Raymond van Barneveld’s Hair Tattoo: What It Means for Men’s Hair

When darts legend Raymond van Barneveld appeared with what fans quickly dubbed a “Playmobil” look, the joke wasn’t really about darts at all—it was about hair. According to recent coverage ahead of his latest World Championship bid, van Barneveld’s distinctive, ultra-crisp hairline appears to be tattooed on, sparking curiosity about how far modern hair aesthetics have come for men who want a sharper frame to the face.

In the UK, hair tattoos (more formally known as scalp micropigmentation) sit at the intersection of grooming, confidence and camera-ready culture. They’re increasingly discussed in barber chairs and salons—not as a “quick fix”, but as one option among many for men who want the appearance of density or definition without daily styling tricks.

What is a “hair tattoo” (and why does it look so graphic)?

The phrase “hair tattoo” is often used in headlines and on social media, but what people typically mean is scalp micropigmentation (SMP): a technique where tiny pigment impressions are placed on the scalp to mimic the look of hair follicles. The aim isn’t to create actual hair growth, but to create the illusion of a fuller hairline, denser hair through thinning areas, or a cleanly shaved “buzzed” effect.

That very structured, almost “drawn-on” look—like the one being referenced in van Barneveld’s coverage—usually comes down to hairline design and contrast. A hairline that is positioned very low, too straight, or too sharply edged can read as less natural, especially under harsh lighting, TV cameras, or flash photography. In real life, many hairlines have subtle asymmetry and soft transitions; replicating that is where practitioner skill and patient expectation-setting matter.

UK barbers and SMP practitioners often talk about “age-appropriate” hairlines, which doesn’t mean “older-looking”—it means a design that fits facial proportions and looks believable from multiple angles and distances.

Why men are choosing hairline definition now

Men’s grooming has changed dramatically in the last decade. The modern barbershop isn’t only about a tidy fade; it’s about precision—beards lined to the millimetre, clean tapers, and styles that look consistent across selfies, video calls and sports broadcasts.

That context matters because techniques like SMP can be appealing if you:

• Wear your hair very short and want a more uniform “freshly shaved” look.
• Have diffuse thinning and want the appearance of more density (especially around crown areas).
• Want your haircut to look sharper for longer, with less reliance on powders, fibres, or daily camouflage.
• Prefer low maintenance over endless styling products or complex routines.

It’s also worth noting that public figures—from athletes to TV personalities—can normalise these conversations. A headline may poke fun, but the underlying interest is real: people want to understand what’s possible, how it’s done, and how natural it can look when executed well.

Real-world considerations: what to ask before you commit

While it can be tempting to see a bold hairline and think “that’s exactly what I need”, many stylists recommend taking a beat and planning for your future hair pattern and lifestyle. SMP is a cosmetic procedure performed by trained practitioners; it’s not a haircut, and it’s not something to decide on a whim.

If you’re considering SMP in the UK, here are practical, non-negotiable checks that professionals commonly advise:

• Ask for healed results (not just freshly done photos). Pigment can look darker and more defined immediately after treatment.
• Discuss hairline shape and softness. A natural-looking hairline often includes a gentle gradient and micro-variation rather than a single hard edge.
• Check experience with your skin tone. Pigment choice and technique should suit different complexions and undertones.
• Understand maintenance. Many people need periodic touch-ups, especially with UV exposure or natural pigment fading over time.
• Patch test and hygiene standards. Reputable clinics will prioritise safety, sterilisation and clear aftercare instructions.

If scalp sensitivity or irritation is part of your story, dermatologists often suggest seeking medical guidance before undergoing cosmetic scalp procedures—particularly if you have active inflammation, flaking, or known conditions that could affect healing.

What you can do next, even if you’re only curious: book a consultation (not a treatment) with a reputable SMP practitioner and take along photos of hairlines you like—then ask them to explain what would look realistic on your head shape and hair colour.

How to get a “sharp hairline” look without a hair tattoo

Not everyone wants a long-term cosmetic step—and you don’t need one to elevate your look. Many barbers can create a cleaner hairline effect using classic techniques and styling strategy, particularly when paired with the right cut.

• Choose the right cut: A close crop, buzz cut, or high-and-tight can make thinning less noticeable by reducing contrast.
• Ask for a softer line-up: A hard line-up can look striking but may read “too square” on some faces; a slightly feathered edge often looks more believable.
• Use matte styling products sparingly: Heavy, shiny products can expose scalp contrast; a light matte paste can add texture without glare.
• Consider colour and lighting: Subtle lowlights or a tonal adjustment at the barbers can reduce harsh scalp/hair contrast (especially for greying hair).
• Prioritise scalp comfort: A balanced cleansing routine helps hair sit better; if you’re flaky or irritated, many professionals recommend gentle, non-stripping products and avoiding aggressive scratching.

Hairporium’s editorial team often hears the same frustration: “My fade looks great for two days, then the hairline disappears.” If that’s you, a softer, more forgiving cut plus smart styling can deliver a consistent look without locking you into a permanent change.

Key Takeaways

• Raymond van Barneveld’s headline-making “hair tattoo” taps into a wider UK conversation about hairline definition and confidence.
• “Hair tattoo” usually refers to scalp micropigmentation (SMP), which creates the illusion of follicles rather than new hair growth.
• The most natural results typically come from softer, age-appropriate hairline design and realistic contrast.
• Before committing, ask to see healed work, discuss long-term maintenance, and prioritise hygiene and aftercare.
• You can achieve a sharper look without SMP through the right cut, a softer line-up, and lightweight styling choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a “hair tattoo” the same as a traditional tattoo?
Not exactly. The term is informal; most people mean scalp micropigmentation, which uses specialised pigments and techniques designed for the scalp rather than typical body tattooing.

Will a hair tattoo look natural in daylight?
It can look very natural when the hairline design, pigment tone and density are well matched. Harsh lighting and very sharp hairline edges can make results appear more graphic.

Does SMP work if I still have some hair on top?
Many practitioners use it to reduce the appearance of thinning by lowering contrast between hair and scalp. A consultation is essential to assess your hair length, colour and thinning pattern.

How do I avoid an overly “drawn-on” hairline?
Ask for a softer front edge and a gradual density build. Bring reference images and talk through what will suit your age, face shape and typical haircut length.

What’s a good non-permanent alternative?
A well-chosen haircut (often shorter with blended sides), a softer line-up, and light matte styling can create definition. Some people also use temporary camouflage products, applied lightly for realism.