Stretch marks are often the symbol of change, pregnancy, rapid growth or weight gain, or dramatic hormonal changes. The silvery lines tell a story about a chapter in a person’s life. Some people want to hide that story and others want to celebrate it. Stretch mark tattoos are a novel and creative way to cover up these flaws while also enhancing the artistic value of the body’s canvas.
In this blogpost we speak with Lauren Spencer to learn more about Stretch Mark Tattoos, the benefits and more!
So What are Stretch Marks Anyway?
It’s important to understand the characteristics of stretch marks before getting into how stretch mark tattoos function. Stretch marks, referred to as striae in medicine, are a type of scarring that develops as a result of excessive skin stretching or shrinking. The elastin and collagen fibres in the skin rupture as a result of the abrupt shifts, giving rise to the recognizable lines. Stretch marks typically start off looking reddish or purplish but with time turn into a silvery tone.
What is a Stretch Mark Tattoo or Camouflage?
Stretch mark tattoos, also known as scar camouflage tattoos or tattooing over scars, present a unique solution for dealing with stretch marks and other sorts of scars. The objective behind these tattoos is to disguise the flaws by using specialized colours and procedures to merge the damaged areas into the surrounding skin.
Our training uses a delicate technique to prevent further trauma to the already damaged skin, in contrast to standard tattoos that pierce deeper layers of the skin. Stretch marks are made to look less obvious and give people newfound confidence thanks to these tattoos, which are made to resemble the skin’s natural texture and colour.
What are the steps in the procedure?
There are basically three steps:
1. Colour Matching: Achieving a natural appearance is absolutely crucial in stretch mark tattooing. This is why we first set up to customise to the client’s skin tone using specially created flesh-coloured ink. Stretch marks appear to be part of the surrounding skin because of how well the ink blends into them. We want to create an optical illusion that minimises the contrast between the stretch marks and the surrounding skin.
2. Application: The tattooing process begins with the application of a topical anaesthetic to numb the area and reduce discomfort. I use specialised techniques, such as stippling and feathering, to gradually layer the pigment over the stretch marks. These techniques mimic the skin’s natural texture, further enhancing the camouflage effect.
3. Healing and Touch-ups: After the initial tattoo session, the skin requires time to heal. Just like with traditional tattoos, the healing process involves some scabbing and peeling. The skin looks smoother after the tattoos have healed, and just after sixty days, clients can even go outside in the sun without getting spots!
In some cases, a follow-up session might be necessary to refine the tattoo and address any areas that require additional pigmentation.
What is the difference between ink and inkless treatments?
Both methods, ink and inkless techniques, diminish the appearance of stretch marks, vitiligo, surgery scars, mommy makeover scars, BBL scars, Lipo scars, dark coloured blemishes and more.
Not all scars and stretch marks are suitable for ink camouflage treatments. Dermedics has created an inkless serum that is designed for all scars and stretchmarks. This technique replenishes the cells and improves the collagen and elastin fibers in the treated area. This method relies on Dermedics innovative ECM formula.
Benefits of Stretch Mark Tattoos
1. Increased Confidence: One of the most important advantages of stretch mark tattoos is the boost in self-assurance they provide. Stretch marks can be covered up to make people feel more at peace and at ease in their own skin.
2. Artistic Expression: Stretch mark tattoos are an example of artistic expression; they go beyond simple camouflage. We can work with clients to create special patterns or symbols that speak to them directly.
3. Non-Invasive: Stretch mark tattoos are a non-invasive alternative that doesn’t require incisions or recovery time, unlike invasive surgical procedures or pricey laser treatments. They are thus a feasible option for people looking for a less dangerous approach.
4. Long-Lasting effects: Stretch mark tattoos offer a more long-lasting solution than stretch mark lotions and topical treatments, which may only produce transient effects.
Conclusion
Stretch mark tattoos display signs of art, empowerment, and originality. Lauren says “these tattoos not only change the appearance of the skin by expertly concealing scars and stretch marks, but they also significantly affect a person’s self-confidence”. They show how body art can act as a link between self-expression and self-acceptance as the tattoo business continues to develop.
Ultimately, the decision is a personal path towards self-love and body acceptance, whether someone decides to embrace their stretch marks or prefer concealment. To learn more about Stretch Mark Tattoos or how do stretch mark tattoos work, feel free to check out our training or if you’d like to come in for an appointment, you can do so by contacting us here!