Starting a Paramedical Tattoo Business

Paramedical tattooing is a relatively new field, though it has been in existence for some time. Some emerging paramedical tattoo artists may not be fully aware of the regulations required to pursue a career in this field within the state of Texas. This blog will outline the necessary requirements to become a paramedic tattoo artist in Texas.

Certification

In Texas, certification in paramedical tattooing is not mandatory. This means you can acquire the skills independently, attend a classroom setting, or enroll in an online course. It is advisable to seek training from experts in the paramedical tattoo industry, particularly from schools offering specialized training. If attending a training course is not feasible, online classes taught by specialists in paramedical tattooing may be an option.

Courses in paramedical tattooing typically range from $1,800 to $6,500. Several two to three-day in-person classes are available, although these tend to be more expensive. However, instructors often provide the necessary equipment and tools for the class. Some instructors may also offer marketing materials and provide 24/7 access for any questions regarding client interactions or equipment usage. You will also need to complete blood-borne pathogen training as part of your educational requirements.

There are various techniques for performing paramedical tattooing, which can be quite versatile. For instance, when treating scars like stretch marks, paramedical tattoos can serve as camouflage, particularly for scars with flat surfaces and no texture. Camouflage tattoos are also effective for addressing skin discoloration and pigmentation issues. Additionally, paramedical tattoos can be used to conceal areas affected by trauma, such as missing fingernails, uneven nostrils post-rhinoplasty, or creating a 3-D belly button for those who have lost theirs due to abdominal surgeries. They can also be used to create a 3-D areola for individuals who have undergone a mastectomy or top surgery.

State Regulations

We require any business in the practice of producing an indelible mark or figure on the human body by scarring or inserting pigments under the skin using needles, scalpels or other related equipment to license with the Department of State Health Services. This includes studios that perform traditional tattooing, permanent cosmetics and scarification.

In Texas, you must work under a licensed business to perform paramedical tattoos. There is a common misconception that a tattoo studio license is unnecessary if you're a paramedical tattoo artist, but according to the state licensure any application of ink beneath the skin requires a business to operate with a studio tattoo license.

To obtain a tattoo studio license you will need an EIN. The license is application is simple to complete before you start you will need to have a business name and an EIN (employer identification number) and that is accessible for free click here .

Legally Starting a Business

To get an EIN, you must have a business name or use your name and social security number. You will need to decide if you will operate as a sole proprietor or an LLC. Being a sole proprietor is simpler, but an LLC provides asset protection from your business. You can file independently or use a business agency for assistance.

You can acquire a business name by filing with the Secretary of State and completing their forms. If you decide to use a business name you should search for the business name to ensure it's available by clicking here. I prefer using Northwest Registered Agent for all my business setup needs. For a more cost-effective option, use the business forms on the Secretary of State website to assist.

While you do not need an individual tattoo license in your name, the business you work for must possess a tattoo studio license. To operate under this license, you must be an employee of the studio. If you are operating your own business within a studio, your business must have a tattoo studio license. There is a common misunderstanding that working in a licensed studio allows for independent business operations under that license, which is not the case.

Equipment & Supplies

Your business will require a tattoo insurance. If operating within a salon, salon insurance is may also be necessary and made to the salon's name. Typical insurance costs for paramedical tattoo artists are approximately $700 annually. Chrysalis Spectrum Beauty get our insurance from biBerk and pay $35 per month for $1 million worth of coverage! We also get our business insurance from them as well around the same price. Renting a room from a studio can cost between $200 and $350 per week depending on the studio location and reputation.

Additional considerations for your tattoo business include tattoo needles, a tattoo machine, dental bibs, ink mixers, Aquaphor or similar skin barriers, plastic wrap for tattoos, and documentation of needle lot numbers alongside customer details. Here is an Amazon link with all the supplies that ever tattoo business will need.

Marketing

To get your business noticed, you'll need to invest in marketing. This can be done through both traditional and digital marketing strategies. Traditional marketing involves using print, radio, or in-person approaches, such as delivering gift bags to businesses that might benefit from your services and vice versa. Additionally, you can establish a social media presence on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Other strategies include utilizing Google AdWords and, most importantly, creating a website for your business. Your website should feature your location, operating hours, services, information about you, and aesthetics that reflect your business culture. A blog can also be beneficial for attracting customers and other businesses, and incorporating keywords related to your business will help improve your search engine ranking.

How to keep up to date

Chrysalis Spectrum Beauty believe in the power of education and giving the best service. We have created a community on Facebook, Texas Paramedical Tattoo Artists, for networking, sharing your experiences, guidance, suggestions, and for educational information. You can also find us on What's App and Discord.