When you step into David Santiago’s Scalp Solutions studio in Hudson Valley, New York, it’s clear this isn’t your average clinic. The space is thoughtfully curated—lush greenery breathes life into every corner, a collection of unique toys sparks curiosity, and striking pieces of art hang on the walls, adding a modern yet personal touch. It’s classy, but relaxed. Comfortable, but professional. For Santiago, it’s all intentional.
“This is more than just a treatment space,” he says. “It’s a place where guys can relax, decompress, and feel taken care of.”
David Santiago, a Marine Corps veteran and former law enforcement officer, has created an environment where men can come as they are—whether they’re nervous about their first session or ready to embrace a new chapter with confidence. And in this studio, Santiago’s craft goes beyond skin deep. Through scalp micropigmentation (SMP), he’s helping men restore not only the look of a full head of hair but also the confidence that often gets lost with hair loss.
We sat down with Santiago in his Hudson Valley studio to talk about his journey, the SMP process, and why his work is about much more than tattoos on the scalp.
Dennis Keller: David, for those who don’t know, what exactly is scalp micropigmentation?
David Santiago: Scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic procedure where pigment is deposited into the scalp to create the appearance of hair follicles. Basically, it gives the look of a freshly shaved or buzzed head. For guys dealing with thinning hair, bald spots, or total hair loss, it’s a game-changer. It’s like restoring the look of hair without the need for surgery, meds, or fancy creams.
Dennis Keller: How did you first get into SMP?
David Santiago: My story’s pretty personal. I started losing my hair early on and tried all the typical stuff—lotions, potions, you name it. Nothing worked. Eventually, I heard about scalp micropigmentation and decided to give it a shot myself. It completely changed how I felt about myself. After that, I was hooked. I wanted to offer that same feeling to other men. So, I made it my mission to master the craft and open Scalp Solutions.
Dennis Keller: What was it like transitioning from being a Marine and a cop to doing SMP?
David Santiago: (Laughs) It’s been a ride. But honestly, there are similarities. In both careers, you have to be disciplined, pay attention to detail, and really care about the people you’re helping. When I was in the Marines and later in law enforcement, it was about service. With SMP, it’s still about service—it’s just a different kind. Now, I help guys take their confidence back.
© David Santiago
Dennis Keller: Who’s the typical client walking through your door?
David Santiago: Most of my clients are men. They’re guys from all walks of life—barbers, professionals, athletes, retirees—anyone dealing with hair loss who’s ready for a change. Some have been wearing hats for years, avoiding social events, even dodging family photos. After SMP, they’re ditching the hats and booking photo shoots. That’s the kind of turnaround I get to be a part of every day.
Dennis Keller: What makes Scalp Solutions different from other SMP clinics?
David Santiago: I’d say it’s the experience. This isn’t just about filling in a bald spot; it’s about giving someone back their identity. I take time with every client, designing hairlines that fit their face, their age, and their style. No cookie-cutter results here. And I’m honest. If someone’s not a good candidate, I’ll tell them. I’m not in this to make a quick buck; I’m here to deliver results that look real.
© David Santiago
Dennis Keller: What do clients say after they see their final look?
David Santiago: Most guys are speechless. I’ve had grown men tear up in my chair. They see themselves—sometimes for the first time in years—in a way that feels right again. One client told me he finally felt comfortable taking his kids to the pool without a hat. That hit me. That’s why I do this.
Dennis Keller: How long does the process take?
David Santiago: Usually two or three sessions, spaced about a week apart. Each session can last a few hours. It’s a process that builds gradually so it looks natural. After the last session, guys walk out with a fresh look that can last years with minimal maintenance.
Dennis Keller: What’s the biggest misconception about SMP?
David Santiago: That it’s just a regular tattoo on your head. It’s not. While we use tattoo machines, the approach is totally different. It’s all about replicating tiny hair follicles. You need to understand depth, spacing, and density to make it look like real stubble, not dots. It’s a skill that takes time to develop.
© David Santiago
Dennis Keller: You also train other artists. What’s that experience like?
David Santiago: It’s one of the best parts of what I do. I run a training program through Scalp Solutions where I teach barbers, tattoo artists, and even people with no experience how to do SMP the right way. I tell them straight: this isn’t just about the technique. It’s about integrity, building trust, and changing lives. I love seeing my students go on to open their own studios and make an impact.
Dennis Keller: On social media, you use a lot of balding and hair loss comedy in your content. Why take that approach?
David Santiago: Because hair loss is heavy for a lot of guys. I lived that, so I get it. But if you can laugh about it, you take back the power. I use humor to break down the stigma and make conversations about hair loss less serious and more approachable. Not everything has to be doom and gloom. Sometimes a meme or a funny reel can help a guy feel seen—and maybe even get him thinking, “Hey, I’m not alone in this.” Then they start looking for solutions, and that’s where I come in.
© David Santiago
Dennis Keller: You’ve got some exciting projects going on right now. Can you tell us about them?
David Santiago: Absolutely. Right now, I’m working with Hustle Butter to bring SMP and PMU artists some of the best aftercare available on the market. That’s huge for me. Hustle Butter is a brand I’ve always respected—when I first started tattooing heads years ago, I dreamed about working with them. To now be collaborating with them to create reliable, safe aftercare specifically designed for scalp micropigmentation and permanent makeup artists is surreal. This industry has been in need of something like this for a long time, and I’m excited to be part of bringing it to life.
And that’s just one piece of the puzzle. I’m also focused on expanding Scalp Solutions, taking on more trainings, and growing the Scalp Solutions Podcast, where I sit down with some of the top people in SMP and the hair loss industry. It’s all about pushing the craft forward, raising the standards, and giving both artists and clients better options.
© David Santiago
Dennis Keller: Where do you see the future of SMP heading?
David Santiago: SMP is only going to grow. More guys are learning about it every day, and it’s becoming more mainstream. I think you’ll start seeing it offered in more barbershops, more clinics, and more cities. But the key is education—making sure people understand what good SMP looks like and who they can trust. I’m committed to being part of that conversation.
Dennis Keller: Last question: what’s your message to guys out there struggling with hair loss?
David Santiago: Don’t let hair loss control your life. Whether you shave it down, embrace it, or look into SMP, do it on your terms. If you’re curious about SMP, reach out. I’m happy to answer questions and show you what’s possible. Confidence is everything. You deserve to feel like yourself again.
For more information on David Santiago and Scalp Solutions, visit scalpsolutionsny.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok @scalpsolutionsny to see client transformations, educational content, and some comedy to remind everyone not to take life—or hair loss—too seriously.
© David Santiago
© David Santiago
