Stretch Mark and Scar Camouflage Tattoo
A scar camouflage tattoo, also known as a paramedical tattoo, is a specialized technique that reduces the appearance of scars and stretch marks by blending them with the surrounding skin.
Scars and stretch marks can be a source of insecurity and self-consciousness for many people, and traditional methods such as creams, gels, or laser treatments may not always provide satisfactory results.
This is where a scar camouflage tattoo comes in – it offers a permanent solution that can help improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks, so you can feel more like ‘you’💗.
What is a Scar Camouflage Tattoo?
A scar camouflage tattoo is a specialized procedure designed to improve the appearance of scars by blending them with the surrounding skin tone. The focus is on camouflage, not scar or stretch mark removal.
Camouflaging is achieved using a tattoo machine with a fine needle cartridge. It deposits either an inkless solution containing skin healing ingredients or specially designed pigments that match the natural colour of your skin.
Both methods help to break down scar tissue and stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin, which improves the texture and appearance of scars or stretch marks.
Who Can Benefit From This Procedure?
This procedure is great for individuals who have scars or stretch marks that are at least one-year-old and have a noticeable difference in skin tone.
Whether you want to minimize the appearance of scars from past traumas such as self-harm scars, burns, car accidents or surgeries, or want to reduce the appearance of stretch marks to feel more confident in a bathing suit, we can help.
Cost and Sessions
The cost for scar camouflage tattooing varies based on the size of the area being treated. Smaller areas start at $400 per session, while larger areas can go up to $1500 per session. This price includes 1 touch-up appointment if needed, but subsequent sessions (rarely needed), are offered at a reduced rate.
Here is a breakdown of the cost:
Partial glutes (medium area) $800
Full glutes area $1200
Partial thighs (medium area) $660
Full thighs $900
Full belly $1300
Full arm $660 each
Small to medium scars $400
Medium to large scars $550+
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
The procedure may take up to 1–2 hours depending on the size of the scar or stretch mark being treated. Clients typically experience minimal pain, with most describing it as a 2/10 on a pain scale at most.
After the treatment, the treated area will be red and inflamed, but this will subside within a few days. Healed results can generally be seen in 4–6 weeks, but the skin will continue to repair and regenerate for months after.
The Procedure Details
Consultation: This can be done either in person or via virtual consultation. For a virtual consultation, you will send photos of the scar to our secure email. The practitioner will assess the skin type and the nature of the scars to determine the best approach.
Preparation: On the day of the procedure, the area to be treated is cleaned thoroughly. If the ink method is used, a colour matching process is performed to ensure the pigment blends with the natural skin tone.
Procedure: Using a tattoo machine, the practitioner will gently needle the scar tissue and apply the chosen technique. This can be either using ink to match the skin tone or an inkless method. The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours depending on the size of the area.
Follow-Up: A follow-up appointment is scheduled after 30 days to assess the healing and results. Additional sessions may be required depending on the desired outcome and the skin's healing response. Each individual's treatment plan is customized.
Healing Process
Immediately after the procedure, the area(s) treated will be quite red and raised. Don’t panic, this is totally normal! You will have some swelling/puffiness for 24-72 hours after the procedure.
Days 2-5
You will have a mild scab/crust that is rough to the touch. It will still look bright red for the next few days. You should not have any swelling or puffiness at this stage.
Days 5-7
The crust should be gently flaking off. DO NOT pick or scrub the scab. After one week, there should no longer be any scabbing or roughness in the treated area.
The redness should be minimal; however, there may still be a pink hue which indicates that the layers of the skin are still healing. This pink hue can last up to 12 weeks in some individuals.
Keep the area moisturized with a scar gel or ointment such as Cicaplast during this healing phase.
Aftercare
If you received the inkless treatment, follow these aftercare instructions:
Use a thin layer Aquaphor gel to minimize friction against clothing etc.
Keep the treated area clean by washing the area briefly with mild soap and water at least 1 x per day. Avoid soaking the area for long periods of time.
Wear loose fitting clothing.
Do not soak in a bath or body of water for 7 days or until no evidence of scabbing is visible. Brief showers are acceptable.
No swimming pools, lakes, hot tubs etc. for at least 1 week.
Avoid direct sun exposure for 1 week and apply SPF once healed
Use Cicaplast B5 gel (available at Shoppers Drug Mart). Massage it into the treated area 1-2 x per day after day 4, until you achieve your desired result. If unable to find this product, we recommend a silicone-based scar gel of your choice.
If you received ink camouflage, follow these aftercare instructions:
Wear loose fitting clothing.
Remove the barrier film on day 3. Lightly wash the area with mild soap and water.
Pat the area dry and let it air dry for 45 minutes before applying any healing balms.
Apply Cicaplast B5 gel or healing ointment of choice once it's dry. Massage this into the treated area 1-2x a day until desired result is achieved.
You may shower with the barrier film on, but do not soak in a bathtub for 7 days or until there is no evidence of scabbing. Do not swim or be submerged in water for long periods of time until it has fully healed.
Avoid direct sun exposure for 1 week and apply SPF once healed
Sun Exposure and Tanning
Direct sun exposure to the treated area must be avoided until fully healed. Always apply sunscreen to the treated area to protect the pigment. If opting for the ink method using pigment to camouflage, the procedure should be done when the skin is at its base tone, so do not suntan or use self-tanning products for a week before and two weeks after the treatment.
Scar Camouflage Tattoo Calgary
Scar camouflage tattooing is a transformative procedure that can improve the appearance of scars and stretchmarks, helping you feel more comfortable in your skin.
If you are searching for stretch mark and scar camouflage tattoo in Calgary or stretch mark and scar camouflage tattoo near me, look no further than The Beauty Block. Our talented permanent makeup artist has completed extensive training programs and specializes in scar and stretch mark camouflage tattoos.
Contact us today to book a consultation! Call 587.432.3030 or book online. We are located just a couple of minutes north of downtown at #102, 1409 Edmonton Trail, Calgary, AB.
FAQs About Scar Camouflage Tattoos
What kind of scars are not treatable?
Scars less than one year old
Raised scars (keloid or hypertrophic)
How long do scar camouflage tattoos last for?
Results will vary, but the needling done during the treatment can provide long-lasting results by breaking down the scar tissue and allowing the tissue to repair itself. Any improvement in texture and skin tone is generally permanent (unless the skin is reinjured due to rapid weight gain, new injury etc.).
If using the ink method or pigmentation to camouflage by matching the surrounding skin colour, then on average, the pigments may last up to 5 years. Touch-up appointments may be needed every few years to maintain the desired result.
Will the tattoo completely cover my scar?
While the goal is to make the scar less noticeable by blending it with your natural skin tone aka camouflage, complete coverage or disappearance is not guaranteed. The appearance of scars depends on various factors such as their age and size, as well as individual skin healing responses.
Is scar camouflage suitable for all skin types and tones?
While scar and stretch mark camouflage is suitable for most skin types and skin tones, anyone prone to hyperpigmentation should have a consultation before their procedure to go over any risks associated. In some cases a patch test will be recommended/required.