This page touches on the topic of self-harm and shows images of scars. If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm, help is available: Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Scar Cover Up Tattoos That Help You

Stop Hiding Your Scars and Reclaim Your Body

Black and gray botanical thigh tattoo scar cover up featuring detailed flowers and leaves by scar cover up tattoo artist Ruby Gore in Portland
Black and gray floral thigh scar cover up tattoo by Portland tattoo artist Ruby Gore
Work one-on-one with Ruby in a safe, collaborative environment to design a custom tattoo that brings your vision to life — with artwork perfectly tailored to you, that honors your strength and your journey in your way
​Featured in the Washington Post and Oregon Public Broadcasting

​ 4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ​25+ 5 Star Ratings • 10+ Years Scar Cover Up Tattoo Specialist

"I was tired of people asking questions about my scars"

What if you could feel more comfortable in your skin? Tattoos can help you feel confident in what you wear – and tell a story you're proud to share.
​Covering scars can be an important step in the healing journey, offering closure, validation, and a renewed sense of self. Just as the body heals, the mind deserves care too—because mental health is just as important as physical health.​

What Portland Clients Are Saying

Real transformations from real people who took the leap
"I was tired of people asking questions about my scars. Now they compliment my beautiful tattoo instead."
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— S.B.

5 years of hiding → Confident in tank tops
"Ruby made me feel safe and heard throughout the entire process. She turned my biggest insecurity into my favorite piece of art."
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— A.L.
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Self-harm scars → Proud to roll her sleeves up and show her art off
"I finally feel confident enough to wear shorts at the beach again. The transformation is incredible and the healing was easier than I expected."

— J.N.

Abuse survivor scars → Confidence wearing shorts in public

Why Portland Trusts Ruby

Not all tattoo artists can work with scar tissue — here's why she can
10+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE​
Advanced techniques for all scar types: surgical, accident, burn, and self-harm. Ruby knows exactly how to work with scar tissue for optimal results.
TRAUMA AWARE APPROACH
Ruby works one-on-one with you in a safe, private setting. She deeply understands both the emotional journey as well as the technical process.​
DESIGN WITH INTENTION
Custom made art to fit you, thoughtfully crafted to reflect your vision, honor your story and designed with your scar coverage goals in mind.

Real Scar Cover Up Tattoo Transformations

From pain to power — see what's possible for you
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Note: Images have been shared with client's full permission. Rest assured, any media (digital or traditional) will not be shared without the client's consent before, after or during any part of the process.
Black and gray floral calf tattoo scar cover up featuring detailed moth, figs, flowers and leaves by scar cover up tattoo artist Ruby Gore in Portland
Black and gray floral calf tattoo scar cover up featuring detailed moth, figs, flowers and leaves by scar cover up tattoo artist Ruby Gore in Portland

From Hidden to Celebrated

​Extensive accident scarring that kept her from wearing shorts for years. Now she gets compliments on her "gorgeous botanical tattoo" every summer and doesn't have to hide her scars from her kids anymore.

​Client's words: "As my son got older, he started asking questions about my scars, so I just wanted them to be gone. Now I can wear shorts, do fun summer activities and leave that part of my past behind for good."
Audubon-like, scientific botanical illustration thigh scar cover up with a kestrel, butterflies, wild roses and swimming fish by Portland tattoo artist Ruby Gore
Scientific botanical illustration thigh scar cover up with a kestrel, butterflies, wild roses and swimming fish by Portland tattoo artist Ruby Gore

Complete Transformation Journey

This client chose full coverage for extensive self-harm scarring across both thighs (first thigh featured above) - one featuring flowing Pacific Northwest botanicals, the other a powerful Audubon-like, scientific botanical illustration scene with a kestrel, butterflies, wild roses and swimming fish. The comprehensive approach created a cohesive story of strength and renewal.
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Client's words: [From a handwritten thank-you letter] "You gave me back my body and my confidence. This transformation means more to me than I could ever express."
Black and gray sugar glider scar cover up tattoo by pet portrait tattoo artist Ruby Gore in Portland
Black and gray sugar glider scar cover up tattoo by pet portrait tattoo artist Ruby Gore in Portland

Honoring What Matters Most

Self-harm scars threatened to cover her meaningful music tattoo, but she also wanted to include her beloved pet sugar glider in the design. We integrated everything into a cohesive woodland scene where her existing music notes flow naturally with botanicals and her sugar glider companion.
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Client's words: "I never thought I could turn something so painful into something that represents everything I love."

​Ruby's Personal Guarantee

If during your consultation Ruby determines that your scars can't be successfully covered, she'll do her best to refer you to someone who can help — and your consultation remains completely free.

Ruby will only take on projects she knows she can transform. Your healing journey is too important to leave to chance.

Your Questions Answered

Everything you need to know about scar cover-up tattoos
Will this work on my type of scars?
Yes! Ruby work with all types of scars: surgical (C-sections, mastectomies, heart surgery), accident scars, burn scars, and self-harm scars. During your free consultation, she'll assess your specific scars and show you exactly how you can transform them.
How much do scar cover-up tattoos cost?
​Scar cover-up tattoos can sometimes cost more than regular tattoos due to the specialized techniques and experience required. The price varies depending on the scar's size, complexity, and the number of sessions needed. Most scar cover up tattoo artists charge either by the hour or by the project, with rates ranging from $200-$400 per hour and Ruby's hourly rate is currently at $200 per hour.
Is tattooing over scars painful?
Most clients are surprised — scar tissue often has less sensation than normal skin, so many find it less painful than expected. Ruby uses specialized techniques, numbing agents and take frequent breaks. She will go at your pace, with your comfort as the priority.
What if I'm nervous about the consultation?
Completely normal! The consultation is private, judgment-free, and pressure-free. You can bring a support person. You only have to discuss what you're comfortable sharing. Many clients say "that was so much easier than I thought it would be."
How long do I need wait to cover up a scar?
A scar needs to be fully healed before it can be tattooed over, which typically takes at least one year from the time of injury or surgery. During this period, the scar should complete its maturation process - becoming flat, pale, and stable in texture.

​Signs that your scar is ready include: no changes in color for several months, no tenderness or sensitivity, and a stable, smooth texture. Attempting to tattoo over an unhealed scar can lead to complications and poor results, so patience during the healing process is crucial.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, Ruby understands that healing is an investment. She offers flexible payment plans for larger projects, and can discuss options that work for your budget during consultation. Your healing shouldn't be delayed because of finances.
What if my scars are in a sensitive area?
Ruby maintains the highest standards of professionalism and privacy and only works with 1 person a day in a private studio setting to achieve this. She will discuss comfort measures during your consultation, including what to wear, break schedules, and having a support person present if desired.
Can you tattoo over old stretch marks?
Yes, stretch marks can be effectively covered with tattoos, though they require specific techniques different from other scar cover-ups. Since stretch marks are a type of scarring that typically appears in patterns, tattoo designs can be strategically planned to work with these patterns rather than against them.

​The best tattoo designs for covering stretch marks often include natural elements like flowers or abstract patterns that can follow the natural flow of the stretch marks. The success of tattooing over stretch marks depends on their age, color, and depth, with older, silver-white stretch marks typically being easier to work with than newer, red ones.
How do I find a tattoo artist who specializes in scar cover-ups? ​
Finding the right scar cover up tattoo artist requires research and patience. Start by searching specifically for "scar tattoo artists" or "tattoo artists specializing in scar cover ups" in your area. Look for artists who have portfolios featuring before-and-after photos of scar cover-up work.

​Many specialists maintain online galleries of their scar cover-up tattoos and may have specific experience with different types of scars. During consultations, don't hesitate to ask about their experience with scar tissue, their specific techniques, and to see examples of healed work. The best artists will be transparent about what results you can realistically expect and will take time to understand your goals.
What is the difference between scar camouflage and scar cover-up tattoos?
Scar camouflage and scar cover-up tattoos are two distinct approaches to making scars less visible. Scar camouflage is a cosmetic tattooing technique that matches the color of your natural skin tone to help the scar blend in, while scar tattoos are decorative pieces of artwork that cover the scar with a design.

​A scar cover-up tattoo transforms the area into an intentional piece of art, whereas camouflage aims to make the scar appear as close to your natural skin as possible.

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?

Let this be the last Portland summer where people question your scars, and the first they compliment your tattoos.