Resurfacing Treatments
Avoid treatments that significantly resurface the skin around the lips, such as:
• Deep chemical peels
• Laser resurfacing treatments
• Aggressive skin resurfacing procedures

The lip area should be fully healed and free of irritation before your appointment.

Lip Filler & Injectables
If you have recently had lip filler or Botox around the mouth, please allow approximately 6 weeks for swelling to fully resolve before scheduling Lip Blush.

Retinoids & Exfoliating Acids
Avoid treatments that may thin or overly sensitize the skin near the lips, including:
• Prescription retinoids (Retin-A, Tretinoin, Differin) applied near the lip area
• Strong exfoliating acids (AHAs / BHAs) applied directly to the lips

Other Treatments
Also avoid:
• Laser hair removal or electrolysis around the lip area
• Intense sun exposure or tanning that could cause peeling, irritation, or sunburn on or around the mouth

Healthy, balanced skin helps support smoother pigment implantation and healing.

Oral Antibiotics
If you have taken oral antibiotics (such as doxycycline), please wait 3–4 weeks after your final dose before your appointment. This allows your skin and immune system to fully normalize, ensuring the best possible pigment retention and healing.

Skin Treatments
Avoid skin treatments around the lips such as:
• Facials
• Dermaplaning
• Exfoliating treatments around the mouth

Cold Sores
If you have ever experienced cold sores, Lip Blush may trigger an outbreak. We strongly recommend speaking with your doctor about taking an antiviral medication such as Valacyclovir (Valtrex) prior to your appointment to help reduce the likelihood of an outbreak.

Lip Preparation
Begin gently preparing your lips:
• Lightly exfoliate once per day using a sugar scrub or soft toothbrush
• Apply a hydrating lip balm regularly
• Keep lips well moisturized and free of cracking or peeling

Healthy, hydrated lips allow pigment to implant more evenly.

Blood Thinners & Alcohol
To help minimize bleeding, swelling, and sensitivity during the procedure, please avoid:
• Alcohol
• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Fish oil
• Vitamin E
• Niacin
• Turmeric
• Ginger
• Ginkgo biloba

These substances may increase bleeding or circulation, which will make pigment implantation more difficult. If you take prescription medications, do not stop them unless directed by your doctor.

Caffeine
Please avoid caffeine, including:
• Coffee
• Matcha or tea
• Energy drinks
• Pre-workout supplements

Caffeine increases circulation and sensitivity, which will lead to increased bleeding during the procedure.

General Preparation
Stay well hydrated, avoid excessive sun exposure on the lips, and do not exfoliate your lips the day before your appointment.

Caffeine
Avoid caffeine of any kind, including coffee, tea, matcha, and energy drinks.

Activity
Avoid saunas, steam rooms, intense exercise, or anything that significantly increases circulation and sweating.

Cold Sores
Bring your prescription antiviral medication if it is ongoing, and inform your artist of any cold sore symptoms, past or current.

Follow-Up Session
Lip Blush is a two-step process. Most clients return for a perfecting session 6–8 weeks after their initial appointment once the lips have fully healed.

Please arrive with clean lips free of makeup, gloss, or skincare products.

Skin & Makeup

What to bring with you
To enhance your comfort, WiFi is available and headphones are recommended so you can relax during your session. Please feel free to bring cozy slippers and a blanket if you get cold easily!

Reminders: Anyone with any of the following at the time of the appointment cannot be accepted: Younger than 18 years of age, pregnant/nursing, used Accutane within 1 year, freshly tanned/sunburned face, chemo or radiation within 6 months, viral infections (cold/flu/etc.) or on antibiotics the day of appointment. You will be more sensitive during your menstrual cycle.

Travel, Swimming & Sun
If you are planning to travel, swim, or spend time in direct sunlight within 10 days after your procedure, consider rescheduling. Lips must be protected during the healing process.

Skin Condition at Your Appointment
If you arrive with inflamed, sunburned, damaged, or compromised skin, your artist may need to reschedule your appointment for safety and optimal results.

Medical Considerations
PMU is not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding, if you have an active cold sore or lip infection or the lips are sunburned, cracked, or irritated, or while undergoing medical treatments that affect the skin or immune system (such as Accutane or chemotherapy).

Questions?
If you are unsure whether you should proceed with your appointment, please contact us and we’ll be happy to guide you.