By Sandhiya Srinivasan, Founder & Lead Artist · Updated
Lips heal faster than brows, but they go through dramatic colour changes on the way. Right after lip blushing they can look like bright lipstick; a week later they can look paler than before. Here is what to expect, day by day. Lips usually take about four weeks to show their final colour.
Days 1–2: Swollen and Bright
Lips look brighter and more saturated than the final colour, and are usually swollen, sometimes noticeably on the first day. They can feel tender, dry or tight. Drink through a straw, and avoid hot, very spicy or salty food. A cold compress wrapped in a clean cloth can ease swelling.
Days 3–6: Peeling
Lips start to peel, often in thin flakes from the centre outwards. They may itch and the colour underneath can look uneven. Do not peel, bite or lick the flakes. Keep the lips lightly moisturised with the aftercare balm we give you, and wipe them gently with clean water after eating.
Days 7–14: The Frosty Stage
Once the peeling stops, lips can look pale, milky or almost like the colour has gone. This is often called the frosty or ghosting stage, and it worries many clients. The colour is still there, under a new layer of healing skin.
Days 15–30: Colour Blooms
The colour gradually returns and evens out as the new skin clears. By around four weeks you can see the healed result: softer and more natural than on day one, like your own lips with a tint.
Touch-Up: Days 30–90
Lips often heal with some uneven areas, especially at the edges, so a touch-up is a normal part of lip blushing. Book it any time between 30 and 90 days after the first session. We even out the colour and can adjust the shade if you want it deeper or softer.
Tips for Smooth Lip Blush Healing
- Cold sores: If you have ever had a cold sore, tell us before booking. Lip treatment can trigger an outbreak, and your doctor may suggest preventive medication.
- No smoking: Avoid smoking while your lips heal; it slows healing and fades the colour.
- No lipstick or lip products: Wait until the lips have fully healed before using lipstick, gloss or lip scrubs.
- Sun protection: Once healed, use an SPF lip balm to keep the colour from fading early.
Healing After Lip Neutralization
Lip neutralization for dark lips heals in the same stages. The colour can look brighter or warmer at first, and very dark lips are often lightened over more than one session.
What Is Not Normal
Swelling and tenderness in the first couple of days are expected. If swelling, pain or redness gets worse after the first few days, or you notice blisters, pus or a fever, contact us and see a doctor.