What do I do about hiding scars?

Two options that I can see for you are:a) Go to a chemist/pharmacy/drug store and ask for some skin coloured patches for wounds, make sure they are waterproof - you might also look into some waterproof, skin coloured body-paint for times when sleeves and regular makeup aren't an option.b) Seek help from a youth-help group and confront your mother about your problems. This isn't something you should be punished for, but something she should be trying to help you overcome and endure.Hiding the evidence is all well and good, but it doesn't solve anything in the long run - that requires hard work and the real desire to fight through the pain. You can get through this if you keep looking forward.

Long sleeves should work - you could consider buying long-sleeved bathing suits [Link]. For a less expensive option, you could get a cover up [Link] which you can wear in the water. The only issue with makeup is that it might come off in the water. Scars fade in time, but maybe putting lotion on them could speed up the process.

If worst comes to worse and your mom finds out, if she gets mad at you that's her problem. It drives me mad when a parents ignorance puts their child in danger. Self harm sucks and - coming from someone who's just about 120 days clean, I know how hard it is to stop. If you want to know what worked for me: Put the things that you use to hurt yourself in a box along with a list of people who care about you, then, tape that box shut. On the top of it, with a black sharpie, draw a butterfly. When you see that butterfly, you have to smile. It doesn't have to be a huge toothy grin or anything, a little smirk will do, but you have to smile. No exceptions. You can still get to your things, but you have to get through the tape first, and when you do that, you hurt the butterfly. The butterfly won't hate you if you do, but it will be very sad because it wants to protect you. I want it to protect you. I know what it feels like to be in your situation, and I want to promise you right here and now that it's not impossible to stop. You're stronger than you think, and you can do this. I believe in you. Good luck with your new job!!

you can try faking being sick to use it as an excuse so you wouldn't have to go swimming. i wouldn't follow the tip about the long sleeved bathing suit, if you do that your mother can know that you're hiding something. i also agree with flomation about the box with the butterfly, that's a good idea.