How To Do a Blushed Lip at Home, According to Experts

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, we tapped makeup artists and beauty experts to share everything you need to know about lip blush and how to achieve the trend with makeup.

What Is Lip Blush?

“Lip blushing is a cosmetic tattooing technique that gives your lips a natural boost in color, shape, and definition,” Pinkson explains. “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 most beauty trends, social media is responsible for increasing interest in lip blushing. “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,” Pinkson says. “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.”

Another reason lip blushing gained popularity is that it is a baby step into the world of cosmetic procedures for the lips. “People are looking for long-lasting effects with their makeup and may not be ready for lip filler just yet,” Wren says. “Lip blushing is a way of dipping toes into the lip enhancement world.”

How to Get the Look At Home

If you’re afraid of needles or permanent makeup, it’s possible to achieve a similar look with makeup. “This is the path I would recommend,” Siard says. “I understand the appeal of shortening your makeup application time, but personally, I am uncomfortable with these semi-permanent, more invasive procedures.”

Thankfully, creating a blushed lip is easier than ever since lip products continue to flood the marketplace. “There are so many makeup alternatives that can help achieve the same effect as lip blushing—without the permanent results,” Greenberg says. “With stains, lip plumpers, the right shades of lip pencil, and long-lasting lipstick, you can achieve this look at home.”

What should you look for in products? All of our experts agree that long-wear claims are important. “Long-lasting formulas have now given us the look of lip blushing without the needles,” Wren says. “I love to go straight in with a long-lasting water-based tint like Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint in a soft pink shade like Fresh (for fair skin tones) or a rich berry shade like Splash (for medium to deeper skin tones).”

You should also opt for hydrating formulas to ensure your lips feel as good as they look. “Look for lip products with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, shea butter, or vitamin E,” Pinkson says.

She also recommends considering your undertones when shopping for products. “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

1. Exfoliate your lips: You can use a packaged lip scrub or make your own. “I recommend creating a paste with granulated sugar and [a facial oil],” Pinkson says. “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.”
2. Hydrate your lips: Next, apply a moisturizing lip balm or treatment. “I always reach for my Jamie’s Bloss in The Clear One and let it sit for a bit to help the lips absorb moisture so that the lip stain can work best without settling into fine lines,” Greenberg says.
3. Apply lasting color: “Wipe off any excess lip balm and apply your favorite long-lasting lip stain or lip tint,” Greenberg says. “I love the Clarins Water Lip Stain or Maybelline Super Stay Long-Lasting Liquid Lipstick. 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.”
4. Define your lips with a lip liner: “Pick a lip liner close to the shade of your natural lips to help define them,” Wren says. For a defined lip look, I recommend Makeup Forever Extreme Waterproof Liner.”
5. Top with a lip gloss: “Add a gloss or balm for dimension,” Pinkson suggests. “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. Well People’s Lush Lip Tinted Oil in Cherry Blossom is perfect for achieving added hydration and a high-shine effect.”
6. Set your lips with powder: “If you want the look to last longer, lightly dust [a brightening powder] over your lips using a tissue as a barrier,” Pinkson says.

The Final Takeaway

Achieving a blushed lip with makeup is easier than it sounds—you only need patience and practice. “It won’t be permanent, but with a little finesse and the right products, you can master that soft, tinted vibe,” Pinkson says. “Think lip tints, balms, and a bit of strategic blending. It’s like lip blushing’s low-commitment sister.”

Another perk of the DIY route? It allows you to experiment before committing to an in-office procedure. “I’d highly recommend trying these makeup tips at home to achieve a lip blushing look before seeking more permanent results,” Greenberg says. “This way, you can switch up your shade until you find the tint just right for you.”