Let’s Have a Real Conversation About Permanent Makeup

radiantinkbeauty
Jun 20
3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

The beauty of permanent makeup (PMU) is that it has changed so many lives. It has given me purpose, creative freedom, and the ability to build a thriving business doing what I love. However, if you’ve been feeling like things are “slow,” or if clients are harder to come by, you’re not alone. Many artists are experiencing similar feelings.

Here’s the truth: yes, things have shifted. The PMU industry is more saturated than it was five years ago. Rising living costs and tighter budgets have made clients more selective than ever. This shift has made it harder for some artists to fill their books—especially for those who are just starting out and haven’t built a strong referral base or brand.

Why PMU Is Still a Smart Career Choice (If You Do It Right)

1. Beauty Services Are Here to Stay

Beauty services aren’t going anywhere. In fact, more people are prioritizing services with long-term value. PMU saves clients time every single day.

2. Quality Matters

Clients are still willing to pay for quality. Even in slower seasons, they will invest when they trust the artist. Building trust starts with your skills and strong brand presence.

3. Expanding Options

There are more service options than ever. From nano brows to saline removal, fibroblast treatments to tiny tattoos, the industry is evolving. Artists who expand their skills can thrive by offering more than just brows.

4. Build Your Clientele Gradually

You don’t have to go all in right away. Many of my students work a part-time job while building their PMU clientele. This approach is strategic and allows for growth. I began by only taking clients on Saturdays for six months until I felt ready to quit my 9-to-5 job and open my studio, Beach City Brows.

🌱 Shift Your Perspective (and Grow Faster)

If you’re feeling discouraged, it might be time to change your mindset. Instead of asking, “Is it too hard?” consider, “What’s one small move I can make this week?” Here are some ideas to get started:

Reach out to five people with a referral promo.
Practice on latex every morning for at least 10 minutes.
Share a behind-the-scenes video. People love these!
Post a healed client testimonial.
DM someone who liked your work and offer a touch-up promo.

Remember: this is a relationship business. You don’t need 10,000 followers to be fully booked—you just need the right people to see your value.

🛡️ You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Learning PMU is just the beginning. That’s why I created the Safety Net Program. It offers support after class, which is vital for success. The program includes:

Two months of free chair rental.
Help with your early clients.
Lifetime guidance.
Business coaching.

I’m here for you during the ups and downs, not just during training.

💬 Final Thought: What’s the Real Payoff?

So, is all this work worth it? The answer is a resounding yes. Once you build your confidence and consistency, taking just one PMU client can earn you anywhere from $300 to $900+ per session. Even at the lower end, that's more than many earn working full days in retail or stressful office jobs.

The best part? You’re engaging in something creative, artistic, and meaningful. Helping clients feel more confident while building something of your own is incredibly rewarding.

Yes, it takes commitment. You’ll need to invest time into:

Practicing your craft.
Buying your own supplies.
Marketing your services.
Managing your schedule and clients.

But in return, you gain:

🌟 Freedom.

🌟 Flexibility.

🌟 The opportunity to be your own boss.

You can set your own hours, take vacations when you want, and scale your business at your own pace. The income potential can far exceed that of a traditional 9-to-5 job.

If you’re facing doubt right now, hold on. You’re not behind, and you’re definitely not alone. This career is still packed with opportunities, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way. 💖