Healing Process for Lip Tattooing: What to Expect

Getting a lip tattoo can be an exciting way to enhance your natural beauty. It offers a long-lasting tint that can save you time on daily makeup routines. However, understanding the healing process is essential to ensure the best results and avoid complications. I want to share what you can expect during the healing journey, along with practical tips to care for your lips after the procedure.

What Happens Immediately After Lip Tattooing

Right after your lip tattoo session, your lips will look vibrant and freshly coloured. This is normal, but keep in mind that the colour will soften as the healing progresses. You might notice some minor swelling and tenderness, which usually subsides within a few days.

You'l be provided with a protective, nourishing ointment to keep your lips moisturised and shielded from bacteria. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions diligently. Avoid touching your lips unnecessarily to prevent infection.

Here are some immediate post-procedure tips:

• Use the recommended ointment as directed.

• Avoid hot drinks and spicy foods for the first day.

• Stay away from direct sunlight for the first two weeks.

• Avoid saline. That may be swimming, sweating, saunas.. anything that causes your skin to sweat or introduces salt to the area as saline can pull pigment from the skin during the first two weeks of healing.

  
  

Freshly tattooed lips with vibrant colour

The First Week: Peeling and Flaking

During the first week, your lips will go through several changes. Around day 3 to 5, you may notice some peeling or flaking skin. This is a natural part of the healing process as your skin regenerates. It’s crucial not to pick or peel the flakes yourself, as this can cause scarring or uneven colour. To minimise the risk of peeling, please continue to apply the provided balm regularly for the first week.

Drinking plenty of water supports skin healing from the inside out.

If you experience any unusual pain, excessive swelling, or signs of infection such as pus or redness spreading beyond the lips, contact your technician and a healthcare professional immediately.

Managing Discomfort and Care Tips

Some discomfort is normal during the first 24 hours, but there are ways to ease it. Ice in a ziplock bag or a clean, damp cloth can be applied to the area. Over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol can help if needed. Avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs unless advised, as they can increase bleeding. Please note, this is not medical advice and should only serve as an example of what has helped other clients in the past.

Here are some practical care tips to support healing:

1. Avoid makeup on your lips until fully healed.

2. Do not expose your lips to chlorinated water such as swimming pools.

3. Avoid smoking and alcohol as they can slow healing.

4. Use a soft toothbrush and be gentle when brushing near your mouth.

5. Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.

6. Apply lip balm to protect, soothe, nourish and improve pigment retention.

   
   

Remember, the healing process varies from person to person. Some may heal faster, while others take a bit longer. Patience is key.

Colour Changes and Final Results

It’s normal for the colour to look darker or more intense right after the procedure. Over the next few weeks, the pigment will settle and soften to a more natural shade. You might notice some patchiness or unevenness during healing, but this usually evens out by week 4.

A touch-up session is required at 6 to 8 weeks after the initial tattoo to perfect the colour and shape. This is a standard part of the process and helps achieve the best long-term results.

Lip tattoo touch-up session with technician

Long-Term Care for Your Lip Tattoo

Once your lips have fully healed, maintaining your tattoo’s appearance requires some ongoing care. Protect your lips from sun exposure by using a lip balm with SPF. Avoid harsh exfoliants or chemical peels on your lips.

Hydration is important, so keep your lips moisturised regularly. If you notice fading over time, you can schedule refresher sessions with your technician. Typically, your first touch up takes place within 18 months, after which it may be 2-3 years before your next.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your enhanced lips confidently and beautifully for months to come.

If you want to learn more about the healing process, please get in touch or book a free consultation.