Lip blushing is a form of tattoo and permanent makeup. A provider will apply colored ink to the lips to give them a deeper, natural-looking shade.

People may choose to undergo lip blushing for aesthetic reasons, to enhance the color or shape of the lips, or to provide a more even coloring without the need for temporary lip makeup.

The entire process may take 2–3 hours, as it may involve before and after photos, discussion of final coloring, numbing time, the procedure, and aftercare instructions.

During the procedure, a provider may apply a topical anesthetic to numb the lips. This may take up to 30 minutes to take effect.

A provider will then tattoo the pigment into the lips with a sterile needle. Providers may use a tattoo coil machine, pen, rotary device, or handheld device.

After the procedure, a provider will explain the aftercare instructions and provide any necessary healing products.

People may experience some discomfort during a lip blushing procedure. The level of discomfort may vary depending on how each individual feels pain.

To minimize pain, a provider may apply a topical numbing cream or anesthetic to the area beforehand.

Cosmetic blogs and articles also state that the pain from lip blushing is minimal and similar to a scratching or pinching sensation.

If people are experiencing any extreme pain from the procedure, they will need to communicate this with the provider.

Color fading can occur over time, and if people wish to keep the coloring, they may need additional lip blushing to refresh the color.

Exposure to the sun or other weather conditions may increase fading, and some topical products for the lips may also affect how long the color lasts.

The FDA warns of the following risks around permanent makeup and tattooing:

• Infection: Unsterile equipment and needles or contaminated ink may result in infection.
• Allergic reaction: There have been reports of allergic reactions to some shades of ink in permanent makeup. This may be problematic, as the ink can be difficult to remove.
• Granulomas: Granulomas are small areas of inflammation that occur when the body perceives a substance, such as tattoo ink, as foreign.
• Keloids: Keloids are raised scars that can form in response to any injury to the skin. However, keloids are more likely to occur from tattoo removal than from a procedure such as lip blushing.

If people have cold sores on the lips, they may need to take an antiviral medication before having the procedure.

Immediately after a lip blushing procedure, the lips will appear darker in color. As the lips heal, the color will lighten and soften to the shade a person chose.

It may take up to 6 weeks for the lips to change into the final coloring.

According to the SPCP, people may experience some mild swelling after a lip blushing procedure.

Some people may also experience minor bleeding or bruising. This may occur if the skin of the lips is thinner and closer to the vascular system.

If people have bruising, it will usually lessen within a few days. The lips may also feel tender for a few days following the procedure.

People will see a much darker coloring of the lips for around 6–10 days before it fades to the intended color.

People will need to follow specific aftercare advice from their provider. This may include using a protective lip balm, as people may experience some dryness.

The healing process will usually take around 4–6 weeks after the procedure, and people may have a follow-up appointment so their provider can take a final photo of the healed procedure.