FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Permanent Makeup?
Permanent Makeup, also known as "cosmetic tattooing" and "micropigmentation", is a cosmetic technique that replicates the look of traditional makeup. This is done by inserting colored pigments into the superficial layers of the skin to enhance focal features or camouflage imperfections. Permanent cosmetic tattooing can be preformed on all parts of the face and body, and is one of the fastest growing industries of health and beauty.
What does a Permanent Makeup Artist do?
A permanent makeup artist provides services which enhance an individual's general aesthetic lasting over a prolonged period of time. Permanent makeup services can benefit all types of people. Individuals who suffer from the following are great candidates for permanent makeup services:
Trichotillomania
Alopecia
Parkinson's disease
Tremors
Rheumatoid arthritis
Effects of chemotherapy and cancer related treatments
Naturally occurring hair loss
Asymmetrical imbalances
Visual impairments
Cosmetic tattooing is not limited to the candidates listed above. As a permanent makeup artist, you will encounter individuals who simply have difficulty applying traditional makeup and want you to improve their overall appearance.
What is the earning potential for a career in permanent makeup?
According to ZipRecruiter, the national average salary for a permanent makeup artist in the United States is $55,093 a year. "While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $120,000 and as low as $15,500, the majority of Permanent Makeup Artist salaries currently range between $31,000 (25th percentile) to $57,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $71,500 annually across the United States. The average pay range for a Permanent Makeup Artist varies greatly (by as much as $26,500), which suggests there may be many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location and years of experience."
What is the Permanent Makeup School of Virginia?
The Permanent Makeup School of Virginia, also Doing Business As PMUSchoolVA or PMUS, is a team of educators brought to you by The Makeup School by Sarah Rillon. The PMU School VA offers permanent makeup licensure courses and various certification workshops within the field of beauty.
Is the PMU School VA State Board approved?
The Permanent Makeup School of Virginia has acquired the proper permits through the Health Department and the City of Virginia Beach to teach and perform permanent makeup. The PMU School VA is also State Board recognized and approved as an educational facility where students can obtain their "Permanent Cosmetic Tattooer" licensure through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).
What is the difference between a licensure course and a certification course?
Many instructors and teaching institutions offer certification courses which claim you will be able to legally perform permanent makeup services after attending their courses. But depending on the state, city and county, the laws and regulations vary. In the state of Virginia, you must have a "Permanent Cosmetic Tattooer" license to legally perform permanent makeup services. We do encourage completing certification courses (which we also offer) to expand your knowledge and skillset in specialty areas, but these courses will not allow you to legally practice permanent makeup in Virginia.
What areas are you licensed to tattoo with a permanent cosmetic tattooer license?
Eyebrows, eyeliner and lips. All other areas and types, including body art tattoos require a “tattoo” license which is different than a permanent cosmetic tattoo license.
What areas are you licensed to tattoo with a master permanent cosmetic tattooer license?
Eyeshadow, cheeks/blush, face/contour, scalp micropigmentation (SMP), areola nipple repigmentation, stretch mark and scar camouflaging.
Does the PMU School VA offer financial assistance options? What payment options are available?
Yes, the PMU School VA offers interest free in-house payment plans, as well as financing options through our merchant partners Affirm and ShopPay . If you choose to utilize our Affirm option, financing is subject to credit approval. Other payment alternatives include special rates such as pay-in-full and installment plan discounted pricing.
How much is tuition at the PMU School VA?
Please click the button below and scroll down to the bottom of the page to read more about pricing. Tuition varies by course. If any special rates are available at the time, they will be listed under the Special Rates category.
How far in advance does tuition need to be paid?
Full tuition balance is due by the last day of class instruction. In order for your hours to be reported to take the State Board licensure exam, there must be no remaining balance on your student account.
What is the refund policy?
Due to our school policy and Terms of Enrollment, all tuition payments are non-refundable.
What course scheduling options are accommodated?
We offer courses both part-time and full-time; with availability during the day, as well as the evening. At the moment, weekend courses cannot be accommodated.
What is the average class size at the PMU School VA?
Class sizes vary depending on the course. A minimum of 2 students is required for a course to commence. If the class minimum is not met at least 2 weeks prior to your class start date, you may be required to transfer your enrollment to a future course date that has met the minimum requirement.
How long does it take to complete a course?
Course length depends on what course you enroll in, as well as whether you choose a part-time or full-time option. Currently, licensure courses totaling over 200 hours can be completed between 8 and 16 weeks.
Is a High School diploma required to enroll?
Yes, you must have a High School diploma or a GED. Proof of this documentation is required.
Are there any course requirements prior to starting class?
Although there are no course requirements prior to starting class, you must obtain your Bloodborne Pathogens and CPR/First Aid certifications during your course, and at your own expense. These certifications must be obtained from our list of approved vendors and are required before you can proceed with our practical training during your course. Vendor referral discounts may be available.
How do I get more information about enrollment in a particular course or workshop?
Please click the “Enroll Now” button below, then proceed by selecting your preferred class with the instructor of your choice to get more information. To proceed with enrollment, continue to follow the prompts on the page.
Are there any hands-on trainings during the courses?
Yes, our practical training includes working on simulated models with latex skin, as well as real live models.
Please be advised, online courses will not allow time for students to complete their own personal live models during practical training. Live models will be shared amongst all students to be worked on collectively. Only "in person" courses with full classroom instruction for both theory and practical training allow for students to complete their own personal live model.
Is it possible to complete a licensure course completely online?
We are only offering the theory portion of our permanent makeup courses online. Practical training has to be done in person as mandated by the State. Both theory and practical training hours are required to apply for licensure in Virginia.
When can the State Board examination be taken?
Upon graduation of your course, the PMU School VA will submit your completed hours to DPOR. You will then create an account with the examination company, (currently PSI), and they will direct you on what is needed to take the licensure exam. The examination fee is currently $86, which is non-refundable and non-transferable and is valid for 1 year after date of payment. This fee must be paid at the student’s expense.
Does the PMU School provide a full working kit for students?
The PMU School VA provides a comprehensive starter kit for all students which includes a tattoo machine, blades, needles, pigments and disposable supplies from many of the top professional brands in the market.
Does PMU School VA provide equipment such as a computer or another electronic device for online courses?
PMUSchoolVA does not provide any electronic equipment. All students must have access to a personal or public computer/electronic device.
Does the PMU School VA offer employment opportunities after the completion of the course?
Yes, we do offer employment opportunities after successful licensure exam completion. We also offer flexible internships to students immediately after graduation. We are always looking to expand our teams of permanent makeup artists at The Makeup School by Sarah Rillon / Permanent Makeup Studio VA. Please inquire directly.
Does the PMU School VA offer tours of the facility?
Potential students are more than welcome to schedule a tour and an admissions consultation. Please email info@pmuschoolva.com for more information.