What You Need to Know About Lip Blushing 一 a Popular Lip “Tattoo”

While non-washable makeup techniques aren’t new 一 think eyeliner tattoos that date back decades 一 it’s safe to say that they’ve improved with time and technological advancements. The idea of tattooed eyeliner might sound incredible when you’re struggling to define your lash line on a daily basis, but with shifting makeup trends, you might not want permanent makeup down the road. 

Thankfully, there are now effective, permanent and semi-permanent makeup options like microblading and lip blushing that will eventually fade 一 making them a less intimidating commitment. And lately, lip blushing has seen a spike in popularity. If you’re unfamiliar with the trendy beauty procedure, keep reading because we’re sharing what you need to know about this lip “tattoo.” 

What Is Lip Blushing?

Permanent lip makeup can be used to mimic the appearance of lipstick, per the Cleveland Clinic, which is exactly what this trend is about. Lip blushing is a form of permanent makeup that involves tattooing your lips to enhance your natural lip color and shape. This will leave you with the look of naturally full lips. Think of it like using lip liner to slightly outline outside of your natural lip shape — only you don’t have to constantly reapply. 

While permanent makeup tattoos historically created more bold, unnatural-looking results due to how deeply the needles deposited vivid pigments into the skin, modern technology has made treatments like lip blushing appear more natural. Very small needles and more natural-looking pigments make this technique appear more understated on the lips. Essentially, this trend will give you a seriously long-lasting “your lips but better” appearance. 

Editor’s tip: Like with all tattoos, lip blushing can be done with different colored pigments. So it’s best to bring a reference photo when getting this done to ensure you’re happy with the end results. 

How Long Do The Results From Lip Blushing Last?

Lip blushing doesn’t actually last forever. How permanent is permanent lip makeup? It all depends on how well you take care of your lip tattoo. The Cleveland Clinic states that permanent makeup will fade over time due to the fact that skin cells are constantly being replaced. As you exfoliate your lips, your lip blush will fade. You can expect your results to look their best within the first six months to a year after getting the treatment done, but the overall effect will last around two to three years. 

How To Keep Your Results Looking Their Best 

Like we said, lip blushing is a form of permanent makeup that will fade. However, there are a few basic tattoo skin care tips you can follow to ensure you get the most out of your lip tattoo. Keep the following in mind.

1. Keep Your Lips Hydrated

To prevent your lip blush from looking dry, cracked, or chapped, make sure you use lip balm consistently. Look for a lip balm that doesn’t contain petroleum jelly, as petroleum-based products can cause the ink to fade, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

The L’Oréal Paris Glow Paradise Balm-in-Lipstick with Pomegranate Extract is a great option because it nourishes the lips with pomegranate extract and provides a hint of color. 

2. Wear Sun Protection  

Ultraviolet (UV) light can fade some tattoo inks, per the AAD, so make sure to protect your tattoo by applying a lip balm formulated with an SPF of 30 or more. 

3. Keep Exfoliation To A Minimum 

This may go without saying, but you’ll want to limit your use of lip scrubs to get the most out of your lip blush. Exfoliating your pout will shed dead skin cells from your lips and, in turn, skin cells that have pigment from your lipstick tattoo.

Next: 7 Ways To Tone Down Red Lipstick For A Subtle Look

Edited by: Alyssa Kaplan, Photography: Chaunte Vaughn, Senior Art Direction: Melissa San Vicente-Landestoy, Senior Visual Designer: Hannah Packer, Associate Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Akihisa Yamaguchi, Wardrobe Assistant: Victoria Ochoa, Digital Tech: Kyle Thompson, Model: AnnChristine Velazquez