Why are minimum standards for permanent makeup rising, and what does that mean for artists?

In this episode of The PMU Standard, AAM President and Director of Operations Michelle Rukny breaks down the growing push for stronger safety, training, and accountability across the PMU industry.

PMU regulations can look completely different depending on where you practice. Michelle looks at how states like California, Oregon, and Texas approach permanent makeup, why those requirements vary so much, and what artists need to understand about bloodborne pathogen training, infection control, licensing, and safe practices.

She also talks about the questions clients should be asking before choosing an artist, why healed results matter, and where AAM Board Certification fits into raising professional standards beyond basic state requirements.

In this episode:
• Why PMU requirements vary from state to state
• What bloodborne pathogen training looks like in real practice
• The difference between meeting minimum requirements and maintaining professional standards
• What clients should ask their PMU artist
• Why healed results matter
• How AAM Board Certification supports accountability and continued education

Rising standards are a sign that the PMU industry is growing up. The goal isn't to make it harder to be an artist. It's to make it safer for clients and strengthen the credibility of the professionals who take this work seriously.

🎙️ Hosted by Michelle Rukny
President and Director of Operations, American Academy of Micropigmentation

Learn more about AAM, Board Certification, and education at micropigmentation.org and follow @aampmuboard on Instagram.

The PMU Standard. Raising the standard for permanent makeup.

Pigmentology with Alex Mechenici | Part 4: Continuing the Conversation Through Education

The Pigmentology series comes to a close... but the learning is just beginning.

In Part 4 of this exclusive four-part Pigmentology series, Michelle Rukny, President of the American Academy of Micropigmentation and Director of Operations, wraps up her conversation with internationally recognized pigment expert Alex Mechenici by reflecting on the importance of continued education, independent learning, and remaining curious in an industry that is constantly evolving.

Throughout this series, Michelle and Alex have explored pigment chemistry, titanium dioxide, under-eye camouflage, long-term pigment behavior, and the value of questioning long-held assumptions. In this final episode, they discuss what's next for artists who want to continue expanding their understanding of pigment science and why lifelong learning remains one of the most valuable investments a PMU professional can make.

If this series challenged the way you think about pigments, you're not alone. That's exactly why the conversation continues beyond the podcast.

• Why continuing education matters in a rapidly evolving industry
• The value of independent, evidence-informed learning
• Alex's educational philosophy and upcoming projects
• A look ahead at the first AAM Pigmentology Mini Course
• Final reflections from Michelle and Alex

Alex Mechenici's first Pigmentology Mini Course, Organic vs. Inorganic, is scheduled to launch at the end of August through the American Academy of Micropigmentation.

If you enjoyed this four-part series and want to dive deeper into the science behind permanent makeup pigments, this course is designed to expand on many of the concepts discussed throughout these episodes with even greater depth and detail.

Want to be the first to know when enrollment opens?

Join the AAM Mini Course Library Waitlist for exclusive early access, launch announcements, educational updates, and text message reminders.

👉 Sign up here:
https://american-academy-of-micropigmentation.mykajabi.com/signup

📸 Instagram: @alex.pmu.and.laser.academy
https://www.instagram.com/alex.pmu.and.laser.academy/

🌐 Learn more about Alex's education and courses through the links in her Instagram bio, including Fade Ink and her online learning platform.

🌐 Website: www.aampmuboard.org

📸 Instagram: @aampmuboard
https://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard/

Interested in becoming Board Certified, joining AAM, attending webinars, accessing continuing education, or exploring upcoming mini courses? Visit www.aampmuboard.org to learn more.

The PMU Standard is the official podcast of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, bringing together leading educators, researchers, and industry experts to explore the science, artistry, safety, and standards behind permanent makeup.

Each episode is designed to help artists think critically, strengthen their clinical knowledge, and make more informed decisions through evidence-informed education.

⭐ Follow The PMU Standard on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen so you never miss an episode.

If you found this series valuable, consider sharing it with a fellow PMU artist or trainer. Thoughtful conversations and evidence-informed education help strengthen our profession and encourage continued growth throughout the industry.

Thank you for joining us for this special four-part Pigmentology series with Alex Mechenici. We look forward to bringing you more conversations that challenge assumptions, inspire curiosity, and support professional excellence.

Because raising the standard begins with better education.

Pigmentology with Alex Mechenici | Part 3: Permanent Pigments, Performance & Independent Thinking

Just because you can't see a pigment anymore... does that mean it's actually gone?

In Part 3 of our exclusive four-part Pigmentology series, Michelle Rukny, President of the American Academy of Micropigmentation and Director of Operations, continues her conversation with internationally recognized pigment expert Alex Mechenici as they explore one of the most misunderstood concepts in permanent makeup: pigment permanence.

Alex explains how advances in pigment technology have changed over the years, including the development of modern high-performance pigments and why fading doesn't necessarily mean pigment has disappeared from the skin.

The conversation also examines why understanding long-term pigment behavior matters when evaluating future treatments, correction work, and evolving trends within the PMU industry.

As the discussion continues, Michelle and Alex shift gears into another thought-provoking topic: the value of remaining independent from pigment manufacturers and how that independence may influence education, transparency, and professional conversations.

Whether you're new to PMU or have years of experience, this episode encourages artists to continue asking questions, evaluating evidence, and making informed decisions that prioritize long-term client outcomes.

• How modern pigment technology has evolved
• What "high-performance pigments" are and why they matter
• Why invisible pigment may still remain within the skin
• Long-term considerations for correction and future treatments
• Independent education versus brand-driven messaging

Alex Mechenici's first Pigmentology Mini Course, Organic vs. Inorganic, is scheduled to launch at the end of August through the American Academy of Micropigmentation.

Want to be the first to know when enrollment opens? Join the AAM Mini Course Library Waitlist for exclusive early access, launch announcements, educational updates, and text message reminders.

👉 Sign up here:
https://american-academy-of-micropigmentation.mykajabi.com/signup

📸 Instagram: @alex.pmu.and.laser.academy
https://www.instagram.com/alex.pmu.and.laser.academy/

🌐 Website: www.aampmuboard.org

📸 Instagram: @aampmuboard
https://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard/

Interested in becoming Board Certified, joining AAM, attending webinars, accessing continuing education, or exploring upcoming mini courses? Visit www.aampmuboard.org to learn more.

The PMU Standard is the official podcast of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, bringing together leading educators, researchers, and industry experts to explore the science, artistry, safety, and standards behind permanent makeup.

Each episode is designed to help artists think critically, strengthen their clinical knowledge, and make more informed decisions through evidence-informed education.

⭐ Follow The PMU Standard on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen so you never miss an episode.

🎙️ Next Episode: In Part 4, Michelle and Alex conclude the Pigmentology series with a candid discussion about transparency in the PMU industry, evaluating information beyond marketing, and why critical thinking remains one of an artist's most valuable tools.

Because raising the standard begins with better education.

Pigmentology with Alex Mechenici | Part 2: Under-Eye Camouflage, Hidden Pigment & Long-Term Considerations

The conversation continues...

In Part 2 of our exclusive four-part Pigmentology series, Michelle Rukny, President of the American Academy of Micropigmentation and Director of Operations, continues her conversation with internationally recognized pigment expert Alex Mechenici as they explore one of the most debated topics in permanent makeup: under-eye camouflage.

What happens when tattoo pigment is no longer visible... but is still present beneath the skin?

Alex shares her perspective on why this distinction may matter when clients later pursue treatments such as laser rejuvenation, IPL, BBL, or other energy-based procedures. Together, Michelle and Alex discuss long-term pigment behavior, treatment planning, and why understanding pigment science can play an important role in client education and informed decision-making.

The conversation also touches on professional responsibility, learning from industry experience, and why continually questioning and expanding our knowledge helps move the profession forward.

Whether you agree with every perspective or not, this episode encourages artists to think critically, ask better questions, and continue learning.

• The ongoing discussion surrounding under-eye camouflage
• Hidden pigment versus visible pigment in the skin
• Considerations before future laser and energy-based treatments
• Why long-term thinking matters in permanent makeup
• The importance of professional responsibility and continued education

Alex Mechenici's first Pigmentology Mini Course, Organic vs. Inorganic, is scheduled to launch at the end of August through the American Academy of Micropigmentation.

Want to be the first to know when enrollment opens? Join the AAM Mini Course Library Waitlist for exclusive early access, launch announcements, educational updates, and text message reminders.

👉 Sign up here:
https://american-academy-of-micropigmentation.mykajabi.com/signup

📸 Instagram: @alex.pmu.and.laser.academy
https://www.instagram.com/alex.pmu.and.laser.academy/

🌐 Website: www.aampmuboard.org

📸 Instagram: @aampmuboard
https://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard/

Interested in becoming Board Certified, joining AAM, attending webinars, accessing continuing education, or exploring upcoming mini courses? Visit www.aampmuboard.org to learn more.

The PMU Standard is the official podcast of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, bringing together leading educators, researchers, and industry experts to explore the science, artistry, safety, and standards behind permanent makeup.

Each episode is designed to help artists think critically, strengthen their clinical knowledge, and make more informed decisions through evidence-informed education.

⭐ Follow The PMU Standard on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen so you never miss an episode.

🎙️ Next Episode: In Part 3, Michelle and Alex shift the conversation toward one of the most misunderstood topics in pigment science: carbon black, inorganic black pigments, and what artists should understand about pigment composition, safety, and long-term performance.

Because raising the standard begins with better education.

Pigmentology with Alex Mechenici | Part 1: The Science Behind PMU Pigments

What if some of the "facts" you've been taught about permanent makeup pigments were never questioned in the first place?

In Part 1 of this exclusive four-part Pigmentology series, Michelle Rukny, President of the American Academy of Micropigmentation and Director of Operations, sits down with internationally recognized pigment expert Alex Mechenici for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges common assumptions about pigment science.

Together, they explore the fundamentals of organic and inorganic pigments, how pigments behave in the skin, why understanding pigment composition matters far beyond color selection, and why artists should be asking more questions instead of simply repeating what they've been taught.

This episode is all about building a stronger scientific foundation because better understanding leads to better clinical decision-making.

As the conversation unfolds, Michelle and Alex begin discussing one of the industry's most misunderstood pigment ingredients: titanium dioxide. What is it actually doing in the skin? Why is it so often misunderstood? And how might it influence long-term pigment behavior?

Then, just as the discussion starts getting even more controversial...

The conversation shifts toward one of the most debated procedures in permanent makeup today: under-eye camouflage.

That conversation begins here... and continues in Part 2.

• Understanding organic vs. inorganic pigments
• Why opacity matters in permanent makeup
• Common misconceptions surrounding titanium dioxide
• The importance of questioning industry assumptions and seeking evidence-based education
• A preview of the upcoming discussion on under-eye camouflage

Alex Mechenici's first Pigmentology Mini Course, Organic vs. Inorganic, is scheduled to launch at the end of August through the American Academy of Micropigmentation.

Want to be the first to know when enrollment opens? Join the AAM Mini Course Library Waitlist for exclusive early access, launch announcements, educational updates, and text message reminders.

👉 Sign up here: AAM Mini Course Library Waitlist

📸 Instagram: @alex.pmu.and.laser.academy
https://www.instagram.com/alex.pmu.and.laser.academy/

🌐 Website: www.aampmuboard.org

📸 Instagram: @aampmuboard
https://www.instagram.com/aampmuboard/

Interested in becoming Board Certified, joining AAM, attending webinars, accessing continuing education, or exploring upcoming mini courses? Visit www.aampmuboard.org to learn more.

The PMU Standard is the official podcast of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, bringing together leading educators, researchers, and industry experts to explore the science, artistry, safety, and standards behind permanent makeup.

Each episode is designed to help artists think critically, strengthen their clinical knowledge, and make more informed decisions through evidence-informed education.

⭐ Follow The PMU Standard on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen so you never miss an episode.

🎙️ Next Episode: Part 2 of our exclusive Pigmentology series explores one of the most debated topics in permanent makeup: under-eye camouflage, titanium dioxide, and the science behind flesh-tone pigments.

Because raising the standard begins with better education.

Episode 19: Summer PMU | What Every Client Should Know Before Booking

Summer is one of the most popular times to schedule permanent makeup, but it's also the season that requires the most planning. In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny, President and Director of Operations of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, explains how sun exposure, swimming, sweating, travel, exercise, and outdoor activities can affect PMU healing, pigment retention, and long-term results.

You'll learn why timing matters more than the season, how to determine whether a client is a good candidate to book now or should wait, and the consultation questions every PMU artist should be asking before scheduling powder brows, microblading, lip blush, permanent eyeliner, or other cosmetic tattoo procedures. Michelle also discusses how UV exposure affects healed pigment, why lifestyle should be part of every consultation, and how proper planning leads to healthier healing and happier clients.

Whether you're a PMU artist, permanent makeup professional, cosmetic tattoo artist, esthetician, trainer, or client planning a summer procedure, this episode provides practical, evidence-based guidance to improve consultations, aftercare, and long-term outcomes.

Topics include:

• Summer PMU
• Permanent makeup healing
• PMU consultations
• Powder brows
• Microblading
• Lip blush
• Permanent eyeliner
• PMU aftercare
• Pigment retention
• UV exposure and permanent makeup
• Cosmetic tattoo healing
• PMU best practices
• Client education

🎁 Download our complimentary Consultation Script & Checklist here:
Consultation Script & Checklist

For more PMU education, blogs, industry news, and upcoming events, visit AAM PMU Board and join our email list to stay up to date.

Follow the AAM on Instagram at @aampmuboard

Episode 18: What Hot Sauce, Lemons & Lip Blush PMU Have in Common

Why do PMU artists tell clients to avoid hot sauce, citrus, and other acidic foods after a lip blush permanent makeupprocedure? Is it really about protecting the pigment, or is there more to the story? In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny, President and Director of Operations of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, explores the science behind lip blush aftercare and explains why certain foods can affect comfort, healing, inflammation, and overall treatment outcomes.

You'll learn what happens to the lips immediately after a cosmetic tattoo procedure, why spicy foods and acidic ingredients can increase irritation, how they may contribute to cold sore (HSV-1) reactivation, and why educating clients on the reason behind aftercare instructions leads to better compliance and better healed results. Michelle also separates common myths from evidence-based facts, including whether spicy food actually causes pigment loss.

Whether you're a PMU artist, permanent makeup professional, cosmetic tattoo artist, esthetician, trainer, or client preparing for lip blush PMU, this episode provides practical, science-based guidance to help improve healing, consultations, and client education.

Topics include:

• Lip blush PMU
• Permanent makeup aftercare
• Lip blush healing
• Spicy food after lip blush
• Citrus and lip blush
• Cold sores and permanent makeup
• HSV-1 and lip blush
• Cosmetic tattoo healing
• Pigment retention
• PMU client education
• Wound healing science
• PMU best practices

For more PMU education, blogs, industry news, and upcoming events, visit AAM PMU Board and join our email list to stay up to date.

Follow the AAM on Instagram at @aampmuboard

Episode 17: The Consultation Mistake That Creates Unhappy PMU Clients

One of the biggest causes of unhappy permanent makeup clients isn't poor technique—it's unmet expectations. In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny, President and Director of Operations of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, explains why the consultation is one of the most important parts of every PMU procedure and how proper expectation setting can prevent complaints, build trust, and improve long-term client satisfaction.

You'll learn how social media, edited photos, and misinformation shape unrealistic expectations, why healed results never look exactly like fresh work, how to explain the healing process, pigment retention, touch-up appointments, and long-term maintenance in a way clients understand. Michelle also shares practical consultation strategies that help artists create informed clients instead of surprised ones.

Whether you're a PMU artist, permanent makeup professional, cosmetic tattoo artist, trainer, or studio owner, this episode will help you strengthen your consultations, improve client communication, and deliver a better overall client experience.

Topics include:

• PMU consultations
• Permanent makeup consultations
• Client expectations
• PMU client communication
• Brow consultations
• Lip blush consultations
• Touch-up expectations
• Pigment retention
• Permanent makeup healing
• Informed consent
• PMU best practices
• Client satisfaction

🎁 Download our complimentary Consultation Script & Checklist here:
Consultation Script & Checklist

For more PMU education, blogs, industry news, and upcoming events, visit AAM PMU Board and join our email list to stay up to date.

Follow the AAM on Instagram at @aampmuboard.

Episode 16: Botox & Brow PMU | Why Timing Changes Everything

Botox and brow PMU are two of the most popular aesthetic treatments, but timing them incorrectly can affect brow symmetry, mapping accuracy, and long-term permanent makeup results. In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny, President and Director of Operations of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, explains the science behind botulinum toxin, brow positioning, muscle movement, and why proper sequencing is essential for successful brow PMU.

You'll learn how Botox changes the position of the brows during the weeks following treatment, why brow mapping should never be performed on a brow that is still settling, and when clients should schedule powder brows, microblading, or combination brows in relation to their Botox appointments. Michelle also discusses consultation questions every PMU artist should ask, how to identify the ideal treatment window, and why understanding facial anatomy leads to better healed results.

Whether you're a PMU artist, permanent makeup professional, cosmetic tattoo artist, injector, esthetician, or client planning Botox and brow PMU, this episode provides evidence-based education to help improve treatment planning, consultations, and long-term outcomes.

Topics include:

• Botox and brow PMU
• Permanent makeup and botulinum toxin
• Powder brows and microblading
• Brow mapping
• Facial anatomy
• PMU consultations
• Botox timing before permanent makeup
• Brow symmetry
• Cosmetic tattoo healing
• PMU best practices
• Client safety and education

🎁 Download our complimentary Consultation Script & Checklist here:
Consultation Script & Checklist

For more PMU education, blogs, industry news, and upcoming events, visit AAM PMU Board and join our email list to stay up to date.

Follow the AAM on Instagram at @aampmuboard

Episode 15: Lip Filler & Lip Blush PMU | Why the Order and Timing Matter

Lip filler and lip blush PMU are two of the most popular aesthetic treatments, but the order you receive them and the time between procedures can have a significant impact on healing, symmetry, pigment retention, and your final results. In this episode of The PMU Standard, Michelle Rukny, President and Director of Operations of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, explains the science behind hyaluronic acid lip filler, tissue healing, and why these procedures should never be scheduled back-to-back.

You'll learn why lip filler should always be performed before lip blush PMU, why waiting 4 to 6 weeks allows the filler to fully settle, how inflammation and tissue remodeling influence cosmetic tattoo results, and why proper consultations and intake forms are essential for both artists and clients. Michelle also discusses what happens when these procedures are performed too close together, how filler affects the lip tissue during healing, and why timing is one of the most overlooked factors in achieving beautiful, predictable results.

Whether you're a PMU artist, permanent makeup professional, cosmetic tattoo artist, injector, esthetician, or client considering lip blush and lip filler, this episode offers evidence-based education to help you make informed decisions and improve treatment outcomes.

Topics include:

• Lip filler and lip blush PMU
• Permanent makeup and dermal fillers
• Hyaluronic acid filler healing
• Lip blush consultations
• PMU intake forms
• Pigment retention
• Cosmetic tattoo healing
• Lip blush aftercare
• PMU best practices
• Client safety and education

For more PMU education, blogs, industry news, and upcoming events, visit AAM PMU Board and join our email list to stay up to date.

Follow the AAM on Instagram at @aampmuboard.