07/04/2024 
Dark lips are common and harmless, but some people want to get rid of dark spots caused by trauma, smoking, or other factors. While lipstick can cover these spots, some prefer a more permanent solution and feel insecure without makeup.
If you’re self-conscious about your dark lips and seek a minimally invasive way to cover them, you might have come across lip blushing. Let’s explore what it is and how it works.
What Is Lip Blushing?
Lip blushing is a popular lip tattoo technique. It uses a machine to inject natural pigments into the lips, providing smudge-proof permanent lipstick that can last up to 5 years. This technique can contour lips, make them look fuller, camouflage scars, correct uneven lips, and neutralize dark lips.
Why Do People Get Dark Lip Neutralization?
People have dark lips for two primary reasons:
Genetics (Ethnic Lips):
If you believe lip blushing will make you happier, go for it.
Trauma:
Causes include injury, vitamin deficiency, hormone imbalance, medications, caffeine, or smoking.
How Does Lip Blushing on Dark Lips Work?
Lip blushing typically requires two sessions. The first session involves initial tattooing, followed by a touch-up 6-8 weeks later. However, dark lip neutralization, especially for ethnic lips, often needs more sessions for satisfactory results.
The process involves neutralizing cool tones and lifting lip darkness with warm-based pigment. After neutralization and healing, a target color can be added if desired. This complex procedure should be performed by a skilled and certified lip blush artist experienced in dark lip neutralization.
Does It Work on Everyone?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for dark lip neutralization. Excessive lip hyperpigmentation may worsen after treatment. Many artists avoid melanin-rich lips due to the skill and knowledge required for successful outcomes. If your lips are hyperpigmented, lip blushing may do more harm than good.
How Long Does Lip Blushing on Dark Lips Last?
While lip blush can last up to 5 years, lip blushing on dark lips typically lasts 1-2 years. After this period, a color refreshment is needed as dark spots reappear.
What Color Should I Choose?
The lip blush artist determines the neutralization shade based on your dark lips’ hues (greyish, purplish, or brownish). The result is usually a natural-looking pinkish or peachy shade. Once healed, another color of your choice can be applied on top.
How to Prepare for Lip Blushing on Dark Lips Appointment?
Preparation includes exfoliating your lips 3 days before the appointment and avoiding blood thinners, alcohol, caffeine, Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Aspirin, fish oil, etc., 48 hours before the appointment.
What About the Aftercare?
Do not pick the scabs! Your lips will scab around day 5, appearing darker during healing. Judge the results only after the healing process. Your artist will provide ointment or balm to ease burning and itching and speed up healing.
Avoid soaking your lips in water for a week, applying makeup, using saunas and swimming pools, excessive sweating, and sunbathing for 14 days. Refrain from using exfoliants, acids, and anti-aging serums around the lips for 4 weeks post-procedure.
How Much Does Lip Blushing on Dark Lips Cost?
The average price for lip blush is around $500 to $800. However, dark lip neutralization is pricier, requiring at least 2-3 treatments.
Key Takeaway
Lip blushing on dark lips involves neutralizing dark spots and evening out lip color through tattooing. It is a safe and effective method but not suitable for everyone. A skilled technician can assess your situation and choose the right pigment color to neutralize dark lips.