When it comes to lip enhancements, two options stand out: lip tattoos and lip fillers. Both promise fuller, more defined lips but choosing between the two can be tough. In this article we’ll break down the differences between lip tattoo and lip fillers and help you decide which one to get first based on your goals.
Lip Tattoos vs. Lip Fillers
Lip tattoos and lip fillers have become popular in recent years as ways to look more youthful and plump. But the two are different in procedure and results. Lip tattoos are a form of cosmetic tattooing that enhances the natural color and shape of the lips. Lip fillers are injecting hyaluronic acid based gel into the lips to add volume and shape.
Cosmetic tattooing including lip tattoo procedures like lip neutralisation can enhance the natural tones of the lips or correct any discoloration. Permanent makeup like lip tattoos gives long lasting results, no more daily application of conventional makeup.
Decide which one to get first based on your personal goals, budget and desired outcome. Knowing the benefits and considerations of each will help you make a decision.
What is a Lip Tattoo?
A lip tattoo, or lip blush tattoo, is a cosmetic tattooing procedure that adds a wash of colour to your lips. The process involves using a small acupuncture needle or tattoo machine to deposit pigment into the lip skin, to enhance the shape and natural colour of your lips. Cosmetic tattooing is for those who want more defined lips, a natural looking tint or a subtle colour to lips that makes the lips look fuller.
For those with uneven lip tones, lip neutralisation is another option within cosmetic tattooing, where darker tones or pigmentation can be neutralised, leaving a more even natural look. Permanent makeup, such as lip tattooing, is for those who want a subtle enhancement or to correct lip colour issues without the need for daily touch ups.
Pros
- Long lasting: 3-5 years with aftercare
- Definition: Crisp lip border and smoother edges, defines natural lip shape
- Natural color: Soft natural lip tint, no need to wear daily makeup
- Low maintenance: No need to touch up like fillers after healed
Cons
- Healing time: 7-10 days, lymph fluid and swelling during healing
- Touch ups may be required: Over time the pigment can fade, may need a perfection session or touch up every couple of years.
- Pain: While the pain is manageable with numbing cream, some people may find it uncomfortable.
What is a Lip Filler?
Lip fillers are injections of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance in the body, to add volume and shape to the lips. The procedure is quick, under 2 hours and results are immediate. Fillers are great for those who want plump lips or those who want to correct asymmetry or volume loss.
Pros
- Instant results: You’ll see the difference right after the procedure, with a small amount of filler providing instant volume.
- Customizable volume: You can choose how much volume with filler you want in your lips, from subtle to dramatic.
- Non invasive: Lip injections are minimally invasive, no incisions.
- Reversible: If you don’t like the results, the filler can be dissolved with an enzyme.
Cons
- Temporary results: Lip injections last 6-12 months before needing to be topped up.
- Frequent maintenance: You’ll need to come back every few months for more lip injections.
- Cost: Lip filler appointments add up over time.
Key Considerations
When deciding whether to get a lip tattoo or lip filler first, consider these.
1. Desired Outcome
If you want to enhance lip borders and get a natural flush of colour, a lip blush tattoo may be your first step. If you don’t want to wear lipstick daily and prefer subtle, long lasting natural lip colour.
If you want instant volume or to correct asymmetry, lip fillers are the way to go. They give immediate volume and you can shape your lips to your exact specification.
2. Duration and Maintenance
Lip tattoos are semi permanent and can last 3-5 years with proper healing and aftercare. If you want a low maintenance option, a lip tattoo may be the way to go. Lip fillers require more maintenance every 6-12 months to maintain fullness.
3. Pain Tolerance
Both procedures have some level of discomfort. Lip tattoos require numbing cream or anaesthetic cream but can still be painful as the needle goes into the skin. Lip fillers feel like a series of small pinpricks and are generally less painful as the injections are faster and easier.
4. Cost
Lip fillers are relatively cheap upfront but require ongoing sessions for top ups which add up over time. Lip tattoos are a bigger initial investment but the cost of lip tattooing over several years may be less than repeated lip filler treatments.
5. Timing and Recovery
If you want instant results with minimal downtime, lip fillers may be the way to go. The procedure has minimal recovery time and you can usually go back to normal activities in a few days. Lip tattoos require several days to heal as the skin regenerates and you must avoid certain activities like spicy food, cold sores and drinking from a straw during the healing time.
Can I combine lip tattoos with lip fillers?
Yes! Many people combine both to get the best of both worlds. A lip blush procedure can be done first to add natural lip colour and shape and then fillers can be added later for volume with filler. Just make sure to wait until your lip tattoo has fully healed before getting lip injections as the injection process can disturb the pigment in the tattoo.
Conclusion
In the end it’s up to you whether you get a lip tattoo or fillers first, it depends on your aesthetic goals, budget and how much maintenance you are willing to commit to. A lip tattoo is perfect for those who want long lasting natural colour and subtle enhancement, fillers are great for instant volume and shape.
If you’re not sure which treatment is for you, consulting with a professional cosmetic tattoo artist or qualified injector will help you decide. Whatever you choose, both lip tattooing and fillers are a great way to enhance your natural beauty and get the perfect pout.
FAQ
How long do lip tattoos last?
Lip tattooing lasts 3-5 years depending on skin type and aftercare.
Do lip fillers hurt?
Lip fillers are slightly uncomfortable but numbing cream is applied to reduce pain during the procedure.
Can I get lip fillers after a lip tattoo?
Yes, but it’s best to wait until the lip tattoo has fully healed before getting fillers.
How long do lip fillers last?
Lip injections last 6-12 months before they need to be topped up.
How long is the downtime for lip tattoos?
7-10 days of healing time, balm and no certain foods.
