Following our simple aftercare steps is vital towards ensuring maximum results and that the healing process goes as smoothly as possible. However, prior to this, there are also some pre-prep steps you can take to ensure your skin is in the best possible condition leading up to the appointment.

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PRE-CARE

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• Do not wear lipstick and or lip-gloss to the procedure.

• Do not consume any alcohol, coffee or caffeinated products from at least 24 hours before your appointment.

• Do not take aspirin, any medication containing aspirin, ibuprofen, niacin or any vitamins that can thin the blood, unless absolutely medically necessary, from at least 48 hours before (Tylenol is acceptable)

• If you have a history of cold sores and or fever-blisters, then you will need antiviral prescription from your physician such as Zovirax and or Valtrex. No novocaine or any form of lip injections from at least two weeks before.

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AFTERCARE

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• Do not pick, rub, scratch or peel the affected area when healing.

• Do not consume alcohol, caffeine or any medication that can thin the blood such as aspirin, ibuprofen and niacin for up to 24 hours afterwards.

• Do not apply lipstick or lip-gloss for at least 10 days after your procedure.

• Do not let your lips dry out whilst healing. Keep them moist by wetting a fresh Q-tip in clean water and use it to gently dab over the area (Alternatively, you may also use Bepanthen cream or any equivalent, all of which are readily available at your local pharmacy)

• Whilst healing, avoid acidic and spicy foods and drinks that can potentially irritate your lips.

• If swelling appears, you may apply a cold compress using a thin protective layer like cloth in between. Ice packs are most effective within the first 24 hours of the procedure.

• For the first three days, use toothpaste sparingly and avoid getting any on your lips (you can also coat your lips with Bepanthen cream or any of its equivalent beforehand)

• Avoid hot showers and having the shower head directly over the affected area for two weeks. Also keep the area well away from shampoos, soaps and any cleansers during this phase.

• Minimize exposure to direct sunlight for at least two weeks.

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FACT CHECK!

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• Picking, rubbing, scratching and peeling the affected area before it is fully healed can adversely affect pigmentation and potentially cause scarring. Minor scabbing is to be expected.

• Alcohol and some meds have blood-thinning properties that can disrupt the healing process which is why it is important to avoid these immediately before and after the procedure.

• The colour may well appear darker and sharper at first. This is completely normal and the colour will soften and lighten to its intended shading as the area heals.

• Exposure to direct sunlight and excessive heat (i.e. steam) when healing can cause pigmentation to fade and adversely affect the final results.

• Semi-permanent cosmetics are a multi-step process and a touch up will be needed after 4-6 weeks before it can be ascertained that your work is complete.