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In This Article

Have you ever seen a tattoo on the inside of someones lip?

From words and phrases to animals to abstract designs, the options for lip tattoo designs are endless.

However, these tats are considered one of themost painfuland require a specific punch in of aftercare.

Model Yasmin Wijnaldum showing her “Honey” lip tattoo.

@jonboytattoo/ Instagram

Keep reading to learn everything about lip tattoosfrom pain level to side effects.

Meet the Experts

What Are Lip Tattoos?

These tattoos can be any design, just like a tattoo on any other part of your body.

Id say goes as simple and bold as you could.

Small details are more likely to disappear.

If you want color, thats possible!

If you want black ink, thats possible as well.

While tattoos are typically considered to last forever, lip tattoos tend to last only one to five years.

This is due to the rapid turnover of cells in the lip area, which sheds the ink quickly.

There is no guarantee on how long it will last, says Jay.

Once youre inked, taking care of your lip tattoo is vital.

you could expect a lip tattoo to heal in about two weeks fully.

Instead, use an antibacterial, alcohol-free mouthwash to clean the area twice a day.

Keep oral bacteria levels low with a daily mouthwash rinse, says dermatologist Rachel Nazarian of Schweiger Dermatology Group.

Also, give a shot to avoid smoking or any other activities that may irritate the area.

The biggest risk for lip tattoosis infection, says Dr. Nazarian.

The oral mucosa has a high density of bacteria and is more challenging to keep consistently clean.

During the aftercare period, look out for any changes in the appearance of your new tattoo.

While some swelling and redness are common right after getting inked, prolonged effects may indicate a worsening problem.

Another common issue is scarring, which can occur if aproper aftercareprocedure isnt followed.

If youre interested in getting a lip tattoo, though, they can be a great piece of ink.

2023;12(6):2424.

Tattoos: risks and complications, clinical and histopathological approach.Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia.

Published online March 22, 2024.