Lip blushing, also known as lip tinting or lip staining, is a semi-permanent makeup procedure that adds subtle color and definition to the lips. It involves depositing pigment into the lips using a specialized tattoo machine. Lip blushing can enhance the natural shape and color of your lips, providing beautiful, long-lasting results. When considering lip blushing, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right lip color for your skin tone and personal style. This article will provide tips on how to select the most flattering lip blushing colors for you.
How does lip blushing work?
Lip blushing, like other forms of microblading, is considered a form of semi-permanent makeup. It involves using a handheld tattoo device containing ultra-fine needles to deposit color pigment into the upper layers of skin on the lips. The pigment sits in the dermal layer of the skin, below the thinner epidermal outer layer. As the epidermis naturally exfoliates and regenerates, the color will gradually soften over time. However, the pigment deposited in the dermis will remain, allowing the color to last for 1-3 years before needing a touch up. The results appear softer and more natural than traditional lipstick or permanent lip tattoos.
Benefits of lip blushing
There are many benefits to having your lips blushed:
- Enhances the natural shape and color of lips
- Semi-permanent results lasting 1-3 years
- Pigment won’t smudge or transfer like lipstick
- Waterproof and sweat-proof
- Retains vivid color even after eating, drinking, kissing
- Makes lips appear fuller and more defined
- Easier maintenance than lipstick
- Fades naturally over time
With proper aftercare, lip blushing allows you to have beautiful, colorful lips without the daily hassle of reapplying lipstick or dealing with smudges and transfers. The semi-permanent nature also allows you to try out new shades and effects with each touch up session.
Choosing the right lip blushing color
The lip blushing color you choose should complement your complexion while also reflecting your unique style. Here are some tips when selecting your perfect shade:
- **Fair or porcelain skin:** Softer rose, pink, coral and peach undertones work best. Avoid darker berries which may look harsh.
- **Medium or olive skin:** Warm brick reds, terra-cotta, cinnamon colors flatter this complexion. Rose-brown hues are also lovely.
- **Darker skin tones:** Richer wines, purples, browns and mochas are most complementary. Metallic and frosted shades can also look beautiful.
- **Cool undertones:** Bluish pinks, plums and mauves suit skin with cool undertones. Ashy browns, nudes and silver-grey tones also work well.
- **Warm undertones:** Peachy corals, brick reds, cinnamon, copper and bronze shades flatter warm complexions. Avoid cool, blue-based colors.
- **Eye color:** Choose shades that contrast and make your eye color pop. Greens and hazels look great with purples, reds and warm pinks. Blues and greys suit cool pinks, berries and brick tones.
- **Hair color:** Lighter hair pairs well with bolder lip colors. Darker hair provides contrast for pale nude and pink shades. Matching shades to your hair color can look too monochromatic.
- **Personal style:** Think about the colors and shades you feel most confident and happy wearing. Your lip color should reflect your personal preferences.
The most foolproof way to select a flattering lip blushing color is to have a consultation with an experienced technician. They can assess your skin undertones and natural lip color in person and help you choose shades that will look beautiful with your complexion. It’s always best to see swatches against your skin. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations and try out some test shades during your initial appointment.
Popular lip blushing shades
While the options are endless, here are some of the most popular lip blushing colors chosen by clients:
| Shade | Description |
|---|---|
| Nude Pink | A soft, neutral pink that subtly enhances the natural lip color. Suits most complexions. |
| Peach | Warm, peachy shades that provide a fresh and youthful look. |
| Rose | Classic pinky rose hue that brightens the lips subtly. |
| Mauve | Muted tone between pink and purple that flatters cooler skin tones. |
| Plum | Deep reddish purple that makes teeth appear whiter. |
| Red | Universally flattering, classic red enhances definition and shape. |
| Terracotta | Earthy, peachy-brown nude shade for medium and olive skin tones. |
| Cinnamon | Spicy, reddish-brown color that brightens and defines the lips. |
| Berry | Deep berry tones like raspberry, cherry, and blackberry for drama. |
These shades cover a wide range of both cool and warm undertones to suit every complexion. Remember your technician can customize the right hue and depth of color to match your natural lip shade. Don’t be afraid to show pictures of lip looks you love!
How long does lip blushing last?
Lip blushing results last an average of 1-3 years before needing a refresh. However, there are several factors that influence longevity:
- Your body’s rate of exfoliation – faster exfoliators fade quicker
- How much UV exposure your lips get
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, drinking alcohol and caffeine
- Genetics and metabolism
- How well you follow aftercare instructions
With proper sun protection and aftercare, most clients can expect their lip blushing to last 2-3 years. The pigment will gradually fade over time for a natural, subtle look. Staying out of the sun and minimizing chemical peels or exfoliation on the lips can maximize retention.
Aftercare to make results last
To get the longest lasting lip blushing results, closely follow your technician’s aftercare instructions during the healing period and beyond. These tips will help the color settle and retain well:
- Avoid direct sun exposure while healing for 2 weeks
- Don’t submerge lips in water for 2 weeks post-procedure
- Let any initial scabbing or dryness naturally exfoliate away
- Avoid makeup, tinting, peel treatments for 4 weeks
- Use a balm when lips feel dry, no licking or picking scabs
- Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol for at least 48 hours
Once healed, apply SPF 30 lip balm whenever out in the sun to protect your investment. Avoid using harsh exfoliators or toothpastes that can cause faster fading. Get touch up sessions every 1-3 years to keep your color fresh! Proper aftercare makes a huge difference in results.
How much does lip blushing cost?
The cost of lip blushing can range between **$400 – $800** on average depending on your provider and location. Pricing is influenced by factors like:
- Technician’s experience level – newer technicians often charge less
- Geographic location – major cities are typically more expensive
- The clinic’s overhead costs
- Amount of time and work involved
- Color correction or scar camouflage requires more work
Reputable technicians invest in quality equipment, pigments, and training, so they tend to charge higher rates. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Lip blushing is semi-permanent and takes skill to execute properly. Paying a fair rate for quality work is worth the investment!
How to choose the right lip blushing technician
The skill and experience of your technician makes all the difference in getting beautiful, lasting results from your lip blushing treatment. Here’s what to look for when choosing a pro:
- Specialized semi-permanent makeup training and certification
- Proficient knowledge of lip anatomy
- Experience with various complexions and lip shapes
- Allows you to approve shape and color before procedure
- Strong portfolio showing healed results
- Uses high-quality pigments and equipment
- Professional, reassuring manner
- Explains aftercare clearly
- Offers touch-ups to refresh results
Reputable technicians should make you feel comfortable and address all your questions during the consultation. Make sure you communicate your desired results. An experienced pro knows how to best accentuate your natural lip shape and color. Vetting your artist carefully leads to satisfying, beautiful outcomes.
Conclusion
Lip blushing offers long-lasting, natural-looking lip color when performed by a skilled technician. Choosing the right lip blushing shades for your complexion is key for ideal results. Softer pinks and nudes work well for fair skin, while richer wines, berries, and chocolates flatter darker complexions. Schedule a consultation and communicate your goals to find the perfect lip color just for you. With proper aftercare and regular touch-ups, you can enjoy enhanced, youthful-looking lips for years. Lip blushing is a worthwhile investment in your daily makeup routine and self-confidence.
