Lip dermopigmentation is also known as lipblushing. This innovative semi-permanent make-up technique gives you a natural look for lips that look great! 

Permanent make-up is on trend. Right now, it's the practical solution for perfect eyebrows and a well-defined mouth. Also known as dermopigmentation or lipblushing when applied specifically to the lips, this technique is performed in institutes by licensed practitioners. Not to be confused with lip tattooing (much more radical), it can be used to accentuate the volume of lips when they appear too thin, to draw a Cupid's bow, to restore symmetry to an imperfect mouth, or to color the dermis of the lips when it's a little dull. 

How does a lip dermopigmentation session work? 

A lip dermopigmentation session is always carried out in an institute by a specialist. To make sure you choose the right salon, don't hesitate to read reviews or get advice from someone who has already done it. The session usually begins with a discussion (or the filling in of a form) to define the client's needs: plumping? Reshape? Recolour? Or all at once! The choice is yours. 

Once the needs have been defined, the practitioner proceeds to lipmaping, i.e. she traces the base with a make-up pencil before passing the dermopigmentation needle. This procedure is essential to avoid mishandling and mistakes... It would be a shame to miss out on permanent make-up! The outline of the lips is first traced with a needle, followed by the application of an anesthetic cream and the filling in of the lips with mineral pigments to add color. The operation can be painful, as the lips are a fragile part of the body. Think about it before taking the plunge, especially as a touch-up session is required after 28 days (just like microshading or microblading of the eyebrows). This second session will enable you to readjust the color and/or iron out any excessively light contours, so that everything looks just right. 

How much does a lip dermopigmentation session cost? 

As with any aesthetic service, the price of lip dermopigmentation will depend greatly on the institute chosen. However, prices generally start at €250. So it's important to plan ahead and be sure of your choice! Don't hesitate to ask institutes for quotes, and check whether they offer payment facilities. 

Advantages and disadvantages 

As nothing in life is black and white, lip dermopigmentation has its advantages and disadvantages, which should be taken into account before taking the plunge at a beauty salon.

The advantages:

1. Lasting power. Semi-permanent lip make-up, dermopigmentation or lipblushing can last up to two years! It's an excellent alternative for those who want a pretty mouth without having to apply lipstick every day. Note that the color you choose can vary from the most natural to the most showy, from matte to glossy, and you can even opt for a color gradient!
2. Definition. Lipblushing really helps to redefine the lip contour, and is a great way for those who suffer from a lip complex to remedy what they don't like and reclaim their image.
3. On évite les injections. C'est quand même une belle alternative pour les personnes qui n'osent pas ou ne veulent pas opter pour la chirurgie esthétique et les injections des lèvres. Le lipblushing créé l'illusion de lèvres repulpées, bombées, redessinées et colorées ! 

Disadvantages: 

1. The session is painful. Much less than a tattoo, of course, as the needle doesn't penetrate as deeply into the epidermis, but the lips are still a very sensitive area of the face. 
2. Lips may be red and swollen for a few hours after the session (the first and the touch-up). It's best to clear your day when you plan to have lip dermopigmentation. However, this side effect is minimal and will not last more than a few hours. 
3. If you have skin concerns relating to the lips, it's best to avoid dermopigmentation. This is especially true for people who suffer from herpes on a regular basis.

How to care for lip dermopigmentation? 

Once the dermopigmentation is complete (after the second touch-up), you're left with virtually new lips, without having gone under the injection needle. Although the result is stunning and might lead you to believe that lips no longer need attention, the opposite is true. As your lips have undergone an invasive procedure (it involves a needle that stains the entire surface of the lips), in addition to the healing time (with a healing cream) it's important to give them regular care. 

Hydration:

So you can continue to moisturize your lips regularly. Use a lip balm or an ultra-rich mask at night. Certain treatments can accentuate the plump effect for an even more glamorous mouth! Always opt for products with a natural composition: sweet almond oil or shea butter can be used as a natural mask.

Scrubs:

Think about exfoliating too, but always very gently. To avoid irritating or removing the pigments inserted under the skin, use very light sugar scrubs to allow the lips to renew the skin without damage.