What if your blush never faded, no matter how long your day was? Lip and cheek blush tattoos are the latest innovation in semi-permanent makeup. Many influencers and beauty enthusiasts are documenting their experience of getting this trending beauty treatment done, stirring curiosity online. We asked experts if it’s worth trying out After consulting my dermatologist, I tried the treatment. The procedure took over three hours. I was little nervous due to the use of micro-needles, but I could only feel mild pricks thanks to the numbing cream. Post-treatment, minor redness and sensitivity persisted which gradually reduced. Now my skin looks naturally radiant. TREATMENT RISKSUse of non-sterilised tools and poor after-care can cause infectionsThose with darker skin tones can experience hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentationTreatment from poorlyequipped expert may lead to patchy skinSensitive skin may react to pigments and numbing creamsIndividuals with sensitive skin can even develop scarringSun exposure and poor sunscreen use can cause colour fading(As suggested by Dr Rupika Singh, dermatologist and Kiran Bhatt, cosmetologist)Pregnant or lactating women should avoid these treatments due to hormonal effects on pigment retention. Those with autoimmune conditions like lupus or vitiligo should avoid these procedures due to pigmentation risks.TREATMENT PROCESS Both blush tattoos follow a similar process. Dr Rupika Singh, a dermatologist, explains, “After cleansing and applying numbing ointment, a micro-needle device deposits pigment into the dermis for a tinted effect on cheeks or lips.”The downtime (period of recovery) for a lip blush tattoo is seven-10 days. A follow-up session is required after six to eight weeks for long-term outcomes.For a cheek blush tattoo, the downtime is five-seven days and requires a touch up over six weeks later.Kiran Bhatt, a cosmetologist says, “After getting a cheek blush tattoo, the pigment may appear darker initially.” As aftercare for a lip blush tattoo, she suggests, “One must keep sun exposure to minimal and refrain from using makeup or consuming spicy food.”Experts recommend consulting a practitioner to assess your skin type and seek suggestions on suitable colours before treatment.Those with skin concerns like eczema, rosacea, psoriasis or acne flare up should especially seek an expert’s guidance before undergoing such beauty treatments.AVERAGE COSTWhile the cost depends on the practitioner’s expertise and the location, it varies between ₹25,000 to ₹50,000