{"id":1333,"date":"2025-09-18T07:51:28","date_gmt":"2025-09-18T14:51:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/skinarttraining.com\/us\/articles\/general\/smp-machines-and-pigments-for-training\/"},"modified":"2026-10-20T12:22:40","modified_gmt":"2026-10-20T19:22:40","slug":"smp-machines-and-pigments-for-training","status":"publish","type":"pillar_article","link":"https:\/\/skinarttraining.com\/us\/articles\/scalp-micropigmentation\/smp-machines-and-pigments-for-training\/","title":{"rendered":"SMP Machines and Pigments: A Training Equipment Checklist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div style=\"min-height:0!important;height:auto!important\" id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-hero\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-center\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-hero\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\">SMP Machines and Pigments: A Training Equipment Checklist<\/h1>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:26px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Buying an SMP machine is only one part of preparing for training. You also need compatible supplies, clear product instructions and an understanding of what your course exercises require. Use this checklist to compare equipment without buying a large kit before you know what you need.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-guide-contents\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-unset\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-guide-contents\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"guide-contents\">In This Guide<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-neve-button-color-color has-css-opacity has-neve-button-color-background-color has-background\"\/>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"#guide-section-1\">Start With the Course Equipment Requirements<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#guide-section-2\">Compare the Complete Machine Setup<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#smp-machine-types-and-examples\">SMP Machine Types and Specification Examples<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#guide-section-3\">Check Pigment Information Before Buying<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#guide-section-4\">Budget for Consumables and Ongoing Costs<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#guide-section-5\">Keep a Useful Practice Equipment Record<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#guide-section-6\">Choose Training Before Expanding Your Kit<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-guide-section-1\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-unset\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-guide-section-1\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"guide-section-1\">Start With the Course Equipment Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-neve-button-color-color has-css-opacity has-neve-button-color-background-color has-background\"\/>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Request the equipment list for your selected course option before placing an order. Separate items required for the first practice exercise from items needed later, and confirm what is included in the price.<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Which machine and consumables are suitable for the assigned practice?<\/li><li>Can I use equipment I already own, and what details should I send for review?<\/li><li>Which practice materials should I buy, and in what quantities?<\/li><li>Are there recommended suppliers or product specifications?<\/li><li>What should I wait to buy until after the relevant lesson?<\/li><\/ul><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Send the exact model and product description when asking about a substitute. A photograph of a similar-looking pen does not establish compatibility.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-guide-section-2\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-unset\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-guide-section-2\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"guide-section-2\">Compare the Complete Machine Setup<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-neve-button-color-color has-css-opacity has-neve-button-color-background-color has-background\"\/>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Record the manufacturer, model and included accessories for each option. Compare the complete setup you will need rather than the advertised price of the handpiece alone.<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Power supply or battery requirements and what is supplied.<\/li><li>Compatible cartridges and any model-specific components.<\/li><li>Manufacturer instructions for cleaning, maintenance and storage.<\/li><li>Warranty terms, service location and replacement-part availability.<\/li><li>Delivery costs, returns policy and availability of consumables.<\/li><\/ul><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask the supplier to explain unclear specifications in writing. Do not assume a setting shown on a different device transfers directly to yours. Training instructions and the manufacturer\u2019s documentation should be reviewed together.<\/p>\n<section class=\"skinart-smp-machine-comparison\" id=\"smp-machine-types-and-examples\">\n<style>\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison{margin:28px 0;padding:22px;border:1px solid #756443;border-radius:10px;background:rgba(194,166,109,.035)}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison :is(p,li,dt,dd){font-size:16px!important;line-height:1.7}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison h3{font-size:26px!important;line-height:1.3;margin:24px 0 14px;color:#d2b779}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison .smp-spec-fields{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(3,minmax(0,1fr));gap:14px;margin:18px 0}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison .smp-spec-fields>div{padding:14px;border-left:2px solid #bfa16b;background:rgba(194,166,109,.04)}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison dt{font-weight:700;color:#d2b779}.skinart-smp-machine-comparison dd{margin:6px 0 0}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison .smp-model-examples{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(2,minmax(0,1fr));gap:18px;margin:20px 0}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison .smp-model{padding:18px;border:1px solid #62573f;border-radius:8px;min-width:0}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison .smp-model h3{margin-top:0}.skinart-smp-machine-comparison .smp-model p:last-child{margin-bottom:0}\n.skinart-smp-machine-comparison ol{padding-left:24px}.skinart-smp-machine-comparison li+li{margin-top:10px}\n@media(max-width:700px){.skinart-smp-machine-comparison{padding:18px}.skinart-smp-machine-comparison .smp-spec-fields,.skinart-smp-machine-comparison .smp-model-examples{grid-template-columns:1fr}}\n<\/style>\n<h2 id=\"smp-machine-types-heading\">SMP machine types and real specification examples<\/h2>\n<p>A pen is a handpiece shape. Rotary and coil describe drive mechanisms, while wired and wireless describe power arrangements. A rotary machine can also be a wireless pen: these labels answer different questions.<\/p>\n<dl class=\"smp-spec-fields\">\n<div><dt>Format<\/dt><dd>How is the handpiece shaped, held and supported?<\/dd><\/div>\n<div><dt>Mechanism<\/dt><dd>How does the machine drive its needle system, and what use does its manufacturer specify?<\/dd><\/div>\n<div><dt>Power<\/dt><dd>Which battery, cable, connection and charger does this exact version require?<\/dd><\/div>\n<\/dl>\n<h3>Read two listings from the same manufacturer<\/h3>\n<p>These examples show why the model and package matter. Check the current version and your course equipment list before purchasing.<\/p>\n<div class=\"smp-model-examples\">\n<div class=\"smp-model\"><h3>Bishop SMP Pen<\/h3><p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/bishopsmp.com\/products\/the-bishop-smp-pen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">manufacturer&#8217;s SMP Pen listing<\/a> specifies a fixed 3.5 mm stroke and compatibility with most cartridge brands.<\/p><p>Ask which exact cartridge and power setup match your assignment. A broad compatibility statement still needs checking against the particular components you plan to use.<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"smp-model\"><h3>Power SMP Wand Advanced<\/h3><p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/bishopsmp.com\/products\/the-power-smp-wand-full-set-stainless\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">manufacturer&#8217;s Advanced full-set listing<\/a> specifies a 4.2 mm stroke, two removable Critical Connect batteries, a charging dock and an RCA backplate.<\/p><p>Compare these included parts with a handpiece-only offer when calculating the complete setup cost.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><strong>Stroke length is not insertion depth.<\/strong> It describes the machine&#8217;s mechanical travel. The numbers above are product specifications, not instructions for how far a needle should enter skin or a claim that one model is better for every learner.<\/p>\n<h3>Try a two-listing comparison<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>Write down each exact manufacturer, model and variant. Record its format, mechanism, power requirements and documented stroke; mark missing information as a question.<\/li>\n<li>List the compatible cartridges and the parts included in each offer. Add the separate items needed to make each setup complete.<\/li>\n<li>Send the two links and one specific question to your tutor, such as: \u201cWhich cartridge and power connection match the exercise I am preparing for?\u201d Keep the answer with your equipment record.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-guide-section-3\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-unset\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-guide-section-3\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"guide-section-3\">Check Pigment Information Before Buying<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-neve-button-color-color has-css-opacity has-neve-button-color-background-color has-background\"\/>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep the product name, manufacturer, supplier and available labeling with your purchase record. Look for batch identification, expiry information and storage instructions, and ask the supplier about anything missing or unclear.<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A marketing description such as \u201cnatural-looking\u201d or \u201clong-lasting\u201d does not tell you how a particular result will heal. Ask what evidence supports a claim and whether photographs show healed work rather than freshly completed treatment.<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/cosmetics\/cosmetic-products\/tattoos-permanent-makeup-fact-sheet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FDA\u2019s tattoo and permanent-makeup fact sheet<\/a> describes infections linked to contaminated inks, including cases where hygienic procedures were followed. Product labeling and careful purchasing do not eliminate every risk.<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For assigned practice, confirm the product and practice material with your instructor. Avoid inventing a pigment mixture or substituting products because their colors look similar in a listing.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-guide-section-4\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-unset\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-guide-section-4\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"guide-section-4\">Budget for Consumables and Ongoing Costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-neve-button-color-color has-css-opacity has-neve-button-color-background-color has-background\"\/>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A useful budget separates one-time purchases from supplies you will need to replace. Make a simple comparison sheet with an item, required quantity, pack size, price, delivery charge and expected reorder point.<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Machine, power accessories and any required spare parts.<\/li><li>Compatible consumables for the assigned exercises.<\/li><li>Practice materials and products specified by the course.<\/li><li>Cleaning and protective supplies required by the equipment instructions and training.<\/li><li>Shipping, servicing and replacement costs.<\/li><\/ul><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, a cheaper handpiece can be less convenient if its compatible consumables are difficult to obtain. Compare the cost and availability of the complete setup before deciding. Do not buy extra stock solely to reach a supplier\u2019s free-shipping threshold.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-guide-section-5\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-unset\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-guide-section-5\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"guide-section-5\">Keep a Useful Practice Equipment Record<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-neve-button-color-color has-css-opacity has-neve-button-color-background-color has-background\"\/>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For each assigned exercise, record the equipment used and the question you want feedback on. This makes it easier to discuss a result without relying on memory.<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Exercise name and date.<\/li><li>Machine model and compatible consumable identification.<\/li><li>Practice material and product used.<\/li><li>Settings specified for that exercise.<\/li><li>A consistent photograph of the practice work.<\/li><li>Tutor feedback and the next adjustment to discuss.<\/li><\/ul><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Synthetic practice material does not heal. A neat practice pattern cannot prove a healed outcome on a person, and a completed exercise does not by itself establish readiness to treat clients. Follow the course assessment requirements and confirm the requirements that apply where you plan to work.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-guide-section-6\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-unset\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-guide-section-6\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"guide-section-6\">Choose Training Before Expanding Your Kit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-neve-button-color-color has-css-opacity has-neve-button-color-background-color has-background\"\/>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Review the <a href=\"\/us\/course\/online-scalp-micropigmentation-course\/\">current scalp micropigmentation course details<\/a> and ask how equipment selection, practice work and feedback are covered in your chosen option. Confirm kit contents separately from the lesson topics.<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you already have a shortlist, send the training team the manufacturer, model, supplier link and your specific question. Keep the answer with your equipment list so later purchases follow the same requirements.<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Build your kit around confirmed learning needs. This gives you a clearer purchasing decision than choosing the largest bundle or expecting a particular machine to guarantee professional results.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-guide-next\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns alignfull has-1-columns has-desktop-equal-layout has-tablet-equal-layout has-mobile-equal-layout has-vertical-unset\"><div class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-columns-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"innerblocks-wrap\">\n<div id=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column-guide-next\" class=\"wp-block-themeisle-blocks-advanced-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"guide-next\">Course Details and Next Steps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-neve-button-color-color has-css-opacity has-neve-button-color-background-color has-background\"\/>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Review the <a href=\"\/us\/course\/online-scalp-micropigmentation-course\/\">current course details for US learners<\/a> and <a href=\"\/us\/contact\/\">contact Skinart<\/a> with questions about your selected option. Existing students can return to their lessons in the <a href=\"https:\/\/skinarttraining.com\/academy\/\">academy<\/a>.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","class_list":["post-1333","pillar_article","type-pillar_article","status-publish","hentry"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/skinarttraining.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pillar_article\/1333","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/skinarttraining.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pillar_article"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/skinarttraining.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/pillar_article"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/skinarttraining.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1333"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}