What Does “Master Permanent Makeup Artist” Really Mean in Arizona?

If you’ve been searching for the best permanent makeup in Kingman, Arizona or Mohave County, you’ve likely come across a wide range of titles—certified, advanced, and of course, the ever-popular master permanent makeup artist. It sounds impressive… but what does it actually mean?

Let’s gently pull back the curtain (with a little humor, because honestly—it’s needed).

The Truth About “Master” Titles

In , there is currently no official regulatory board or governing agency overseeing permanent makeup. That means titles like master permanent makeup artist are not standardized, regulated, or verified by any state authority.

In other words… anyone can call themselves a master. Yes—even someone who just finished a weekend class and has five procedures under their belt. Confidence is wonderful, but experience matters just a bit more.

The term “master” is largely a marketing phrase, often used to imply years of expertise, advanced skill, and a high level of artistry. While that can be true, it’s not guaranteed.

So What Is Legitimate?

There is one credential in the industry that carries real weight and is fully verifiable: board certification through the (SPCP).

When you see CPCP after an artist’s name, it means:

• They passed a proctored board exam

• They completed verified training hours

• They demonstrated real industry experience

• They earned professional status, not just a participation certificate

Even better? You can verify this credential through the SPCP member directory. No guesswork required.

The Rise of the “Instant Master”

Here’s where things get… interesting.

With the explosion of online education, many courses now offer “masterclasses” that last anywhere from a few hours to a single day. Some are entirely online. At the end? A shiny certificate declaring you a master permanent makeup artist.

So hypothetically (and this happens more than you’d think):

• 2 days learning PMU

• 1 day “masterclass”

• Voilà—you’re a “master”

Three days in, and suddenly we’re all experts. If only mastering anything in life were that efficient.

What Actually Defines a Master?

Within the pmu professional community, a true master permanent makeup artist is generally someone who has:

• 5+ years of hands-on experience

• A large, consistent portfolio of healed results

• Expertise in corrections and advanced techniques

• Experience in teaching or mentoring others

Personally, I didn’t feel comfortable using the term “master” until I had over a decade of experience, hundreds of documented procedures, and a strong foundation in corrective work and education.

Why This Matters in Kingman & Mohave County

For clients searching for the best permanent makeup in Kingman, Arizona or Mohave County, understanding these distinctions is essential.

Because without regulation, the responsibility falls on you to vet your artist. There is no licensing for permanent makeup.

In Arizona, you can typically be confident that your aesthetician or nail technician went to school, knows basic sanitation and adheres to hygienic requirements when you see their license posted at their place of buisness. You can file a complaint with State Board if they have harmed you or you feel they are not adhering to proper hygienic practices. Their license can be verified. This is not the case for permanent makeup. Anyone can call themselves a permanent makeup artist or a master artist with little or no experience and with little or no training.

Instead of focusing on titles, look for:

• Verified credentials (like SPCP / CPCP)

• A strong, healed portfolio

• سنوات of experience (not days)

• Clean, professional workspace standards

• Transparency and education during consultation

A Final Thought (With Love)

The beauty industry is full of incredibly talented, dedicated professionals—and also a fair share of enthusiastic beginners with great marketing.

There’s nothing wrong with being new. Everyone starts somewhere. But there is something wrong with misrepresenting experience—especially in a field that involves your face, your health, and permanent results.

So when choosing the best permanent makeup artist in Kingman, Arizona or Mohave County, don’t be dazzled by the word master.

Look for substance over sparkle. Credentials over claims. Experience over enthusiasm.

Your face deserves nothing less.

Find qualified permanent makeup artists and verify credentials with the SPCP. SPCP MEMBER DIRECTORY