Tattoo artists nailed it 25 times when people asked them to cover up their scars and birthmarks.

“Chicks dig scars,” I used to hear all the time as a kid, and oddly enough, this strange generalization helped me accept and embrace the scar I’d gotten above my right eye.

However, outdated stereotypes can’t help everyone, and some people have scars that affect not only their self-esteem but also bring back genuinely traumatic memories every time they see them. Others are born with birthmarks that were not requested. Because marks can be devilishly difficult to remove at times, incorporating your marks into something positive, something you chose yourself, is often the best way to reclaim control of your body image. Tattoo artists are extremely talented and creative individuals who enjoy the added challenge of working with a scar or birthmark to create something truly unique. Tattoos have been used to transform old wounds and marks, as well as heal some of the mental scars that come with them, according to this list compiled by Bored Panda. Check them out for yourself in the gallery below, and let us know what you think in the comments!

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Eric CatalanoReport

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darbytattooReport

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charlotteglatt_tattoosReport

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Holdenl2121Report

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flavia.daedratattooReport

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alex_anvilReport

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meninkedReport

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hectorfongReport

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yasinaliciartReport

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mini_tattooerReport

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aisana_yktReport

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tattoomachinenapolesReport

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Cello tattoo incorporating a 30 year old scar

theanswerplusReport

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brechagramReport

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peyotlbodymodReport

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“Face your demons” tattoo

MyUsernameIsNotCoolReport

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mini_tattooerReport

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j9illustrationReport

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evanmakesartReport

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freepsportsReport

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jattoosReport

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SloDilf1493Report

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beni.inkReport

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anna_furduiReport