How To Get Ready for Your Lip Blush Appointment

Permanent makeup is the ultimate beauty hack for a flawless, low-maintenance look.

Welcome to our four-part blog series on how to prepare for different permanent makeup procedures. We’ll discuss Lip Blush, Permanent Eyeliner, and Scalp Micropigmentation. Finally, we'll end with a comprehensive aftercare guide to promote the best healing process for all your permanent makeup procedures.

In this blog post, we'll discuss the dos and don’ts of lip blush prep to support the proper healing for your beautiful, natural-looking lip color! 👄

Lip Blush Tattoo

Why Preparation Matters

Lip blush is a cosmetic procedure that enhances the natural color of your lips, giving them a soft, tinted effect.

But the secret to beautiful, natural-looking lip color starts before your appointment.

Prepping your lips properly:

  • Reduces pigment loss

  • Prevents irritation

  • Helps achieve smooth, even color absorption

  • Makes the week of healing a whole lot easier

For tips on how to make your lip blush last as long as possible, read our blog, How Long Does Lip Blush Last? 

Pre-Appointment Care for Lip Blush Tattooing

1. If You’re Prone to Cold Sores, Take an Antiviral Medication 

Lip tattooing can trigger cold sores, which can affect healing and cause color loss in the affected area.

If you’ve ever had a cold sore, you must take an anti-viral medication (like Valtrex) before your lip blush appointment.

Talk to your doctor about the right dosage weeks before the procedure.

2. Hydrate and Exfoliate Your Lips

Dry, cracked lips = uneven pigment absorption.

Start prepping at least three days before your appointment:

  • Exfoliate gently with a lip scrub to remove dead skin cells.

  • Apply a hydrating lip balm twice daily.

  • Drink plenty of water to keep lips plump and hydrated.

3. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure and Tanning

Sunburnt lips cannot be tattooed!

UV exposure can make lips dry and sensitive, leading to a patchy healing process. Avoid tanning beds and use an SPF lip balm leading up to your appointment.

4. Skip Blood Thinners

Certain medications and supplements thin the blood, which can lead to excess bleeding and poor pigment retention.

Avoid at least 24-48 hours before your appointment:

  • Aspirin, Advil, Ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs

  • Fish oils & omega-3 supplements

  • Anti-inflammatory medication

  • Alcohol & caffeine (yes, that means coffee!)

If you take prescribed blood-thinning medications, consult your doctor before stopping.

5. Arrive With Clean, Makeup-Free Lips

No lip liners, lipstick, or gloss on the day of your appointment. 

Just clean, bare lips! But feel free to bring your favorite lip color for shade matching.

6. Eat Before Your Appointment

Low blood sugar can lead to dizziness, fatigue, or discomfort during your session.

Eat a balanced meal before your appointment to help keep you feeling comfortable throughout your lip blush treatment.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Here’s a quick breakdown of what will happen during your initial appointment:

  1. Consultation: Your artist will help you make a color selection for a beautiful, natural-looking lip color.

  2. Lip prep: A numbing agent is applied for comfort. Next, your artist will outline the shape of your lips.

  3. Tattooing procedure: Pigment is deposited into the lip tissue using a specialized tattooing device.

  4. Aftercare: Your artist will go over aftercare instructions to follow for a smooth healing process. Expect some swelling and a warm feeling immediately after. This is totally normal!

  5. Follow-up: Your artist will schedule a touch-up 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment. This session allows for minor adjustments, color refinement, and improved longevity of your lip blush results.

If you want to learn what to expect during the lip blushing healing process, read our blog, Lip Blushing Recovery 101: A Stage-by-Stage Healing Guide.

What’s Next in the Series?

Next up: How to Prepare for Permanent Eyeliner Tattoo!

Get ready for tips on:

  • What to do if you wear eyelash extension

  • When to stop using eyelash serum

  • What to avoid before your appointment

Lip Blush Tattoos at the Beauty Block

Follow these preparation steps to set yourself up for the best possible results!

At The Beauty Block, our skilled artists will help you select the perfect shade and guide you through the process for the best experience.

If you're ready to achieve gorgeous, effortless lips, book your lip blush procedure today. We are conveniently located at #102, 1409 Edmonton Trail, Calgary, AB.

Lip Blush FAQs

How to Prepare Lips for a Lip Tattoo?

Exfoliate gently with a lip scrub a few days before your appointment to remove dead skin cells. Keep your lips hydrated by drinking plenty of water and applying a hydrating lip balm two times a day.

What Not to Do Before a Lip Blush Appointment?

Avoid alcohol and caffeine 24-48 hours before your appointment, as they can thin the blood and increase sensitivity. Do not apply lip liners, lipstick, or gloss on the day of your appointment, and avoid direct sun exposure or tanning to keep your lips in the best condition for the procedure.

Can I get lip blush if I have lip fillers?

Yes, but you should wait at least 4 weeks after getting lip fillers before having a lip blush procedure to allow your lips to fully heal and settle.

Can I wear chapstick after lip blush?

You should avoid regular lip products for at least 10 days post-procedure. Instead, use the recommended healing balm provided by your artist.

How long does lip blushing last?

Results typically last between 2-3 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare. Touch-ups help maintain the color over time.

The Beauty Block