How to choose the most skilled semipermanent makeup artist near you?

To choose the most skilled semi-permanent makeup (SPMU) artist near you, focus on their credentials, experience, portfolio, and how they handle client consultations. Since SPMU is an invasive procedure, quality and safety are paramount. 

Research credentials and experience

• Check licensing and insurance. Ensure the artist and the salon have proper licensing from the local council or health department. They should also carry liability and treatment insurance. The Forest & Sea Beauty has all licences and certificates up to date and ready to proudly show to our clients!

• Ask about training and certifications. SPMU training varies widely, so ask about the artist's specific courses, mentors, and whether they've pursued advanced training beyond the basic level. Each council has different requirements for credential levels. Everywhere in London must be minimum a Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VCTV) level 4 in micropigmentation, but here in Hampshire the council requires only VTCT level 3, which is the basic one and it’s easier to pass the exams. Also look where the SPMU artist trained, is it a well known brand on the market or not? Michaela Doughty has trained with famous brand names like Karen Betts training academy in London https://nouveaubeauty.com and at the Clinical academy in Portsmouth under Naomi O'Hara

  
  

• Evaluate relevant experience. The number of years an artist has been practicing is important, but a better indicator is how many procedures they perform weekly. Look for an artist who does SPMU as their primary service, not as an occasional add-on. 

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  Forest and Sea PMU Beauty salon, Brockenhurst , Hampshire, UK

Scrutinise their portfolio

• Review their photos. The appearance of SPMU changes as it heals and settles into the skin. A skilled artist will prominently display healed work in their portfolio to show the final, long-term result.

• Assess different styles and complexions. A top-tier artist can create a range of looks—from soft and natural to more defined—and adapt to different skin tones, types and face shapes. Look for a portfolio that showcases variety, rather than a single, "cookie-cutter" style.

  
  

• Identify authenticity. Be wary of heavily edited or stock photos. Search their social media to see real, unedited photos posted by clients, and ask to see a broader range of work during your consultation. 

  

  

  

Focus on consultation and hygiene

• Book an in-person consultation. This is your best opportunity to vet the artist and make a final decision. During this meeting, a professional artist should:

  • Listen to your needs and provide honest feedback on whether your expectations are realistic.

  • Draw and perfect a template of the final design on your face before beginning.

  • Perform a mandatory patch test to check for potential allergic reactions.

  • Explain aftercare and healing steps.

• Inspect the studio's cleanliness. A reputable salon will have a spotless, sterile environment, use single-use needles, and follow all health and safety regulations. If the artist offers a mobile service at your home, this is a red flag, as a sterile environment cannot be guaranteed and the UK law doesn’t allow semipermanent tattoo treatments to be performed at clients home!

  
  

• Discuss the process in detail. If not explained by the artist straightaway, ask about the specific techniques they use, the pigments they choose for your skin tone, and their aftercare process. A knowledgeable artist will be transparent and thorough in their explanations. 

  
  
  
  

Consider cost and reputation

• Be cautious of low prices. High-quality SPMU is a specialized service, and a low price can indicate a lack of experience, poor training, hygiene or cheap materials. Focus on the value of the artist's expertise rather than getting a "bargain"!

  
  

• Read reviews and testimonials. Look for consistent positive reviews on multiple platforms like Google, Yelp, and social media. Pay attention to what past clients say about their experience, including the artist's communication, professionalism, and results.

  
  

https://forestandsea.simplybook.it/v2/#reviews

• Trust your instincts. If you feel rushed, pressured, or uncomfortable at any point, consider another artist. Your confidence in your technician is crucial for a successful outcome.