Lip coloring is an ancient art. Women have pigmented their lips with various dyes, or stains for centuries. Tattooing the lip color or permanent makeup of the lips benefits those who cant see to apply color or whose hands tremble or shake or are unable to perform the daily act of cosmetic makeup application. It is not only for those who want to look their best but also for those who have lost color, possibly through natural aging, chemotherapy, surgery, or sun damage. Athletes and swimmers find the permanent lip tattoo invaluable as they go about their activities.
The Pros of Permanent Lipstick
- Lip shape can be enhanced or evened out if irregular.
- Time saved in makeup application
- Expense of buying and replacing old or moldy lip-glosses is reduced.
- Self esteem enhanced by a professional appearance
- Avoid the appearance of lipstick color “bleeding” into fine lines around the mouth.
- Replace lip color lost through aging, activity, cancer or chemotherapy.
- A simple inexpensive clear lip-gloss applied over the color will keep the lips looking lipstick fresh.
- Allergic responses to lipstick brands or dried lip tissue are no longer an issue.
- Lip color no longer stains coffee cups of glasses but remains on the lips where it belongs. Scars can be camouflaged.
The Cons of Lip Tattooing
- The treatment can be painful (despite anesthetics) since lip tissue is very delicate.
- There is a healing process where the color slowly lightens to the desired shade after being quite intense.
- As with any invasive procedure, there is a risk of infection if certain precautions are not followed.
- The color is permanent and styles change.
- The design is poorly done, irregular, or the natural lip line distorted.
- The lip line goes into the skin and is a different color.
- The pigment can migrate or cause allergy.
- Lips thin with aging and color appears as a kool aide stain above the lip if done improperly.
- Scarring or keloid formation in those who are prone
- The procedure can be expensive and several follow-ups may be required.
- Removal, as with any tattoo removal is expensive, painful, and not always successful.
How to Avoid Negative Results of Micro tattooing or Permanent Cosmetic Makeup
- Chose a neutral color to enhance lips. Dramatic color can always be temporarily applied for special occasions.
- Discuss expectations and desired results before the procedure .
- Do not extend the tattoo beyond the vermillion border (lip border) if possible.
- Regular touchups prevent fading.
- Select an experienced technician who adheres to national standards of safety and hygiene such as the Society of Permanent Makeup Professionals.
- Advise the nurse of any history of cold sores and take preventative medicine to avoid recurrence.
- Keeping lips moisturized prevents chapping and lip color flaking.
- Follow all after instructions exactly as directed.
- Agree upon cost prior to procedure and learn what is included in the initial cost (e.g. follow ups, anesthetics, availability of technician for future).
Permanent makeup, eyeliner, eyebrow or lip color, can be an exciting addition to your cosmetic routine, improve your appearance, and save time and money in the long run. Selecting an experienced technician after viewing their work and credentials eliminates many of the drawbacks and risks.
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