Permanent makeup, also known as micropigmentation, is an ever growing industry. With its ability to enhance features, save time, and boost confidence, more and more people are seeking professional permanent makeup artists.
However, becoming a skilled permanent makeup artist requires proper training and hands-on experience. Selecting the right training provider is crucial to ensure a successful career in this field. In this blog post, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing a permanent makeup training provider.
1. Accreditation and Certification
When selecting a training provider, it is vital to check their accreditation and certification. Ensure they are recognised by reputable organisations and industry associations. This ensures that the training program meets the necessary standards and follows proper guidelines.
Before deciding if you book an OFQUAL regulated qualification like the Level 4 or a privately accredited training course, ensure you check with your area’s licensing department on what they require.
If your licensing department require an OFQUAL Level 4, check the course provided is OFQUAL regulated. You can do this here: https://www.gov.uk/find-a-regulated-qualification
Remember, a privately accredited course is NOT a qualification. You will receive and accredited certificate. An OFQUAL Level 4 is a qualification and is nationally recognised.
As the industry pushes towards more regulation, if I personally was to enter now, I would be opting for an OFQUAL regulated qualification. That does not mean privately accredited courses are no good, in fact you may find some more thorough than the regulated ones depending on where you train, but it does mean you will not have to worry about upgrading your training later down the line if and when more boroughs do enforce the Level 4.
2. Experienced Trainers
The quality of training largely depends on the expertise and experience of the Trainers. Research the background of the trainers and ensure they have extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in permanent makeup.. Experienced trainers can provide valuable insights, share real-world scenarios, and offer practical tips to help you excel in your craft.
Ideally your trainer will be carrying out treatments on a regular basis, have a large portfolio of work (including healed results) and at least 3 years + experience behind them. Find a trainer that specialises in this treatment only.
When looking for your trainer, also ensure you like their style of work, after all, this is what you will be learning and taking forward onto your own clients.
3. Comprehensive Curriculum
A comprehensive curriculum is essential to gain a solid foundation in permanent makeup techniques. Look for training providers that offer a well-structured course covering various aspects like color theory, health & safety, skin anatomy, needle knowledge, client consultations, and different application techniques. Make sure the program includes hands-on training to practice on live models under the supervision of instructors.
Many trainers now offer online pre-learning before you attend the course. This gives you time to learn and digest the theory side and maximise your practical time together perfecting techniques and working on live models.
Any beginner course that is less than 3-4 days for learning one treatment would concern me. Do not opt for cheap, quick courses. It will cost you double later down the line. Remember, you are tattooing someone’s face, its not a course to rush or skim through.
4. Training Kits
Whilst there are many options for training kits, you will often find the quality and contents of the kit will be reflected in the Course price. Ensure your kit includes a reputable machine with a manufacturer’s warranty, high-quality pigments and a range of needles, accessories and disposables. Find out how many treatments you can expect to carry out with the kit contents alone.
5. Practical Training Opportunities
While theoretical knowledge is important, practical training is equally crucial in mastering permanent makeup techniques. Look for training providers that offer ample hands-on practice opportunities. Verify if the provider allows you to work on real clients under supervision or provides simulation models to practice on. Practical experience will boost your confidence and prepare you for real-world scenarios.
6. How many to a class
Ask the trainer how many students to each class. With a treatment like this, you will need hands-on support and supervision. Any more than 3-4 students per trainer would be way too big to really benefit from the practical sessions, especially as a beginner. At our academy, we had no more than 2x students to 1x trainer which we found a good ratio for students to really benefit.
Find out how many models you will carry out on your own under supervision.
7. Support and Mentoring
Ongoing support and mentoring are crucial for any aspiring permanent makeup artist. A good training provider should offer support even after the completion of the course. Look for programs that provide access to online forums, mentorship programs, shadowing sessions and lots of ongoing support. This will enable you to seek guidance, ask questions, and stay updated with the latest industry trends.
Permanent makeup is a treatment where you will learn from experience. So every treatment you do, you will no doubt seek answers to your questions and further guidance.
8. Reviews and Testimonials
Research the reputation of the training provider by reading reviews and testimonials from previous students. Check if there are any negative experiences or red flags worth considering. A reputable training provider will have positive feedback and success stories from their graduates.
Conclusion
Choosing the right permanent makeup training provider is a pivotal decision that can shape your career as a permanent makeup artist. Consider factors such as accreditation, experienced instructors, comprehensive curriculum, practical training opportunities, ongoing support, and positive reviews. By investing in a reputable training provider, you can gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of permanent makeup.
I hope you found this useful and id love to take this opportunity to wish you the best of luck for your future in Permanent Makeup 🙂
You can check our approved trainers here
If you are serious about your career in Permanent Makeup, you may also be interested in joining us in The PMU Circle Pro. Here is the info: www.pmucircle.com
Layla x