Performed by skin care specialists, tattoo artists, nurses and even physicians, permanent cosmetics is a specialty that falls under cosmetology and esthetics. Unlike removable eyeliner or lipstick, permanent makeup is injected under the skin for long-term effect. Permanent makeup artists work on individuals who wish to enhance their personal appearance, but their clients also include patients scarred from injuries or recovering from medical procedures. The average salary for permanent makeup artists was $51,000 according to a July 2011 SimplyHired.com report.

Function and Average Salary

Permanent makeup artists are paid to administer procedures that mimic facial features such as eyebrows, or apply color to clients’ lips and eye area. They use recoloration and camouflaging techniques to cover up hyperpigmentation, scars and birth marks. Permanent makeup artists also lengthen eyelashes, and simulate scalp hair for people suffering from baldness. These professionals also receive training to use skin needling, scar relaxation and corrective pigment procedures to safely inject color pigments into clients’ skin.

Salary Range

While some permanent makeup artists make annual salaries, other charge clients by the hour. In July 2011, Spa Beauty & Education website stated that permanent makeup procedures fell within the $400 to $600 range. Permanent makeup artists performing advanced procedures charged on average $150 to $250 hourly. Moreover, Spa Beauty & Education estimated that permanent makeup artists earned approximately $55,000 to $80,000 per year based on a 2006 Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) survey.

Geography

Average salaries for permanent makeup artists vary across different states according to SimplyHired. In July 2011, permanent makeup artists working in California reported an average annual wage of $57,000. In comparison, permanent makeup artists in New York reported an average salary of $59,000 per year. Professionals employed in Illinois reported an average salary of $53,000 per year. Texas permanent makeup artists averaged $47,000 annually.

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics' “Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition” predicts that consumers will demand more cosmetic and personal appearance services during the 2008 to 2018 decade. Likewise, jobs for professionals in this field, including permanent makeup artists, are projected to increase 20 percent through 2018. Permanent makeup artists with state licensure in cosmetology, esthetics or electrology, and with previous work experience, should have the best job opportunities.