Lipstick Tattoo

A lipstick tattoo — also known as a lip tattoo lipstick — is a form of permanent makeup that uses special tattooing techniques to get the right colour into the lip skin. You get a finish that looks like your favourite lipstick but without the smudges, fading or transferring — it’s just a nice, natural look.

So this is different from a proper tattoo. A cosmetic lip tattoo procedure uses special pigments that are okay for delicate skin. At Face Figurati, I only use the highest quality pigments that are certified to last & not change on different skin tones — whether it’s super light, darker or if you’ve got skin that’s prone to drying out.

People usually get a lipstick tattoo or lipstick tattoo treatment for three reasons: it’s convenient, it gives you confidence, & the colour lasts.

• Time saver: You don’t have to reapply lipstick every few hours because it’s just there.
• Colour stays true: Even on greasy or dry skin, it stays looking like you wanted.
• Natural beauty: It just subtly makes your lips look a bit better, while still looking like your natural shape.

In Melbourne, where you get a mix of dry weather in the winter & humid summers, lipstick tattoos are especially a good idea — your tattoo stays looking good regardless of the weather.

Even though this is at the cutting edge of the beauty world, every form of cosmetic tattooing has its downsides.

• Swelling: Expect some swelling after your session; it’s quite normal.
• Initial darkness: The colour looks a bit darker straight after, but that fades away by 40% as your lips heal.
• Aftercare importance: If you don’t follow aftercare instructions, your lip may heal unevenly.
• Cold sore caution: If you get cold sores, you’ll need to take some antiviral meds before & after treatment.

Transparency is key — and key to getting you to trust me & do this treatment.

There are a few conditions that are a no-go for lipstick tattooing — mainly skin or health issues that can affect how wounds heal & how the colour takes.

Remember: even though it’s a cosmetic tattoo, it’s still a tattooing process that requires proper healing and skin integrity.

The ideal candidate is anyone who:

• Wears lipstick daily and wants a low-maintenance alternative.
• Has lost pigment definition with age.
• Suffers from lip asymmetry or scarring.
• Wants subtle fullness without dermal fillers.

At Microblading Eyebrows Melbourne Studio Face Figurati, I customise every colour and shape using the Fitzpatrick scale to ensure the tone complements your undertone — whether you’re porcelain fair or deep olive.

Preparation makes all the difference. Here’s my go-to aftercare briefing checklist:

• Moisturise your lips — smooth skin absorbs pigment better.
• Avoid alcohol or caffeine for 24 hours (reduces inflammation).
• Stop strong skin treatments and exfoliation two days before.
• Start antiviral medication if you’ve had cold sores.
• Arrive makeup-free with clean, moisturised lips.

Remember: smooth, healthy lips equal better colour selection and pigment retention.

The lipstick tattooing session takes about 2–3 hours and follows a precise tattooing process:

• Consultation: Discuss colour options, preferred finishes and your natural lip shape.
• Mapping: Define the lip contour using a light cosmetic pencil.
• Numbing: Apply a topical anaesthetic for comfort.
• Tattooing methods: Use professional cosmetic tattoo machines with fine needles for fresh tattoo pigment implantation.
• Aftercare briefing: Go over your aftercare guide and product recommendations.

The process is gentle but methodical — perfecting every curve and transition.

Healing is part of every tattooing technique, and your body’s wound healing response determines the final look. Here’s the usual timeline:

Your aftercare instructions play a crucial role. Avoid activities that heat or stretch the lips — it can cause uneven healing or pigment loss.

Aftercare is key. I always tell clients:

• Keep the lips moisturised with the healing balm I provide.
• Avoid makeup, saunas, swimming and direct sunlight for a week.
• Don’t kiss or share utensils until fully healed (your partner will understand!).
• Don’t exfoliate or peel the flakes — let them shed naturally.

These small habits prevent pigment loss and infection. In Melbourne’s climate, I also recommend using SPF lip balm daily, especially in summer.

Colour selection is half science, half artistry. We use the Fitzpatrick skin type chart to balance undertones, and pigments are mixed to mimic real lipstick colours — from soft coral nudes to rich berry tones.

Client favourites include:

• Blush nude — perfect for everyday wear.
• Warm coral — brightens lighter skin tones.
• Deep rose or berry — rich and elegant on darker skin tones.

At Face Figurati, I custom mix shades using organic pigment blends for faster colour absorption and even fading. Each colour stays true and integrates seamlessly with your natural lip shape.

Remember, healed colour always looks about 30–40% lighter than it does immediately after tattooing.

About 6–8 weeks after your first appointment a touch-up session (also known as an additional touch) perfects the outcome.

This step allows your tattoo artist to fill in lighter spots, reinforce the solid colour application and ensure ideal balance after your healing process. Think of it as the finishing layer of your semi-permanent masterpiece.

While modern cosmetic tattoo artists follow strict safety protocols, you should still be aware of rare but possible issues:

• Temporary swelling or redness
• Slight bruising for sensitive skin
• Minor dryness for drier skin types

At Face Figurati, all tools are sterile and single-use. Every pigment meets Australian and EU safety standards. Proper consultation ensures you’re a good candidate — avoiding complications linked to poor skin regeneration or compromised skin barriers.

Clients ask, “How long does tattoo lipstick last?” The answer depends on your lifestyle and skin type.

Generally, lipstick tattoos last 2–4 years.

• Lighter skin types with faster cell turnover may need to be refreshed sooner.
• Darker skin types retain pigment colour longer.
• Dry skin, sun exposure and exfoliating products affect fading.
• Colour refresh every 18–24 months keeps your tattoo lipstick looking vibrant and even.

Aquarelle Lips create a soft, watercolour wash effect with translucent pigments that deliver natural brightness and subtle tone.

Ombre Lip Tattoo builds a smooth gradient from darker centre to lighter edges, offering dimension and soft definition.

Dark Lip Neutralisation Tattoo uses warm pigments to correct cool or uneven tones, revealing balanced and even-coloured lips.

Lip Liner Tattoo defines and enhances the lip border, creating symmetry and crisp shape without overlining.