If you're considering getting a lip blush or semi-permanent lip tattoo in San Diego, you may be wondering if you can use Zovirax after the procedure. The short answer is yes! In fact, using Zovirax (an antiviral medication) is highly recommended after getting a lip blush to prevent cold sore outbreaks and promote proper healing.
What is a Lip Blush?
A lip blush, also known as a lip blushing tattoo or lip tint tattoo, is a form of semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo that enhances the natural color of your lips. During the lip blush procedure, a cosmetic tattoo artist uses a specialized machine to deposit pigment into the skin of your lips. This creates a fuller, more defined lip shape with a natural-looking tint or "blush" of color.
The results of a lip blush can last 1-3 years before requiring a touch-up procedure. Many people opt for lip blushing as an alternative to daily lip liner or lipstick application. It provides a low-maintenance way to achieve beautiful, defined lips with a natural look.
Why Use Zovirax After Lip Blushing?
While a lip blush is considered relatively low-risk, the process does involve using a needle to lightly tattoo the lip area. This can potentially trigger a cold sore outbreak in people who carry the oral herpes virus.
To minimize this risk, lip blush technicians in San Diego recommend taking the antiviral medication Zovirax (or another anti-viral medication like Valtrex) for several days before and after your appointment. Zovirax helps suppress the herpes virus and prevent cold sore flare ups.
How to Use Zovirax for a Lip Blush Procedure
The typical dosage recommendation is to take Zovirax for a total of 6 days surrounding your lip blush appointment:
- Start taking Zovirax 2 days before your scheduled procedure
- Take Zovirax on the day of your lip blush
- Continue taking Zovirax for 4 days after getting your lip blushing tattoo
Following this schedule gives the medication enough time to get into your system and effectively suppress the herpes virus during the tattooing process and initial healing period.
Most San Diego lip blush artists will provide you with specific dosage instructions based on the Zovirax medication you have. Be sure to follow those recommendations exactly.
The Benefits of Using Zovirax for Lip Blushing
Taking an antiviral medication like Zovirax offers two key benefits when getting a lip blush tattoo:
Prevents Cold Sore Outbreaks The friction and trauma to the lip area can potentially trigger a cold sore flare up in someone who carries the oral herpes virus (even if you've never had a cold sore before). Zovirax helps keep the virus dormant.
Promotes Faster Healing Since Zovirax prevents viral infections like cold sores, it allows the lip area to heal properly after your lip blush procedure with minimal complications or disruptions.
The last thing you want after investing in a new lip blushing tattoo is for the results to be compromised by an unsightly cold sore! Using Zovirax is an easy way to get the best possible lip blush results in San Diego.
The Bottom Line on Zovirax and Lip Blushing
So in summary, yes you can and should take Zovirax (or a similar antiviral medication) before and after getting a lip blush tattoo in the San Diego area. Most reputable lip blushing technicians will recommend this to ensure you don't develop any cold sores that could interfere with your final results and healing process.
Always make sure to follow the specific dosage instructions provided by your lip blush provider. With proper antiviral medication and aftercare, you'll be able to enjoy your beautiful, full, naturally blushed lips for 1-3 years before needing a touch-up!