Kissd by Kim

Kissd by Kim is run by owner Kim at a studio at 2050 W Chapman Ave. #190 in Orange. The main service is lip blush, a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo that adds color and definition to natural lip color. Each visit begins with a free consultation, where clients talk through their lip goals and choose a color and style. Colors are customized to skin, eye and hair color, and clients can bring in a favorite lipstick so the artist can match its shade to the available pigments. Lipstick-style and dark lip neutralization versions are also offered.

During a lip blush appointment the lip shape is mapped, the lips are numbed with a numbing cream, and pigment is layered until the color and shape are reached. Ice packs are provided at the end. Full results typically appear over about six to eight weeks. Lip blush is stated to last one to three years, with an annual color boost recommended, and two touch-up sessions are typical. Dark lip neutralization is for clients whose natural lip undertone is cool or dark. It starts with orange or red pigment, usually needs three to four sessions and a longer healing period, and is stated to last about two to five years depending on aftercare and lifestyle. Lipstick lips are meant to replace everyday lipstick with a bolder healed color.

Hyapen fillers are a needle-free option that uses a high-pressure pen to place hyaluronic acid into the first layer of the lips. The amount can be adjusted to the result the client wants. Two to three sessions are recommended for best results, and results are stated to last one to six months, longer with more sessions. Collagen induction therapy uses tiny sterile needles to create micro punctures that encourage new skin growth. It is offered for acne scars, large pores, uneven skin texture and hyperpigmentation, and includes 30 minutes of topical numbing and a complimentary collagen face mask. It is not offered to clients with active cystic acne. Sessions can be booked as three for a $100 saving. The BioRePeel facial is a peel with amino acids, vitamins and GABA, and is described as having no downtime, with any redness or swelling usually settling within a few hours. Lip blush and fillers are not done on the same day; fillers come first, with at least four weeks between sessions.

Booking is through the site's booking button or by texting 657-527-7100. Free consultations are offered before lip blush. Deposits are nonrefundable and go toward the appointment, with the balance due afterward. Clients have a 15-minute grace period, and late arrivals without notice have their appointment cancelled. No-shows are charged the full service amount. Rescheduling is free with at least 24 hours' notice; inside that window there is a $25 fee. Cash, Zelle and Venmo are preferred, card payments carry a 3% fee, and 0% financing options are available. Tips are not included, and the site says clients typically tip 15% to 20%. Before lip work, clients are asked to exfoliate and moisturize their lips five days ahead, avoid fish oil, Advil, vitamin E and blood-thinning medication for at least three days, and avoid coffee and alcohol for the same period. Aftercare covers drinking through a straw, avoiding kissing, swimming, saunas, sun exposure and lip makeup for three days or until peeling ends.

Training is offered in lip blush, Hyapen fillers and collagen induction therapy at the Orange studio, through one-on-one private sessions. The two-day private Art of Lips course covers lip anatomy, lip mapping, machine and needle theory, and color science, along with lip blush, lipstick lips and dark lip neutralization techniques. A one-day option focuses on the student's weak areas with a live model. Art of Lips options are listed from $850 to $2,500, and most include a premium student kit and lunch. No cosmetology or esthetician license is needed to begin, and no prior experience is required. The studio says it has trained students from across the country.

Color and shape are customized for each client, starting with a consultation, and the studio uses numbing and ice packs to make lip work more comfortable.