Journalist Jess Flaherty is getting married this summer and decided to take the bold step of getting a cosmetic tattoo to address a long-standing insecurity ahead of the big day.
Wedding Insecurities and a Bold Decision
Jess and her fiancé are tying the knot on their 15th anniversary this summer. With the venue booked, invitations sent, and dress chosen, the mounting costs and to-do list aside, things seem relatively stress-free. However, like many brides-to-be, the approaching wedding has stirred up insecurities. One is weight gain—around a stone since lockdown—prompting a desire to shed a few pounds for the cameras. Another is her lips: extremely pale and slightly asymmetrical, with the left side plumper than the right.
Why Lip Blush Over Filler?
Jess considered filler but feared migration, which could worsen asymmetry or create a moustache-like effect. Instead, she opted for a lip blush, a semi-permanent tattoo that enhances colour and shape naturally. She booked with practitioner Kathryn, who provided pre-care advice.
The Appointment Experience
Arriving at the salon, Jess was terrified, catastrophising about hating the result or not looking like herself. Kathryn applied numbing gel and discussed colour options. Jess chose a natural 'my lips but better' look. After pencilling the shape, Kathryn measured symmetry, ensuring Jess was happy before using the needles. The process was mostly painless, with a relaxing vibration. Numbing gel was reapplied, and the procedure was repeated twice to deepen pigment. The appointment lasted about two and a half hours.
Results and Recovery
Initially nervous, Jess loved the result. The colour is bright at first but fades to a natural shade over two weeks. A top-up is scheduled six weeks later. The hardest part was avoiding wetting her lips for five days; they crack and peel, requiring restraint from picking. One and a half weeks post-appointment, Jess is thrilled: her lips are more symmetrical, naturally coloured, and she no longer feels compelled to wear lipstick for video meetings.
