Paramedical camouflage
Scar camouflage in Winnipeg
Skin-tone pigment for healed, pale scars so they draw less attention.
- Appointment
- 1 to 2 hours, depending on size
- Healing
- About 1 to 2 weeks for the surface to settle
- Lasts
- Fades gradually; a colour refresh as needed
- Sessions
- 2 to 4 or more, 6 to 8 weeks apart
Scar camouflage is cosmetic tattooing that places skin-tone pigment into a scar that has gone pale (hypopigmented).
The aim is to blend the scar in with the surrounding skin so it draws less attention. It helps camouflage a scar; it does not change the scar itself.
It only suits some scars. The scar must be fully healed, flat and lighter than the skin around it. We look at your scar in person at a free consultation, and we will tell you plainly if it is not a good candidate.
Pricing is quoted at your consultation, once Geet has seen your skin and you have agreed on a plan.
Is it right for you?
A good fit if
- Your scar is fully healed, typically 12 months or more old
- It is flat and paler than the surrounding skin
- You would like the contrast softened and understand it will not disappear
- You are ready for several sessions and a patch test
- You can plan sessions around summer sun, when your skin tone changes
Better to wait, or check with your doctor, if
- Your scar is raised, red or purple, or still changing
- You are keloid-prone, or have had a keloid or thick raised scar before
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are on blood thinners, took isotretinoin within the last 6 to 12 months, have uncontrolled diabetes, an active skin infection, or are having chemotherapy: wait or get your doctor's OK first
What happens at the appointment
Consultation and patch test
We examine the scar, talk through realistic expectations and go through a full health and consent form. A patch test is done first. Pricing is quoted at the consultation, which is free.
Colour matching
Geet mixes a skin-tone shade and tests it beside the scar. Because pigment does not tan, the colour is matched to your untanned skin.
Numbing and pigment
Topical numbing goes on first. Pigment is placed in light layers with a single-use sterile needle and new barrier film.
Aftercare and next session
You leave with written aftercare, and we plan your next session for 6 to 8 weeks later so the area can settle between rounds.
Afterwards
How it settles, stage by stage.
Days 1 to 3
The area looks pink or slightly red and feels tender. The colour looks darker than it will end up.
Days 4 to 10
Light flaking or scabbing. Do not pick.
Weeks 2 to 4
The colour softens and can look uneven. This is normal between sessions.
Weeks 6 to 8
The surface has settled and you can judge the colour. Your next session builds on it.
Aftercare
- Keep the area clean and apply a very thin layer of the aftercare balm we give you.
- Do not pick, scratch or peel. Dry winter skin itches more, so moisturise around the area.
- Avoid saunas, hot tubs, pools, lake swimming and heavy sweating for about two weeks.
- Keep the area out of the sun while it settles, and use SPF afterward.
- Do not tan between sessions: pigment does not tan, so tanned skin around it makes the match look off.
How long it lasts
Camouflage pigment is long-lasting, not permanent. It fades gradually and varies with skin type, sun and skincare, and a colour refresh keeps it blended. The pigment does not tan, so the colour is matched to your untanned skin. If the skin around the scar tans in summer, the camouflaged area can look lighter by comparison, so we plan sessions with that in mind.
Common questions
What scars can be camouflaged?
Fully healed, flat scars that are paler than the surrounding skin, typically 12 months or more old. Raised, red or purple scars, scars still changing, and keloid-prone skin are not suitable. We check at your consultation.
Will the scar disappear?
No. Camouflage softens the contrast so the scar draws less attention, but it does not change its texture. Results vary, and we will show you what to expect before you start.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually 2 to 4 or more, spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. Size, depth and your skin all play a part. We build the colour gradually rather than rushing it.
Does it hurt?
Most people feel scratching or pressure, and scar tissue can feel different from normal skin. Topical numbing is used for every tattoo service. Tell us if you need a break.
Do I need a patch test?
Yes. For camouflage we always do one before any full session. It lets us check the colour match and how your skin responds. A full health and consent form comes first.
Can I tan after scar camouflage?
Pigment does not tan, so the colour is matched to your untanned skin. If the skin around it tans, the camouflaged area can look lighter by comparison. Plan your sessions for times when your skin is closest to its usual untanned tone.
Ask about scar camouflage.
A consultation is where Geet looks at your skin, draws the shape or matches the tone, and gives you a clear quote. You decide after that.