How to Hide Self Harm Scars

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

If you have scars from self-harming, there may come a time when you want to cover them up before heading out for the day. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can camouflage your scars to keep them hidden. If you are still self-harming , consider reaching out to a mental health professional to learn healthy coping mechanisms.

1

Try foundation or concealer for everyday wear.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Makeup can temporarily cover up your scars while you’re out. Dab a color corrector, like a green concealer, over your scars, then pat it in with your finger. Use a blending sponge or your fingers to pat on your full coverage foundation or concealer, then blend it into your skin in small, circular motions.
    • Makeup works best on small, flat scars that aren’t raised.
2

Apply Dermaflage on uneven scars.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-2-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-2-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you have raised scars, Dermaflage can smooth out your skin. Gently squeeze out the product and pick it up with the applicator brush. Smooth the product onto your scar, then blend it into the skin around it. Press the texture pad that came with the product over the Dermaflage to give it the impression of real skin.
    • You can find Dermaflage at most drug stores for around $40.
    • Dermaflage is flesh-colored, but you can apply makeup on top of it if you want to.
    • Dermaflage is flexible, so it will move with your skin as you walk around.
3

Wear clothing to cover your scars.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8b\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8b\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you’re going to the beach, try wearing board shorts or men’s swim trunks to conceal scars on your legs . If it’s warm out and you can’t wear long sleeves, put on a mesh or silk long sleeve shirt instead. If you have scars on your chest , consider accessorizing with a scarf or a statement necklace. [1]
    • Wearing tights is a good way to cover scars on your legs while you’re wearing a short skirt.
    • Long skirts and maxi dresses can cover you from head to toe in the summer while keeping you fairly cool.
4

Try bracelets to conceal scars on your arms.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-4-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-4-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-4-Version-4.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-4-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you have scars on your wrists , put on a group of bracelets or bangles to cover them up. No one will question why you’re wearing them, and you can even mix and match with fun colors. [2]
    • Look for cuff style bracelets for the most coverage. There are lots of styles available, from men's leather cuff bracelets to women's engraved silver or gold cuffs.
    • Even if the bracelets don't hide all of the scars, the presence of a brightly-colored bracelet might distract people from the smaller, less bright scars.
5

Use a flesh-colored bandage on small scars.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d9\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d9\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you have a small patch of scars that you need to cover, pick out a bandage that matches your skin tone. People probably won’t question a bandage, so even if they notice it, it won’t be a huge deal. [3]
    • Waterproof bandages are a great way to cover scars while you’re swimming or at the beach.
6

Get a medical tattoo.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Find a licensed dermatologist to do the procedure, then make an appointment to talk about what you’d like to have done. Your doctor will use a medical tattoo machine to color correct your scars and blend them into the skin. Medical tattoos need to be refreshed every 3 to 5 years, so you may have to get it touched up every now and then. [4]
    • Medical tattoos are meant to look like your normal, natural skin. If the tattoo is successful, it won’t look like you have a tattoo at all.
    • Most medical tattoos aren’t covered by insurance. You may have to pay up to $350 an hour for a medical tattoo.
7

Cover scars with an actual tattoo.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/ff\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/ff\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Find a licensed tattoo artist and let them know that you have some scars you want to cover up. Make an appointment with them to pick out your design and cover up your scars. [5]
    • While it’s usually possible to cover scars with a tattoo, it depends a lot on the size and the placement of the scar itself. Your tattoo artist will let you know if it’s possible or not.
8

Visit a dermatologist for a permanent solution.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6c\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6c\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Depending on the amount of scars you have and where they’re located, you might be able to use lasers, needling , or even scar surgery to reduce their appearance. If you want your scars gone permanently, this is your best bet. [6]
    • Needling involves punctuation the skin with small, sterile needles to make small wounds. As your skin heals, the scars will lessen in appearance.
    • Laser therapy is the most common treatment option for scars since it works on almost every type. It involves treating the scars with lasers to reduce their appearance over time. [7]
    • Scar surgery involves cutting the scar out with a scalpel and closing the wound with small stitches. The end goal is a smaller scar that heals better and doesn’t leave as large of a mark.
9

Don’t hide your scars at all.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5a\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5a\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    They can be a sign of strength and willpower . If you no longer struggle with self-harming, consider not worrying about covering them up. You might get a few comments or questions here or there, but for the most part, people probably won’t notice. [8]
    • If someone close to you does ask about them, you can tell them the truth if you’d like to.
    • If a random stranger asks you about your scars, don’t feel obligated to tell them what really happened. You can just say they’re an old injury and that you don’t really want to talk about it.
10

Practice other coping strategies.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a8\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a8\/Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/aid2872990-v4-728px-Hide-Self-Harm-Scars-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Self-harm isn’t the best way to make yourself feel better . If you’re working through strong emotions or trauma, a mental health professional can help you work through your feelings in a healthy way. If you feel the need to self-harm, try taking a walk, doing exercise, eating something with a strong flavor, or taking a cold shower instead. [9]
    • It can take a while to overcome the urge to self-harm, but it can be done. If you have the help of a mental health professional, you can overcome it even faster.

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit

      Video

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Warnings

      • If you’re having suicidal thoughts, tell a trusted adult or call emergency services. If you're in the United States or Canada, call or text 988 to reach a suicide crisis helpline.
        Thanks

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Stop Cutting Yourself
      How to
      Stop Self Harming
      How to
      Tell Someone You Self Harm
      How to Get Rid of Self-Harm Scars
      How to
      Heal Scratch Marks on Your Face
      How to Remove Scars on Legs: Expert-Backed Tips
      How to
      Get Rid of Boil Scars
      How to
      Get Rid of Ringworm Scars
      How to
      Cover up Scars
      How to
      Hide Scars on Legs
      How to
      Get Rid of Scars from Belly Piercings
      How to
      Get Rid of Scars
      How to
      Get Rid of Burn Scars
      How to
      Treat Chicken Pox Scars

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=587&v=dg_axfjbx8k&feature=youtu.be
      2. ↑ https://www.healthyplace.com/blogs/speakingoutaboutselfinjury/2021/7/self-harm-scar-cover-up-options-that-work
      3. ↑ https://www.healthyplace.com/blogs/speakingoutaboutselfinjury/2021/7/self-harm-scar-cover-up-options-that-work
      4. ↑ https://www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk/blog/self-harm-scars
      5. ↑ https://authoritytattoo.com/tattoos-over-scars/
      6. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/scars-treatment
      7. ↑ Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD. Board Certified Dermatologist & Dermatopathologist. Expert Interview. 8 October 2020.
      8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg_axfjbx8k&t=75s
      9. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/cutting.html

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To hide self harm scars, use a thick makeup that claims to cover tattoos or scars and matches the color of your skin. When you apply the makeup, use a small, rounded brush for the smoothest look. Another method is to hide scars with clothing or accessories. For example, wear bracelets to hide scars on your wrist. Additionally, wear long sleeved shirts to hide scars on your arms, or opt for swimsuit shorts to conceal scars on your thighs. If you’re the creative or tattooing type, use henna designs to temporarily cover up scars. To learn how to make the decision to show your scars, keep reading!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,390,170 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Leah R.

        May 18

        "I started cutting when I was around 10 because I was being mentally and phiscally abused in my home by my mum. I ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?