Who it's for
- Lips that look dark, purple, grey or bluish
- Lips with an uneven border, or lips that are darker than the skin around them
- Anyone whose past lip blush healed cooler or ashier than expected
Darker lip tones are common, especially with deeper skin tones, and they're completely natural. Neutralizing is a choice for clients who want a softer, pinker or more even look.
How it works
Color theory does the work. Warm corrective tones, like peach, coral or orange, are placed into the lips to cancel out cool, dark tones. Once the base is more even, lip blush color goes on top and heals closer to the shade you picked.
How many sessions
Most clients need at least two sessions, spaced about 6–8 weeks apart. Very dark lips may need more. Erica will estimate this at your consultation after she sees your natural color.
Healing
- Days 1–3: lips look bright, sometimes orange or coral. That's the corrector, and it softens.
- Days 3–7: dryness and light peeling. Keep lips moisturized and don't pick.
- Weeks 2–4: color can look faded or patchy, then settles.
See lip blush healing, day by day and the lip aftercare guide.
Questions
Is lip neutralization the same as lip blush?
No. Neutralization corrects the base color of your lips. Lip blush adds the color you want on top. Many clients do both, in that order.
Does it work on very dark lips?
It can make a big difference, but very dark lips usually need more sessions. Results vary, so Erica sets expectations at your consultation.
I get cold sores. Can I still do it?
Yes, but tell Erica at your consultation. Many clients who are prone to cold sores ask their doctor about preventive medication first.