Permanent Makeup Artist study plan

Label the layers of the skin (epidermis, dermis, hypodermis) and describe the depth and healing timeline of a permanent makeup implant.

Explain the four stages of wound healing (hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, remodeling) and what each means for pigment retention.

List the chain-of-infection steps and identify where each step is broken or maintained in a typical PMU procedure.

Differentiate cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization, and give one PMU example of when each is required.

Identify the key OSHA bloodborne-pathogen requirements (exposure control plan, HBV vaccination offer, PPE, sharps handling) that apply to a PMU studio.

Describe how skin type (Fitzpatrick I–VI), age, and body location affect pigment uptake and healing.

Explain the difference between epidermal and dermal pigment placement and the risk of migration or blurring when placed too deep.

Outline standard and transmission-based precautions and apply them to a client with a cold sore or a recent tattoo.

Demonstrate correct donning and doffing order for gloves and other PPE, and describe safe handling of contaminated needles and pigment cups.

Identify common healing complications (scabbing, patchy retention, infection) and the infection-control response for each.

Build a consultation script that covers medical history, medications, allergies, pregnancy, and prior cosmetic work.

List absolute and relative contraindications and justify each with a physiological reason.

Draft an informed-consent document that names risks, alternatives, aftercare obligations, and the client's right to stop the procedure.

Explain scope of practice: what a PMU artist may and may not do (e.g., diagnosis, prescribing, injecting anesthesia).

Describe record-keeping and privacy obligations (consent forms, photos, client health information) and how long to retain records.

Explain undertone (warm, cool, neutral) and how it changes pigment selection for brows, lips, and eyeliner.

Describe the color wheel and how to correct or neutralize unwanted undertones (e.g., blue-black brows, orange lips) without overcorrecting.

Identify the risks of pigment mixing, lightening, and over-saturation, and state when to choose a conservative formulation.

Map the brow: measure the brow body, arch, and tail using facial proportions, and explain how to adjust for asymmetry.

Compare hair-stroke, powder, and combination techniques and select the appropriate technique for a given client.

Describe needle angle, depth, and pass patterns for safe brow work and how to avoid trauma and scarring.

Outline the eyeliner procedure: eye anatomy, safe working distance from the lash line, and risks near the eye.

Describe lip anatomy, the vermilion border, and how to design lip liner versus full-lip shading.

Explain the risks and contraindications specific to eyeliner (e.g., eye infections, dry eye, contact lenses) and lip procedures (e.g., cold sores, filler).

Compare pigment and technique choices for eyeliner and lips, including how lip undertone affects healed color.

Describe how to manage a cold sore outbreak risk and when to postpone a lip procedure.

Identify the parts of a PMU device and needle cartridge and explain how to inspect them for damage before use.

Describe safe needle handling, disposal, and the difference between single-use and reusable components.

Explain machine settings (speed, stroke, voltage) and how they affect needle depth and skin trauma.

List topical anesthetics commonly used in PMU, their legal status in your jurisdiction, and the maximum safe application area.

Describe the signs of an adverse reaction (allergic reaction, infection, excessive swelling) and the immediate response, including when to refer to a physician.

Write a day-by-day aftercare schedule for brows, eyeliner, and lips, including cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.

Explain normal healing versus warning signs and when a client should contact the artist or a doctor.

Design a follow-up plan: when to schedule the touch-up, what to assess, and how to document healing.

Describe how to manage a client who is unhappy with healed results, including correction options and limits.

Identify when a complication requires stopping aftercare advice and referring out.

Summarize the legal requirements for PMU practice in your area: licensing, studio permits, and advertising rules.

Explain professional ethics around informed consent, photography, pricing, and refusing service.

Describe how to handle a client complaint or a request outside your scope of practice.

Review the full consultation and consent process and identify gaps in your own paperwork.

Create a personal scope-of-practice statement and a referral list for medical issues.