What can’t you do with a lip tattoo?
Lip tattoo have become super popular lately and a great way to express yourself or add to your beauty. Whether it’s a cosmetic tattoo to define the lip line or a statement on the inside of the lip, lip tattoos can be fierce. But this form of body art comes with its own set of do’s and don’ts. If you’re thinking of getting a lip tattoo, you should know what to avoid both immediately after and long term.

Don’t Eat These Foods
After a lip tattoo, your lips will be sensitive and certain foods will irritate the area. Spicy foods, acidic foods and oily foods will be uncomfortable and can interfere with the healing process. Stick to bland soft foods for the first couple of days to let the tattoo heal properly. Also, don’t eat fish oils or any supplements that can thin the blood, as they can affect the healing process.

No Kissing (Temporarily)
Kissing, especially on the lips, is off-limits during the healing process. Close contact can introduce bacteria to the tattooed area and increase the risk of infection. Waiting until the healing process is complete will keep your lips safe from unnecessary complications like cold sores or sore viruses.
No Direct Sun
The skin on your lips is already sensitive to the sun, and a fresh tattoo makes it even more so. Sun exposure can cause premature fading of the tattoo or be uncomfortable. Once your tattoo has healed, apply a balm with SPF to your lips, as UV rays can damage the natural pigment and affect colour retention.
No Makeup and Skincare Products
For the first week or two, don’t use lip glosses, lipsticks, lip tints or any skincare products on your lips. These products can introduce chemicals and bacteria that can irritate the healing tattoo or cause an infection. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free lip balms recommended by your tattoo artist. Also, avoid acne skincare products, anti-aging products and any hair products that may come into contact with the lips.

No Swimming or Soaking
Swimming pools, hot tubs and even long showers can expose your lip blush tattoo to bacteria and excess moisture and hinder the healing process. Keep your lips as dry as possible, and don’t submerge them in water until your tattoo is fully healed. Oily skin types may need to pay extra attention to prevent moisture build-up on the lips during the healing process.
No Smoking and No Drinking
Smoking and drinking in excess can irritate a fresh lip tattoo and slow down the healing process. Smoking introduces harmful chemicals to the area, and alcohol can thin the blood and cause issues with scabbing and healing. Avoid alcohol and consider alternative ways to relax during this time.
Don’t Touch or Pick
You’ll want to touch and pick at your new tattoo, but this can cause infections, disrupt the healing process or cause the ink to fade unevenly. Let your tattoo heal on its own without interference. Premature removal of dead skin can cause uneven pigmentation.

Cold Sores and Sore Viruses
If you have a history of cold sores, talk to your tattoo artist and consider taking antiviral medication or sore medication before your appointment. Lip tattooing can trigger cold sore outbreaks in some people, especially during their periods or times of stress.
Read Pre and Aftercare Instructions
Follow all pre-care instructions given by your cosmetic tattoo artist, and do not use fish oils, blood thinners, or alcohol before your appointment day. Aftercare for lip tattoos is key—use a healing balm, antiseptic cream or aftercare cream to promote healing and colour retention. Keep your lips dry and protected with barrier cream for the approximate healing time to prevent infections and natural pigment retention.

Skin Type and Lifestyle
Different skin types, oily skin or dry skin, can affect the healing process. Talk to a reputable or professional tattoo artist about how your skin type and lifestyle will affect your tattoo. Oily foods and acidic foods should be avoided during the session and healing time.
Follow Up Appointments for Touch-Ups
Touch-ups every few months may be required to maintain your desired lip colour or shape. A follow-up appointment with your tattoo artist can also address fading or uneven pigment.
Cosmetic Tattoo Options

When choosing a lip tattoo, it’s worth looking into the different cosmetic tattooing styles.

From lip liner tattoos to lip blush tattoos, talking to a cosmetic tattoo artist will help you decide which type of tattoo will suit your lip shape and desired look. This is key to getting a natural lip colour or a defined lip liner tattoo.

Conclusion
Lip tattoos can be a great way to enhance your look or make a statement, but they require care and attention. By knowing what you can’t do during the healing time and following aftercare instructions, you’ll be set to enjoy your new tattoo for years to come. From choosing a natural lip colour or a subtle colour to working with a professional tattoo artist, every step counts.

FAQ
How long does a lip tattoo take to heal?
Lip tattoos take 7-14 days to heal on the surface but can take up to 6 weeks. Please follow aftercare instructions during this time.
Can I drink coffee after getting a lip tattoo?
Avoid hot drinks like coffee for the first 48 hours. Once your tattoo starts to heal, you can introduce coffee back into your routine.
Are lip tattoos painful?
Pain is subjective, but lip tattoos can be more painful than other parts of the body due to the thin skin and sensitivity of the lips. Numbing cream can help during the actual tattoo process.
Will my lip tattoo fade over time?
Yes, lip tattoos fade faster than other parts of the body due to saliva and the natural exfoliation of the lips. Touch up every few months to maintain the desired colour.
Can I use lip balm after getting a lip tattoo?
Only use a lip balm recommended by your tattoo artist. Fragrance-free, gentle balms are best for keeping your lips hydrated without irritating or infecting the area: no harsh chemicals or strong fragrances.