FAQ Stretchmark Camouflage
What is it?
Using a tattoo machine with a small needle cartridge, I treat each individual stretchmark by gently needling it and either masking it with a colour that matches your skin tone, or I infuse each individual stretch mark with a solution containing vitamins and natural oils (inkless stretchmark camouflage). Both techniques encourage new collagen and elastin production.
The method used (ink or inkless) will depend on the skin tone and type of stretchmarks. At times I may do both treatments on the same individual at different times.
Stretchmarks must be at least 1 year old to treat.
What can I expect?
The treated skin will be extremely inflamed immediately following the procedure. It will raise and turn red temporarily. Healed results can generally be seen in 4-6 weeks. The skin may go through several healing phases during this time, and it will take at least 30 days to see the final healed result.
Treatment times can take up to 1-2 hours depending on the size of the area. Generally, clients feel the pain is quite minimal with most expressing about a 2/10 on a pain scale with 0 being no pain and 10 being very painful.
How many sessions are needed?
Generally, 1-3 sessions are needed depending on the desired result, your skin’s ability to heal and depth of stretchmarks. After 30 days, you will return for a follow up where we can assess the area and take after photos. We will then decide if another session is needed and if so, we will decide if we should continue with an inkless method or ink camouflage. Every client is different, so this is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach.
What is the aftercare?
For inkless, you will need to keep the area clean, wear loose fitting clothing and avoid submersing the treated are in water for long periods of time for 7 days or until no scabbing is visible (short showers are acceptable). We recommend using a product called Cicaplast B5 gel (available at Shoppers) and massaging it in 1-2 x per day until you achieve your desired result.
For ink camouflage, you will have a barrier film applied to the treated area after your appointment and this will need to stay on for 3 days. You may shower with it on, but do not submerse the area in baths, hot tubs etc. After 3 days, you can gently remove the film and lightly wash the area with mild soap and water. You will then pat the area dry and let it air dry for a further 45 minutes before applying Cicaplast B5 gel. Wear loose fitting clothing and avoid submersing the are in water for a full 7 days or until there is no visible scabbing. Massage the Cicaplast in 1-2x day until desired result is achieved.
What happens when I tan?
The layer of skin that tans with sun exposure is the epidermis or top layer. The pigment (if ink procedure is done) is implanted just beneath the epidermis into the upper dermal layer of the skin. Therefore, the skin on top of the pigment will tan and the contrast will be less than had you not done any procedure to camouflage them.
Do not expose the treated area to direct sunlight until fully healed. Once you are fully healed, you will want to apply sunscreen to the treated area when out in direct sunlight.
It is best to do your procedure when your skin is at your base skin tone (not currently tanned). Do not apply self tanning products for 1 week prior to your appointment and for 2 weeks after.
What is the cost?
This will depend on the size of the area being treated. You are welcome to email photos for a quote or come in for a free consult. Smaller areas start at $400/session and larger areas can be upwards of $1500/session. These prices do not include a touch up appointment, but a lower rate will be applied to additional sessions if needed.