How to Become a Cosmetic Tattoo Artist

Have an artistic flair and a passion for beauty? Being a cosmetic tattoo artist can be a super rewarding career path! Our guide steps you through how to become a cosmetic tattoo artist, sharing what you need to know to launch, and excel in, your career. 

 

What is a Cosmetic Tattoo Artist?

A cosmetic tattoo artist, also known as permanent makeup artists, uses tattooing techniques to enhance or mimic the appearance of traditional makeup. 

Cosmetic tattooing includes a range of procedures: 

• Cosmetic eyebrow tattoos
• Cosmetic eyeliner tattoos
• Cosmetic lip tattoos
• Tattoo laser removal
• Hairline micropigmentation
• Scalp micropigmentation

As you progress in your career, you might choose to specialise in a particular procedure or train in multiple techniques. 

Why become a cosmetic tattoo artist?

This exciting career path can be rewarding in so many ways:

• Expressing your artistic skills while enhancing clients' natural beauty offers a great sense of accomplishment.
• You can help clients feel more confident by enhancing their features and addressing concerns, boosting their self-esteem.
• Cosmetic tattooing offers continuous learning and growth, with new techniques and products constantly emerging.
• This career path provides the potential for entrepreneurship, allowing you to be your own boss and turn your passion into a successful business!

 

How to become a cosmetic tattoo artist

Enrol in a premier cosmetic tattoo course

The first step is to complete a reputable training program in cosmetic tattooing. 

Currently no occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to cosmetic tattoo artists in Australia. Essentially, this means there are no compulsory licences or certifications needed by law to work as a cosmetic tattoo artist.

However, to excel in cosmetic tattooing and deliver exceptional results for your clients, practical, comprehensive training under the guidance of experienced tattoo artists is essential.

 

How to choose the best cosmetic tattoo course

 

Check reviews: Do your homework and check out independent reviews from reliable sources, not just those highlighted on the course website. This will give you a more balanced perspective on the course's quality and reputation.

Evaluate modules: Assess the modules offered in the training course. Do they cover a comprehensive range of topics relevant to cosmetic tattooing, including techniques, safety, client consultation, and aftercare?

Student outcomes: Research the course's track record and the success of its graduates. Look for evidence of students achieving positive outcomes and excelling in their cosmetic tattooing careers after they’ve finished the training.

Trainer expertise: Look into the trainers' qualifications. Verify their experience in cosmetic tattooing - do they have a strong industry background to provide expert insights and guidance?

Practical component: How much hands-on practice is included in the course? Practical experience is an absolute must for developing the skills you need. The course should offer plenty of opportunity for supervised practice.

Post course support: Confirm what kind of support and guidance you’ll get from the provider after training has finished.

Join Tanya Beauty Care's Training Academy and you’ll learn the art of cosmetic tattooing from the best in Australia! With over 16 years of experience and hundreds of independent reviews, we deliver expert-led training to equip our students with skills to excel and become stand-out artists.

Gain experience and build your portfolio

Starting your career may mean working in a spa, salon, or cosmetic clinic, under the supervision of a seasoned professional. This stage is all about gaining practical experience, refining your skills, and learning the ins and outs of the business.

Meanwhile, start building a professional portfolio that showcases your best work. Take high quality, before-and-after photos of your clients (with their permission, of course). An outstanding portfolio is a powerful tool for attracting new clients or employers.

Keep learning and consider specialising 

Techniques, trends, and equipment change, and it's essential to stay updated. Keep your skills sharp and stay on top of new trends by attending workshops, seminars, or industry conferences.

You might also choose to specialise in a particular area of cosmetic tattooing, such as microblading or lip tattooing. Becoming an experienced specialist can open up new opportunities and allow you to carve out a niche for yourself in the industry.

Develop your business skills

If you’re planning to work for yourself or run your own studio someday, you need to hone your business skills. Understanding how to market yourself, manage finances and run the day-to-day administration side of a business is a must. You can also begin setting yourself up with the cosmetic tattoo supplies you need. Networking with other professionals in the beauty and tattooing industry can also be beneficial.

We hope our guide on how to become a cosmetic tattoo artist has been helpful! Have questions about Tanya Beauty Care Academy? We’d love to hear from you -  contact our team today. Good luck on your journey!