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Two Major Myths About Permanent Cosmetics

MYTH: Permanent cosmetics is somehow different from tattooing
FACT: Permanent cosmetics IS tattooing
All reputable organizations and schools in the permanent cosmetics industry agree that whether it is called "micropigmentation," "dermal pigmentation" or any other term, whether the equipment used is a traditional tattoo machine or a pen machine or a hand-held device, the process is in fact tattooing.

MYTH: You need to go to someone who is certified
FACT: There is no true certification available
There is at this time no nationally recognized certification or licensing of permanent makeup artists. There is no industry-wide, non-partisan, non-profit certification of any kind. All "certifications" are granted either by a "school," usually lasting a matter of days, where someone has paid a fee, or by a larger group which also charges a fee for taking an "exam." Artists who advertise that they are "certified" may not know that their certification has no meaning outside of that school.

Individual states license or do not license tattoo artists and permanent makeup artists as they see fit. This licensing usually only addresses whether the artist demonstrates adequate knowledge of sterilization and sanitation practices, and in no way evaluates artistic or technical skill. The state of California will be licensing tattoo artists and permanent makeup artists. The guidelines have not yet been finalized.

The best way to select an artist is by personal referral, by a careful review of before and after photographs, and through the consultation process.

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