To become a permanent makeup artist, you can take a variety of paths, which usually include training programs, apprenticeships, or a combination of the two. Training programs can last anywhere between two and five days, or even longer. Cosmetologists, electrologists, estheticians, nurses, physicians, and tattoo artists can all practice permanent makeup artistry. It is recommended that aspiring permanent makeup artists complete an apprenticeship or train for several months to a year under the supervision of an experienced practitioner and instructor.
Permanent makeup is the cosmetic application of pigmentation in the form of tattoos to the skin of the face, eyelids, eyebrows, lips, and sometimes the cheeks to resemble makeup. For a variety of reasons, people may choose to undergo this procedure. Permanent brows may be used to replace natural brows that have been lost due to alopecia or chemotherapy. Scars or white spots from vitilgo can be hidden with permanent makeup. Micropigmentation may be an option for those who are allergic to traditional makeup or have a vision impairment that prevents them from wearing it. After breast surgery, permanent makeup can help restore color to the areola.
Permanent makeup artists are held to the same standards as tattoo artists, despite the fact that procedures are frequently performed outside of a tattoo parlor. Scarring, allergies, and unfavorable cosmetic results are all risks associated with micropigmentation. The requirements for becoming a permanent makeup artist vary depending on where you live. The licensing requirements are usually overseen by a country’s or state’s Board of Health. In the United States, two organizations that aim to professionalize and standardize the industry offer certification.
Most permanent makeup artists enroll in a school that offers an initial training program that lasts anywhere from two days to two weeks. Students should look for courses in skin anatomy, makeup artistry, health considerations and sterilization techniques, equipment and pigments, as well as business and marketing, when choosing a curriculum. Permanent makeup is currently applied using three methods: the traditional coil machine, a rotary or pen machine, and the hand method. Courses should cover all three methods so that students have a general understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. Another thing to think about is what kind of follow-up assistance is available.
The instructor you choose can have an impact on your decision to work as a permanent makeup artist. A good combination of industry experience and teaching experience is ideal for an instructor. Instructors should also take continuing education classes at least once a year to ensure that they are up to date on the latest techniques in an industry that is constantly changing and evolving.