Pro Tips from Perma Blend Pro Artist Carla Ricciardone

Permanent lip procedures like lip blush and micropigmentation are some of the most in-demand treatments in PMU. And with good reason—the results are stunning when done right. But that flawless finish starts long before the machine turns on.

To help you and your clients get the most out of each session, we tapped Pro Team Artist Carla RicciardoneOpens a new window, founder of Sculpted StudiosOpens a new window, to share her best practices for pre-care, healing, and what to expect every step of the way.

Meet the Artist

Carla Ricciardone is an industry innovator, specializing in modern PMU with a focus on revolutionary lip neutralization. She operates studios in Pheonix, Miami, and New York, all offering the best PMU practices in the industry.

Client Prep: What to Do Before a Lip Procedure

Healthy lips = better healed results. Carla recommends clients begin prep 5 days before their appointment:

• Exfoliate nightly with a gentle scrub to smooth and soften
• Apply a nourishing balm like coconut oil, shea butter, or lip salve after exfoliating
• Avoid lipstick during this time to keep the lips hydrated and irritation-free
• Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily to stay fully hydrated
• Avoid alcohol and excess sun exposure in the days leading up

BONUS DIY Lip Scrub Recipe (Sculpted Studios)

• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tbsp organic honey
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (coarse)
• ½ tbsp lukewarm water

 Mix together, apply in a circular motion for 2–3 minutes, and rinse with warm water. Repeat nightly for 5 days before the appointment.

Artists should always reschedule if a client arrives with dry, cracked, or chapped lips.

Cold Sore Protocol

If your client has a history of cold sores (HSV-1), it’s critical they consult with a physician before their procedure. Most doctors will prescribe an antiviral like Acyclovir, taken four days prior and on the day of the procedure to help prevent outbreaks.

While roughly 50% of Americans carry HSV-1, proper precautions ensure a safe, smooth healing process.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Carla rarely uses numbing agents during lip treatments. Her technique is gentle and designed to minimize trauma. Most clients rate discomfort at just 2–3 out of 10, and some even nap during the procedure.

If needed, she uses a spot application of a 5% lidocaine gel (like Blue Gel, Sustaine, or Tattoo Soothe) with a microfiber swab. Why not numb upfront? Numbing can cause swelling and other unwanted effects, which may affect healed results.

Aftercare Tips: Keep It Clean, Keep It Simple

Healing lips are still a wound, so proper care is essential. Carla recommends:

• Glossed by Shaye Danielle – An arnica-infused balm that helps with swelling while keeping lips moisturized (but not overly so)
• Vitamin A&D ointment, coconut oil, or vitamin E as additional aftercare options
• Use disposable masks during the healing phase. Reusable masks harbor bacteria and can cause irritation
• Avoid kissing, excessive talking, and spicy or messy foods
• Eat with utensils and drink through a straw to reduce contamination
• Minimize sun exposure during the healing period

Swelling is normal, especially if lips weren’t properly prepped. Hydration and a healthy lip barrier reduce the risk of excessive inflammation.

Touch-Ups: When to Schedule the Follow-Up

Carla schedules touch-ups around the 10-week mark. Why? It takes time, usually 60–90 days, for pigment to fully settle and show its true color. Touching up too early risks overworking the skin and compromising results.

Dark lip neutralization may require multiple sessions for best results. Patience is key to achieving a soft, natural finish both artist and client will love.

“Pigmenting the skin is a process that needs to be respected. The goal is a result both you and the client are proud of.”

—Carla Ricciardone

Why Artists Choose Perma Blend

American-Made, Artist Inspired. Be confident taking on any procedure with the highest-quality pigments in the industry—all made right here in the USA.

At Perma Blend, every bottle contains more than premium ingredients—it’s powered by a promise. From unmatched rigorous third-party testing to continuous innovation in safety, we’re committed to setting a new standard. And it all happens right here in South Carolina. Every step of your PMU journey, we’re right there with you—formulating excellence and consistency you can trust.

Learn more in the Safety FirstOpens a new window blog!

Still Have Questions?

Explore our FAQsOpens a new window or contact us! Opens a new window Perma Blend always has your back to help you elevate your craft.