Why doesn't Radiant Ink offer microblading anymore?

Microblading has been popular for years, but it's not the best option for most people. In fact, only 25% of clients are ideal candidates. It’s not great for oily skin, mature skin, or deeper skin tones—and can lead to trauma, fading, and color changes like blue or ashy brows over time. Microblading also causes more skin trauma and scarring, requires more maintenance, and often blurs into a powder brow anyway. That’s why I offer Nano Brows instead—no cutting, less trauma, and longer-lasting results.

What are ombre brows?

Ombre brows, also called powdered brows, create a soft, gradient effect using shading. This technique starts lighter at the front of the brow and gets darker toward the tail, giving a natural, filled-in look. Unlike microblading, ombre brows use a tattoo machine to softly shade the entire brow, which results in better pigment retention and longer-lasting results.

Nano brows use a PMU machine with a fine needle (around 0.18mm) to create ultra-precise hair-like strokes. Unlike microblading, nano brows don’t cut the skin, making them more gentle and ideal for clients with sensitive, oily, or mature skin. They're perfect for filling sparse brows and last longer due to better pigment retention.

Things not to do after a PMU brow service

For 14+ days after your PMU procedure, avoid sun exposure, sweating, getting brows wet, and using makeup or skincare on the area. Also avoid saunas, pools, massages, and exfoliants. Don’t touch or scratch the brows. After day 14, resume most activities, but avoid chemical peels or laser treatments near the brow area until fully healed.

Where is Radiant Ink Studios located?

We’re located at 2202 Artesia Blvd G, Torrance, CA 90504 — right in the heart of the South Bay. Large parking lot is available!

How do I book an appointment at Radiant Ink Studios?

You can book an appointment directly through our website or by texting us at 424-224-6477. We recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance for PMU or tattoo services.

Do you accept walk-ins?

We are primarily by appointment only to give each client our full attention, but feel free to text us — sometimes we have last-minute availability!

What services do you offer?

Radiant Ink Studios specializes in nano brows, powder brows, lip blushing, saline tattoo removal, fibroblast plasma tightening, and fine line tiny tattoos. We also offer training and chair rentals for professionals.

Is there parking available?

Yes! There is convenient parking lot available in our studio.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! We offer payment plans for select services and classes. Reach out via text or DM for more info.

Are your PMU classes beginner-friendly?

Absolutely. Our On-Demand PMU classes are beginner-friendly and perfect for artists looking to start or level up in the industry — with live model demos and ongoing support.

What are On-Demand Classes?

Our On-Demand classes allow you to start anytime, from anywhere — without waiting for a specific date. You’ll get access to all course content, live model footage, and direct support from our trainers.

Do you offer chair rentals for tattoo artists?

Yes, we offer flexible chair rental opportunities for licensed tattoo artists looking for a clean, supportive space in Torrance. Daily and monthly options available.

Lip Filler or Lip Tattoo: Which Should You Do First?

radiantinkbeauty
2 days ago
3 min read

Updated: 9 hours ago

Split graphic of glossy lips comparing lip filler and lip tattoo, with syringes, a VS badge, and text Which should come first?

You want prettier, more defined lips but now you’re trying to decide between lip filler and a lip tattoo.

Or maybe you already know you want both, but you’re wondering which appointment should come first.

They can work beautifully together, but they do two completely different things.

Lip filler adds volume and can change the shape, projection, border, and symmetry of your lips.

A lip tattoo adds color and definition. It can make the lips appear more even, polished, and sometimes slightly fuller—but it does not physically add volume.

So, which one should you do first?

Watch: Lip Filler or Lip Tattoo

Which Should You Do First?

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/a7d71a_d55b9f9223034bbf95b6935b8aeaa6cc/360p/mp4/file.mp4

If You Definitely Want More Volume, Start With Filler

If you already know you want fuller lips or you want to change the shape and contour, I generally recommend having your filler done first.

Filler can change the actual shape of your lips, including the border we will later use when designing your lip tattoo.

Once the filler has completely settled and your injector has cleared you for another lip procedure, we can design the tattoo around your new lip shape.

Think of it this way: we don’t want to apply the fresh coat of paint before we finish remodeling the room. 😂

Close-up of gloved hands injecting filler into a woman’s lips with a syringe against a soft pink background.

If You’re Unsure About Filler, Start With the Lip Tattoo

A lot of people think they need filler when what they’re really missing is color and definition.

As we age, the natural lip border can become softer and the lips may lose some of their natural color.

A lip tattoo can restore definition, improve the appearance of uneven coloring, and give the lips a more finished look without adding physical volume.

After seeing your healed lip tattoo, you may decide that it gave you exactly the enhancement you were looking for.

If you still want more volume afterward, you can absolutely get filler once the lip tattoo process including the touch-up and final healing is complete.

Close-up of glossy red lipstick on closed lips, showing smooth makeup and a polished beauty look.

What Does a Lip Tattoo Actually Do?

A lip tattoo can be customized depending on the look you want.

You can choose:

A soft, natural lip blush

A more defined lipstick effect

An ombré lip with deeper color around the contour

Color neutralization for lips with cool, dark, or uneven tones

The goal is not to make your lips look like they have been colored in with a marker.

We choose a shade and technique that complement your natural coloring, your existing lip shape, and the result you want.

The color will look brighter immediately after the procedure, but it softens significantly as the lips heal.

Close-up of three lip makeup swatches in pink and red tones on skin, with Tina Davies Pro Team 2024 and Radiant Ink text.

Can Lip Filler and Lip Tattoo Be Done Close Together?

Both procedures can cause temporary swelling, so they should not be scheduled back-to-back.

Your filler should be completely settled before tattooing the lips, and your injector should provide their exact healing and clearance timeline.

If you choose the lip tattoo first, the lips should be fully healed including the touch-up before having filler placed.

Giving each procedure enough time to heal allows us to see the true shape and color before making another change.

Close-up of a woman with closed eyes during cosmetic lip injections, gloved hands holding syringes, soft beige background.

The Easiest Way to Remember

You definitely want more volume or a different shape?

Start with filler.

You’re unsure whether you need filler and mostly want better color or definition?

Start with the lip tattoo.

You want both?

Filler will usually come first, followed by the lip tattoo after the filler has completely settled and your injector has cleared you.

There isn’t one answer that is perfect for everyone.

The best order depends on your lips, your goals, and whether you are trying to improve volume, color, shape or all three.

Ready to Give Your Lips a Little More Life?

At Radiant Ink, every lip tattoo appointment is customized to your natural coloring, existing lip shape, and the result you’re hoping to achieve.

Whether you want a soft lip blush, a more defined lipstick look, an ombré effect, or help correcting uneven lip tones, we can create a treatment plan that fits your goals.

To ask questions or schedule a consultation, text 424-224-6477.