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Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between scar/stretch-mark rejuvenation and camouflage tattooing?
Our scar and stretch-mark therapy is a serum infused ink tattooed into the skin. It breaks down scar tissue, promotes collagen production, helps the body to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch-marks naturally by activating the bodies healing response and infusing ingredients that work to achieve this. However, camouflage uses custom blended skin toned ink, to blend the scar/stretch-marks in with your natural complexion. When combined, these treatments can reduce the appearance of scars and stretch-marks, greatly and in some instances, completely.
How many treatments are required for paramedical tattooing?
While clients have reported amazing results after just one treatment, It is highly recommended that you plan on 2-3 sessions minimum to see the maximum benefits and most improved results. With Paramedical, you can continue to book sessions until you achieve your desired results. Expect to achieve about 30% less visibility of your scar or stretch-mark per session. Camouflage treatments typically take one session and a touch up, similar to PMU on the face.
How do I know if I am a candidate?
SSR (Scar / Stretch-mark Rejuvenation) Therapy may not be beneficial for skin types prone to immediate scaring and hyperpigmentation. Clients who develop keloid scaring when there is trauma to their skin are not to be tattooed in this way (no exceptions). Clients with vitiligo need to provide a doctor's note that their condition has been inactive for at least 3 years as this type of treatment has the potential to reactivate the condition. Anyone with an autoimmune disease or who takes blood thinner medications should get clearance from a doctor before having this treatment. Scars that are darker than your skin tone in particular, should NOT be camouflaged with ink - instead opting for the SSR treatment. Scars must be at least 1 year old to be tattooed. Stretch-marks must be at least 3 months old to be tattooed.
What are "esthetic enhancements"?
We offer non-invasive beauty treatments like eyebrow lamination, eyebrow tints, lash lifts, and lash tints. These are semi-permanent treatments geared toward creating a natural yet elevated look that you can maintain for several weeks without make-up. They are perfect for you if you want to skip or lessen your use of mascara and brow pencil - great for busy parents, busy work-life, people who don't care for putting on make-up daily, but truly anyone will benefit from these treatments regardless.
How long does PMU tattoo take to heal?
The healing stage is about 4-8 weeks in total. Click "healing process" below to see what to expect.
Do you have a treatment booked?
It's recommended to read everything on this page prior to treatment, as most of your questions can be answered here. We also provide downloadable guides for pre & post treatment care. So study up, we encourage it!
What is the recovery time?
Because our treatments are non-invasive compared to surgical enhancements and laser treatments - the downtime is minimal. You can resume most of your regular activities immediately. We just encourage you to refrain from certain things like sun exposure and tanning, saunas and sweating, hot tubs and activities that will interfere with your healing or potentially cause infection. See our post care instruction guides for more information.
Does tattooing hurt?
Permanent brow make-up, while different than regular tattooing, still punctures the epidermis and therefore there is discomfort involved. After the first pass and we get an outline, then numbing cream is applied to lessen your discomfort through the remainder of the procedure. Camouflage tattoo and scar/stretch-mark therapy is considerably less uncomfortable. Many have described it as a "ticklish" sensation. However, everyone is different. If you feel considerable pain or discomfort during the procedure, please speak up so we can adjust the technique. We do not use numbing cream on the body. In very rare instances, some people's skin sensitivity is not suitable for these treatments. I've never experienced this with a client, but if you aren't a candidate for the treatment, you are eligible for a refund **A 25% service fee will be applied for time, labor, and product used. To avoid this, be as upfront as possible during your consultation so we can guide you to the right treatment.**
Is my tattoo permanent?
Many artists will classify PMU as semi-permanent but the truth is, once the pigment is tattooed on your skin, it won't fade completely without removal. At Inkwell Esthetics, we use a formula that is purposely designed to fade gradually. While it will not completely disappear, your healed results will become a lot more subtle. This achieves a more natural look and gives you the option to refresh or let them fade providing a lot more flexibility. Remember, you can always add more pigment but it is much more difficult to remove once applied. Different skin types heal and react differently to being tattooed and we will work with you to make sure we achieve your desired result.
How long does a paramedical tattoo treatment take to heal?
Scar / stretch-mark rejuvenation treatments typically take from 3-4 weeks to heal depending on your skin. Aftercare typically depends on the treated area and the overall health of the client. In some cases healing can extend to 8-12 weeks depending on the intensity of treatment, level of melanin, condition and sensitivity of skin and if aftercare directions are followed. Proper care is essential for optimal results.
What kind of tools are used?
We use permanent make up pigments, skin toned tattoo pigments, advanced inkless serums, and tattoo machines/needles of varying sizes. Numbing cream is also used in some instances along with hylauronic acid and red light therapy post treatment.
Policies and booking info:
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It's recommended to schedule any tattoo treatment at least 2 weeks out to properly prepare your body for treatment. Take a look [here] at our pre/post treatment guides.
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All appointments require an upfront deposit to book your appointment. No exceptions. (Please note, we do charge the deposit, it is not a hold.) The deposit is put towards your treatment balance.
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You have the option to pay your appointment in full when booking esthetic and permanent make-up treatments. However, a consultation is needed before determining a treatment price for Scar/Stretch-mark rejuvenation.
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​For SSR, the cost for scar and stretch-mark treatments vary based on which area is being treated, the severity of the problem area, and whether you are booking a single session or a treatment package.
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We offer financing beginning as low as $150/month for those who qualify [See if you qualify]. This gives for you the option to find a financial plan that works for you.​​​
Click below to download our pre/post treatment care guides!
OUR CANCELLATION POLICY:
We require 48 hours notice for cancellations, no exceptions. Your deposit will be applied to your new booking as a one time courtesy. However, If you need to cancel or reschedule again after that, you will have to put down a new deposit. If you call and cancel 24 hours from your appointment, we retain 50% of your deposit so please keep this in mind while choosing an appointment date and time. No call/no show appointments do not qualify for a refund of your deposit and may result in you being banned from booking future appointments. Calling/texting is always best practice.
CONTACT US
1451 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
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