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In recent years, permanent makeup has become one of the hottest segments in both the traditional beauty supply and body modification industries. That means there’s no better time to add it to your service offerings, and PainfulPleasures has all the permanent makeup supplies you need to get started.

Permanent Makeup Basics

What is Permanent Makeup

Permanent makeup refers to various types of cosmetic tattooing that deposit specialized permanent makeup pigments into the epidermis, the uppermost layer of skin. Permanent makeup pigments are made of smaller, lighter particles than normal tattoo inks, and they are less concentrated in the carrier solution, giving them a softer, more natural appearance. For that reason, and because the pigments are deposited into only the uppermost layer of skin, permanent makeup will gradually fade and need to be touched up. Depending on the specific permanent makeup procedure, as well as the customer’s care routine and lifestyle, most of today’s permanent makeup will last 1 - 3 years before needing a touch-up.


Permanent makeup is typically applied using a permanent makeup machine, which is essentially a specialized pen-style rotary tattoo machine. Just like normal tattoo needles, permanent makeup needles come in a variety of styles and groupings to help artists achieve the perfect look and texture for their clients.

What’s the Difference Between Permanent Makeup and Cosmetic Tattoo?

The terms “permanent makeup” and “cosmetic tattoo” are often used interchangeably. While there is plenty of overlap between the two, some cosmetic tattoos don’t fall under the permanent makeup category. For example, scalp micropigmentation, stretch mark camouflage, and areola/nipple tattooing are all cosmetic tattooing procedures but aren’t considered permanent makeup.

Is Microblading Permanent Makeup?

Yes, microblading falls under the category of permanent makeup. Instead of using a PMU tattoo machine, permanent makeup artists use the small blades on a microblading stylus to deposit pigment into the epidermis in hair-like strokes.

Types of Permanent Makeup Procedures

Many of the most well-known permanent makeup procedures aim to enhance the eyes and brows, but there are more permanent makeup options available.

Microblading & Powder/ Ombre Brows

Permanent makeup eyebrows generally rely on either the powder/ ombre technique, which uses a permanent makeup machine, or the microblading technique, in which ink is applied using a specialized hand tool called a stylus. Both techniques can create fuller, bolder eyebrows, but microblading allows for extremely fine, precise strokes that closely mimic the appearance of real hair, making it one of the most popular permanent makeup procedures out there.

Permanent Eyeliner

Permanent makeup eyeliner is achieved by applying pigment with a permanent tattoo machine between and/or above the eyelashes to darken and enhance the lash line for a clean and bold look.

Lip Blushing

Lip blushing adds color and definition to the lips. Clients can opt for a natural hint of color or a bolder, more “lipstick-like” look.

Scalp Micropigmentation

Scalp micropigmentation applies ink to the scalp to mimic the appearance of hair follicles.

Nipple/ Areola Tattooing

Nipple and areola tattooing is a highly-specialized area of cosmetic tattooing that aims to recreate the appearance of a nipple, usually for those who have lost all or part of their nipple due to breast cancer surgeries.

Strech Mark Camouflage

This procedure masks the appearance of stretch marks by tattooing them with pigments that blend in with the rest of the client’s skin.

Cosmetic Tattoo & Permanent Makeup Supplies

Permanent Cosmetic Tattoo Machines

Every PMU artist needs a great PMU machine. PainfulPleasures carries industry-leading permanent makeup machines from brands like Microbeau, Peak, Sapphire, and Cheyenne.

Permanent Makeup Tools

Along with a great PMU machine, you’ll need quality permanent makeup pigments and permanent makeup needles to serve your clients.


We also offer permanent makeup accessories including permanent makeup aftercare supplies, topical anesthetics, practice skins, machine power supplies, and educational resources like The Permanent Makeup Manual to help those who are just getting started.

Permanent Makeup Pigments & Kits

Permanent makeup and cosmetic tattoo kits are a convenient, cost-effective way to build your stock of cosmetic tattoo supplies, especially if you’re just starting out. You can also find essentials like PMU pigments for nearly any procedure.


Whether you’re an experienced permanent makeup technician or just learning the ropes, PainfulPleasures carries all the must-have permanent makeup supplies you need at the best prices you can find online.