Ink4Girls PERMANENT MAKEUP
because only the best will do

​

Why Permanent Makeup Prices Are What They Are – And Why Mine Are Affordable

Hey there! If you’ve ever wondered why permanent makeup prices can vary so much, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into why artists charge what they charge and what sets my pricing apart—especially when it comes to the important topic of touch-ups!

The Touch-Up Factor

One major factor influencing pricing is the touch-up policy. Many artists offer a "free" or included touch-up as part of their service, and that can often inflate the base price. When you see an artist promoting super low rates, there's usually a reason—often, they’re trying to build their portfolio by doing procedures for free or at a discount while they're still learning the ropes. For example, my students often provide discounted permanent makeup services to gain experience, and that's totally normal!

But here’s the catch: once you've honed your skills and accumulated at least five years of experience, you’re able to charge a higher rate, reflecting the quality of your work and expertise.

Location Matters

Your location can significantly affect pricing too. I have a student who moved to Beverly Hills and charges between $600 to $800 for an eyebrow procedure—something that just wouldn’t fly in Las Vegas or Kingman, Arizona. Why? Because in upscale areas, overhead costs are much higher. That pretty penny she charges helps cover rent in a fancy studio, marketing expenses, and all those little costs that add up.

The Bigger Picture of Pricing

When determining prices, we also think about how long each procedure takes and the average amount we want to make per hour. Consider this: most of us provide free consultations! That time is factored into what we charge for services. Then, of course, there’s all the necessary business admin stuff—web hosting, design, marketing materials, business cards, and advertising. All of this contributes to our overall pricing structure.

And don’t forget about supplies! We invest in high-quality products, machines, pigments, anesthetics, and even aftercare instructions. Plus, insurance! Even though there might not be any licensing requirements in some areas, I still carry insurance, especially since I also work in Las Vegas. That monthly cost gets rolled into what I charge.

Changing the Game on Touch-Ups

Now, here's something that may not have crossed your mind: the inclusion of a "free" touch-up can really change how pricing is perceived. For a long time, I included touch-ups in my services, thinking it added value. But I quickly realized this could cause problems down the line. Many of my clients genuinely didn’t need a second application after their initial visit, especially if I did my job well!

But new artists tend to need follow-up touch-ups since they’re still perfecting their technique. However, when a seasoned artist nails it the first time, touch-ups shouldn't be necessary. Still, charging for those extra services can lead to confusion and frustration for clients who don’t understand why they can’t redeem their "free" touch-up a year later. I mean, who wants that kind of hassle?

If a client feels they don’t need a touch-up, I’ve ended up wasting both our time and resources. So, I made a decision: ditch the included touch-up. Instead, I adjusted my pricing to reflect this shift, lowering initial application charges. Now, if clients want a touch-up within the first four to six weeks, they can get it at a significantly reduced rate.

Making Permanent Makeup Accessible

Ultimately, I want to make permanent makeup accessible to everyone. Is it a luxury? Sure, it can be. But it doesn’t have to be! I genuinely want a diverse range of clients—people from all walks of life—to experience what I offer.

From an ethical standpoint, overcharging clients—or charging them for services they likely won’t need—isn’t part of my business philosophy. I believe in offering fair prices and ensuring that clients feel valued. It’s all about building trust and rapport, and I want my clients to tell their friends about their positive experiences!

So, to wrap it up: prices in permanent makeup reflect several factors, including experience, service location, overhead costs, and the value we aim to provide. And while some things in our industry might be standard, I strive to offer reasonable prices without compromising quality. Thanks for tuning in, and I can’t wait to help you achieve the look you desire!

​