Lip blush is a semi-permanent cosmetic treatment that enhances the natural colour and shape of your lips. It’s a popular choice for those who want a subtle, youthful look without the daily hassle of applying lipstick or lip liner. But if you’ve had a lip blush treatment and the colour has disappeared, you’re not alone. This is normal for many clients and is part of the healing process.

Healing Process

After your lip blush procedure, your lips go through a healing process that makes it seem like the colour has disappeared. Here’s what happens:

1. Initial Vibrancy: Immediately after the procedure your lips may look more vibrant or more intense than expected. This is because of the fresh pigment and the temporary swelling from the procedure.
2. Scabbing and Flaking: A few days later, your lips will start to scab and flake as they heal. This stage can cause patchy or uneven colour. You may also see peeling lips or thin peeling, which is part of the healing process.
3. “Ghosting Phase”: 5-10 days after the procedure, many people go through what’s called the “ghosting phase”. During this phase, the colour may seem to have disappeared as the skin regenerates and heals. Don’t worry, this is temporary.
4. Colour Resurgence: Over the next few weeks, the colour will start to come back as the skin settles and the true colour develops. It can take up to 6 weeks to see the final result. The colour may come back as a beautiful natural pink, dusty pink or even a perfect mauve, depending on what you choose.

Why Does the Colour Disappear?

Several reasons for this:

• Skin Regeneration: Your skin is healing and regenerating, which can temporarily mask the colour.
• Lymphatic Response: Your body’s immune system is trying to flush out foreign particles, including the pigment. This involves the release of lymphatic fluid, which can cause temporary fading.
• Natural Exfoliation: The outer layers of your lips are shed as part of the healing process, which can make the colour look lighter. Lip skin is delicate and goes through multiple stages of peeling.
• Inflammation: Swelling and redness as the lips adjust to the colour.

What to Do

1. Be Patient: Ghosting is normal and part of the healing process. Don’t pick at any peeling skin. It will lead to uneven results.
2. Follow Aftercare: Aftercare is key to optimal results. Use a fragrance-free, gentle moisturizer like your favourite lip balm or the ointment in your aftercare kit.
3. Book a Touch-Up: Most lip blush treatments require a touch-up 6-8 weeks after the initial treatment. This helps to reinforce the pigment and address any areas that may have faded. Touch-ups allow you to adjust to your desired level of colour, whether it’s a natural lip colour or a bold statement.
4. Lip Insurance: Use SPF to prevent fading from sun exposure. Lip dryness from environmental factors can be minimised by keeping lips hydrated.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• Avoid spicy food, acidic food and alcohol-based products during the healing process, as they can irritate your lips.
• Keep your lips hydrated with a gentle moisturizer, fragrance-free balm or your favourite daily lip balm.
• No nicotine products, they will slow down the healing and affect the final colour.
• Use the ointment from your aftercare kit or your daily lip balm.
• If you have a history of cold sores, talk to your technician about taking antiviral medication before the treatment to minimize risks.
• Follow your aftercare protocol to ensure a smooth healing process. This means using a clean washcloth and avoiding products that can cause irritation.

Colour Options and Reality

The colour you choose will make all the difference. Whether you choose a natural pink, a dusty pink or a bold colour, your final result will be:

• Skin Types: Pale skin will see a more muted tone, and darker skin will see a colour boost.
• Healing Stages: As your lips heal, the pigment will change, so be patient.
• Lip Pigments: High-quality pigments used by an experienced makeup artist mean longevity and colour stability.

Risks and Precautions

For those looking to enhance their natural beauty, options like cosmetic lip tattoo or lipstick tattoo can give long-lasting results.

• Avoid blood thinning medication and anti-inflammatory medication before your appointment to reduce swelling and bruising.
• Prevent bacterial infections by following your aftercare protocol and avoiding public pools or saunas during the healing process.
• If you have sensitive skin, be aware of any allergic reactions to numbing cream or pigments. Talk to your technician.

These treatments, including lip neutralisation for darker tones, are available in places like Lip Blushing Melbourne, and lip tattoo price vary depending on the artist and area.

FAQ

How long does the ghosting phase last?

5-10 days. Up to 6 weeks for the colour to fully come back and show the final result.

Will my lips be uneven during healing?

Yes, uneven colour is part of the healing process. The colour will even out as your lips heal and the true colour shows.

Don’t pick at scabs, use exfoliants, expose your lips to direct sunlight and don’t apply makeup to the treated area during the healing phase.

Do I need a touch-up?

Yes, a touch-up is usually needed 6-8 weeks after the initial treatment to ensure even colour and fading.

Can I speed up the healing process?

You can’t speed up the natural healing process, but you can support it by following your technician’s aftercare instructions, drinking plenty of water and keeping your lips moisturized.