Lately, semi-invasive treatments are becoming an intrinsic part of beauty routines and regimes. Be it high-tech laser treatments or 15-ingredient facial treatments, people from influencers to celebrities are using technology to perfect their features and overall looks. One such treatment that might not be that popular in India yet, but certainly caught our fancy is permanent lip colour or lip tattoos. So, we put on our cat ears and talked to Prashant Yaduvanshi from Shaman Ink (also the co-founder of gardenofeden_tattoos) who enlightened us about the whole process. If you might be interested in going for the treatment, then here's a primer of all you need to know before you dive into the deep end. Keep on reading, here is everything we found about the ‘Permanent Lip Colour Treatment’.
Permanent Lip Tattoos: Everything You Need To Know About Decoded By An Expert
What Is Permanent Lip Colour?
Prashant explains that lip blush is a type of permanent makeup (or cosmetic tattoo) that involves gently implanting pigment into the lips to add colours and definition. It can be used to enhance the natural colour of your lips or to create a new look altogether. Lip blush is often used to give the lips a healthy, flushed appearance, and it can last for months with proper care. The process entails altering both the colour and shape of your lips to make them appear more fresh and naturally pink.
People with pigmentation on their lips, or those who want a natural flush on their lips everyday, can consider the process.
What Do The Pigments Contain?
Prashant says that the brand and the products depend on the artist, but a good practice is to always see if your artist is using non-toxic and vegan products that are safe. This is so that even if a small amount went into your mouth, there would be no burning sensation or other effects. Another important practice to follow is to get a patch test done so you know the pigment is going to work and not react in cases of sensitive skin.
The Procedure
Prashant affirms that the process is not lengthy; you can be in and out of your appointment within two hours. The first step is to shape the lips and then apply a numbing cream around them. Then the process of filling the colour starts.
The colour of the pigment totally depends on the client, but some research and your artist's insights can help you make the right choice. Prashant really recommends gravitating towards 'mauve nudes’ for an everyday look for Indian skin tones.
Some questions you should ask the technician or artist are:
1. How will the shade you like look against your skin tone?
2. How will the pigment look as it fades over time?
3. How often you would need to get touch-ups done for the particular shade you chose.
What Does After-Care Look Like?
Prashant says that it takes up to six weeks for your lips to be healed, with the first week needing the most post-care and attention. For the first two days, your lips are most likely to be swollen and dry and will peel and crack frequently through the first three weeks, which is perfectly normal.
Most likely, your artist will prepare you an aftercare kit with all the instructions, mainly an ointment that should provide healing and moisture to your lips, and you must avoid oily, spicy, and citrusy foods.
You can get touch-ups in between, but this treatment will last for up to one and a half years.
FAQ's
How painful might the process be?
It really depends on the person’s pain tolerance; there are people who might even fall asleep during the process. Nonetheless, people with low pain tolerance can always take a painkiller, preferably ‘Acetaminophen’.
Are there any side effects?
Yes, although swelling and itching are normal reactions lasting up to a couple of weeks, an excess of them, with the addition of puss-building, could mean an infection.
Should you avoid the sun?
Yes, during the first six weeks, it is really advisable to protect your lips against harmful UV rays.
How often should one moisturise?
Moisturising every three to four hours is recommended, the artist prescribes an ointment for this.
