How to Choose a Permanent Cosmetics Technician
By Mary Arnold, owner of Professional Permanent Cosmetics (sm)
A growing number of individuals, both women and men, are turning to permanent makeup for several purposes, ranging from beauty enhancement to camouflaging scars.
While permanent cosmetics has become a common practice in many parts of the world, people still need to take heed when it comes to selecting a permanent cosmetics technician. If precautions aren’t taken, a person undergoing a procedure with an inexperienced technician could become terribly disappointed in his or her appearance or need corrective procedures following the first one.
The following is a list of questions to ask a technician or to research during your selection process:
- How long has the technician been
performing permanent makeup procedures? You may want to choose
someone with several years of experience, rather than someone who
recently entered the industry.
- Is she/he a member of the Society of
Permanent Cosmetic Professionals? The Society requires all members
to meet the highest standards of safety and technical ability.
- How many procedures does the
technician perform per week? Some part-time technicians may only
perform two to three procedures per week. It could be beneficial to
have someone with more experience who performs on a more regular
basis, with more than 10 per week.
- Ask to see “before and after”
photos of previous customers.
- If seeking camouflage work and
corrective procedures, ask the technician if she/he performs this
type of work and if so, how many have they have done in the past?
- Check with the Department of
Health’s Environmental Health Division and the Better Business
Bureau to see if they have any complaints filed against them.
- How much training has the technician
had? The Health District requires proof of six months apprenticeship
or proof they worked in the profession someplace else.
- Ask what type of training for
sterilization she/he has had. Also, can she/he use anesthetics? If
so, how effective are they and how much discomfort is involved?
- How many hours of continuing
education does the technician have? This is not a requirement, but
if technicians are prudent in their profession, they would take
classes on their own volition and learn the latest in the industry.
Mary Arnold, founder of Professional Permanent Cosmetics (sm), brings more than 25 years experience as a registered nurse to the permanent makeup industry. Prior to starting her own business, Arnold served for more than 10 years as a permanent makeup artist and more than 20 years as a dermatology nurse. She has had extensive training and experience, and has established a reputation as a specialist in color adjustments and corrective procedures. She is a member of the Nevada State Board of Nurses, the National Cosmetic Tattooing Association, and is a member and upcoming director for the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals.
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