Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
This program equips students with the technical expertise and professional competencies required to perform permanent cosmetic procedures on the face and body using specialized tattooing techniques. Designed for individuals seeking licensure as permanent makeup artists and cosmetic tattooists, the curriculum emphasizes both artistic precision and clinical safety in aesthetic and therapeutic applications.
- Client consultation and assessment: Learn how to evaluate client needs, discuss expectations, and develop personalized treatment plans based on facial structure, skin type, and desired outcomes.
- Sanitation and infection control: Master sterilization protocols, equipment disinfection, and safe handling procedures to maintain a hygienic, compliant practice environment.
- Skin anatomy and pathology: Gain in-depth knowledge of dermal layers, pigmentation processes, and common skin conditions that may impact treatment safety and results.
- Topical anesthetics and pain management: Understand the safe application and effects of numbing agents to enhance client comfort during procedures.
- Color theory and pigment selection: Develop skills in color blending, shade matching, and pigment longevity to achieve natural, long-lasting results tailored to skin tone and undertones.
- Tattoo machine operation and maintenance: Become proficient in selecting, operating, and maintaining various permanent makeup devices for optimal performance and precision.
- Needle configuration and technique: Explore the impact of different needle types and arrangements on texture, detail, and pigment placement for diverse applications.
- Aesthetic applications: Practice advanced techniques for creating natural-looking eyebrows, eyeliner, lip enhancement, lipliners, beauty marks, and corrective tattooing for scars or pigment irregularities.
- Post-procedure care and client education: Learn how to guide clients through healing phases, manage complications, and promote optimal pigment retention and skin recovery.
- Regulatory compliance and legal standards: Study state-specific licensing requirements, health codes, and ethical guidelines governing permanent cosmetic practice.
- Business development and professional practice: Acquire foundational knowledge in client relations, marketing, pricing strategies, and operational management for a sustainable career in the field.
Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing degrees, including Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance and Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 298,780 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance 39-5091 | $50,280 | $22,010 - $157,090 | 3,320 | $24.17 |
| Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists 39-5012 | $35,250 | $24,580 - $70,220 | 295,460 | $16.95 |
Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $23,470 in Louisiana to $86,130 in California—a 267% difference. The highest-paying states include California, Georgia, and District of Columbia. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 298,780 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing is found at Century College (90 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 90 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Century College |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
90 | San Juan, Puerto Rico | Private | centurycollege.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing programs
How much can I earn with a Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing degree?
Salaries for Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing graduates vary by role and location. Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance earn a median of $50,280 annually, while Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists earn around $35,250. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $86,130 compared to $23,470 in Louisiana. Approximately 298,780 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Century College (90 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 4 in 2010 to 90 in 2023-24. This represents a 2,150% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Permanent Cosmetics and Makeup Tattooing degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance, Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists, . Related occupations employ approximately 298,780 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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