SMP Touchup with Shannon the Ink Barber
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 11:42AM
Michael Kaye in Getting Real Series, SMP, Scalp Micro Pigmentation

I recently visited Shannon - AKA "The Ink Barber" for something I don’t talk about enough: confidence maintenance.

It’s been about 2 years since my last SMP (Scalp Micropigmentation) session, basically a refresh that helps keep everything looking consistent. Years ago (about 9 now), I made a mistake and went with an inexperienced provider and ended up with what’s called pigment “blowout” (too deep in the skin, spreads/migrates). It was frustrating and made me self-conscious.

Shannon helped correct it over multiple sessions, and every time I come in, it gets better because the newer pigment is placed at the correct depth, so it fades evenly and looks natural.

Today’s goal:
✅ Blend out the old migrated pigment
✅ Even out the tone and impressions
✅ Make it look consistent, so nobody would ever know anything was done

We wrapped in about 2–2.5 hours. Skin’s a bit irritated/pink right after (normal), but once it settles, the top and hairline look sharp and clean.

And here’s the angle I want you to take from this (especially if you’re 40+):
Sometimes “fitness” isn’t just gym time. It’s also doing the things that make you feel solid in your own skin, because when you feel confident, you show up differently everywhere.

Also… we talked gym much of our visit. Might have to get Shannon in for an “old man workout session.” 😄

Article originally appeared on Get Fit Over 40 (http://www.getfitover40.com/).
See website for complete article licensing information.