The BAQA Permanent Makeup Standards unify various regional regulations and best practices into a single comprehensive guide for cosmetic tattooing procedures, including microblading, lip blush, eyeliner, and other forms of semi-permanent or permanent makeup. By adhering to these standards, practitioners ensure safety, consistency, and high-quality results for clients across the globe.
1. Introduction & Scope
Permanent Makeup (PMU), also known as cosmetic tattooing or micropigmentation, enhances or simulates natural features such as eyebrows, eyeliner, and lips. BAQA’s PMU Standards emphasize:
- Health & Safety Protocols: Clear guidelines for sanitization, sterilization, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Technical Proficiency & Equipment: Best practices for machine methods, microblading, pigment selection, and color theory.
- Ethical & Professional Conduct: Proper client communication, consent, and post-procedure support.
These standards serve as a benchmark for BAQA-accredited practitioners, studios, training centers, and anyone aiming to meet globally recognized levels of excellence in PMU.
2. Health & Safety Protocols
2.1 Sterilization & Disinfection
- Equipment & Tools: Use sterilized, single-use needle cartridges or microblading blades for every client. Autoclave or medical-grade sterilization is required for any reusable instruments.
- Surface Disinfection: Thoroughly clean and disinfect workstation surfaces, treatment beds, and trays with approved, hospital-grade solutions before and after each procedure.
- Disposable Items: Employ single-use barriers, covers, and pigment cups to minimize cross-contamination.
2.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Gloves: Wear single-use, medical-grade gloves during all PMU procedures. Change gloves if they become compromised or you leave the sterile field.
- Masks & Protective Eyewear: Wear appropriate face masks and, where necessary, protective eyewear to safeguard both practitioner and client from fluid splatter.
- Client Protection: Provide disposable drapes, headbands, or coverings to maintain cleanliness and client comfort.
2.3 Cross-Contamination Prevention
- Hand Hygiene: Wash and sanitize hands thoroughly before donning gloves and immediately after glove removal.
- Sharp Disposal: Discard used needles and blades into approved sharps containers in compliance with local biomedical waste regulations.
- Work Area Isolation: Keep the treatment area free of unnecessary items and ensure a distinct separation between clean and used instruments.
3. Equipment & Materials
3.1 PMU Machines & Microblading Tools
- Machine Calibration & Maintenance: Machines should be calibrated regularly for consistent needle depth and speed. Clean and maintain all parts as per manufacturer guidelines.
- Microblading Pens: Use high-quality, single-use microblading pen tips and blades, and dispose of them properly after each session.
3.2 Pigment Selection & Color Theory
- Regulated Pigments: Only utilize pigments that comply with regional or international safety standards, ensuring they are sterile and labeled for PMU use.
- Color Matching & Customization: Master basic color theory to adapt pigment blends for different skin types and undertones. Provide realistic expectations on color outcome and longevity.
- Patch Tests (If Required): Conduct patch tests for clients who report sensitive skin or allergies to confirm pigment compatibility.
3.3 Quality Assurance
- Product Expiration & Storage: Check expiry dates on pigments, numbing creams, and other consumables. Store products in controlled conditions (e.g., away from direct sunlight, moisture).
- Traceability: Maintain records of batch numbers, pigment brands, and lot codes used for each client to facilitate product recalls or investigate adverse reactions.
4. Technique & Application
4.1 Procedure Preparation
- Skin Analysis: Evaluate the client’s skin type, existing brow shape, lip color, or lash line to design a suitable treatment plan.
- Design & Mapping: Use professional measuring tools or pre-draw techniques to outline the shape, ensuring symmetry and alignment. Confirm design approval with the client before proceeding.
4.2 Application Methods
- Microblading (Brows): Manually create hair-like strokes with a handheld tool. Control depth and pressure to avoid excessive trauma.
- Machine Techniques: Employ rotary or digital machines for lip blush, eyeliner, or shaded eyebrow effects, adjusting needle depth based on the client’s skin thickness and sensitivity.
- Layering & Blending: Build color gradually, allowing for precision and a more natural outcome. Avoid overworking any area to reduce trauma.
4.3 Pain Management
- Topical Anesthetics: Use only approved numbing creams or gels, ensuring compliance with local regulations. Apply them carefully to minimize discomfort while maintaining a safe, hygienic environment.
- Client Comfort: Encourage breath control or relaxation techniques; keep the client informed throughout the procedure to alleviate anxiety.
5. Client Consultation & Consent
5.1 Pre-Procedure Consultation
- Health Screening: Assess medical history (e.g., skin conditions, allergies, medications) to identify contraindications (e.g., Accutane use, active skin infections).
- Expectations & Outcomes: Discuss desired results, potential risks, and the variability of pigment retention due to lifestyle, skincare routines, or skin physiology.
- Design & Color Selection: Collaborate with clients on shape, color, and style to ensure alignment with their preferences and natural features.
5.2 Consent Forms
- Informed Consent: Provide a detailed form covering the procedure steps, possible side effects, healing process, and aftercare responsibilities.
- Legal Compliance: Verify client age and follow relevant local regulations regarding parental or guardian consent where applicable.
- Data Privacy: Handle personal data securely, complying with applicable data protection and privacy laws.
6. Aftercare & Follow-Up
6.1 Immediate Aftercare
- Wound Protection: Gently clean the treated area and apply a breathable barrier film or ointment to protect against contaminants.
- Written Instructions: Provide clear, written guidance on cleaning, moisturizing, and avoiding certain activities (e.g., swimming, sun exposure).
- Product Recommendations: Suggest reputable aftercare products and advise against using harsh skincare items that might affect pigment retention.
6.2 Healing Phases & Touch-Ups
- Healing Timeline: Inform clients of normal healing stages (e.g., mild swelling, flaking, color shifts) and approximate durations.
- Possible Complications: Educate clients on signs of infection or allergic reactions, instructing them to seek professional help if needed.
- Touch-Up Sessions: Recommend follow-up visits (typically 4–6 weeks post-procedure) to refine color, shape, or density as necessary.
7. Ethical & Professional Conduct
7.1 Client Respect & Confidentiality
- Professional Setting: Provide a private and comfortable environment, especially for sensitive or intimate procedures.
- Transparent Communication: Clearly explain pricing, potential risks, and realistic outcomes without making exaggerated promises.
- Client Dignity: Uphold ethical guidelines when dealing with sensitive requests or client insecurities related to appearance.
7.2 Practitioner Development
- Ongoing Education: Encourage PMU practitioners to stay informed on advancements in technology, pigments, and techniques through BAQA-accredited courses and workshops.
- Industry Collaboration: Share expertise and best practices within the PMU community to elevate overall standards and client satisfaction.
- Mentorship Programs: Support apprenticeships and mentorship networks that pass along consistent, high-level skills and safe practices.
8. Compliance & Audits
BAQA-registered PMU artists and studios may undergo periodic evaluations:
- Documentation: Maintain comprehensive records of client health forms, pigment batches, sterilization logs, and procedure details.
- Spot Checks: Prepare for potential audits or inspections by local authorities or BAQA representatives to ensure consistent adherence to these standards.
- Non-Compliance Consequences: Failure to meet BAQA requirements can result in warnings, accreditation revocation, or other corrective measures.
9. Regular Updates & Continuous Improvement
Permanent Makeup techniques, equipment, and research evolve rapidly. BAQA updates its PMU Standards accordingly, and accredited members are encouraged to stay current by participating in ongoing education, peer collaboration, and professional forums.
Conclusion
By committing to BAQA’s Permanent Makeup Standards, practitioners demonstrate a dedication to safe, precise, and ethically responsible cosmetic tattooing. These guidelines foster client trust and elevate the PMU industry worldwide, ensuring consistent quality and best-in-class results for everyone involved.
“From perfect brows to subtle lip enhancements, PMU done right delivers confidence and beauty that lasts.”
— BAQA Standards Committee