The art of beautification has become popular in business, and there are many promising career options for people who desire to make money in the cosmetology industry. However, one of the most lucrative positions is that of the permanent makeup specialist. A skilled permanent makeup technician is paid $150 to $250 per hour for her services. For some high paid positions, an extensive educational commitment is required. It is common for some jobs to require post-baccalaureate coursework. However, permanent makeup specialists are trained in permanent makeup schools.
Many permanent makeup schools offer certificates of completion, but people interested in the permanent makeup field should ensure that the school that they select is accredited. Accredited permanent makeup schools are designed to train students in the proper technique and precautions used in the application of permanent makeup. Permanent makeup is a cosmetic application of tattoos that is used in place of traditional cosmetics. The cosmetic tattoos can be used for medical purposes, such as scar concealment. However, it is most commonly used to replace conventional makeup items, such as lip color, eye shadow, eyeliner, lip liner, blush and brow liner.
The colors used in the application are often selected by the client, but the hues used to even skin tones or cover scars are matched to the color of the client’s skin. Permanent makeup schools teach students how to properly mix and prepare the dyes used to create the permanent makeup. The dyes used in permanent makeup are approved by the FDA for use in tattoos. In addition, the colors may require mixing to achieve the desired hues. Students must be trained on color development, and they must become accustomed to handling the dyes in a sanitary manner. Permanent makeup pigments are injected into the dermis of the skin. The invasive nature of injections makes it necessary to keep the dyes as sterile as possible. In addition, permanent makeup equipment should be sterilized.
Permanent makeup schools usually teach students proper technique using several different types of tattooing equipment. The equipment used in the “hand method” includes handheld needles that must be autoclaved after each use. Automated tattooing equipment, such as the coil machine and the rotary machine, often uses pre-sterilized, disposable needles. Improper sterilization or poor sanitation during the application of permanent makeup can facilitate the spread of pathogens. Serious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis, can be spread between clients. In addition, poor technique can also expose the permanent makeup technician to contaminants. When the technique is properly performed, permanent makeup can have a positive impact on the life of the client.
Self-esteem often increases, and clients are free to swim, sleep or perspire without fearing that makeup will run or smear. However, the results of permanent makeup are not immediately apparent after the application. Permanent makeup schools teach students how to educate clients about the permanent makeup process so that client expectations are met. Permanent makeup appears harsh and overdone for the first three to five days following the treatment. The dyes are injected into the dermis of the skin, but some of the pigment is absorbed by the epidermis. The epidermis sheds regularly, and the appearance of the permanent makeup softens as the shedding process takes place.
Although permanent makeup is considered permanent, the cosmetic tattoos do fade over time. Subsequent touch-ups may be needed approximately five years following the initial application. Unless a client requests changes, the colors used in the touch-ups should match the original permanent makeup colors. Permanent makeup schools train students to properly perform permanent makeup touch-ups and corrections. Just be sure the technician working with you is certified and licensed, and you will love the work they do!