Frequently Asked Questions
What is Camouflage Tattoo?
As you are aware, the options for treating and healing stretch marks, as well as reducing the visibility of scars, have been quite limited, if not entirely nonexistent until now. Referred to as 'Scar Camouflage,' 'Paramedical Tattooing,' 'Stretch Mark Camouflage,' and 'Inkless Camouflage,' Nue Conceal introduces a revolutionary system that integrates the art of camouflage tattooing, the science of colour theory, and the technology of intelligent colour analysis through Nue Conceal's groundbreaking Skin Tone Reader device and app. Nue Conceal Artists specialise in camouflaging a variety of skin imperfections, including: Stretch marks, scars from injuries, surgical scars, burns, skin grafts, transition scars, self-harm scars, vitiligo, and hyperpigmentation. Typically, 1 to 3 sessions are recommended. Deeper stretch marks or more severe scars might necessitate additional sessions to achieve smoother skin, a matter discussed in detail during your personalized consultation for your unique camouflage plan. Skin preparation sessions typically range from 1 to 3 over a 2 to 4-week period. While around 2 skin preparation sessions are generally required, the exact number varies for each client due to their unique needs. In cases of severe scars or stretch marks, irrespective of their age, a more personalized and individualized plan may be necessary. It's noteworthy that NUE CONCEAL is currently the sole skin tone pigment range holding both the valuable CE certification and Europe's stringent REACH certification, ensuring the highest standards of integrity.
Are there any risks?
While prioritising safety with Nue Conceal pigments holding the vital CE certification and exercising caution, it's important to acknowledge the potential for some risks. The camouflage tattoo technique involves creating minor traumas within the skin, a necessary aspect for the healing process. To ensure optimal results, it is crucial to keep the treated area clean and shielded from situations where bacteria could invade. Your aftercare routine will be thoroughly explained during the consultation and after the camouflage treatment. Though rare, allergic reactions to the colour components used in the procedure may occur. The selection of a skilled Camouflage professional is paramount because an improper procedure may lead to excessive trauma, scarring, and the risk of infection. Therefore, careful consideration and choosing a qualified expert are vital to minimize potential risks associated with the camouflage tattoo process.
What's the difference between permanent and semi-permanent camouflage?
Approximately 79% of Camouflage Artists prefer utilizing the 'Permanent' technique, which involves housing pigments in the second layer of the skin, known as the dermis. This method, akin to body art tattooing, ensures that pigments are not easily expunged due to the lack of cell renewal in the dermis, leading to a longer-lasting camouflage. However, it's crucial to note that the deeper insertion of pigments in the permanent technique carries significant risks. As you age, your skin produces less melanin, and natural skin color changes occur approximately every 10 years. This means that pigments inserted deeper into the skin may not age in sync with the natural skin tone, posing challenges over time. The semi-permanent method, such as Nue Conceal, is better suited to age with you. While it may last up to 3+ years, the benefits of the semi-permanent approach become evident over the long term. It's important to emphasize that the non-permanent technique employed by Nue Conceal allows for adjustments as your skin naturally lightens over the years. Through touch-up appointments, the camouflage can be adapted to match your evolving skin tone. This ensures that as you age, your camouflage ages with you, maintaining the correct skin tone colour. This insight is based on industry feedback and underscores the long-term advantages of the semi-permanent method.
Camouflage vs Micropigmentation
Camouflage is a distinct procedure with a technique that differs from traditional body tattooing or micropigmentation, such as those performed on eyebrows and lips. Notably, micropigmentation is not permanent, as the pigment only resides in the outermost layer of the skin where cells renew, resulting in a shorter duration of visible results. Moreover, the pigments utilized in micropigmentation are not suitable for stretch mark camouflage, as they tend to mark the skin and lack the natural appearance desired in camouflage procedures. The unique requirements of camouflage necessitate a specialized approach, distinct from micropigmentation, to ensure effective and natural-looking results.
When can I start?
Scars and stretch marks need to be healed and around 2 years old or white in colour. Face scars approx 6 months.
If any colour present, or not quite healed, I can still help. We can start right now!
When will I see results?
After the first treatment has healed! You’ll possibly need 1-3 sessions.
What is required after your appointment?
Jules will provide you with an aftercare plan following your appointment.
To give you an idea of what to expect please review the Healing Stages of Nue Stretch Mark graphic.
How many sessions will I need?
Typically, a series of 1 to 3 sessions is necessary, involving a combination of BOTH inkless and Camouflage techniques or opting for either one. For Skin Preparation, a range of 1 to 4 sessions of LED is recommended over a 2 to 4 week period. While around 2 skin preparation sessions are generally sufficient, the precise number can only be determined once Jules assesses your skin and gauges its texture to provide the most accurate estimate. In cases of severe scars and stretch marks, regardless of their age, a more personalized plan may be necessary. This could involve additional LED Skin Preparation sessions and an increased number of Camouflage treatments for optimal results.
How long will the camouflage tattoo last?
The treatment will last for 3-5 years. Please also refer to the differences between permanent & semi-permanent camouflage question above.
Why we use LED to prepare the skin before treatment
Jules specialises in preparing the skin before any treatment, particularly since she already deals with what could be termed as 'damaged skin.' This proactive approach to skin preparation has consistently yielded improved healing results and shorter healing times, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the camouflage treatment. The combination of camouflage tattooing with LED skin preparation is a meticulous process, but it proves to be highly effective and is deemed essential for achieving the best possible outcome for your camouflage. Regarding the question of whether LED is necessary, Jules strongly advocates for its inclusion in the process. She prefers not to conduct any camouflage treatment without prior LED skin preparation. The significance of this step and its relevance to your specific case will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the tailored approach for the best results.
Can I go in the sun after a Camouflage?
Absolutely, as long as the treated area is already fully healed. After a camouflage tattoo procedure, it's generally recommended to avoid direct sun exposure for a few weeks to allow proper healing. Once healed, you can still enjoy sun exposure, but it's advisable to protect the treated area with sunscreen to prevent immediate fading of the tattoo over time. Always follow our aftercare instructions for the best results.
Does the sun affect Camouflage?
Respecting a specific period of sun avoidance, before and after the treatment, is crucial to accurately match your natural skin tone and prevent hyperpigmentation. Failing to observe this precaution could result in the treated area becoming permanently brown. Therefore, adherence to the recommended sun protection measures is essential to ensure the desired outcome and avoid any unwanted pigmentation changes.
