Permanent Cosmetics and Tattooing

Permanent cosmetics and tattooing both refer to the application of permanent ink to the skin for aesthetic purposes. Applications may be entirely artistic, or they can be performed as part of a medical procedure. Read on to find out more about this centuries-old art form and its modern-day practitioners.

Inside Permanent Cosmetics and Tattooing

Tattooing is a time-honored art form of applying designs to human skin via the use of different colored inks. This art form has its roots in numerous cultures worldwide. The modern practice of tattooing is performed by skilled artists with specialty inks. Extensive experience is needed to become successful in this field, though no formal education is necessary.

A related occupation is that of permanent makeup artists, who utilize tattooing techniques to implant pigment to the eyelash line, eyebrow or lip area to simulate the appearance of makeup. Professionals in this field often have a degree as an esthetician. To qualify as estheticians, students can expect to take classes in nutrition and pathology, skin care, aromatherapy and pre- and post-care cosmetic surgery. An apprenticeship or training program to learn how to apply permanent cosmetics will be necessary.

Tattoo artists generally work in storefront settings where clients come in with an artistic design in mind to be tattooed on a specific area of the body. Permanent cosmetics artists work in skin-care facilities, such as spas or doctors' offices. No matter the setting, due to the increased risk of infection and blood-borne illness, safety is paramount. Both tattoo artists and permanent cosmetics artists must adhere to strict health standards and licensing requirements.

If you think a career in permanent cosmetics and/or tattooing might be right for you, Study.com has a wealth of information that can help you make your education and career decisions.

Education, Training and Apprenticeship Information

The fields of permanent cosmetics and tattooing are a little different from other careers in terms of education. The programs aren't as specific as they are in many other fields of study. However, with talent, ingenuity and persistence, students can pursue these career paths. Due to the nature of apprenticeship programs, students must have a willingness to start at the bottom and work their way up.

The Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (www.spcp.org) offers testing to become a Certified Permanent Cosmetic Professional. To apply for the test, candidates must have a minimum of 100 hours of study at the fundamental level in the field of permanent cosmetics. Additionally, students must take the OSHA-standard class in blood-borne pathogens and be active in the permanent cosmetic industry or have recently completed a training program or apprenticeship.

According to the Alliance of Professional Tattooists (www.safe-tattoos.com), to become tattoo artists, individuals must complete an apprenticeship. The organization recommends that students opt for an apprenticeship that lasts at least three years. This gives them the necessary time to learn all the aspects of the industry and job, including learning about skin, infection control, tattoo design and equipment. Students should expect to pay for apprenticeships, just as they would to attend a trade school.

Drawing talent is a must for aspiring tattoo artists, though formal schooling in the arts isn't required. Although not much information is available about apprenticeships for tattoo artists or permanent cosmetics artists, the pages below contain information about relevant training options.

Career Information

While it could take years to become a skilled tattoo artist, individuals can find other occupations in related fields that showcase similar creative talent. Medical laser techs remove tattoos, as well as performing anti-aging and other skincare procedures. The links below contain additional information on relevant career opportunities.

Salary Information

In July 2014, PayScale.com reported that tattoo artists earned a median annual salary of $31,768 per year. As far as permanent cosmetics artists go, neither PayScale.com nor the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) list data for that exact occupation. However, the BLS does report information for the broader field of skincare specialists. As of May 2013, workers in this category earned a median annual salary of $28,940 (BLS).

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