The purpose of a permanent makeup artist is to enhance the look of a clients natural appearance with permanent tattooing and coloring. The scientific term for this is called micro pigmentation. This is when color is injected just under a clients skin to give the effects of long term eye liner, shaping of eye brows or lip color. The more advanced techniques of permanent makeup also include permanent blush and scar camouflage.

Many makeup artists seek training in other fields such as cosmetology or being a certified nail technician. Students will have to learn a variety of methods to aid potential clients. Skills such as learning the skin and facial structures, designing art that a client might be interested in, learning the different methods of sterilizing needles, identifying these needles, learning color with pigmentation issues, and proper business and management skills are some of things that they learn through class training.

They will learn how to work with a traditional coil machine, pen machine, and with non machines, relying on precise hand techniques. The majority of permanent cosmetic artists are self-employed and they must comply with the local city, state and federal laws upon certification. Desired certification can be achieved through many different organizations including the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP).

Another good way a permanent makeup artist receives their training is through an apprenticeship. They get to work with a professional while also performing on actual clients. This form of training can take anywhere from 6 months to a year and is considered the best route for permanent cosmetic artists after initial pre-training. Many professional artists have an eye for symmetry as well as knowledge in facial morphology. They have excellent hand-eye coordination as well as an excellent eye for detail which can be enhanced by the use of magnifiers. They are also great communicators and have very good self-marketing skills.

Having good skills and knowing what customers like is the key to success for permanent makeup artists. The whole process of micro pigmentation has a lot of great benefits for the clients as well. It can mask hair loss and unwanted scars or spots that are created from injury or various medical conditions.

For women who feel naked when they can't apply facial makeup, they can have the satisfaction of never having to get up early every morning to apply it. When you simply can't find enough time to apply actual cosmetics in today's fast-paced society, permanent cosmetics can be a real time saver.

The whole entire process has also been known to boost self-esteem by promoting high levels of self-awareness which gives the client a stronger sense of sureness on the job or attending a special party or event. Those who can't afford to constantly buy expensive makeup will also benefit from permanent makeup as well. They will save money by simply getting permanent blush, eyeliner, or lip liner.

Many inks used in permanent makeup that is applied by a professional makeup artist are not tested on animals and do not contain animal byproducts, making them more appealing to many clients.