PMU Training
PMU, or Permanent Makeup, includes a range of services such as Microblading, Ombre Brows, Lip Blushing, Eyeliner, and Scalp Micropigmentation. With certification and the ability to perform these techniques, you can potentially earn between $30k to $60k in your first year. As you refine your skills and build your reputation, top artists can make over $30k per month. The time and investment required to enter this field are significantly lower compared to other industries, but success requires dedication and proper training. Learn more about how to get started!
How to Start Your PMU Journey?
Starting your PMU journey requires guidance from someone who can teach you the basics. You don't need to be the best to begin earning money—once your work exceeds your clients' expectations, you're ready to start. Explore options like PMU apprenticeships, online courses, one-on-one or group training, or hands-on workshops to kickstart your career.
1, Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is the ideal way to begin your PMU career, but finding a good mentor or shop can be challenging. You may need to pay for your apprenticeship or work to cover the cost—there’s no free lunch in life. Like any trade, it’s about exchanging value. Typically, an apprenticeship involves signing a contract agreement between you and the shop. The details can vary: some mentors may require a minimum number of working hours, and you might not get paid until you’ve completed a certain amount of work. However, you can usually keep your tips during this period.
In some cities, you’ll need to complete a 6-month apprenticeship to obtain a body art license. Yes, PMU is classified under a body art license, which means you can legally perform tattoos as well.
The advantage of apprenticing at a PMU shop is gaining firsthand experience, learning the workflow, and having your mentor available to support and guide you. Once your apprenticeship is complete, the shop may offer you a paid position, or you can choose to open your own business.
MicroLV PMU is located in Las Vegas. For more details, click here.
2, Online Course
Online courses have become very popular, allowing you to learn from home without having to go anywhere. If you’re a beginner, I recommend finding a local instructor who may not yet be very famous to learn the basics of Permanent Makeup (PMU). Once you’ve gained a solid foundation, you can purchase other advanced courses online. This way, you’ll find it easier to understand and absorb the material. Since online instructors cannot provide immediate in-person feedback, if there’s something wrong with your basic technique, they won’t be able to correct it right away.
The cost of online courses can range from a few dollars to several thousand. If you like a particular instructor who offers a more affordable course, consider purchasing it first, and if the quality is good, you can then invest in their more expensive courses. This way, you can avoid financial loss. You can also watch free online lessons from YouTubers and decide whether to purchase their paid courses afterward, which is another good option.
MicroLV PMU's Jimmy T. has his own online course, PMU 101. For more details, click here.
3, Group Classes
Group classes are one way to start your PMU journey, but they often require travel and a specific time commitment. Prices can range from $1,500 to $10,000 USD or more, with courses lasting from 1 to 5 days. Always ask for the syllabus and what’s included before enrolling. Keep in mind that group classes typically do not include certification for a body art license.
Be cautious of classes labeled as "Master Classes" that promise you'll earn six figures a year. These are just marketing slogans—it’s impossible to master PMU in a short amount of time. Success comes naturally with practice and patience.
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It also depends heavily on the instructor—whether they teach in a way that is easy for you to understand and are willing to meet your expectations. I’ve taken many classes before, and often, instructors focus too much on unnecessary details instead of spending more time on practical, live procedures.
Focus on learning the fundamentals. Once your knowledge, skills, and intuition develop, you’ll be able to learn advanced PMU or tattoo techniques much faster. For example, I can watch advanced artists on YouTube and understand their secrets. In some cases, I may invest in tools and materials to figure it out myself, saving money in the long run. But remember, this is only possible if you have a strong foundation of knowledge.
4, One on One Training
One-on-one training is very flexible, allowing you to arrange a schedule that works for both you and your mentor. Prices can vary, so I suggest starting with one or two days to see how it goes, and then continue if it’s a good fit. If you’re a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals, I recommend finding an artist who does great work but isn’t yet well-known. Their rates are usually more affordable, and they are often willing to teach you everything they know.
Learning from a popular artist can also be a great way to learn from the best, but keep in mind that these artists often charge $5,000 or more per day, and they may be booked for a year in advance. If you still want to train with a top artist, make sure you have a solid foundation first. This way, you can ask the right questions and get the most out of the experience. Otherwise, you risk wasting your money because you won’t know which secrets to focus on, and they likely won’t spend time teaching you the basics.
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If they provide live models for hands-on training, that’s even better.
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In some cities, you may need a temporary body art license for hands-on training. Your one-on-one instructor should be able to provide the necessary information.
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MicroLV PMU's Jimmy T. has his own one on one training For more details, click here.