Coming up with an answer for patients with scars and stretch marks is where it all started. Stretch marks (striae) are the result of sudden or drastic stretching of the skin as a possible consequence of hormonal changes like: puberty, pregnancy, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), bodybuilding, among others; the fast expansion of the tissue leads to the tearing of the dermis which ultimately results in the formation of scar tissue.

Stretch marks have been studied over the years and we know that they develop as a repair mechanism to address the damaged tissue. Initially, stretch marks start as a reddish/purple, itchy and even sometimes painful lesion. Over time, they tend to lose pigmentation (due to the tissue inability to function properly) and they turn into hypo-pigmented lesions known as “striae alba”.

The use of topical agents, natural remedies and exfoliating treatments have been tested over the years and have not shown significant evidence to be effective in any way. Certain laser resurfacing frequencies, along with mechanical induction treatments like micro-needling has also been clinically studied and have been shown to provide improvement but not a significant enough reduction or even represent a permanent solution.

“Camouflage” is the only scar revision protocol that provides permanent, long-lasting, visible results in as little as 2 weeks after only 1-3 sessions; no downtime and minimal to no discomfort are to be expected. Alicia Shapira is the first to learn this procedure from the creator of the inks himself in Brazil. This pigment is then deposited into the epidermis and dermis to successfully correct the desired lesion.

Unlike traditional semi-permanent ink, our unique pigment formulation is free of any parabens, fragrances, alcohol or allergens; all of the factors mentioned above being harsh ingredients that could potentially damage the skin over time. Stretch marks do not pose any health risks but are an understandable daily struggle for women who have undergone the changes mentioned prior, and who are wanting to accept and celebrate their bodies.

To learn more about stretch marks:

Why do I have stretch marks?

In skins with genetic tendency, dryness, lack of hydration and moisturization.

How can we avoid stretch marks?

We must take care of our diet, water intake, certain foods with natural fats such as avocado, nuts, almonds, orange, mandarins and antioxidants with vitamin e to maintain elasticity in our skin.

What treatments are available for stretch marks?

Treatments such as dermapen, laser, and creams. In general it can regenerate the skin a little and improve the texture, but it does not improve the color.

What is Brazilian Stretch Mark Camouflage?

Brazilian Stretch Marks Camouflage is a totally innovative technique that promises the solution to diminish the appearance of your stretch marks by mixing a custom color for each type of skin tonality that covers the stretch marks permanently.

Who qualifies?

Anyone with small or medium striations that look white and notice the contrast with their skin color qualifies for the procedure.

Stretch marks with a lot of depth and people suffering from hyperpigmentation or skin conditions do not qualify. A consultation is needed to evaluate your stretch marks. This can be done online by sending me photos or face-to-face if you feel uncomfortable doing so.

How many sessions do you need?

Stretch marks can be done with just one session, although in some cases it may need a touch-up. The procedure can last from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area you want to work on.

After-procedure care

After the procedure, healing care such as any tattooing or micropigmentation procedure is crucial to seeing the best results.

You should avoid contact with water such as from pools or the ocean and sweat, especially the first few days, keep the area moisturized with an ointment and apply 2 to 3 times a day.

It does not require rest time, the person can return to their activities immediately.

Does it hurt?

It depends on the sensitivity of each particular person’s skin. A wide range of my clients will tell you it feels less painful than getting a regular tattoo.

Does the sun affect stretch marks camouflage?

Going back to the theory, the stretch is like a scar, it does not contain blood flow, therefore it is not affected by ultraviolet rays. A person sunbathing with stretch marks tans the skin but does not tan the stretch marks, so the color does not change and stays the same.

It is important to respect a prudent time after treatment for sunbathing and thus not cause damage to healing.