You must do your research before choosing a technician!

Many Permanent Makeup artists are competent, educated and skilled. However there are still technicians practicing without sufficient education, experience or sterilization techniques. Ask about the technician's training (a two day school is not enough) and how many procedures they have done. Ask to see a portfolio of their photos and for references from previous clients. Ask to see their autoclave or sterilizer and if instruments are sterilizable or disposable.

Prices range from $100 to $1000 for a procedure, but don't just hunt for the technician with the lowest price you can find. Base your decision on their competence by asking questions that will give you a feel for their experience, personality and willingness to provide the kind of service and satisfaction you deserve.

In your search for the right technician keep the following in mind and do not be afraid to ask questions, because after all is said and done it is a PERMANENT procedure that you are going to have to live with for quite a long time.

Ask what kind and how much education the technician has had as there are some schools that send students off to practice after only 2 days of instruction.

Ask if the technician is involved with continuing his or her education on a regular basis as the industry is constantly evolving and improving it's standards.

Inquire about the technician's reputation with the Better Business Bureau and your local Health Department to see if any violations have occurred and/or if there have been customer complaints.

Ask if the technician belongs to any organizations and/or associations that revolve around the permanent makeup field. Proper support and access to pertinent, new information is essential to all Permanent Makeup Technicians.

Are the association(s)/organization(s) the technician claims membership to reputable- check them out!

As recently as a few short years ago only four states had Permanent Makeup regulations- but things have since changed. Currently, Permanent Makeup Artists in most states must follow strict sanitation and sterilization guidelines that protect the public's health and safety.

Prior to being officially recognized in Clark County (Nevada), a permanent makeup artist has to:

• Have a business license.
• Be permitted by the Health Department to perform cosmetic tattooing.
• Have a health card issued to ensure that the operator has basic sanitation knowledge pertaining to tattooing.
• Have at least 6 months of training or experience.

Ask to see all of these official documents and inspect them to make sure that they are up to date.

Check your local area's regulations as they vary in different locations.

Schedule an initial consultation and ask to see a portfolio of before and after photos as a picture is worth a thousand words.

The premises should be clean and have a dry heat sterilizer or autoclave as all instruments must be either sterilized or completely disposable- look around and follow your instincts.

Tell the technician what you want and listen to their ideas- a good operator will:

• Communicate well with you and be concerned with your safety and satisfaction.
• Spend time discussing your needs, color and shape desires and offer good suggestions.
• Have a vast understanding of color analysis and custom blending of colors.
• Know how to apply makeup in a flattering fashion.
• Explain what the procedure involves and tell you what to expect.
• Impress you with their level of knowledge about the field.

Be sure that your technician is concerned with your present state of health and any medications you are currently taking, and readily has forms on hand to record your medical history as these factors can have an effect on the outcome of your procedure and your safety.