Every week at Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne Studio Face Figurati someone asks me: “What do you call the person who tattoos eyebrows and lips? Is it like a makeup artist or a regular tattooist?” And fair enough—it can get murky. Especially when social media is throwing around terms like “brow tech” and “semi-permanent guru.” If you’ve been Googling “What do you call a cosmetic tattoo artist?” you’re not alone. It’s one of the most searched questions in our industry.
So let’s get it straight. In this guide I’ll break down the correct titles, industry standards and why your artist’s name matters more than just for Instagram tagging. Whether you’re researching for your first treatment or wondering what to put on your own business card, here’s everything you need to know about what to call a cosmetic tattoo artist.
The real job title (and why it matters)
In Australia the most accurate, professional term is Cosmetic Tattoo Artist. This covers anyone trained and licensed in tattooing pigment into the skin for cosmetic purposes—think eyebrow microblading, lip blush, eyeliner tattooing and more.
At Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne Studio Face Figurati we proudly use this term because it reflects the high level of training, hygiene and artistry we bring to each appointment.
Other valid terms include:
- Permanent Makeup Artist (PMU Artist)
- Micropigmentation Specialist
- Cosmetic Tattoo Technician (often used in training institutes)
Don’t use vague or misleading titles like “semi-permanent makeup artist” without clarification—because the pigments we use are designed to fade over time but the technique is still permanent makeup.
And no, we’re not your average tattooist. While both professions involve skin and ink, cosmetic tattooing requires its own set of tools, tattooing techniques, safety standards and artistic skills tailored to the face.
Key qualifications to look for
A qualified cosmetic tattoo artist should have:
- A current Body Art Tattooing Licence (required in VIC and most Australian states)
- Training in infection control and skin anatomy
- Certification from an accredited training course or training program
- Portfolio of healed client results (not just fresh tattoos)
At Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne Studio Face Figurati every cosmetic tattoo artist on our team is fully licensed, trained and continuously educated in the latest colour theory, pigment technology and sanitation protocols.
Is Microblading a Tattoo?
Yes—eyebrow microblading is a tattoo. It’s a manual technique using a blade instead of a machine, but it’s still tattooing. So if someone’s a microblading artist, they’re a tattoo artist (assuming they meet the requirements).
Just be aware of artists who only do microblading and haven’t trained in machine work—they might be limited in what they can do, especially for oily or mature skin.
Table: Tattoo Job Titles
| Title | Commonly Used In | Best For | Red Flags to Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic Tattoo Artist | Australia, salons, clinics | General use, all services | Must be licensed and trained |
| PMU Artist | International, social media | Lips, brows, eyeliner | Sometimes used without licence |
| Microblading Artist | Brows-only studios | Manual brow techniques | May lack machine experience |
| Micropigmentation Tech | Medical clinics, SMP | Scalp, areola, medical tattoo work | Ensure proper paramedical cert |
| Cosmetic Tattoo Tech | Training schools | Students, new artists | Confirm current licence status |
Different Artists, Different Skills
Cosmetic tattooing isn’t a one size fits all job. Some professional artists specialise in hyper-realistic brows; others in natural looking lip blush or even medical tattoo services like scar camouflage. That’s why knowing your artist’s scope matters.
When someone says they’re a “cosmetic tattoo artist” it helps to ask: *”Do you do lip tattooing, permanent eyeliner or eyeliner tattooing? What machines and tattoo needles do you use? Do you understand how pigment migration works with different skin types?”
At Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne Studio Face Figurati every cosmetic tattoo artist is trained to assess facial structure, lifestyle and skin tone before recommending a tailored approach.
The right title gets you in the door. The right experience keeps you safe and satisfied.
The Rise of the Multi-Skilled Artist
This year we’re seeing a clear trend in Melbourne: clients want one trusted pro who can do it all. Not just brow feathering but lip tattoo, lip liner, lip blushing, eyeliner tattooing and touch ups too. According to 2025 industry data 72% of clients prefer booking with an artist who offers multiple techniques under one roof.
That means artists are upskilling more than ever. At Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne Studio Face Figurati I offer a full suite of cosmetic tattooing services so you can feel confident and cared for from consult to colour boost. Our settings panel and treatment room are designed for comfort and cleanliness with full support staff to manage bookings and client records.
Not Just a ‘Brow Girl’
Still not sure what to say? Here are a few ways to refer to your cosmetic tattoo artist that feel both accurate and flattering:
- “She’s a qualified cosmetic tattoo artist in Melbourne who does amazing lip colour”
- “My brow tattooist is trained in both eyebrow microblading and machine shading”
- “I see a PMU artist at Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne Studio Face Figurati for my permanent eyeliner and lips”
Don’t say:
- “She does semi-permanent makeup” (too vague)
- “It’s like a temporary tattoo” (not true)
- “She’s like a makeup artist” (confusing and incorrect)
Final thoughts
At the end of the day titles aren’t just for marketing. They reflect the skill, licensing, training and education and trust you’re putting into someone who’s working on your face. And that matters.Now you know what to call a cosmetic tattoo artist! If you’re ready to book or just have a question, get in touch. I’m Olha from Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne Studio Face Figurati.
FAQ
Is a cosmetic tattooist the same as a regular tattoo artist?
Not quite. While both work with pigment and skin, cosmetic tattooists specialise in facial work and follow stricter hygiene and aesthetic standards. We also use different tattooing techniques, tattoo needles and pigments that fade.
Can beauty therapists call themselves cosmetic tattoo artists?
Only if they have the required licensing and have completed cosmetic tattooing training and education. Being a beauty therapist doesn’t qualify someone to tattoo skin.
What do I look for when choosing a PMU artist?
Check for licensing, healed results, dynamic content that shows progression, training course history, client reviews and clear communication. Don’t just go by social media followers.
Why do some people call it semi-permanent makeup instead?
Because the pigments fade over time. But it’s still permanent makeup, that’s why cosmetic tattoo is the more accurate term.
What should I put on my business card if I’m just starting out?
If you’re fully trained and licensed, go with “Cosmetic Tattoo Artist”. It’s clear, professional, trusted in the industry and helps when dealing with business skills, business expenses or promoting services to potential clients.