Getting a lip tattoo in Auckland is exciting – like waking up with your favorite lip tint already on. But let’s be real: the magic doesn’t stop at the salon. How you treat your lips afterward makes all the difference in how your color heals and lasts.
If you’re anything like me (aka: curious, a little nervous, and obsessed with cute lip looks), you probably have a bunch of questions. What’s normal? What’s not? Is this weird flaking okay? Don’t stress, this post breaks down everything you need to know about lip tattoo aftercare, in plain, friendly talk.
What Actually Happens After a Lip Tattoo in Auckland?
Unlike brows or eyeliner, lips are extra delicate. They’re always moving, constantly exposed to moisture, and super sensitive. So yep aftercare matters more than you think. Here’s a rough timeline of what to expect:
- Day 1–2: Lips feel puffy, tender, maybe a bit red. They might feel tight or tingly, totally normal.
- Day 3–5: Peeling starts. The color might look too dark or patchy. (Don’t panic!)
- Day 6–10: Scabs begin to flake off naturally. Lips can look lighter or uneven for now.
- Week 2–4: Pigment slowly resurfaces. You’ll start to see your “real” color come through.
FYI: Many people go through a “ghosting phase,” where the color seems to vanish completely before coming back. Don’t freak out, it’s just your skin healing.
Day 3? Patchy, peeling, weird. Day 30? Perfect.
Your Day-by-Day Lip Tattoo Aftercare Routine
This part’s key to healing smoothly and keeping that dreamy tint. Here’s what I personally followed (and totally recommend):
Healing balm, soft foods, and zero touching = golden rule.
First 24–48 Hours
- Gently blot lips with a damp, clean cotton pad to remove lymph fluid.
- Dab on a thin layer of healing ointment using a cotton swab.
- Keep lips as dry as possible, no licking, touching, or chatting too much.
- Stick to soft, non-spicy foods and use a straw for drinks.
Day 3–7
- Flaking might make you want to resist the urge!
- Reapply ointment only if lips feel super dry.
- Clean lips gently with saline or cooled boiled water, then pat dry.
- Skip lipstick, spicy foods, hot drinks, or kissing. (Yes, really!)
- Avoid sweating, steam rooms, and sun.
Week 2–4
- Color might look faint, don’t worry, it’s still settling in.
- Switch to a plain lip balm (no fragrance or actives) if needed.
- Keep avoiding sun exposure and intense skincare around the lips.
- Trust the process final results usually show up around week 4 or 5.
The No-No List: What to Avoid After a Lip Tattoo
Want smooth healing and gorgeous results? Here are some things you’ll want to skip (at least for now):
- Touching lips with unwashed hands
- Kissing for at least 7 days
- Lipstick, gloss, or tinted balm
- Hot, spicy, or citrusy foods
- Swimming, steam rooms, saunas
- Alcohol and caffeine (especially in the first 2 days)
- Picking or peeling flakes let them fall off on their own
Don’t kiss, don’t sweat, don’t pick just heal.
Best Products to Keep Lips Happy
Keep it simple and gentle. These basics worked great for me and many others:
- Healing ointment like plain Aquaphor or a tattoo balm
- Sterile saline solution or cooled boiled water (for cleaning)
- Lip balm with no scent or actives (think: basic Burt’s Bees or Vanicream)
- Cotton swabs and pads for clean application
Always double-check with your artist if you’re unsure about a product. Better safe than sorry!
Artist-Approved Tips to Help You Heal Faster
These little habits made my healing way smoother:
- Drink lots of water and eat nourishing meals
- Sleep slightly propped up to reduce puffiness
- Skip hot showers and intense workouts for a few days
- Use curtains or a hat indoors to avoid sunlight
- Wait 6–8 weeks before booking a touch-up
- Save your aftercare instructions to keep on track
When Should You Worry?
Most of the healing is just a waiting game. But if you notice any of these, reach out to your artist or a doctor:
- Pus, oozing, or weird smell
- Pain that gets worse instead of better
- Swelling that sticks around past Day 3
- Burning, rash, or itching that spreads
- Color that stays uneven past week 4–6
Here’s a helpful resource on lip tattoo aftercare to keep your results flawless.
FAQs: Lip Tattoo Aftercare in Auckland
Keep it simple. Hydrated lips = happy healing.
Can I wear lipstick after my lip tattoo?
Not yet. Wait until your lips are fully healed, usually 2–4 weeks.
How long does healing actually take?
The outside looks healed in 7–10 days, but full pigment recovery can take up to 6 weeks.
Can I eat spicy food?
Not right away. Stick to soft, bland foods for the first few days, and avoid hot/spicy meals until peeling is done.
Why does the color look faded already?
That’s the “ghosting” phase. Totally normal. Color should bounce back in a couple of weeks.
Does it hurt while healing?
Most people say it just feels tight or a little sore like dry lips. If it’s painful, get it checked.
Getting a lip tattoo in Auckland? You’re already halfway there!
If you’re in Auckland and planning on getting a lip tattoo — or just had your first one — congrats! With a little patience and the right care, you’ll be rocking soft, natural-looking lips in no time.
If you’re in Auckland and planning on getting a lip tattoo or just had your first one – congrats! With a little patience and the right care, you’ll be rocking soft, natural-looking lips in no time.
Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried it or if you’ve got any personal healing tips!
