When you struggle with hair growth, you've tried every trick in the book. But thanks to one business owner in Utah, the book is being rewritten.
Jacque Gardner is the 37-year-old owner of Revive Ink, a hair replacement service studio in Riverton, Utah. She tells PEOPLE that the idea for the shop began after there was a period in life where she lost so much hair that she had to go from "long, curly locks to hair that was short and straight."
"Giving up the curls because my hair was too thin felt like giving up part of my identity," says Gardner.
After trying every solution possible, ranging from supplements to powders, Gardner stumbled upon scalp micropigmentation (SMP).
The cosmetic procedure can cover bald spots or thinning hair by using thin needles to deposit tiny dots of pigment on the scalp, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
"As someone who had been rubbing black eyeshadow onto her crown to hide the thinning, I knew I'd found something special that could help lots of people and I wanted to be part of it," says Gardner.
The semi-permanent tattoo fades over time, requiring a refresh every three to five years. Gardner says, "It's designed that way so the color and coverage can be adjusted as you age."
It is a process that is not recommended for people with a compromised immune system or scalp psoriasis that hasn't been treated, as "the healing process is key to getting the best results," says Gardner.
If you have had a hair transplant, Gardner recommends that you wait at least 12 months post-surgery to get any SMP. As for people with light hair, Gardner says the possibilities of SMP working can vary.
"The treatment, overall, makes your roots look darker. If you have lighter hair, but darker roots, the treatment will look great. Gray and silver hair also looks great paired with this treatment. But if your roots are naturally white or very light blond, this might not be the best option for you," she explains.
For those who may want to look into growing their hair, Gardner says that the tattoo will not prevent future hair growth. Patients can start or continue any regrowth or scalp treatments after their tatto is fully healed.
Being part of the journey with her patients is something that ultimately brings Gardner true joy.
"I love connecting with people and being part of their transformation. I've seen first-hand the negative impact that hair loss can have on a person's mental health, and it's amazing to see how much of a difference a tattoo service can make in someone's life," she says.