FAQ

Yes. Even when a consultation is arranged as part of a medicolegal claim, it still includes tailored product suggestions and application techniques suited to your skin and lifestyle. Many clients choose to use skin camouflage once they see the benefits for everyday wear, special occasions, or simply for added confidence.

After your appointment, a personalised treatment plan will be prepared. This plan lists the recommended products, provides a step-by-step application guide, and includes ordering links to reputable suppliers. The treatment plan is attached as an appendix to the medicolegal report sent to your instructing solicitor, and a copy of the treatment plan is sent directly to you.

Because the medicolegal report is completed first, please allow up to two weeks to receive your treatment plan.

Following your appointment, you’ll receive a personalised written report summarising: 

• The recommended products selected during your consultation, including brand, shade, and where to purchase them

• Application guidance, including techniques discussed and any tools recommended to support you in achieving the best results

• Helpful reminders and advice tailored to your needs (e.g., skincare preparation, maintenance tips, removal methods)

• Links to purchase the products directly, making it easier for you to order exactly what was used during your appointment

If more than one suitable product option was identified during your consultation, this will be noted in your report for future reference. 

The report acts as a simple and supportive reference guide to help you feel confident using your chosen products at home.

A medicolegal skin camouflage report is an impartial, formal document prepared following your assessment. It outlines: 

• Details of the injury or skin condition: Including the location, type, and characteristics of the area to be camouflaged.

• Assessment findings: Including the practicality of using camouflage products, any limitations, and whether the area is suitable for camouflage.

• Product and technique recommendations: A summary of the products tested, those best suited for your needs, and guidance on how to use them.

• Costing information: A breakdown of estimated product costs, including any additional tools or items required for successful application.

• Photographic evidence (if applicable): Before-and-after images to demonstrate the effectiveness of skin camouflage.

• Appendices: Generally, include before and after photographs, completed skin type assessments and questionnaires, potentially a completed treatment chart to support product usage, application methods, and maintenance.

This report is designed to help legal professionals understand the functional and psychological impact of your scarring or condition, and how skin camouflage may contribute to your recovery or quality of life.

When applied correctly, skin camouflage can last for 8–12 hours on the face and up to several days on the body, thanks to its long-wearing, water-resistant formulation. 

Using a specially formulated primer before application, followed by fixing powders and a fixing spray (often with SPF 20), can significantly improve longevity. These steps help set the product in place and enhance its resistance to water, sweating, and light friction.

• On the face, skin camouflage should be removed at the end of the day to allow the skin to breathe.

• On the body, it can remain intact for several days with careful maintenance. Occasional top-ups of fixing powder or spray may be needed.

As with any product, wear time depends on skin type, lifestyle, and how well aftercare advice is followed.

Yes, many camouflage brands are available to purchase online but choosing the right shade, formulation, and texture can be difficult without guidance.

A professional consultation can help ensure: 

• Your skin tone is closely matched using a wide selection of shades from all renowned camouflage brands

• The product works well with your skin type (e.g., oily, dry, sensitive) and fits your lifestyle, whether you need occasional use or longer-lasting daily wear

• Techniques are demonstrated to achieve the best possible coverage, finish, and staying power

In our clinic, clients are encouraged to practise these techniques during the appointment, so they leave feeling confident about applying it themselves.

Self-matching can be time-consuming, frustrating, and expensive. A consultation takes the guesswork out and provides personalised, professional support tailored to your needs.

Skin camouflage products are specially formulated for medical and paramedical use. Unlike regular foundation, they are:

• Highly pigmented, so a small amount goes a long way

• Designed to neutralise and conceal rather than simply blend

• Water-resistant, long-wearing, and developed for durable coverage

• Often compatible with SPF and skincare routines. Fixing powders and creams contain built-in sun protection, though this varies by brand

• Less likely to transfer onto clothing when correctly applied

• Suitable for covering a wide range of concerns, from redness and pigmentation to scarring and birthmarks

While traditional makeup focuses on enhancing features, skin camouflage is about minimising or concealing visible differences. The goal isn’t cosmetic enhancement, it’s about supporting comfort, confidence, and control over appearance in day-to-day life.

Yes, skin camouflage products can be used alongside regular makeup, depending on your needs and preferences.

For example:

• You may choose to apply camouflage first, then add bronzer, blusher, or eye makeup over the top

• Some clients use camouflage to even out specific areas (such as scars or pigmentation), then blend foundation around it for a full-face finish

• It’s important to apply products in the correct order and allow time for setting between layers to maintain durability

During your consultation, we’ll explore how to integrate camouflage with any existing makeup routine and which products (e.g., powders or setting sprays) work best without disturbing the camouflage beneath. However, it should be noted that the service provided is not that of a beautician or makeup artist and am unable to provide qualified advice about makeup, but happy to explore options. However, this will require further time and will need to be booked in and at an additional cost to the standard time.

After your consultation, you’ll receive a detailed list of the recommended products, including:

• Brand names

• Exact colour codes

• Format (e.g. cream, powder, spray)

These products are available to purchase online via the manufacturer’s website or through specialist suppliers. I’ll guide you to trusted sources and include ordering information in your report. Please refer to the dedicated links page to help you access the correct suppliers with ease. 

Please note:

• We do not hold stock of products due to the wide range of shades, formats, and expiry limits

• High Street pharmacies do not typically stock camouflage products and will only order them if prescribed by a GP

• Prescriptions are issued entirely at the GP’s discretion, and the cumulative cost to the NHS is often much higher than self-funding

All recommendations are made based on clinical suitability, with no brand affiliations or commission involved.

Possibly, but only at the discretion of your GP. Some camouflage creams and powders are listed in the NHS Drug Tariff, meaning they can be prescribed but there’s no guarantee a GP will do so. Decisions are based on clinical need, local policy, and NHS cost considerations. Many colours and formats are not available on prescription.

It’s important to be aware: 

• NHS prescriptions are often slower to process, as the chemist may need to order items from multiple suppliers

• There may be some limitations on what the pharmacy can access

• Accessories such as brushes, primers, or fixing sprays are not available on prescription

• Although it may seem a more affordable route, the overall cost to the NHS is typically higher

At the end of your appointment, a clear list of recommended products will be provided that you can take to your GP if you wish to request a prescription. You will also receive these details in full in your report following your appointment.

For many clients, however, ordering directly from the manufacturer or specialist distributor is simpler, faster, and ensures full access to the necessary products. Please refer to the dedicated links page to help you access the correct suppliers with ease.

In many cases, yes. Areas of hyperpigmentation (darker skin tone) can often be visually reduced using professionally selected camouflage products. 

During your appointment, we’ll assess both the area of concern and the surrounding skin tone to select the most appropriate single product match where possible. We generally avoid mixing shades, as this can be difficult for clients to replicate at home and may lead to disappointment. 

It’s important to note that what often draws immediate attention isn’t the shape or texture of the skin, but the contrast in colouring. Camouflage works by visually reducing that mismatch, helping the area blend more naturally with the surrounding skin. 

For more intensely pigmented areas, a concealer may be included as part of the process, followed by thin, buildable layers of camouflage cream. The number of layers can vary depending on the area of concern and the desired outcome. 

While complete invisibility isn’t always possible, many clients report a significant improvement in both appearance and confidence.

Skin camouflage can be helpful for a wide range of visible skin differences, including many types of scarring (e.g., surgical, traumatic, self-injury), as well as conditions such as vitiligo, rosacea, birthmarks, eczema, and changes in pigmentation following injury or illness. 

However, results vary depending on:

• The location, texture, and colour of the area

• Skin type and how it responds to the products

• Whether the skin is broken, inflamed, or actively shedding

• Scars with high sheen, such as self-harm, can be particularly challenging to conceal completely. Some scars can be prone to casting shadows that alter the skin appearance with or without skin camouflage. While mattifying powders help reduce shine, some texture and reflectivity may remain visible.

It is recommended that in the case of skin that is particularly dry, the area to be treated should be regularly moisturised with a good hydrating moisturiser for at least several days prior to the appointment, the morning of the appointment and regularly thereafter, if using camouflage on a regular basis. 

During your appointment, we assess the suitability of camouflage for your unique skin presentation and offer honest, professional guidance. If colour matching is not possible on the day (e.g. due to inflammation, extreme dryness, or unsuitable tone), this will be clearly explained and documented. Refunds are not offered, as the service includes consultation, assessment, trial application, and a professional report with guidance tailored to your skin.

Skin camouflage is designed for intact, healed skin and should not be used on areas that are currently compromised. It is not recommended in the following situations: 

• Broken, infected, or inflamed skin

Applying camouflage to wounds, rashes, or irritated areas can delay healing and may worsen the condition. 

• Undiagnosed skin concerns

It’s important to have a diagnosis before using camouflage to avoid masking something that requires treatment or further investigation.

• Skin cancers or suspicious lesions

Moles, new growths, or changing skin patches should be reviewed by a healthcare professional. Camouflage should never be applied over these areas.

• Active infections

This includes bacterial (e.g. impetigo), viral (e.g. cold sores), and fungal infections (e.g. ringworm). Applying product over infections can cause spread or irritation.

• Reactive or vascular conditions

Conditions like superficial haemangiomas (e.g. strawberry birthmarks), severe contact dermatitis, or recent insect or animal bites are generally not suitable for camouflage.

If you’re unsure whether skin camouflage is appropriate for your condition, you’re very welcome to send clear photographs via email or WhatsApp before your appointment for a remote assessment. Your safety and skin health always come first.

Yes, sun protection is strongly encouraged, especially when covering scars or areas prone to pigmentation changes. 

While some camouflage products contain SPF, this is often limited and may not provide full protection during prolonged sun exposure. For optimal results, a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) should be applied underneath the camouflage cream. 

Here’s why and how:

• Limited SPF: Camouflage products may contain low SPF but are rarely sufficient for extended outdoor exposure.

• Broad-spectrum coverage: A separate sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays — vital for protecting delicate or healing skin.

• Oil-free is best: Many sunscreens contain oils that may reduce the longevity of your camouflage. Choose oil-free, waterproof formulas to preserve coverage.

• Timing matters: Apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before your camouflage cream to allow it to fully absorb without interfering with application.

• Reapplication challenges: If you’ll be in the sun for long periods, keep in mind that sunscreen may need to be reapplied, which may disrupt your camouflage. This can be discussed at your appointment so you can make informed choices based on your lifestyle.

• Fixing sprays: Some fixing sprays used to set camouflage also contain SPF (e.g., SPF 20), offering additional protection and helping to seal the makeup in place.

If UV protection is a particular concern, this can be tailored during your consultation to ensure the best combination of products for coverage and care.

Skin camouflage is designed to be long-lasting and water-resistant, so correct removal is important for skin health — especially with regular use.

Recommended removal methods: 

1. Use a mild cleanser or soap substitute

A gentle cleansing cream, lotion, or soap substitute is usually sufficient for daily removal. Avoid harsh soaps or scrubs, as they can irritate the skin, especially over delicate or scarred areas. 

2. Apply with water and rinse thoroughly

Massage the cleanser into the skin using water, then rinse thoroughly. A soft flannel or cotton pad can help lift the product without rubbing too hard.

3. Waterproof camouflage may need an oily cleanser

Some products, particularly those containing titanium dioxide, may be waterproof. In these cases, an oily cleansing lotion or dual-phase remover (oil + water) may be required to break down the product before your regular cleanse.

4. Makeup wipes

Some clients prefer wipes for convenience; these can be used but may not remove heavier or waterproof formulas completely. 

5. Daily removal is recommended

Daily removal of skin camouflage products to the face is recommended but can stay in situ for several days to the body. You will learn what works for you.

6. Aftercare: moisturise

Always apply a moisturiser after removing camouflage to soothe and rehydrate the skin. This also helps maintain a healthy base for future applications.

While both aim to reduce the visibility of marks on the skin, skin camouflage and cosmetic concealers serve different purposes and offer very different levels of coverage and durability. 

Key Differences: 

• Coverage and Pigment Strength:

 Skin camouflage products contain a much higher concentration of pigment than standard concealers or foundation. This allows them to effectively cover more pronounced skin changes such as scarring, pigmentation, vitiligo, or burns. 

• Longevity and Wear:

Camouflage creams are designed for extended wear. They are typically water-resistant, transfer-resistant, and suitable for both face and body. When applied correctly and set with powder and/or spray, they can last all day, or even several days on the body.

• Application Technique:

Skin camouflage often uses a multi-step process involving layering, colour correction, setting powder, and fixing spray. In some cases, more than one camouflage cream is used, for example, a lighter-toned product may be applied first to neutralise a darker area before layering the final skin-tone match over the top. 

• Purpose and Use:

Cosmetic concealers are designed for everyday makeup use, such as covering blemishes or under-eye circles, and are typically removed daily. Skin camouflage is used for more persistent concerns and may be part of a wider therapeutic or medicolegal approach, helping individuals manage visible skin differences with confidence

No, there isn’t a single brand that works for everyone, which is why we work with a wide selection of professional-grade camouflage products across multiple brands. 

Rather than matching by brand, the focus is on finding the most suitable tone and texture for your needs. Different brands offer different colour ranges, and the aim is always to find the best base tone and match for your skin.

Products aren’t specifically tailored to oily or dry skin, but adjustments can be made, such as using witch hazel beforehand for oily areas or ensuring hydration for drier skin. Drawing on our background in dermatology and skin health, we can also advise on appropriate moisturisers or emollients where needed to optimise results and support skin comfort. 

Our role is to help you find the best possible product and technique for your individual presentation, without bias, brand loyalty, or commission.

We work with a wide range of specialist skin camouflage brands, including Veil Cover Cream, Keromask, Dermaflage, Dermacolor and Covermark. These are industry-recognised, dermatologically tested products designed for long-lasting coverage. We also use additional products from other ranges where appropriate, including fixing sprays, setting powders, and suitable primers to support your individual skin needs and preferences.

The selection is based on your skin tone, the condition or scar being addressed, and how the product performs on your skin during the trial. Brand choice is never limited to one company; it’s about finding the most effective solution for you.

No, we don’t hold stock of camouflage products. There are simply too many brands, shades, and formats for one clinic to store effectively, and products have a limited shelf life once opened. Instead, we provide detailed product information and direct ordering links in your personalised report. This allows you to purchase only what suits your skin and lifestyle, with guidance tailored to your needs. I also receive no commission from any product recommendations; choices are made purely based on clinical suitability.

There’s no formal waiting list. Once a private enquiry or referral is received, whether directly from an individual, a professional such as the Scar Team, or another source, I respond promptly to discuss availability and next steps. Appointments are usually offered on a Saturday morning at our Bristol Clinic and may be available immediately or, depending on demand, could be scheduled for several weeks ahead. 

If considering skin camouflage for a special event, it is worth booking early to ensure there is time to both obtain the products and practice the application process.

Communication is typically handled by phone, email, or WhatsApp, depending on your preference, so the referral process is efficient and straightforward.

As long as it is a person that you feel comfortable with, they are welcome to attend the consultation with you. A companion regularly provides an outside perspective that helps indicate the results that ‘others/strangers’ would/not see. Sometimes having someone else in attendance can also help with using the products when you’re at home and especially so if it is an area you may struggle to reach.

Application time depends on the size of the area, your chosen products, and how confident you feel with the technique. During the appointment, the focus is on finding a suitable colour match first, primers and setting products are usually introduced only once a good match is achieved.

While the clinic session may feel longer due to this step-by-step approach, clients are encouraged to practise at home with their selected products. With regular use, the process becomes quicker and more intuitive. 

Although camouflage ideally benefits from short setting times between layers, this may be condensed during the appointment due to time limits. Once you’re comfortable with the routine, most people find they can apply camouflage to smaller areas in around 10 minutes, while larger areas may take a little longer.

For private clients, the consultation fee is £250, which includes:

• A 1.5-hour appointment

• Skin tone assessment and colour matching

• Trial of recommended products

• Step-by-step application guidance

• A personalised treatment plan and product report sent after the session

A £160 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your appointment, with the remaining £90 payable on the day. 

Please note: Product costs are not included and are paid directly to the supplier.

Typical Product Costs – The cost of camouflage products varies depending on the brand and coverage needs. Most clients will require at least:

• 1 camouflage cream (£15.99 – £34.00)

• Fixing powder (£16.99 – £24.69)

• Optional primer (highly recommended for longevity)

• Optional fixing spray (especially useful for water exposure or holidays)

• Brushes or applicators, moisturisers, and gentle removers (costs vary)

Sometimes two or more creams are recommended, for example, a second shade to act as a concealer or to account for multiple tones within the area/s to be covered. A full breakdown will be included in your report, along with direct purchase links.

It’s completely natural to experience a range of emotions when discussing or using skin camouflage. For many people, skin conditions or scarring are tied to difficult events, traumas, or ongoing self-image struggles. The process of addressing these feelings can be both healing and overwhelming. You are not alone.

No, this is your personal journey. Asking for assistance in masking these scars is another chapter of your journey. There is no judgement – it’s your appointment simply to help you feel more comfortable in your skin.

While skin camouflage is not a cure for anxiety, many people find that having more control over their appearance improves confidence and reduces social discomfort. Feeling more at ease with visible differences can support overall wellbeing, particularly in public or professional settings.

Not at all. Skin camouflage is about choice and empowerment. It doesn’t mean you are hiding who you are. In fact, for some, using camouflage can be a form of self-care that helps them engage more comfortably with the world while still working on self-acceptance internally.

There’s no shame in seeking support. Reaching out for skin camouflage services takes courage and is a positive step towards regaining confidence. You deserve to feel comfortable in your skin, literally and emotionally.

Skin camouflage can be a valuable part of managing appearance-related distress, but emotional support is equally important. There are several organisations offering dedicated services for people living with visible differences, including:

• Changing Faces: Offers psychological support, counselling, and wellbeing services for those with a visible difference.

• The Vitiligo Society: Provides information, community connection, and support for people affected by vitiligo.

• Look Good Feel Better: A charity offering confidence-boosting workshops and advice for people affected by cancer, including skin changes.

• Mind: Offers general mental health support and guidance across a wide range of emotional wellbeing issues.

• The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP): Allows you to search for a qualified counsellor in your area.

These organisations are well-equipped to offer ongoing psychological support, whether you’re processing trauma, rebuilding confidence, or simply needing someone to talk to. You’re not alone and there is help available.