Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1539961
80 ASCP Skin Deep Autumn 2025 Each permanent makeup service typically requires an initial appointment and a touch-up appointment several months later. Depending on the client's skin and lifestyle, as well as the type of service, touch-ups will be needed either annually or every few years to maintain the color and shape. Unlike traditional tattooing, permanent makeup artists softly implant pigment into the skin using layering techniques to give a more natural appearance. The result is a semipermanent tattoo. Paramedical tattooing is another permanent makeup service that typically encompasses scalp micropigmentation, scar camouflage, and 3D areola restoration. These types of services can not only help clients feel comfortable in their skin, but can also play a crucial role in emotional healing. Potential clients include breast cancer survivors, those experiencing hair loss, and clients with vitiligo, stretchmarks, and scarring. Some paramedical tattoo artists can even recreate belly buttons, fingernails, and toenails. HOW TO GET STARTED The first step is to see what the requirements are for your state to practice in the field. For example, I practice in Colorado and Nebraska and each state has very different requirements. In Colorado, only a licensed esthetician can train to be a permanent makeup artist. The permanent makeup artist training is very specific and has various requirements. In Nebraska, the license is for a permanent color technician and the training requirements are much less stringent. In addition to the license to practice, some states have a requirement on where you can practice. In Nebraska, the establishment must be a licensed body art facility. It's important to get your information from a government website so you can ensure its accuracy. Another important thing to keep in mind during licensing is that a permanent makeup artist and a paramedical tattoo artist often need different licenses and are sometimes governed by different state, city, and county agencies. SPECIALTY TRAINING Once you understand your state's requirements, you need to invest in proper training. Although it may seem easy to perform these services, they are actually very difficult, and individuals who give their clients good, healed results have dedicated countless hours to practicing and refining their techniques. Be wary of training facilities that advertise artists can make over STOCKSY