LET'S BEGIN WITH A CLEAN SLATE
Lip Blush Pre-Care
Follow these instructions prior to coming to your lip blush appointment
Getting ready the right way helps your skin hold the pigment better, lowers the chance of problems, and makes healing easier.
Please read and follow these steps closely in the weeks before your appointment.
Getting ready the right way helps your skin hold the pigment better, lowers the chance of problems, and makes healing easier.
Please read and follow these steps closely in the weeks before your appointment.
- Discontinue prescription retinoids (e.g., Retin-A, Tretinoin, Differin) around the mouth and lip area. These products thin the skin and increase sensitivity.
- Avoid deep chemical peels, microneedling, or laser treatments around the mouth, as these may compromise skin integrity.
- If you’ve had filler or Botox in the lips or surrounding areas, wait at least 4–6 weeks before your lip blush appointment to allow everything to fully settle.
- Stop use of over-the-counter retinol, glycolic/salicylic acid, AHA/BHA products, or acne treatments near the lips.
- Avoid intense sun exposure or tanning that could cause peeling, irritation, or sunburn on or around the mouth.
- Refrain from laser hair removal or electrolysis around the upper lip during this period.
- No facials, dermaplaning, or exfoliating treatments on or around the lips.
- If you are prone to cold sores (even if infrequent), it is highly recommended to begin an antiviral such as Valacyclovir (Valtrex) as prescribed by your doctor. This helps prevent an outbreak triggered by the procedure.
- Begin lightly exfoliating your lips once a day with a sugar scrub or soft toothbrush and moisturizing regularly with a hydrating balm (e.g., Aquaphor, Laneige, or a natural alternative). This helps remove dead skin and improves pigment absorption.
- Continue antiviral medication if prescribed.
Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning agents, such as:
- Aspirin
- ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- naproxen
- Fish oil
- vitamin E
- niacin
- turmeric
- ginger
- gingko biloba
(Only discontinue prescribed medications under your doctor’s supervision.)
- Limit exposure to saunas, steam rooms, intense exercise, or anything that increases circulation and sweating.
- Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, matcha, energy drinks)
- Drink plenty of water to keep your lips hydrated.
- Do not apply makeup, lip gloss, SPF, or skincare around the lip area.
- Avoid spicy or acidic foods that may cause irritation.
- Continue using your antiviral medication if applicable.
- Do not exfoliate the day before your appointment to avoid irritation.
- Arrive with clean, product-free lips (no balm, gloss, or lipstick).
- Avoid caffeine and exercise that day, as both can increase sensitivity and bleeding.
- Bring your prescription antiviral medication if it is ongoing, and inform your artist of any cold sore symptoms (past or current).
- If you are currently experiencing a cold sore or active irritation, your appointment must be rescheduled.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or currently undergoing any medical treatment that compromises the immune system or skin healing, this service is not recommended.
- Lip Blush is a multi-session process, and a touch-up is typically required 6–8 weeks after the initial session.
