Lip blush tattooing (also known as lip blushing) is a semi permanent makeup to enhance the natural lip color, shape and contour giving lips a youthful and full appearance. This is gaining popularity as a cosmetic enhancement giving a long lasting natural looking lip blush. Not everyone is a good candidate for lip blush tattoos. Several factors including medical conditions, skin type and lifestyle can affect the success of the procedure and healing process. If you are considering to get a “lip tattoo” procedure, you should know who can’t get lip blush and why.
In this article we will be discussing who can’t get lip blush tattooing, factors that can affect the healing balm and how medical and lifestyle factors can determine your suitability.
Medical Conditions and Health Risks
Some medical conditions can affect the lip blush process and the results. Always consult a skilled technician during your initial consultation to assess your health and to make sure the procedure is safe for you.
Cold Sores and Herpes Simplex Virus
If you have a history of cold sores or herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), lip blush tattooing may not be for you. The tattooing process can trigger an outbreak making healing difficult and uneven pigmentation. In such cases antiviral medication can be prescribed before and after the procedure to minimize the risk of an outbreak. If you are prone to cold sores, discuss this with your lip blush tattoo artist to come up with a plan for safe treatment. Those with herpes are also advised to avoid lip neutralisation, a technique that can irritate the lips during active outbreaks.
Diabetes and Blood Pressure
Those with uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure are at higher risk of slow healing which can lead to pigment loss or infection. Blood thinners like fish oil can worsen this condition and increase the risk of excessive bleeding during the cosmetic tattooing procedure. For a good outcome blood sugar and blood pressure should be well managed. Inform your lip blush tattoo artist and consult your doctor before booking your lip blush appointment.
Autoimmune Diseases
Those with autoimmune diseases like Graves’ disease can have complications with lip blush tattooing. These conditions can cause Keloid scarring or delayed healing. Hypertrophic scarring and pigment loss can occur which can affect the longevity and evenness of the results. If you have an auto-immune disease, you should consult with your technician to see if the procedure is suitable for you. In such cases lip neutralisation can also be risky for those with certain conditions as it involves applying pigment over uneven skin tones.
Skin Type and Its Effect on Lip Blush Tattoos
Your skin type is a big factor in how your lip blush tattoo turns out. The healing process will vary depending on your skin tone, lip skin and skin texture. Knowing how your skin reacts to tattooing is key to getting the best results.
Oily Skin
If you have oily skin, the lip blush tattoo may not hold pigment as well as on other skin types. Excessive sweating will cause the color to fade and lip blush tattoos will fade faster. If your skin is super oily, you may need more touch up appointments to maintain the natural color. Make sure to manage your oiliness and have your lip skin prepped for the procedure.
Sensitive Skin
For those with sensitive skin, the lip blush tattoo procedure can cause irritation or redness. Sensitive skin may react to certain pigments or anesthetic creams and cause uneven pigmentation or longer healing times. You may need to use specific aftercare products like a moisturizing balm or healing balm to keep the lips hydrated and promote healing. A fragrance free balm is best for sensitive skin to avoid further irritation.
Dry Skin
If your lips are super dry, it can be harder for the tattoo gun to deposit pigment into the skin. But dry skin can still hold pigment well if moisturized properly before and after the procedure. Healing balm and lip balm is essential to maintain the natural color and for a smooth healing process.
Lifestyle Factors Affecting Lip Blush Tattooing
Certain lifestyle habits can affect lip blush tattooing. You need to adjust your daily and beauty routine to get the best healing and long term results.
Too Much Sun
Direct sun exposure will cause your lip blush tattoo to fade faster. The healing balm process requires sun protection. After the procedure, you need to apply a lip balm with sun protection to prevent pigment loss and for long term color. Too much sun exposure will interfere with the healing process and cause uneven pigmentation. Especially if you’re doing a lip neutralisation procedure to correct pigmentation issues or dark lips.
Smoking
Smoking will impede the healing process of lip blush tattooing. It reduces circulation and oxygen to the lips which will delay the healing process and cause the pigment to fade faster. Stop smoking or reduce as much as possible before and after the procedure to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. Smoking can also affect permanent makeup procedures including lip tattooing by affecting pigment retention.
Excessive Sweating
If you sweat a lot, especially around the lips, it can affect the lip blush tattooing process. Excessive sweating can cause premature pigment loss or uneven color retention. If you do high intensity exercise or work in a sweaty environment you may need to follow additional aftercare instructions. Cosmetic tattooing, including lip blush tattooing, requires proper care for long lasting results.
Previous Cosmetic Work
If you have had lip fillers or a previous tattoo, you may not be eligible for lip blush tattooing.
Lip Fillers
If you have had lip fillers you need to wait until the filler has settled and healed before having lip blush tattoos. Lip fillers can change the shape of the lips which can affect the colour selection and pigment retention. After getting lip fillers it’s best to book in for a follow up appointment to ensure the lips are in their most natural state for lip blush tattooing. Cosmetic tattooing can enhance the shape and colour of the lips after fillers but you need to wait for the proper healing time.
Previous Lip Tattoos
If you have had a previous lip tattoo it can affect the lip blush process. Old pigment can affect how new pigment is applied and can cause pigment loss or uneven pigmentation. A skilled technician can assess your previous tattoo and determine if lip blush tattooing is an option. If you have had lip neutralisation in the past you need to discuss how this will affect the current process.
Age and Health Considerations
Under 18 Years of Age
Lip blush tattoos are not recommended for under 18’s. Lip blush tattooing requires informed consent and a stable body chemistry, both of which are still developing in younger individuals. The process is best suited for adults with fully mature skin.
Over 60 Years of Age
Over 60’s can still have lip blush tattoos but will have different results due to skin changes that come with age. Loss of skin elasticity and thinner skin can affect pigment retention and healing times may be longer. You need to consult with an experienced technician to determine the best approach for older individuals. Cosmetic tattooing on mature skin requires a different approach to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
Lip blush tattooing is a great way to enhance your natural lip color and shape, it’s a beautiful natural looking enhancement. But it’s not for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, skin types or lifestyle habits it may affect the healing process and final result. Talk to a technician during your consult to make sure lip blush tattooing is right for you.
By following aftercare and working with an experienced lip blush tattoo artist you can get long lasting color that enhances your natural beauty with less maintenance over time. With proper care and touch up appointments your lip blush tattoo can last 2-5 years and you’ll have vibrant customizable color.
FAQ
Can I get lip blush if I have had lip fillers?
Yes, but wait until the filler has settled and your lips are in their natural shape before proceeding.
How long does lip blush last?
Lip blush tattoos last 1-2 years depending on skin type, sun exposure and aftercare.
How can I minimize pain during the procedure?
Numbing cream is applied to minimize pain but pain tolerance varies from person to person. Some may feel mild discomfort during the procedure.
Can I choose the color of my lip blush?
Yes, the color of the pigment is customizable to your skin tone and desired result.
What should I avoid during the healing process?
Sun exposure, excessive sweating and smoking. Follow aftercare and use moisturizing balm.