Active cold sores or frequent herpes simplex outbreaks

If you currently have a cold sore or experience frequent flare-ups, wait until you are clear of symptoms and have completed appropriate antiviral prophylaxis as advised by a medical provider. Active infection increases risk of complications and poor healing.

Recent lip procedures or injections

If you’ve had filler, laser, chemical peels, or other invasive lip treatments within the last 4–8 weeks (or as recommended by your treating clinician), delay lip blush until you are fully healed and your provider confirms it’s safe.

Pregnant or breastfeeding

Cosmetic tattooing is generally not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to limited safety data and infection risk. Wait until after pregnancy and nursing.

Autoimmune disorders or impaired healing

Conditions that affect healing, for example, uncontrolled diabetes, epilepsy, autoimmune diseases like lupus, or immune disorders, can affect healing. Medications that compromise the immune system can increase the risk of poor results and infection. Blood disorders or those on blood thinners may bleed more and heal poorly.

Skin issues around the lips

Eczema, psoriasis, rashes, acne, or irritation near the lips can make the procedure unsafe or lead to bad results.

People prone to keloid scarring

Because it involves tiny cuts, there’s a risk of noticeable scars.

People taking certain medications

Accutane (within the past year), strong acne meds, or anything that affects healing or skin sensitivity.

Those with serious health conditions

Examples: undergoing chemotherapy, heart conditions, organ transplants, or infectious diseases like hepatitis/HIV.

Under 18

Most places won’t perform it on minors.

Health and medical considerations

• Disclose your medical history: allergies (especially to pigments, lidocaine, epinephrine), autoimmune conditions, diabetes, keloid tendency, cold sores/herpes simplex, blood clotting disorders, and any implanted medical devices.

• If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex), begin antiviral prophylaxis (e.g., valacyclovir or acyclovir) as recommended by your healthcare provider—usually started 1–2 days before and continued several days after the procedure to reduce outbreak risk.

• Provide a list of current medications and supplements: especially blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel), anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, naproxen), certain antidepressants, and herbal supplements (e.g., fish oil, ginkgo, garlic) that can increase bleeding. Follow your physician's guidance about pausing medications.

Skin care and topical products

• Avoid retinoids and exfoliants: stop prescription retinoids, over-the-counter retinols, glycolic acid, and other chemical exfoliants on and around the lips for at least 1–2 weeks before. It reduces sensitivity and risk of pigment loss.

• Stop waxing and aggressive facial treatments: avoid waxing, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, or aggressive facials in the lip area for at least 2 weeks before the procedure.

• Keep lips well-hydrated: use a plain balm in the days leading up to the appointment. Do not apply exfoliating scrubs within 3–5 days of the procedure.

Lifestyle adjustments

• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs: stop alcohol and recreational drugs for at least 24–48 hours before minimizing bleeding and swelling.

• Avoid caffeine on the day of the appointment: it can increase sensitivity and bleeding.

• Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning: sunburned or severely chapped lips should be healed before treatment.

Scheduling and preparation

• Plan time for the appointment and healing: set aside several hours for the procedure and at least a few days for initial healing. You may want to schedule the procedure when you don’t have major events for a week or more.

• Patch test: Do a patch test if you have sensitive skin or a history of reactions.

On the day of the procedure

• Clean skin: arrive with clean, makeup-free lips and surrounding skin.

• Eat a light meal: have a normal meal beforehand to maintain stable blood sugar and reduce lightheadedness.

• Wear comfortable clothing: choose clothing that allows you to recline comfortably and avoid strong perfumes or lotions around the face.

Communicate with your technician

• Share expectations and photos: bring reference photos and be clear about desired shade and shape. Discuss realistic outcomes and possible need for touch-ups.

• Understand risks and consent: read and sign consent forms after your questions are answered, including information on possible swelling, tenderness, scabbing, color changes, and the healing timeline.

Following these steps helps reduce complications, improve pigment retention, and promote a smoother healing process for lip neutralization. If you have any doubts or medical concerns, consult your primary care physician or us before the appointment.

Immediate (first 24 hours)

Full session $300

4-8 weeks touch-up $100