This Tattoo Artist Transforms Traumatic Scars into Beautiful Works of Art
This article will deal with topics of self-harm, suicidal attempts, scarring from burns, and mastectomies. If any of these pose as a trigger to you, please do not read any further.
People often view tattoos as artistic additions to one’s body, but at Jo Harrison’s studio — UN1TY Tattoo in Shrewsbury, UK, they mean so much more than just that. Known for her work in the industry for over 25 years now, Harrison specialises in tattoo cover-ups for clients who wish to cover up scarring from self-harm, mastectomy, post-birth, accidents, burns, trauma, and abuse experiences.
Scarring — no matter the size — can act as a painful reminder of past trauma and may cause individuals to feel alienated in their own bodies, which is where Harrison’s work comes in. “For many years, I have been involved in covering scars for people who want to move forward after a trauma by embracing an area of their body they were once uncomfortable with,” says Harrison.
“The power that tattooing holds for these clients is more than just skin deep. Being able to give them back the freedom to be comfortable in their own skin is my passion within tattooing," she goes on to say. "I would love to share the stories of my brave clients to let other people know that it is possible to heal their scars and give them back the freedom and self-confidence they deserve."
Below, Harrison walks us through her experience with scar tattoo cover-ups, shares personal stories of her past clients, and advises you on what you need to know before getting a scar covered up.
Why did you decide to start specialising in scar tattoo coverups?
I was asked very early on in my career to assist some friends in covering their scars, one from suicide attempts and one from burns over a neck and chest from a childhood accident. It was something that wasn't tackled by artists then, and the internet wasn't used as it is now, so information was very limited. I felt confident that I could work gently over and use multiple layers to delicately improve the look for the scars. The difference in confidence I could see in my friends was astounding, and I was hooked by the process of trying to help heal scars for people.
I have had many cases of clients booking in whose scars are not healed, but they use it as a way to stop the self-harm — that was something unexpected to me when I started tattooing but is so powerful to someone who just needs a little help to lift them out of a dark place. Also, talking about the traumas that led them to the scars through the tattoo process can help them finally overcome them.
Although a painful part of their life is over now, [some] are too ashamed to show their bodies, sometimes even to the ones closest them. To give someone that freedom back is truly magical! Allowing someone to feel comfortable in their own skin, not hiding in shame and hating their body, and instead, turning that area into something they celebrate, finally love, and are proud to share with the world. I feel so grateful to be able to give someone their body confidence back and to be chosen to be part of that amazing journey.
What kind of scars have you seen and tattooed over?
I have clients who have battled cancer and many forms of illness requiring surgery. I have also had clients bearing scars from accidents, mastectomy, many childhood injuries such as burns, severe acne scarring, abuse, self-harm and even suicide attempts.
One of the most impactful tattoos I do is the final stage of healing for mastectomy patients and giving them back their body through nipple reconstruction. There are areola nipple reconstruction and ladies who have works of art in place of nipples!
Healing these wounds not only covers the physical scars, but it often marks the end of a traumatic journey where they can also recover mentally. Through these tattoos, they have a newfound confidence and for many marks the end of a dark period in their lives and the start of a new chapter.
Out of all the clients you’ve helped over the years, are there any stories that have stuck with you?
Tattoos that bring about transformation is Lianne's story of the unfortunate trade-off for many women after having children, being left with a body they feel ashamed and insecure about. Lianne's story is a transformation of confidence that is truly incredible. The change in the way she carries herself forward is truly touching. She came to me a very timid lady and left after many sessions, a glowing, confident, beautiful woman whose happiness and warm energy fill the room! The change in the way she carries herself throughout life now has stuck with me since tattooing her, she now has the job of her dreams that I'm certain she would never have had the confidence to go for before!
I never take for granted how brave my clients are to reach out for help to cover their scars. Many have hidden them from everyone for so long, it's a huge step to share something they are ashamed of with someone else.
How is tattooing over scars different from tattooing over normal skin? Are there certain techniques that tattoo artists have to master before tattooing over scarred skin?
Tattooing over scars is a very difficult process, and doing it successfully is tricky. The skin is unpredictable. It could be very fine and tissue-thin or very hard, tough and thick. It can also be both of these in different areas, so the artist needs to be experienced to know how to treat each type of skin, so as not to cause more damage.
Over the fine skin, we have to so in with less depth and maybe work in layers over multiple sessions. On the thicker skin, we need to go deeper into the skin to get the ink to stay there. That's why, as a client with scars, it is essential to go to a tattoo artist who is experienced in scar cover-ups.
In terms of what scars are capable of being covered, in my experience, I haven't seen a scar that can't be covered with enough healing time. The more extensive the damage, the longer it will need to heal. It is a common misconception that if a scar is red, it can't be tattooed over. Almost all scars have changed in colour and will never go back to their original colour.
If I am in any doubt, I always ask the client to consult with their doctor or surgeon to confirm that the scar is healed enough before we commence. In terms of what makes a good scar cover-up design? That really depends on the scar. Each scar is as unique as the client themselves.
If someone were to get a scar coverup, what kind of tattoo would you recommend?
What design works best is one that uses the texture and flow of the scar to help to disguise it within the design. For example, if you put a line over a raised scar, it will make the line look wobbly and draw more attention to the scar. Coming up with the right design, using the texture of the skin is essential for a successful scar cover-up tattoo. This is why I work closely with each client to find out what they would like, then we come up with ideas together and all of my work is freehanded onto the body. It's a beautifully collaborative process where we get to know each other and come up with the perfect, unique design for each scar and clients needs.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering covering up their scars but is scared to do so?
If you are considering covering a scar, find someone who specialises in scar cover-ups and reach out to them! It always fills me with so much joy when I can help someone realise this dream. Going to an artist who shares this passion, I am certain, there will be no judgement and nothing to fear. Just the freedom to feel relaxed and comfortable in your own skin!
To find out more about Harrison's scar tattoo cover-ups, you can read her personal blog here.
