How to Achieve the “Lip Blushing” Effect at Home, According to Makeup Artists

According to makeup artists, semi-permanent makeup procedures continue to be in demand in the aesthetics world. Lip blushing, in particular, has remained one of the most popular in-office cosmetic procedures over the last few years. While the treatment has pros (like long-lasting lip color), the cost and use of needles can be a deterrent for some.

Luckily, when it comes to the ever-popular lip blushing, you can get a similar look at home without any needles.

Ahead is everything makeup artists and beauty experts have said regarding what you need to know about lip blushing and how to achieve the trend with makeup. 

What Is Lip Blush?

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Lip blushing is a cosmetic tattooing technique that gives your lips a natural boost in color, shape, and definition. Using a fine needle, pigment is layered into the lips to create a soft tint, like the perfect hint of a lip stain or gloss that never wears off. The results can last two to three years, fading gradually over time.

As with many beauty trends, social media has played a major role in making lip blushing more popular. Lip blushing took the beauty world by storm in the mid-to-late 2010s, and honestly, we have Instagram and TikTok to thank for it.

Those before-and-after transformations flooded our feeds, making it the go-to for anyone craving 'just-bitten' lips without the hassle of daily touch-ups. It’s a low-maintenance beauty hack, perfectly fitting the trend of looking effortlessly put-together while barely lifting a finger."

People are looking for long-lasting effects with their makeup and may not be ready for lip filler just yet. Lip blushing is a way of dipping toes into the lip enhancement world.

How to Get the Look At Home

For those who prefer to avoid needles or permanent makeup, it's still possible to get a similar look using makeup products. 

Fortunately, creating a blushed lip look is easier than ever with so many lip products available today. With stains, lip plumpers, the right shades of lip pencil, and long-lasting lipstick, you can achieve this look at home.

What to Look for in Products

All of the experts agree on one thing: long-wear formulas are key. Long-lasting formulas have now given us the look of lip blushing without the needles.

Hydrating formulas are also important for ensuring your lips look and feel good. Look for lip products with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, shea butter, or vitamin E.

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Determine your skin's undertone (cool, warm, or neutral) and choose colors that complement it for the most natural effect," Pinkson says. "Select products that allow for sheer application but can be layered for more intensity.

A Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Lip Blushing

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Exfoliate your lips

Start by exfoliating your lips to create a smooth base. You can use a pre-made lip scrub or make your own. Create a paste with granulated sugar and [a facial oil]. Massage it onto your lips in circular motions for 30 seconds. You can rinse it off with water or use a warm face cloth to remove your homemade scrub. This ensures a smooth base for even product application.

Make sure your lips are hydrated

Once exfoliated, apply a moisturizing lip balm or treatment.

Use a colour or tint that will last

Wipe off any excess lip balm and apply your favorite long-lasting lip stain or lip tints. If you really want the lip blushing look to last, go for a more matte shade and formula. This way, you know it will likely stay on all day without fading or smudging. Start by carefully applying it around the lip line to map out your perfect shape, and then work inwards using a lighter hand.

Carve out your lips with a lip liner

Pick a lip liner close to the shade of your natural lips to help define them. For a defined lip look, use a waterproof liner.

Put on your favourite gloss

Add a gloss or balm for dimension. Apply a clear or slightly tinted gloss to the center of your lips. This creates a hydrated, plump effect that mimics the soft glow of lip blushing. A tinted lip oil is perfect for achieving added hydration and a high-shine effect.

Set your lips with a brightening powder

If you want the look to last longer, lightly dust some powder over your lips using a tissue as a barrier.

Achieving the lip blushing look with makeup is simpler than it sounds—it just requires a little time and the right products. It won't be permanent, but with the right technique and products, you can master that soft, tinted vibe. Think lip tints, balms, and a bit of strategic blending. 

One major benefit of doing it yourself at home? It lets you experiment with different shades before committing to a permanent procedure.

We would recommend trying these makeup tips at home to achieve a lip blushing look before seeking more permanent results. This way, you can switch up your shade until you find the tint just right for you.