Lip tattoos are a great way to enhance the natural color and shape of your lips. But aftercare is key to getting the best results and avoiding complications. If you’re getting a lip tattoo, here are the “don’ts” to keep in mind for proper healing and long-lasting results. Lip tattooing and lip blush tattooing are becoming more and more popular, especially in Melbourne, where cosmetic tattooing is a hot service.
Don’t touch or pick at your lips
Don’t touch or pick at your lips after your lip tattoo. This can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Picking at scabs can also disrupt the healing process and cause uneven pigmentation. The healing period is a delicate time, and touching the lips can disturb the deeper layers of skin that are healing.
Don’t skip your aftercare
Not following the aftercare instructions can ruin the results. Keep your lips clean and moist with the prescribed aftercare cream or balm. This will help maintain the natural lip colour and healing. Don’t use regular lip balms or harsh products as they can irritate your lips and prolong the healing time.
Don’t expose your lips to the sun
UV rays can fade the pigment of your lip tattoo and irritate your healing skin. Avoid direct sun exposure during the initial healing period, and use a lip balm with SPF once your lips have healed. Protecting your lips from sun damage will keep the lip colour vibrant.
Don’t eat spicy or acidic food
Spicy food and acidic food can irritate your lips and prolong the healing time. These foods can also make your lips inflamed or wet, which can disturb the tattoo ink. Eat mild and soft food for the first couple of days after the procedure.
Don’t apply makeup or other products
Don’t apply makeup, lip gloss or other lip products to your lips during the healing process. These products can interfere with the tattooing process and increase the risk of infection. Stick to products recommended by your experienced tattoo artist or cosmetic tattoo artist.
Don’t smoke or drink alcohol
Smoking and alcohol can impede the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Nicotine products can dry out the lips and cause uneven healing. Alcohol can irritate the skin. Avoid for at least a week after the procedure.
Don’t do intense activities
Excessive sweating from intense activities can affect the healing of your lip tattoo. Rest during the recovery period to avoid any bad effects or patchy colour.
Don’t Use Harsh Products
Don’t use harsh cleaners, exfoliating products or alcohol-based products near your lips. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or prescribed ointments to keep your lips smooth and hydrated. Don’t rub or scrub your lips with a cotton bud or cloth. Aggressive movements will disrupt the healing process.
Additional Tips
- Use a cold compress or ice packs to reduce swelling and soothe the skin. This will also help with uneven healing.
- Don’t eat hot foods and drinks for a couple of days.
- Use a fragrance-free aftercare balm to keep your lips moist.
- If you have sensitive skin or get cold sores, talk to your tattoo artist about antiviral medication before the procedure.
- Avoid chemical peels or salicylic acid products near your lips during the lip tattoo healing process.
- Stay hydrated and eat well to help with healing. Iron deficiency and poor diet will slow down the healing process.
- Follow up with your tattoo artist to address any pigment loss or colour correction after the healing period.
Healing Stages
The healing process can be broken down into stages. Firstly, there will be swelling, and the lips will look darker than expected. Over the week of healing, there will be scabbing, and the true colour will start to show. Proper aftercare will ensure the final result matches the colour you wanted. Lip tattoo healing takes time, especially if you have a lip blush tattoo in Melbourne or similar areas.
Find the Right Artist
Choosing a professional tattoo artist with a lip blush tattoo experience is key. A good artist uses high-quality pigments and techniques to get the best results. Research the cost of lip tattoos and discuss aftercare during your consultation. Cosmetic tattooing in Melbourne has many talented artists.
FAQ
How long does it take to heal?
7-10 days to initial healing, 6 weeks for full healing as the color settles. Stages of healing vary based on your skin type and lifestyle.
Can I drink coffee after getting a lip tattoo?
Avoid hot drinks, including coffee, for the first 48 hours to prevent irritation and swelling. Stick to lukewarm or cold drinks during this time.
When can I wear lipstick again?
Wait until your lips are fully healed, usually 10-14 days, before applying any makeup or lip gloss. Proper care is key to avoiding any issues.
Is swelling normal after a lip tattoo?
Yes, mild swelling is normal and should go down within 24-48 hours. Apply a cold compress or ice packs to reduce swelling and soothe the skin.
What if my lips get infected?
If you see signs of infection, redness, pus or excessive pain, contact your tattoo artist or a doctor ASAP. Proper aftercare and antiviral meds can prevent this.
