Lip blushing is the semi-perm lip tinting technique that everyone’s talking about

Any problems will be seeded out in a consultation, though Lesley says “I wouldn’t recommend this for anyone with too much lip filler as colour can be extremely difficult to take.”

Is the process similar to microblading for eyebrows or is it a different method?

While microblading is a popular method for the brows, Marie says lip tattooing is completely different. “Semi-permanent makeup tattooing is applied with a needle and a machine, whereas microblading is a manual method which cuts the skin with a bladed hand tool”, she explains. “It is rare in the UK for microblading to be done on lips.”

What happens in a lip blushing appointment?

A full consultation is always carried out before commencing tattooing, which will help to ease any of your anxieties. “We begin by discussing with the client exactly what they want to achieve including shape and colour, taking into account the clients natural colourings and giving our expert advice regarding what may suit them”, says Tracie Giles, Bespoke Permanent Makeup Expert, based in Knightsbridge.

“We then pre-draw the lips using a pencil, carefully measuring them and ensuring they are as close to perfect as possible before showing the client in the mirror. We don’t begin the tattooing until the client is totally happy with the pre-drawing, and then the tattooing itself usually takes around 45 minutes to 2 hours.”

Does lip blushing hurt?

The question on everyone’s lips (literally) – how much pain are we talking? First, the good news: “My clients always comment on how much less it hurts than they initially envisaged”, says Lesley. “It’s mine and any technicians job to ensure a client is as comfortable as possible and we try to manage any pain as much as possible.” The reality is “it can feel scratchy, but permanent make up is nowhere near as aggressive as conventional tattooing”, says Tracie. Most places will apply a numbing cream to ease any discomfort, but when it comes down to it, your best bet is to stay relaxed. “Often if someone is tense it hurts more”, says Lesley.

How do you choose the colour of the lipstick tattoo?

If you have a favourite lipstick in mind, you can totally take this to your appointment as an example. In fact, it’s encouraged. “I would always ask a client to bring or identify her favourite lipstick colour so I could get an idea of the tone and shade she has in mind, bearing in mind everyone sees colour differently”, says Lesley. “Usually the remit is to keep the colour very close to the clients natural lip colour to achieve the most natural look”, says Andrea. It’s always best to start off subtle, as colours can then be intensified over time and at touch-up appointments if desired. However, we’ve started to see people going bolder which can look really effective.

How long does lip blushing last? Do you need touch-ups?

Depending on the treatment and lifestyle factors, lip tattooing can last anywhere from 1-3 years. “The pigment will fade naturally and lighten over this time”, says Sian, who recommends a colour boost procedure every 6-12 months.

Is there any downtime?

There is no downtime for lip blushing, but it’s important to note that the colour is much more intense on the first few days following treatment. “Lips will be sore and tender for the first 48 hours and colour will appear darker”, says Lesley. Some people also experience flaking as the lips heal.

What’s the aftercare process?

A healing balm will usually be provided following your appointment and should be applied 2-3 times a day until the area is healed. “It’s a big no-no to apply lipstick on top of your lip blush while it’s healing as you don’t want to risk an infection”, says permanent make-up expert, Laura Kay. “You would also need to avoid going to the gym or sitting in the sun for a week.”