Ink Procedures refer to all needle-based pigmentation services offered at Skin Strategy — including nano brow micropigmentation, paramedical scar camouflage, and other forms of permanent makeup and micropigmentation. These procedures use a specialized device to implant pigment into the dermal layer of the skin, creating long-lasting results that go beyond what topical products can achieve.

Nano brow micropigmentation uses an ultra-fine needle to implant pigment hair strokes into the skin, mimicking the appearance of natural brow hairs. The nano technique allows for exceptional precision and is suitable for a wider range of skin types than traditional microblading, including oilier and more mature skin. Results are soft, natural, and dimensional.

Paramedical scar camouflage is a specialized technique that uses skin-tone pigments to visually blend scars, hypopigmented areas, and skin discolorations with the surrounding skin. It is used on surgical scars, burn scars, stretch mark scars, and areas of hypopigmentation. The goal is not to remove the scar but to significantly reduce its visual contrast so it is far less noticeable.

Good candidates are clients with fully matured scars (minimum 12 months old), stable skin tone, realistic expectations, and no active contraindications. Scar camouflage works best on scars that are lighter or more depigmented than the surrounding skin. A strategy session is required before any ink procedure so we can evaluate your specific situation and determine candidacy.

Clients with scars less than 12 months old, active skin infections or open wounds in the treatment area, current or recent Accutane use, uncontrolled diabetes, pregnancy, or a history of keloid scarring are generally not candidates. A full contraindications review is completed at consultation.

A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment and allowed to absorb. Most clients describe the sensation as mild scratching or pressure. Comfort levels vary depending on the treatment area and individual sensitivity. Your provider will check in with you throughout the procedure.

Immediately after treatment the area will appear more intense than the final result. Brows will look darker and more defined. Camouflage areas may appear slightly red and the pigment will look more saturated. This is normal — the color softens significantly as the skin heals.

There is no significant downtime. Most clients return to normal activities the same day. The treatment area requires gentle care for the first week, including avoiding sweating, submerging, and direct sun exposure. There will be a healing phase of 1–2 weeks during which the skin may flake or peel.

Nano brow results typically last 1–3 years depending on skin type, lifestyle, and sun exposure. Oilier skin and more active lifestyles may fade faster. Scar camouflage results are long-lasting but may require maintenance sessions over time as the skin continues to change. Annual color refreshes help maintain vibrancy.

The goal of every ink procedure at Skin Strategy is results that look like you — enhanced but undetectable. Nano brows are designed to mimic the appearance of natural hair growth. Scar camouflage is matched to your specific skin tone using precision color analysis. Results are evaluated at your touch-up appointment 6–8 weeks after the initial session.

A touch-up at 6–8 weeks is considered part of the service, not an add-on. Skin heals differently in different areas and some pigment loss during the healing process is normal and expected. The touch-up appointment allows your provider to assess the healed result and refine as needed. Results should not be assessed before the touch-up appointment is complete.

Scar camouflage is a process, not a single appointment. Most clients require a series of sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart to allow full healing between visits. The number of sessions depends on the size, depth, color, and texture of the scar, as well as individual healing response. Results build progressively across the series.

Color matching for scar camouflage is one of the most technically complex aspects of the procedure. Your provider evaluates your skin tone under consistent lighting, assesses undertones, and formulates a custom pigment blend. A strategy session and spot test are required before treatment begins. Color matching is an art — no two clients are identical, and precision at this stage determines the quality of the result.

All pigments used at Skin Strategy are REACH compliant, meaning they meet the European chemical safety standards that are among the most stringent in the world. These standards cover ingredient safety, heavy metal limits, and overall formulation safety. Your provider will disclose all products being used at your consultation.

A spot test involves applying a small amount of the intended pigment to a discreet area of skin to evaluate your skin's response and begin assessing color accuracy before proceeding with full treatment. It is a standard part of the consultation process for scar camouflage and is not optional.

The strategy session is a $100 consultation appointment that is applied toward the cost of your treatment and is non-refundable. It is required before any ink procedure. At your strategy session your provider will review your health history, evaluate your treatment area, discuss realistic expectations, develop a treatment plan, take before photos, and perform a spot test. This appointment exists to protect you and ensure the right approach before any pigment is applied.

Existing pigment or tattoo work in the treatment area must be disclosed and evaluated at the strategy session. Previous work significantly affects color outcomes and approach. In some cases previous pigment must be addressed before new work can proceed. Never attempt to conceal this information — it directly affects your results and safety.

If you have a history of cold sores or herpes simplex in or near the treatment area, you must inform your provider before booking. You will need to obtain a prescription for antiviral medication from your physician and begin taking it 1–3 days before your appointment. Failure to do this significantly increases the risk of a cold sore outbreak during healing, which can cause scarring and compromise results.

Existing pigment or tattoo work in the treatment area must be disclosed and evaluated at the strategy session. Previous work significantly affects color outcomes and approach. In some cases previous pigment must be addressed before new work can proceed. Never attempt to conceal this information — it directly affects your results and safety.

If you have a history of cold sores or herpes simplex in or near the treatment area, you must inform your provider before booking. You will need to obtain a prescription for antiviral medication from your physician and begin taking it 1–3 days before your appointment. Failure to do this significantly increases the risk of a cold sore outbreak during healing, which can cause scarring and compromise results.

Yes — ink procedures complement many other aesthetic services offered at Skin Strategy, including inkless scar revision, procell microchanneling and hair revision. Combining services is done strategically and with appropriate spacing to ensure the skin is fully healed. We'll discuss any combination approach during your consultation to build a plan that best supports your overall goals.