Katarina Callegari is a two-time recipient of the APMAC Best Lip Blush Tattoo Award. She shares her process with Professional Beauty.
While permanent tattooing itself isn’t a new trend, lip tattoos have really gained traction in recent years. Traditional lip tattoos often had a bold, ‘tattooed’ look. But with advancements in technique and pigment quality, lip tattoos today are more subtle and natural-looking. Nowadays, the end goal is a fresh, enhanced look that blends seamlessly with your natural lips, giving you the benefits of a cosmetic treatment that lasts. Whether you want a soft flush of colour or more definition, the goal is always to achieve a result that’s effortlessly beautiful and low-maintenance.
The ideal lip tattooing candidate is anyone who wants to improve the shape, colour, and/or overall symmetry of their lips. I work with clients of all ages – from those in their 20s to those in their 80s – and they all share one common goal: to have beautiful, fuller lips that don’t require constant maintenance. Lip tattoo offers a hassle-free way to achieve a flawless look that lasts much longer than regular lipstick.
Step 1: Set up your workspace
First things first, get your workspace organised and make sure everything you’ll use is disposable. Have a range of needle configurations ready, depending on the technique you’re using, as well as all the necessary tools and pigments for the procedure.
Step 2: Pre-draw the lip shape
Start by sketching a light outline of the lips, always respecting the client’s natural lip border. It’s important not to overstep this boundary. For the pre-draw, I usually use a concealer or gel pen, but you can choose the tool that works best for your style. This step is all about getting the shape right before moving forward, so take your time here.
Step 3: Seek client approval, then numb
Once you’ve finished the pre-draw, show it to your client and make sure they’re happy with the shape. It’s essential that they’re comfortable with the design before you move on. One approved, apply a numbing cream to make the process as pain-free as possible. This ensures your client is relaxed and ready for the next steps.
Step 4: Etch the outline
Now it’s time to carefully outline the lips. Keep the line fine and light – just enough to define the edges without creating a harsh line. The idea is to make this outline subtle, as it will blend into the full colour later on. This step is all about precision, so don’t rush it.
Step 5: Fill in the lips
After the outline is done, it’s time to fill in the lips. How you do this depends on the client’s desired outcome. Some clients want a soft, blended look, while others may ask for a more defined, solid colour. I always make sure to adjust the technique to match what the client envisions, working in layers to create a smooth, even finish.
And VOILÀ! The result is naturally enhanced, fuller lips with a fresh, vibrant look. Keep in mind that the colour will soften by about 30% as the lips heal, giving them a more subtle, balanced appearance. Lip tattoos typically last between two to three years. Encourage touch-ups to allow the lips to maintain that beautiful, just-done look.
Interview: Hannah Gay | Photography: Supplied
This article originally appeared in the Issue 01 2025 print issue of Professional Beauty magazine. Read it here.
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