Permanent Makeup Process: Choosing the Right Candidate

Being able to distinguish good from bad candidates will save you time and money in your permanent makeup process. In order to do this, you must learn how to ask the right questions. Prior to beginning work as a permanent makeup artist, develop your own protocol for identifying clients who are not the right fit before you work on them. Some of examples of questions include:

What is the client’s health profile?

Does the client have any medical red-flags? Will they heal normally or will the procedure cause health issues?

What is the client’s emotional health?

Do they recognize this is not a “pain free” procedure? Those who continually ask how painful a treatment is or need continual reassurance may have a low-tolerance.

Do they seem compulsive? If they look at themselves in mirrors for long periods of time or who bring a variety of products to show preferred color may not ever be satisfied or follow aftercare instructions.

Do they need to be in constant control? Coming off as demanding, condescending, or sarcastic may be a red flag that this client will be difficult to work with.

Have they recently gone through life changes? Significant change may mean that this client is not ready to make good, sound decisions.

Has the client had permanent makeup done before? Why aren’t they returning to their previous technician?

Is it because of a relocation? Were they unhappy with the work? Were they looking for someone more qualified for a certain procedure?

Where does the client live?

Does the client live close enough for touch-ups or if there are any problems? This is an artist personal preference.

Is the client a good candidate for the technique requested?

Does everything match up? Is timing appropriate (are there any imminent travel plans or social obligations)?

Contraindications

• Pregnant or Nursing
• Keloid Scarring
• Bleeding Disorders
• Diabetes
• Epilepsy
• Currently on Accutane or Retin A

Do you have any vital questions you ask prospective clients? Let us know in the comments!