Beauty School Training for Permanent Cosmetic Facial Analysis

If you have ever applied blush just a little too low, you know that it drags your face down, like you've created jowls with the misplaced pigment. Fortunately, a mistake like this can be repaired with blotting tissue and blending; or you can wipe the palette clean and start over. With permanent cosmetics, there are no second chances, so facial analysis is truly critical.

Why Proportions Matter in Permanent Cosmetics

Some argue that beauty can be found in asymmetry. Features that are just slightly different create a unique look that adds enough interest to make something more appealing. However, mismatched eyebrows with crooked arches or a lip liner that fails to balance the upper and lower lips is not likely to invite compliments.

As part of the client consultation stage, you'll analyze the face carefully, and then you'll communicate your plans to play up, play down, or correct a facial feature. This "morphology of the face" is discussed in all quality permanent cosmetics training programs. Features to consider during a consultation include the following:

Face shape: Typical face shapes include round, heart, oval, oblong, triangle, and square. Face shape helps you determine which structural features to emphasize or de-emphasize.
Horizontal facial proportions: The ideal face is divided into equal thirds. Your goal with make-up placement is to create the illusion of perfect proportions.
Set of the eyes: Eyes that are wide-set need a slightly different brow arch and shape than close-set eyes. Face shape must be considered for brow design, as well.
Natural lip line: It is not uncommon to have part of a lip line missing, or to have a thinner upper lip. The lip line may need to be completed or extended, and the lips may need to be balanced.

Lips & Brows: Popular Permanent Cosmetics

Permanent eyebrows and lip liner are the most popular permanent cosmetic procedures, so it is essential to know the fundamentals of facial analysis, as well as how the muscles of the face move and change each feature. The confidence that comes from knowing how to place the best pigment for your client puts you both at ease.

Permanent Cosmetics Training

Because it is a growing industry, many new permanent cosmetics training opportunities are emerging in beauty schools and specialized training centers. Courses range from a few days up to 600 hours.

The Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) notes that "success in this industry is directly related to the quality and amount of training you receive" and sets a standard of 100 hours for their training programs. With a two-day program, says the SPCP, you need additional apprenticeship training with someone who knows the business. Be sure to check with your state board of cosmetology to learn about the laws and training requirements.