On this episode of The Ink Post, we’re having the conversation the industry keeps avoiding.

From six-figure marketing promises to influencer educators launching courses before mastering their craft, we unpack what’s really happening behind the scenes in the PMU and tattoo education world.

Are income claims setting artists up for disappointment?
Can large group trainings truly create mastery?
At what point does bold marketing cross into deception?
And who is actually responsible for student outcomes?

This episode isn’t about drama. It’s about standards.

If you’re an aspiring artist trying to choose the right education path, or an established professional questioning the direction of the industry, this conversation will challenge you to think deeper.

Ethics. Accountability. Skill. Transparency.

Because we don’t graduate technicians.
We graduate artists.

Press play if you’re ready for the truth.

In this episode, Shay Alsaid discusses the challenges and insights from the permanent makeup industry in 2025. She shares her personal journey, including emotional struggles and business metrics, while emphasizing the importance of authenticity and community support. The conversation highlights the need for resilience in the face of economic challenges and the significance of understanding one's business metrics to navigate the industry effectively.takeaways

• The permanent makeup industry is facing significant changes and challenges.
• It's important to reflect on business metrics regularly to gauge success.
• Emotional resilience is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Authenticity is key in a world increasingly influenced by AI.
• Community support plays a vital role in overcoming challenges.
• Understanding your target audience is essential for effective marketing.
• 2025 was a year of shedding what doesn't serve you.
• Bad moments in life can lead to personal growth and gratitude.
• Marketing strategies need to adapt to economic conditions.
• Don't measure your worth by business outcomes.

• "2025 exposed you."
• "You have to stay strong."
• "What loves you stayed."

Sound BitesChapters00:00The State of the Permanent Makeup Industry02:52Navigating Business Challenges and Metrics04:52Understanding Sales and Marketing Strategies07:30Customer Engagement and Retention10:03The Importance of Data and Analytics12:55Adapting to Market Changes15:42Vulnerability in Business Leadership18:03The Future of the Beauty Institute25:29Navigating Economic Challenges in 202531:20The Emotional Weight of the Beauty Industry35:26Personal Loss and Resilience40:30Finding Gratitude in Adversity46:29Empowering Immigrant Women in the Beauty Industry

Summary

In this live session, Shay Alsaid, founder of the Beauty Institute, engages with students to check in on their progress, address common challenges in the beauty and tattooing industry, and provide valuable insights on advertising, photography, and client acquisition. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support, effective marketing strategies, and continuous skill development in the beauty industry. In this engaging conversation, Shay Alsaid shares insights on the journey of learning tattooing and permanent makeup, emphasizing the importance of practice, the joy of mastering techniques like nano brows, and the significance of workshops in experiencing 'aha' moments. She discusses the regulatory landscape for aspiring tattoo artists, the value of non-traditional tattooing, and how to balance a full-time job with a tattooing career. Additionally, Shay highlights the importance of creating engaging content and leveraging seasonal opportunities to grow a business in the tattoo industry.