 |
|
| CLINICS | |
 |
Recruitment |
 |
|
|
Equipment Sales |
|
|
|
Register |
|
|
|
Clinic Login |
|
|
| SUPPLIERS | |
|
Register |
|
|
|
Supplier Login |
|
|
| NEWSLETTER | |
|
Consumer |
|
|
|
Press |
|
|
| GENERAL | |
|
Contact Us |
|
|
|
Media Services |
|
|
About Us |
|
|
|
Our Philosophy |
|
|
|
Our Advisers |
|
|
|
Privacy Policy |
|
|
|
Site Guide |
|
|
| © Copyright 2003-2010 Consultingroom.com™ Ltd |
 |
 |
 |
| NAVIGATOR: Home: Treatment FAQs: Non Surgical: Skin Camouflage | 03 September 2010 | ||
Skin Camouflageor simply scroll down.
Skin camouflage was pioneered during the Second World War to help pilots both here and in America who had been badly burned by making use of plastic surgery and camouflage creams. During the 1950’s Joyce Allsworth researched and implemented the concept of remedial skin camouflage within the United Kingdom. She went on to form the British Association of Skin Camouflage (BASC) in 1985. Remedial cosmetic skin camouflage is defined by the BASC as being, "the art of concealing a discolouration, blemish or scar with the application of specialist camouflage creams that are matched to the surrounding skin tones." Joyce Allsworth was instrumental in training members of the British Red Cross in cosmetic camouflage and was involved in setting up the initial clinics in hospitals around the country. This work was complemented by a comprehensive training programme set up in 1986, designed to increase the number of trainees in this specialist area. The pioneering work by Joyce Allsworth has resulted in a network of practitioners being set up in many parts of the country.
Skin Camouflage is the skilled application of specially formulated creams designed to minimise and neutralise defects or discolouration of the skin by covering, concealing and masking them at surface level. The treatment means that your appearance is improved as the focus is no longer on the defect or discolouration that you wish to hide; potentially improving your confidence and self esteem. It is simple to apply, and does not interfere with any medical treatment in progress on the effected area, so can even be used for post operative scarring, cosmetic surgery, and bruising. Most of the products used, although lightweight when applied correctly, are also water resistant meaning you could continue with sporting activites such as swimming whilst wearing the camouflage. Creams can last up to 8 – 12 hrs on the face and body. A skin camouflage consultation takes approximately one hour, during which time the specially formulated skin camouflage creams are tested directly onto your skin to find the nearest match to the colour of your skin. They are not chosen from a colour match card. Finishing powder is then used to make the cream waterproof. Advice will be given as to how to prepare the skin, how to mix and apply the creams and you will be made to feel comfortable with using them. You should feel able to ask the practitioner lots of questions and try out various creams until you find a suitable product for you. Skin camouflage techniques can be used to conceal a number of conditions, such as;
There are five main brands of skin camouflage creams that are available through the NHS on prescription. These are; Covermark, Dermablend, Dermacolor, Keromask and Veil. However, as skin colours and conditions differ it is advisable to seek professional help to find the right brand for you.
Application of the skin camouflage creams does not hurt and will be a similar sensation as experienced by women who apply foundation make-up products. Although most creams used are hypoallergenic, you are advised to consult your doctor if you have any skin disorder, allergy or sensitivity, and also advise the skin camouflage practitioner of any such problem when making an appointment for consultation. If you have particularly sensitive skin it is always advisable to try a patch test first. In general, it is not advisable to use skin camouflage on broken, dry or inflamed skin; such as on eczema. Skin camouflage is suitable for men, women and children. All camouflage creams also contain a Sun Protection Factor (SPF). Whether or not a child should use skin camouflage is a decision for parents and children to make together, after discussing what's involved with a trained specialist. Skin camouflage requires time, emotional commitment and patience just like wearing make-up, and may not be practical for very young children.
There are currently no before and after images available for the use of skin camouflage.
This is not a medical procedure, so someone can perform it without a medical background. We do however recommend that you see a specialist in skin camouflage as they can help you decide which products suit you best and teach you how to apply them. We suggest you choose a practitioner who is a member of and has training provided by an established organisation of skin camouflage practitioners such as;
Please go to our Find a Clinic section to find a clinic or practitioner specialising in this treatment.
Having a skin disfigurement is not just a physical problem. It often affects our mind and the way we feel about ourselves, lowering both confidence and self esteem. It may even change or affect the relationship with our family and friends. It is therefore possible to change someone’s life by using skin camouflage. Skin camouflage represents a quick, non-invasive treatment, which by disguising most disfiguring skin conditions, helps to significantly reduce patient distress. It can be used to cover, conceal and mask many worrying blemishes at surface level simply by the application of specially formulated creams. Whether you choose to use it everyday, allowing you to work and enjoy normal social activities without the worry of feeling self conscious, or just use it for special occasions; it can make all the difference. Although a non-medical practitioner can provide this service, or you can simply purchase the products yourself, we would always recommend seeing a specialist in skin camouflage techniques.
A consultation will usually take approximately one hour - for which there will normally be a charge. This charge will not include the cost of any creams for your future use. One visit however is usually sufficient to teach you how to conceal the blemish. Some camouflage creams are available through the NHS and can be prescribed by your doctor. The products can also be ordered at local pharmacies or purchased directly from the manufacturers or distributors. The prices of creams will vary according to the brand and type used. There are five main brands of skin camouflage creams; Covermark, Dermablend, Dermacolor, Keromask and Veil. However, as skin colours and conditions differ it is advisable to seek professional help to find the right brand for you.
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
