Tatter-a-fact® PMU Podcast
Teryn Darling is a legend in the Permanent Makeup industry. She's dedicated 20+ years to the craft of permanent makeup and in that time she's grown her company, Girlz Ink, into a global brand and industry standard. Teryn's overcome a lot of adversity and has done pretty well for herself in the PMU world! She's developed her skills as a cosmetic tattooer and to do that she had to develop her skills as an entrepreneur and business woman. Expect smart, sharp conversations. Teryn doesn't hold back so these episodes will be interesting, honest and real! She loves talking business and digging...
The Truth About Oily Skin + Introducing D’Oil™ | TAF #116
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In TAF #116, Teryn breaks down one of the BIGGEST struggles in Permanent Makeup: oily skin — and why it affects stretch, grip, pigment implantation, numbing absorption, and ultimately… your healed results.
For 25 years, artists have been told to “just blot more,” “stretch harder,” or “work faster.” But none of that fixes the REAL issue: surface oil AND subsurface oil working against you during every procedure.
In this episode, Teryn reveals the science behind oily skin and explains how it sabotages brows and eyeliner results...
The No-B.S. Truth About PMU with Robin Hays Velez (32 Years Behind the Needle) | TAF #115
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In this episode, Teryn Darling sits down with industry veteran Robin Hays Velez, a PMU artist with over 32 years of experience, to talk about what it really takes to last in permanent makeup. From pigments and needle choices to burnout, ethics, and regulators… nothing is off the table.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s true, what’s hype, and what actually matters for long-term success in PMU, this one’s for you.
What You’ll Learn
Pigment science: The real...PMU Pros South Africa: Building Real Community, Real Education, Real Results | TAF #114
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In this episode, Teryn Darling sits down with Chantal Chadderton, founder of PMU Pros, a 4-day international PMU expo and conference in Durban, South Africa, bringing together top educators, artists, and brands from around the world.
They talk about what really makes a great PMU conference, quality education, supportive community, ethics, organization, and a whole lot of passion. Chantal shares how she’s building something special for artists ready to grow, connect, and elevate their craft.
✨ You’...
The Learning Curve Series, Part 3: Understanding Pigments | TAF #113
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Think you know your pigments? Think again. In this episode of The Learning Curve Series, Teryn Darling dives deep into the pigment learning curve, breaking down the truth about iron oxides, organics, and hybrids so you can finally understand why your pigments behave the way they do.
Learn what really causes gray brows, migration, and fading, how particle size and carbon black impact healed results, and what adjustments to make when switching pigment types. Whether you’re an artist moving from iron oxides to organics (or...
The Learning Curve Series, Part 2: Mastering PMU Needles | TAF #112
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Think one needle fits all? Think again. In Part 2 of The Learning Curve Series, Teryn breaks down the myths, the learning curve, and the freedom that comes with mastering liners, shaders, and mags. So you can achieve beautiful results on every skin type and every style (powder brows, lips, eyeliner, areola, and more).
What you’ll learn:
Why one needle can’t meet every client request.How to adjust speed, pressure, stretch, passes, and angle when switching configs.Why larger groupings implant more pigment with fewer passes.The “dip” difference: small vs...The Learning Curve Series, Part 1: Machines | TAF #111
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Switching to a new PMU machine can feel like starting all over again. Suddenly your healed results look different, your depth feels off, and frustration sets in. But that’s not failure, it’s the learning curve.
In this episode, Teryn Darling walks you through what really happens when you pick up a new machine: the vibration feels strange, the stroke is different, the voltage doesn’t behave the same, and your muscle memory needs time to catch up. She shares her own big switches, from a cheap starter pen to...
PMU Fundamentals: The Key to Consistent Healed Results | TAF #110
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If you want a long, thriving career in PMU, consistent healed results, confident color choices, and the ability to pivot on tough skin, this episode is your blueprint. Teryn breaks down the core fundamentals every permanent makeup artist must master (and keep revisiting): skin science, pigment theory, needles, machines, hand movements, stretch, depth, and saturation strategy. Whether you’re doing powder brows, nano brows, combination brows, eyeliner tattooing, or lips, this is the real talk that levels up your results and your reputation.
What you’ll learn:
Topical Anesthetics in PMU: Safety, Retention & Pupil Dilation Explained | TAF #109
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In this episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, Teryn dives deep into the truth about topical anesthetics in permanent makeup, what works, what doesn’t, and what every artist needs to know to keep clients safe and results beautiful.
From melting and migrating formulas that ruin mapping and stretch… to the real facts on whether anesthetics affect pigment retention… to the rise in reported cases of pupil dilation during eyeliner tattooing, this episode is packed with education, safety protocols, and myth-busting.
You’ll l...
Nickel Allergies in PMU: Proceed or Pause? | TAF #108
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In today’s episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, we’re diving deep into a question every permanent makeup artist will face at some point:
“My client is allergic to nickel… should I still move forward with the procedure?”
With 25+ years in the industry and over 20,000 procedures under her belt, Teryn shares her real-world experience, breaks down the science behind nickel in PMU pigments and needles, and explains why she feels 100% confident tattooing even clients with known sensitivities, without the stress of patch testing or...
The Truth About Tattooed Freckles in PMU - TAF #107
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In this powerful episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling sits down with Jessica Ashley of Stunna Beauty to talk about one of the most debated procedures in the permanent makeup world: tattooed freckles.
From ombre brows and lip blush to the artistry of freckles, Jessica shares how she transformed a personal obsession into a signature PMU service now loved by clients across the country. But not everyone in the industry is on board—and that’s exactly why this episode matters.
4 Years, One Vision: The Story Behind The Pendulum | TAF #106
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In this episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, host Teryn Darling sits down with Katri Pagliaro, a permanent makeup artist and first-time inventor who’s making BIG waves in the industry. After four years of passion, prototypes, and perseverance, Katri launched The Pendulum—a never-before-seen pencil sharpening tool designed specifically for PMU artists who use China markers for pre-draws and mapping.
Teryn and Katri dive deep into:
The 4-year journey of developing a product from scratchThe power of solving a real problem in the PMU...How to Use ChatGPT to Grow Your PMU Business | TAF #105
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Are you tired of staring at a blank screen trying to write Instagram captions or brainstorm content ideas for your PMU business? What if AI could help you show up consistently, attract your dream clients, and build your brand—all while saving time and stress?
In this episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling sits down with PMU educator and marketing-savvy artist Leann La of Fusion Artistry to talk about how she's using ChatGPT and other AI tools to simplify content creation, elevate her brand voice, an...
Studio Ownership, Burnout & Staying Grounded in PMU with Shay Danielle | TAF #104
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In this raw and real episode, Teryn Darling sits down with PMU educator and artist Shay Danielle to talk about what it really takes to build longevity in the permanent makeup industry.
They dive into the highs and lows of studio ownership, how burnout impacts even the most successful artists, and why staying authentic in a changing PMU world matters more than ever. Shay opens up about being seen as a role model, working with her husband, and the challenges of growing a business without...
Thick Pigments? Poor Retention? Let’s Fix That! | TAF #103
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PMU besties, get ready for one of the most educational + honest episodes yet! In this week’s Tatter-a-Fact, Teryn Darling and her wife + business partner Kat are diving deep into one of the most misunderstood topics in the permanent makeup world: pigment viscosity and retention problems.
Whether you’re confused by why some PMU pigments are thick, struggling with healed results that aren’t lasting, or just need a little boost in your color theory + machine technique knowledge… this episode is for you!
What you’ll learn in this episode:
PMU Q&A: Aftercare, Pigments for Fitz 5-6, Eyeliner Removal & More | TAF #102
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In Episode #102 of the Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling is back with Kat for a deep dive into your most frequently asked questions in permanent makeup! From aftercare best practices to pigment choices for Fitzpatrick 5 and 6 clients, this episode is jam-packed with real talk, expert advice, and proven techniques from a PMU veteran.
Here’s what we cover in this episode:
✅ PMU Aftercare Tips: What aftercare ointments Teryn uses (and avoids) for brows, eyeliner, lips, and areolas
✅ Best Numbing Creams & Anesthetics: What to use now that Face & Body is gon...
The Truth About Titanium Dioxide: Friend or Foe in PMU? | TAF #101
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Welcome to another powerful episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast with Teryn Darling, founder of Girlz Ink and industry-renowned pigment expert.
In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most talked-about—and misunderstood—ingredients in permanent makeup pigments: titanium dioxide. Is it safe? Does it really cause chalky results? How does it behave in the skin over time? Teryn breaks it all down with honesty, clarity, and 20+ years of PMU expertise.
👉 Whether you're a beginner or advanced PMU artist, this episode is a must-watch if you’re using bro...
Taxes, Retirement & Wealth-Building Tips for PMU Artists
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In this throwback episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling sits down with her long-time tax advisor and friend, Mark Rizzo—a tax pro who actually loves taxes (yes, really!). They dive deep into real-world money advice every permanent makeup artist should hear—from understanding LLCs and S Corps, to claiming your cash income properly, to investing smart and building wealth while doing what you love.
Mark shares the wild tax history of tip earners in Las Vegas, breaks down how artists can avoid audits, and reveals the two things ever...
It Can't Stay This Shitty Forever | TAF #100
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🎉 We made it! The 100th episode of the Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast is here, and this one is extra special. Join us as we take a deep dive into the challenges, setbacks, and hard lessons we’ve faced—and how we’ve come out stronger on the other side. If you're feeling stuck in your permanent makeup business (or life), this episode is for you.
💬 "Nothing stays shitty forever."* That’s the theme of today’s episode, where we get real about struggles in business, the PMU industry, and life in general. We’re breaking d...
The Science of Pigment Dilution in PMU: How & Why It Works! | TAF #99
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Are you diluting your PMU pigments? If not, you might be missing out on one of the most powerful techniques for achieving soft, powdery, and customized healed results in permanent makeup!
In this episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling dives deep into the science of pigment dilution—how it works, why it works, and when to use it for brows, eyeliner, lips, and more.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How pigment dilution can improve healed results in PMU
✅ The history of dilution in tattooing & how Te...
Struggling with Lip Tattooing? What You Need to Know with Kerry Welstead | TAF #98
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💄 Struggling with lip tattooing? You're not alone! In this episode of Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, I sit down with Kerry Welstead, a true expert in lip tattooing, to share insights on achieving stunning, long-lasting results with less trauma.
🎙️ WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
✔️ The biggest mistake PMU artists make when tattooing lips
✔️ How to boost pigment retention on the first session
✔️ Why Magnum needles are a total game-changer
✔️ The trick to reducing trauma & swelling during lip procedures
✔️ Are thin brows & lip liner making a comeback?
🚨 WANT TO TAKE YOUR LIP TATTOOING TO THE...
Overcoming Fear, Neurodiversity & Growth in PMU with Zoe Braun | TAF #97
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In this episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling sits down with Zoe Braun, a PMU artist with a background in finance and engineering, to talk about how she overcame introversion, fear, and neurodiversity to build a successful career in permanent makeup. 🎙️✨
💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ From Finance to PMU – How Zoe transitioned from the corporate world to permanent makeup
✔️ Introversion & Overcoming Social Anxiety – How she stepped out of her comfort zone to grow her business
✔️ The Power of Neurodiversity – How ADHD & a structured mindset helped her excel in PM...
The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Business & Life | TAF #96
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In this episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling sits down with Olivia to dive deep into a topic that affects every business owner, entrepreneur, and artist—Emotional Intelligence (EQ). 🎙️✨
💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ What is EQ (Emotional Quotient) and why it matters in your personal and professional life
✔️ How low EQ traits can negatively impact your business, team, and relationships
✔️ Recognizing toxic traits in employees, business partners, and clients
✔️ The importance of <...
Insights from Industry Experts! - Best Of Compilation Part 2 | #95
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Back by popular demand! 🌟 Our second "Best Of" compilation episode brings you more standout moments from our incredible guests. Dive deeper into the world of permanent makeup as top PMU artists and industry leaders share their expertise, personal stories, and actionable advice to elevate your skills and business.
📌 Highlights in this episode include:
- The Science Behind Pigments: Dispelling myths and mastering pigment selection for flawless results.
- Advanced Needle Techniques: Choosing the right configurations for brows, lips, and eyeliner based on skin types.
- Breaking Barriers in Sca...
Episode #94: Fan Favorites – The Best of Tatter-a-Fact
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🎉 Welcome to Season 5 of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast! 🎉
We're kicking off this season with an incredible Best Of episode, featuring some of the most inspiring, thought-provoking, and hilarious moments from the past four seasons. 🖤 Whether you're a new listener or a longtime fan, this compilation is packed with valuable insights, candid conversations, and the energy that makes our podcast so special!
✨ Highlights from this episode include:
Expert advice on PMU techniques, tools, and trends.Discussions on taxes, pigments, client management, and setting boundaries as a PMU artist.Real talk about...Mastering Low-Saturation Brows & Advanced Needle Techniques | #93
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Join Teryn Darling as she answers a new artist’s burning questions about creating understated, low-saturation brows that last—and explores whether annual touch-ups risk damaging the skin. This in-depth discussion is perfect for PMU artists of all levels who want to refine their skills and protect their clients' skin integrity.
🔍 In this episode, we discuss:
How to achieve longer-lasting low-saturation brows.The potential risks of frequent touch-ups and skin damage.Understanding needles, movements, and their impact on pigment retention.Myths about high-saturation brows and how...Refreshing Your PMU Brand and Industry Insights | TAF #92
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Join Teryn Darling and her wife Kat as they dive deep into the evolving world of permanent makeup (PMU) in this engaging episode of the Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast. Together, they explore:
Carbon vs. Iron Oxide Pigments: Navigating the Debate in PMU | TAF #91
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In this episode of Tatter-a-Fact, I tackle one of the most heated debates in the PMU industry: carbon black vs. iron oxide pigments. Drawing from over 24 years of experience, I break down the differences between these two pigment types, the misconceptions surrounding them, and how to strategically choose which one to use based on your client’s skin type. I also dive into the importance of considering factors like saturation levels, needle choices, and skin variables. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or new to the industry, this episode will help you make info...
Mastering Skin, Pigments, and Persistence in PMU: Lessons from 24 Years | TAF #90
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In this episode of Tatter-a-Fact, I share invaluable insights from my 24 years in the permanent makeup (PMU) industry. From my recent experiences at international PMU conferences to the importance of understanding skin and pigments, I dive deep into how proper skin assessment, pigment choices, and mastering healed results are key to PMU success. I also discuss my journey of launching the OMG Brow Pigments and the lessons I've learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips and motivational advice to help...
Clearing the Air on Saline Removal & PMU Industry Trends | TAF #89
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In this episode of Tatter-a-Fact, I will dive deep into the current state of the PMU industry, addressing the slowdown many artists are facing and the misconceptions surrounding bad microblading and saline removal. Inspired by a recent online post, I will share my insights on why the industry is struggling, how poor training plays a role, and why both saline removal and laser removal are essential tools for PMU artists. I also emphasizes the importance of versatility in offering services beyond brows, like eyeliner, and the impact of emergency removal in the industry...
The Science of Yellows: Pigments, Variations, and the Art of Formulation | TAF #88
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In this insightful episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling dives deep into the world of pigments, focusing specifically on the color yellow and its critical role in brow formulation. Teryn discusses the three types of yellow pigments—neutral, warm, and cool—and their importance in achieving stable, long-lasting results. She also explains why pigment shades can sometimes vary between batches and how pigment manufacturers like Li Pigments ensure consistency and safety through rigorous testing. Whether you're curious about the science behind pigments or looking for tips on creating perfect brows, this epis...
Unveiling the OMG Brow Pigments | TAF #87
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In this episode of the Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast, I’m excited to introduce you to the OMG Brow Pigments, a project that’s been two years in the making. I’ll walk you through the journey of creating these four incredible pigments, designed for quick implantation, optimal saturation, and uniform fading—without any risk of red or gray tones. I’ll share what went into crafting this hybrid line and why I believe these pigments are set to shake up the PMU industry. Whether you're an experienced artist or just starting out, this episode is...
Mentorship, Growth, and the PMU Industry with Valerie Weber | TAF #86
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🎙️In this episode of Tatter-a-fact, I sit down with Valerie Weber, a longtime colleague and fellow trainer in the permanent makeup industry. We dive into over 16 years of shared experiences, from early career challenges to becoming respected mentors in the field.
Valerie shares how training and mentorship played crucial roles in her success, offering insights that will inspire both new and seasoned PMU artists. Tune in for heartfelt stories, industry wisdom, and a celebration of growth in the ever-evolving world of permanent makeup.
🤩 Make sure to follow us! 🤩
💙 Teryn @tatgirlz...
Paramedical Tattooing with Sherah Juarez | TAF #85
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🎙️In this episode, I sit down with Sherah Juarez, a talented artist and trainer in the PMU and paramedical tattooing space. Sherah shares her inspiring journey into the world of paramedical tattooing, and we dive deep into when it’s the right time to venture into this rewarding field. We also tackle some common myths, including whether scar camouflaging pigments age poorly over time.
Education plays a huge role in mastering techniques like scar camouflaging and 3D areola tattooing, and Sherah emphasizes the importance of continuous learning. We also chat about the deli...
Black Carbon in Pigments | TAF #84
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🎙️In the latest episode of Tatter-a-fact, join me in an in-depth discussion all about pigments! I delve into the world of black carbon in pigments, exploring the key differences between various black carbons and why these distinctions matter. I’ll share insights on the crucial importance of selecting a reputable pigment manufacturer and brand to ensure the best results. We’ll also talk about the significance of versatility in pigments, learning how to assess skin types effectively, and finding the ideal saturation levels for the different skin types. Plus, I’ll cover essential tips on how...
Let's talk Lips | TAF #83
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🎙️In the latest episode of Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast, join me in a conversation all about Lips! I share my personal experience with lip procedures, what I struggled with and how I overcame my struggles. I also talk about which type of pigment is best for lips, and the differences between a Lip Blush and the Lip Stick look. How to use dilution and which techniques to use depending on the desired results. And so much more!
🤩 Make sure to follow us! 🤩
💙 Teryn @tatgirlzink on Instagram
💜 Tatter-a-fact Podcast @tatterafactpodcast on Instagram
💖 Gir...
Behind the Scenes of the Vegas PMU Conference with Melissa and Eric Palacios | TAF #82
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🎙️ In the latest episode of Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast I'm joined by Eric and Melissa Palacios, the owners of the Vegas PMU Conference. In this episode, we talk about the hard work involved in hosting a conference. Melissa and Eric share insights on selecting top-notch speakers and their genuine passion for the PMU industry, striving to provide the best education and experience for all permanent makeup artists. They also discuss their commitment to building a community where PMU artists feel supported and never alone. Tune in for invaluable insights!
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Overcoming Burnout | Tat Talk with Kat Boehme
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🎙️ Let's face it, we've all experienced some type of burnout. In this episode of Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast I'm joined by my wife Kat Boehme! We discuss our personal experience with burnout, how it affect us and how we overcame it.
🤩 Make sure to follow us! 🤩
💙 Teryn @tatgirlzink on Instagram
💜 Tatter-a-fact Podcast @tatterafactpodcast on Instagram
💖 Girlz Ink Studio @girlzinkstudio on Instagram
🎸 Composition and guitars - Russ Letizia
🥁 Drums and studio engineering - Mike Zerbe
🎼 Recorded at The Compound in Las Vegas, NV
Teryn Darling
Tatter-a-fact #81...
Let's talk Scalp Micropigmentation w/Shauna Magrath | TAF #80
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🎙️ Welcome to the latest episode of Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast! Join me and Shauna Magrath as we talk all about Scalp Micropigmentation. More women are beginning to seek out SMP, and this service can bring in more revenue to your business! Plus, we touch on what makes microblading an advanced technique!
🤩 Make sure to follow us! 🤩
💙 Teryn @tatgirlzink on Instagram
❤️ Shauna Magrath @beautyink
💜 Tatter-a-fact Podcast @tatterafactpodcast on Instagram
💖 Girlz Ink Studio @girlzinkstudio on Instagram
🎸 Composition and guitars - Russ Letizia
🥁 Drums and studio engineering - Mike Zerbe
🎼 Recorded at T...
Pigment Masking Isn't Just for Microblading! | Tat Talk with Nicole Mins
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🎙️ Welcome to the latest episode of Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast! Join me and Ms Nicole J as we talk about the pros of pigment masking or soaking in PMU, why we think collaboration among PMU artists is crucial for the industry's advancement, and why eyeliner training doesn't have to be scary! Are we approaching pigment masking incorrectly? Plus, we touch on how to maintain the spark when your life partner becomes your business partner! Don't miss out on this juicy episode!
🤩 Make sure to follow us! 🤩
💙 Teryn @tatgirlzink on Instagram
❤️ Nicole Mins @ms_ni...
It's Time to Get Back to Brow Basics! w/Rose Prieto | TAF #78
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🎙️ Ready to perfect your brow game? In this episode of Tatter-a-fact PMU Podcast I'm joined by Rose Prieto! We discuss getting back to brow basics, finding quality PMU coaches that don't break the bank, the essentials of tinting, and why connection is key to growth. Don’t quit if PMU is your passion–tune in for insights and tips that will elevate your skills!
🤩 Make sure to follow us! 🤩
💙 Teryn @tatgirlzink on Instagram
❤️ Rose Prieto @beautyandbrowlounge on Instagram
💜 Tatter-a-fact Podcast @tatterafactpodcast on Instagram
💖 Girlz Ink Studio @girlzinkstudio on Instagram
🎸 Comp...
