WELCOME
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| Portwine stain |
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Established in 1985 we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive service for people who are interested in para-medical skin camouflage. Our telephone and email helpline offers free advice and information for health and beauty professionals, education organisations, patients and support groups.
Scarring, non-infectious skin conditions (dermatoses) and unwanted tattoos are the most common reasons for needing para-medical skin camouflage.
Studies show that anxiety levels are higher in those with skin abnormalities and research confirms that up to a third of patients report that they have suffered from psychological distress including:
- Rejection and isolation
- Unwarranted stares and comments
- Intrusive and inappropriate questioning
- Name-calling and verbal abuse
However, many people suffer in silence and may refrain from consulting their doctor believing their condition will be dismissed as “cosmetic” rather than “medical” and that they will be branded as being vain.
It has long been acknowledged that mind and body interact upon each other. Although there is no accepted definition of HRQoL (health-related quality of life) it is well researched that when a person is distressed by some aspect of their appearance their general health and quality of life is adversely affected. Without help the person can withdraw from employment, domestic, social and sporting activities, which in turn may affect their family members’ quality of life too. Studies into psycho-social behaviours are well documented – all conclusions indicate that low self-esteem is equally devastating to men, women and children, irrespective of age, nationality and religion.
It is generally accepted that para-medical skin camouflage can be a vital tool during the early stages of a person’s rehabilitation and adjustment to an altered image. However, for others, wearing skin camouflage may need to be considered as long-term.
Our purpose is to alleviate the psychological, physical and social effects that an altered image can have on people’s lives by the simple application of specialised products. The psychological benefit to people who have been taught how to successfully apply and manage their skin camouflage cannot be over-emphasised as it empowers them to face the world – with confidence