved, and recognised by:
• VTCT & ITEC
• Ofqual
• UK insurance providers
• International regulatory bodies

Qualification details:
• Qualification Number (QAN): 610/1642/1
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 170
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 330
• Level: 4
• Minimum Age: 18+

This is the gold standard qualification — ideal for upgrading your CPD or ABT certificate to a fully accredited Level 4 licence.

3. Comprehensive Scientific & Clinical Curriculum

Pigment Lab provides an advanced, evidence-based educational programme covering every scientific, technical, and clinical aspect of SMP.

Core modules include:
• Anatomy & physiology of the skin and scalp
• Hair loss types, alopecia, and trichological assessment
• Blood-borne pathogens & infection control
• Hygiene, sterilisation, and clinical protocols
• Colour theory & pigmentology
• Scar camouflage (FUE, FUT, trauma scars)
• Fitzpatrick scale, skin tone analysis & facial morphology
• Density building, diffusion, hairline design & full-scalp treatments
• Patch testing, aftercare, and long-term client management

This curriculum ensures that every graduate is fully prepared to meet UK clinical and licensing standards.

4. Structured, Supportive Learning Experience

Pigment Lab provides a complete learning ecosystem designed for long-term success.

Included student support:
• 4 days of intensive in-person training
• Starter kit (or full premium kit depending on package)
• Troubleshooting day
• WhatsApp student support group
• Printed and digital study materials
• Full training manual
• Uniform
• Personalised machine setup and technique coaching

You are supported before, during, and long after your course ends.

5. Live Demonstrations from Senior Artist

Every training programme includes:
• Full-length live demonstrations of all SMP techniques
• Real-time breakdown of methods, needle depth, pigment placement, and clinical decision-making
• Step-by-step guidance during your own model sessions

This ensures you learn by observing and doing.

6. Flexible Payment Plans — Up to 11 Months

To make high-level training accessible, Pigment Lab offers payment plans of up to 11 months, allowing students to begin their SMP career without financial pressure.

7. Portfolio Development & Exam Preparation

Pigment Lab ensures every student is exam-ready:
• Assessment preparation
• Portfolio building
• Case study guidance
• Ongoing monitoring of your progress
• Corrections, feedback, and support

Your success is our priority.

8. Post-Training Professional Support

Graduates receive:
• Licensing and insurance guidance
• Business and pricing support
• Equipment recommendations
• Ongoing mentorship

This ensures a smooth transition into real-world professional practice.

9. Industry-Leading Clinical Standards

Pigment Lab trains students to practice at the highest level:
• Medical-grade hygiene
• Regulated clinical environment
• Evidence-based techniques
• Safe pigment selection
• Client-first approach

Graduates leave prepared to offer safe, ethical, and high-quality SMP treatments from day one.

Age: Students must be 18 years or older.

Education: Must have successfully completed a related Level 3 qualification (e.g. Anatomy & Physiology, Beauty Therapy, or Access to Aesthetics) or hold a medical qualification (e.g. doctor or nurse).

Self-Directed Learning: Ability to engage in independent study, including e-learning, pre-study assignments, and exams.

Technology Access: Must have access to a functional laptop or desktop computer.

Language Proficiency: Strong written and verbal English skills.

To achieve certification, students must complete:
• 4 supervised live models (during training)
• 8 independent case studies (after training)
• Written assignments and self-evaluation
• Final assessment with a VTCT examiner

Because it is:

• Ofqual-regulated
• Recognised by all UK licensing authorities
• Accepted by insurance providers
• Required by many councils for SMP licensing
• Essential for working in a medical or clinical setting

This qualification puts you in the top tier of the SMP industry.

Ideal for:

• Beginners entering SMP
• CPD-qualified SMP artists wanting formal qualification
• PMU or tattoo artists expanding their skills
• Hair professionals wanting to specialise in hair loss solutions
• No prior qualifications required.

The curriculum includes:

• Anatomy & physiology of the scalp
• Hair loss conditions: alopecia, male/female pattern baldness
• Fitzpatrick scale & pigment selection
• Safe SMP needle depth, spacing & density
• Hairline design & proportional mapping
• Full scalp coverage for baldness
• Scar camouflage (FUE, FUT, trauma)
• Blending & fading analysis
• Infection control & cross-contamination
• Client assessment & aftercare
• Multiple live model sessions

Yes — the VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Award is fully recognised across:
✔ UK councils
✔ Insurance companies
✔ Clinics & hair restoration specialists
✔ Professional SMP bodies

Yes — once insured and licensed (if required), you can offer:

• Hairline restoration
• Density enhancement
• Full SMP bald coverage
• Alopecia scalp pigmentation
• FUE/FUT scar camouflage

Yes — lifetime support is included, covering:

• Case reviews
• Colour corrections
• Portfolio advice
• Supplier recommendations
• Business & marketing guidance

Training is held at our licensed, award-winning Pigment.lab Academy in Clapham Junction, using medical-grade equipment and professional sterile protocols.