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Now Offering Body Art and Body Piercing Courses
Permanent Cosmetics
Body Art (Tattoo)
Body Piercing
OUR MISSION
We are committed to providing the best education, producing the best graduates, and elevating the standards of the industry, by providing up-to-date knowledge in technologies and techniques in the field of permanent cosmetics, body art, and piercing.
WHO WE ARE
The Academy of Permanent Cosmetics (TAPC) provides career education in the wildly growing field of permanent cosmetics, body art, and piercing. Artists in these fields not only provide desired beauty augmentation services but also have the opportunity to provide life-changing enhancements that can increase the self-worth and self-esteem of their clients.
Our Course Offerings
Permanent Cosmetics
EARNING POTENTIAL
Permanent cosmetics can be lucrative as well as emotionally rewarding. Listed is the average cost of each permanent cosmetic procedure across the United States, according to the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals. The estimated salary for a permanent cosmetics artist ranges from $50,000-$80,000 per year.
According to indeed.com, the average annual income for a tattoo artist is $ 59,683.00, and the average income for a body piercer is $65,500.00.
Lip Liner – $421
Full Lip Color – $610
Burn/Scar Camouflage – $369 or $214/hr
Areola Pigmentation – $ 556
Cheek Blush – $200
Eye Shadow – $460
Scalp Micropigmenation – $3,000 ($258/hr or $150/sq in)
ONE OF EACH SERVICE = $6573
Body Art
EARNING POTENTIAL
According to salary.com, the national average annual income for a tattoo artist is $55,107.00. Body art pricing can vary widely depending on a number of important factors. The size of the design plays a major role-larger pieces typically take more time and resources, which increases the cost. The complexity of the artwork also affects pricing; intricate designs with fine details or custom work usually come at a higher price point. Color is another consideration, as multi-colored tattoos often require additional time, skill, and specialized inks.
The artist’s level of experience and expertise can significantly influence the cost as well. Highly skilled or in-demand artists often charge more due to their reputation and the quality of their work. Likewise, the reputation and environment of the studio can impact pricing. Studios with a strong reputation for cleanliness, professionalism, and artistry may charge more for their services.
Geographic location also plays a key role. Tattoo and body art services tend to cost more in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living. Because all of these factors vary so much from one person or studio to another, it’s difficult to provide an exact national average price of services. However, the following list offers general price ranges commonly seen across the United States to help give you an idea of what to expect.
- Small Tattoos (2×2 inches or smaller): $100-$200.
- Medium Tattoos (palm-sized): $250-$600.
- Large Tattoos (half sleeve, back piece, etc.): $1,000-$5,000+.
- Sleeve Tattoos: $1,500-$6,000.
- Half Sleeve Tattoos: $500-$1,500.
- Shoulder Tattoos: $200-$500.
- Hip or Thigh Tattoos: $500-$2,000.
- Hand or Finger Tattoos: $50-$300.
- Chest Tattoos: $500-$2,000.
- Back Tattoos: $1,500-$5,000+
Body Piercing
EARNING POTENTIAL
According to salary.com, the national average of annual income for a body piercer is $61,946.00. The cost of body piercings can vary widely depending on several factors, including the studio’s location, the piercer’s level of experience, and the quality or type of jewelry offered. Urban areas or high-end studios may charge more due to higher demand and overhead costs, while more experienced piercers often charge higher rates for their expertise and precision. In addition, studios that offer premium or custom jewelry may have higher overall service costs. Because of these variables, it’s difficult to provide one standard price for all piercings. However, the following list gives a general price range for the most common types of body piercings across the United States.
- Ear Piercings:
- Lobe Piercings – $25-$85 per piercing, often with discounts for pairs.
- Cartilage Piercings – (Helix, Tragus, Conch, Daith, etc.): $40-$150+
- Industrial Piercings – $70+
- Nose Piercings:
- Nostril Piercings – $30-$75
- Septum Piercings – $40-$75
- Facial Piercings:
- Eyebrow Piercings – $40-$100+
- Bridge Piercings – $75-$150
- Other Body Piercings:
- Areola Piercings – $100+
- Belly Button Piercings – $35-$90
WHO CAN OFFER PERMANENT COSMETICS, TATTOOS, AND BODY PIERCING?
Each state has their own set of rules and regulations regarding permanent make-up, tattooing, and piercing. The State of Tennessee classifies permanent cosmetics as a tattoo and uses the following definition for tattoo. “Tattoo” means any method of placing designs, letters, figures, symbols, cosmetics or any other marks under the skin of a person with ink or color by the aid of needles or instruments. Only an artist with a valid “tattoo license” may offer services to the public and in order to legally obtain a license, you must participate in a one-year apprenticeship program under a licensed tattoo artist who has held their license for three years.
“Body Piercing” means the piercing of any part of the body for compensation by someone, other than a licensed physician, who utilizes a needle or other instrument for the purpose of inserting an object into the body for non-medical purposes. Tennessee law, like with tattooing, requires a one-year apprenticeship in order to obtain a license.
SEE OUR WORK

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