What It Takes to Become a Permanent Makeup Artist: MA permanent makeup training
- Brooke Konecny
- Jan 11
- 2 min read
Becoming a permanent makeup artist in Massachusetts isn’t just about taking a class. Permits and licensing in this state are handled at the local Board of Health level — meaning requirements vary by town or city.
No mater where you plan to practivce in MA, there are core steps most aspiring artists must follow to train, get licensed, and work legally.
1. Meet the Basics
Be 18 or older with a valid ID.
Complete Bloodborne Pathogen raining (infection prevention).
Have CPR & Basic First-Aid Certification.
Provide health documentation if required (like a letter from your primary care provider).
Most towns also require Hepatitis B vaccination or proof you’re free from communicable disease.
2. Complete Accredited Permanent Makeup Training
Massachusetts generally follows the Model Body Art Regulations, which set baseline standards for training, safety, and licensing.
This typically means:
A 100-Hour AAM accredited Fundamentals Course covering permanent makeup training basics.
Critical topics include sanitation, skin anatomy, color theory, and hands-on technique.
3. Apprentice
Most towns require you to complete a body art apprenticeship under a licensed artist. The structure varies widely, but often includes:
Observation hours (usually 30 hours)
Supervised procedures (100-200 hours with 25-50 completed procedures)
Pure Skin Academy works closely with the Maynard Board of Health and we will facilitate your apprentice license application.
4. Apply for Your Practitioner License
Once your training and apprenticeship are done, you submit your application to the local Board of Health. Typically this includes:
Proof of AAM Accredited 100 Hour Fundamentals Certification
Proof of apprenticeship or supervised hours
Certificates (CPR, Bloodborne Pathogens)
Application forms and fees (amount varies by town).
Your license lets you practice permanent makeup, microblading, cosmetic tattooing, and related body art within that town or city.
How Pure Skin Academy Helps You Get Licensed
Training alone doesn’t get you licensed — you need the right education, hands-on hours, certifications, and support to meet local requirements. Pure Skin Academy is designed to get you there without guesswork.
Here’s how we help:
Structured training that checks licensing boxes. We base our curriculum on nationally accredited standards and what local Boards of Health look for.
Flexible scheduling so you complete your training and clinical hours at your pace.
Supervised clinic days with real models — essential for apprenticeship requirements and confidence building.
All needed supplies and student insurance included so you can focus on skill.
Hands-on support with local licensing. We help you understand exactly what your town requires and how to submit paperwork.
On-going business support and mentorship. No matter when your training ends, you can reach out to Pure Skin Academy at any time for anything.
Pure Skin Academy doesn’t lock you into a long financial contract. You pay as you go and finish at a pace that fits your life.
Start your journey today
Starting something new comes with questions. Our free info session gives you space to ask them — no pressure, no commitment — just clear guidance on becoming a permanent makeup artist in Massachusetts.
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