Lip Blush Healing Stages: What to Expect After Your Appointment
- radiantinkbeauty
- Jan 28
- 4 min read
Thinking about lip blush and wondering what the healing is really like?
Lip blush (also called a lip blush tattoo or lip tint tattoo) is a beautiful way to enhance your natural lip color and shape with results that last for years. But what happens after your appointment is just as important as the treatment itself.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the main lip blush healing stages, what’s normal, and how to take care of your lips so they heal soft and gorgeous.

Days 1–3: Fresh & Swollen
Right after your lip tattoo session, your lips will be swollen, tender, and possibly a bit red. This is a normal reaction as your skin has undergone a form of trauma. The pigment is fresh, and your lips might feel tight or dry.
What you might notice:
Swelling and tenderness: This usually peaks within the first 24 hours and starts to subside by day three.
Color intensity: The color will appear very vibrant and bold initially.
Moisture: Your lips may feel dry or chapped, so keeping them moisturized is essential.
Tips for this stage:
Apply a thin layer of the recommended healing ointment or balm frequently.
Avoid touching your lips with unwashed hands.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid hot drinks and spicy foods that can irritate your lips.

Lip Tattoo Healing: Days 4 to 7
During this phase, your lips will start to scab and peel. This is a critical part of the healing process where your skin is regenerating and the pigment is settling.
Peeling and flaking: You will notice dry skin peeling off, which can sometimes cause slight itching.
Color changes: The color may look patchy or dull as the top layer of skin sheds.
Sensitivity: Lips might still be sensitive but less swollen.
Do:
Keep using your recommended balm as directed
Be patient and gentle with your lips
Don't:
Pick or peel the flaking skin (this can pull out pigment and cause patchiness)
Use regular lipstick, gloss, or makeup on the area yet
Over-exfoliate or scrub
Weeks 2–4: Color Softens & Settles
Once the peeling is done, your lips will start to look more like their true healed color.
During this stage:
Color will soften by 30–50% compared to day one
Any patchiness usually evens out as the skin finishes healing
Lips feel normal again—no more tenderness or flaking
Care tips:
Keep your lips moisturized every day
Avoid strong exfoliants or harsh lip scrubs
Use a lip balm with SPF when you’re outside—sun can fade pigment over time
Most artists schedule your perfecting touch-up around 6–8 weeks after your first appointment. That’s when any small uneven spots can be adjusted and the color can be deepened if needed.

Long-Term Care for Your Lip Blush
Even after everything is healed, a little care goes a long way to keep your lip blush looking fresh.
Wear SPF balm when you’re in the sun
Keep lips hydrated to avoid cracking or dryness
Avoid strong products with alcohol or heavy fragrances on your lips
Expect to come in for a color boost every 1–3 years, depending on your skin, lifestyle, and shade
When to Reach Out to Your Artist
Mild swelling, tightness, peeling, and temporary color changes are all normal parts of the lip blush healing process.
However, if you notice unusual pain, strong redness spreading beyond the lip area, pus, or anything that feels “off,” reach out to your artist right away or contact a medical professional.
At Radiant Ink, we always encourage clients to send us a quick photo if they’re unsure about anything during healing.
Long-Term Care for Your Lip Tattoo
Even after your lips have fully healed, proper care is essential to keep your tattoo looking fresh and vibrant.
Sun protection: Always use a lip balm with SPF when outdoors.
Hydration: Keep your lips moisturized to prevent dryness and cracking.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Steer clear of products with strong fragrances or alcohol.
Regular touch-ups: Schedule touch-ups as recommended by your technician to maintain color intensity.
By following these guidelines, your lip tattoo can stay beautiful for years to come.
For more detailed information on the lip tattoo healing process, including expert tips and aftercare advice, be sure to check out trusted resources and consult with your tattoo artist.
Taking care of your lips during each stage of healing will ensure your new lip tattoo looks stunning and lasts as long as possible. Enjoy your enhanced look with confidence!

Ready to Love Your Lips Every Day?
If you’re in Torrance or the South Bay and tired of reapplying lipstick all day, lip blush might be the glow-up your lips have been waiting for.
You can:
Read more about our Lip Blush and Lipstick Look services on our lip page
Book your appointment online
Or text us a clear photo of your bare lips and we’ll let you know if you’re a good candidate
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