“It looks like lipstick straight away”
For the first few days it can look darker, firmer and more lined than the final result, because the skin is inflamed and the surface pigment has not yet exfoliated. The true colour appears only after it heals and the touch-up settles — roughly six to eight weeks in.
“It is permanent, so one appointment is enough”
Almost nobody gets an even result from a single session. The touch-up is part of the procedure, not an upsell. Budget for it.
“It does not hurt”
Lips are sensitive. Topical anaesthetic makes it very manageable for most people — often described as a vibrating, scratchy buzz — but 'painless' is overselling it.
“Any colour I want”
Healed pigment sits over your natural lip colour, which shows through. A cool client with deep lips will not heal to a warm coral. Colour choice is a negotiation with your biology.
“It causes cold sores”
It does not cause the herpes simplex virus, but the trauma can reactivate a dormant infection. Anyone with a history takes antivirals before and after.
“It is cheaper to find the lowest price”
Correcting bad or over-saturated lip work is slow, expensive and sometimes impossible. The artist's training and portfolio matter more than the sticker price.
