Hi, I’m Felicity and I’ve been working with Changing Faces as a Skin Camouflage Practitioner for around three years.
I have been using the skin camouflage products available through this service myself for a long time – since I was a child in fact. It got me thinking about how having access to these products has shaped my life.
Using skin camouflage has given me the confidence to form relationships and pursue a career which is patient-facing. It’s allowed me to approach many life situations without feeling self-conscious. It’s helped me to be the best and most natural version of myself.
Using skin camouflage has given me the confidence to approach many life situations without feeling self-conscious.
It was this realisation that prompted me to explore how I might support others to use the products that have helped me so much.
I had developed a degree of expertise in skin camouflage through my own experiences, and I felt I could use this to benefit others not aware of the options available to them.
It was then that I came across Changing Faces and discovered the role of Skin Camouflage Practitioner. It seemed like just the job for me!
Although I had used the products for several years, there was a lot to learn. I had no idea the range of scars, marks and conditions that I might come across, and all the different techniques I’d need to grasp to ensure every client had the best experience possible.
I also learned more about the emotional impact having a visible difference can have on an individual, their loved ones, relationships, career choices – in fact, their entire quality of life.
This allowed me to develop an empathetic approach as a practitioner. I also always remind myself that attending that first appointment can be a huge step for people – and so I need to do whatever I can to set them at ease.
So, what can you expect if you attend a Skin Camouflage appointment?
Firstly, you would (of course!) be greeted with a very warm welcome. This is a safe place where no one will judge you or your visible difference.
I often hear people apologising that they’re wasting my time, and I regularly hear phrases like “It’s probably nothing,” or “You must see so much worse.”
If an individual has taken the time to seek out the service, then their life is clearly impacted by their visible difference. That’s where we can help them on their way to a more positive future.
The focus of the appointment will be finding the right colour match for you and guiding you through the application techniques. Along the way, there will be plenty of opportunities to discuss the different options available and for you to practice the skills that have been demonstrated.
I often hear people apologising that they’re wasting my time, and I regularly hear phrases like “It’s probably nothing,” or “You must see so much worse.”
Once we’ve found a colour match that you’re happy with, you can buy the products. You might even be eligible to receive your products through the NHS. In this case, you will be given a prescription request form which you can take along to your GP.
One of the most satisfying things about being a Skin Camouflage Practitioner is to see the expressions on the faces of our clients at the end of their appointments.
Some people arrive looking anxious and self-conscious, but they leave with renewed self-esteem and an air of optimism. We even see tears of joy! I feel so privileged to be able to help people regain their self-confidence. I can honestly say I love my job.
The most important thing this appointment gives you is choice. Some people use our skin camouflage products every day, to feel more confident. Some people use skin camouflage on days when they feel less confident in their visible difference when out and about. Some people don’t feel the need to cover their visible difference. The decision is personal to you and we hold no judgment no matter your choices.
If anyone out there is living with a visible difference that affects their ability to live a full and happy life in any way, I would encourage them to take the first steps and contact Changing Faces to find out about all the services they offer.
They are a wonderful, supportive team who will be there to help you overcome whatever appearance-related challenges you’re facing.
