One of the most popular services offered here at Natural Beauty by Kelly in Prescott, AZ is lip blushing. As we age, the border of our lips tend to fade.  Lip blushing is a great way to restore a youthful appearance to the lips that creates a fuller look.  The best part? It lasts years before a touch-up is needed!  We get lots of questions about lip blushing, so let’s go over them.

What is lip blushing?

Lip blushing is a permanent cosmetic procedure.  With this tattoo, permanent cosmetic pigment is deposited superficially into the lips using a tattoo machine & needles. It can be used to help cover scars in the lips or restore color, and can be as natural or bold as desired. 

Is lip blushing permanent?

Like all permanent makeup, it will fade over time but you’ll always have some pigment.  To keep it looking fresh, it has to be touched up periodically and everyone is different.  In order for it to be gone entirely, removal by a professional would be required.

How many sessions are needed for lip blushing?

It takes at least two sessions for lip blushing. However, sometimes a third session is necessary before we reach the finish line for the desired look.

What is the pre-care like for lip blushing?

Because  the tissue is more sensitive than eyebrows, the pre-care procedures are a little bit different for lips. The main point I make with my clients is the need for an antiviral prescription if they have any history of cold sores. The trauma of the procedure can cause a cold sore outbreak, which is both uncomfortable and can cause scarring and patchy healing. Preparing with the antiviral before and after the procedure can prevent this & primary care physicians have always been understanding of this.  Cold sores aside, blood thinners, alcohol, and caffeine MUST be avoided for the time frame specified in the instructions I send out to help reduce swelling.  Stay hydrated as usual, and you should be good to go!

What are the color options for lip blushing?

Lip blushing has some flexibility! A light wash of color, like a lip gloss effect, or a more opaque lipstick look are both options. (This also kind of determines how many sessions will be needed). The possibilities are endless when it comes to colors you can choose. I often encourage my clients to bring in a sample of the lipstick  that they like best and I will do my best to color match while still working within the clients natural undertones.  

How long does a lip blushing appointment last?

The first appointment is the lengthiest, and we usually schedule those for three hours. During the first part of the appointment, we will discuss the color that you’d like to achieve so that we know what the end goal is. I’ll give you information about how many sessions to expect. Afer that, I’ll begin the pre-draw, which is where I outline the border of the lips.

Can I overline my lips with lip blush tattoos? 

It’s a common misconception that lips can be tattooed beyond the lip line. While this is doable with traditional lip liner, I CANNOT tattoo beyond the lips’ natural vermilion border. Our skin & lip tissue are very different and heal differently. I promise,  the end result of overlining with a tattoo is not anything you want! (And have done removals in the past for clients who came to me from other artists who did exactly that.)

When can I schedule my lip blushing touch-up?

Like the other permanent cosmetic services I offer, I see my guests back about 6 to 8 weeks after the initial appointment. This gives the lips plenty of time to heal from the first session and we’ll go back in for another layer of color. Sometimes a third session is needed, but I typically don’t see clients back for 2 years or so for annual touch-ups. 

What is the after care for lip blushing?

The aftercare is a little bit more intense for lip blushing procedures. Think about how often we use our mouths on a day-to-day basis!  For a short period, you need to avoid spicy foods, salty foods, extremely hot liquids, and excessive friction (sorry, no making out for a bit!) I provide a straw for drinking to my lip blushing clients while they heal along with a balm to apply regularly. You can take a look at the full instructions here! 

What is the lip blushing healing process?

You can expect swelling when you leave your appointment, but that normally subsides after a day or two.  The color will soften after roughly 4 days, and peeling is totally normal. You’re not considered totally healed for 6 weeks, but most of the healing will take place in the first 2 weeks or so.

Can I ice my lips if they swell after lip blushing?

Absolutely not! I know it seems counterintuitive because normally if something is swollen -and your lips will be- you would ice it. That’s NOT the case after a lip blush tattoo. It can cause blistering and in turn, uneven retention.

Can I tattoo my lips with filler?

Yep! If you plan to do filler, I recommend doing that first and giving it time to settle, as your lip line can change a bit after filler. 

Prescott AZ Permanent Makeup Artist

Hey, I’m Kelly, a permanent makeup and trainer serving Prescott, AZ and surrounding cities.  Are you ready to have the lips of your dreams? I’d love to meet with you!  You can take a look at my previous work here.  Are you ready to book a consultation?  Give me a call at 928-830-2306 or send me a message here.