Beauty or Hair Salon Assistant
Cosmetic Tattooist
Eyelash Technician
Nail
Technician
Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs
Beauty therapists undertake a range of therapeutic facial and body care treatments and aim to improve their clients’ appearance and well-being. Their skills are required by both women and men. They apply and sell make-up, skincare and other cosmetic products, treat skin conditions and provide beauty treatments such as electrolysis, massage, facials, manicures and pedicures, waxing and spa therapy. They may also undertake some administrative work and should keep records of clients' treatments.
OSCA Codes
OSCA ID & Description:
461131
Provides skin analyses, facial
therapies, skincare treatments and body treatments such as massage to
clients.
Alternative names: Beautician, Paramedical Aesthetician,
Pedicurist, Beauty Therapist,
Specialisations: Beauty Consultant, Electrologist (Hair
Remover), Manicurist,
-
Beautician
A beautician provides waxing, manicure, pedicure, eyelash and brow tinting and make-up application services. -
Beauty Consultant
A beauty consultant an experienced senior sales assistant who promotes one or more brands of cosmetic products in department stores and pharmacies by providing advice on the purchase and application of cosmetics. -
Eyelash Technician
Specializes in eyelash extensions and lifting
Knowledge, skills
and attributes
Beauty therapists need:
- a friendly and caring demeanour
- a well-groomed appearance
- an interest in people
- good stamina - therapists need to stand for long periods
- an eye for detail
- to be sensitive to
clients' needs
Duties and Tasks
Beauty therapists may perform the following tasks:
- carry out skin analysis and give advice about skin and body care
- perform facial or body massage and/or aromatherapy treatment
- analyse body type and advise on exercise programs and nutrition
- use a variety of treatments and electrical equipment to treat individual skin and body conditions
- remove facial and body hair by electrolysis or waxing
- provide advice and support to clients following cosmetic surgery
- recognise problems and refer clients to medical practitioners such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, endocrinologists, podiatrists, chiropractors and physiotherapists
- apply make-up
- perform manicures, pedicures, nail extensions and eyelash and brow tinting
- perform reception duties (such as receive bookings and arrange appointments)
- maintain client records
- provide advice on and sell cosmetic products and related beauty equipment.
Working conditions
Beauty therapists may work in department stores offering cosmetic and
beauty-related therapies, beauty salons where they may specialise in one or
a range of therapies, from home or as a mobile beauty therapist providing
services in clients’ homes. Some beauty therapists may work part-time.
Tools and technologies
Beauty therapists work with a range of products including waxes, gels,
lotions, balms and creams. They may apply these to their clients on
treatment tables, chairs or couches. They may also use electrolysis and
ultrasonic equipment, vaporisers, magnifying glasses and exfoliating
machines. For manicure and pedicure treatments they may use acrylic nails,
scissors, files, buffing and polishing equipment. This is usually stored at
individual nail stations. They may also use massage chairs or tables.
Education and training/entrance requirements
To become a beauty therapist you usually need to complete a formal
qualification in a beauty related area.
The Certificate II in Retail Make-Up and Skin Care, Certificate II in Nail
Technology, Certificate III in Beauty Services and Certificate IV in Beauty
Therapy are widely available at TAFE Colleges and other registered training
organisations throughout Australia.
You can become a beauty therapist by completing a traineeship in beauty
services or beauty therapy. The beauty services traineeship usually takes 18
months to complete. The beauty therapy traineeship usually takes 36 months
to complete.
| Did You Know?
The Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia (CPSA) state that Australians now spend more per capita on cosmetic medicine [including treatments like Botox] than any other country in the world. Australians spent an estimated $560/6 million on non- and minimally-invasive treatments in the past 12 months. (Source: was at Mybotique) |
Nail technicians perform
manicures and pedicures, which may include nail art, application of
artificial nails, nail repair and other specialised hand and foot
treatments.
OSCA ID 461131
Knowledge, skills
and attributes
- neat personal appearance
- no allergies to products and chemicals used
- pleasant and tactful manner
- a genuine interest in people
- good interpersonal skills
- excellent hand-eye coordination
- patience
- able to cope with the physical demands of the job
- creative and artistic ability
Duties and Tasks
Nail technicians may perform the following tasks:
- apply gel and acrylic nail enhancements and extensions
- perform manicures and pedicures
- use specialist tools and electrical equipment on nail enhancements
- apply decorative and airbrushed nail art
- maintain safe work practices and hygiene standards
- read and interpret product information to make safe and appropriate recommendations to clients
- conduct financial transactions
- perform reception duties (receiving bookings and arranging appointments, for example)
- perform routine housekeeping duties
- maintain client records
- provide advice about and sell nail products
- maintain knowledge of current industry standards and practices
Working conditions
Nail technicians work in nail salons or beauty salons alongside beauty
therapists. Employment prospects in these salons may be improved if you
have beauty therapy qualifications.
Many nail technicians are self-employed and may visit clients' homes,
work from mobile vans or work from home. Nail
technicians have a high level of public contact.
Working as a nail technician can be physically demanding. Repetitive
activities and sitting for long periods can cause strain.
Tools and technologies
Chemicals such as those used in acrylics and polish
removers may pose a health risk if not used correctly.
Personal protective equipment such as gloves, aprons, dust masks and
safety glasses may be worn to minimise risk.
Safety considerations include the welfare of both the technician and the
client.
Education and training/entrance requirements
You can work as a nail
technician without formal qualifications. You will probably get some
informal training on the job.
Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.
You may like to consider a TAFE qualification
in nail technology, beauty services or beauty therapy.
You can also become a nail technician through a traineeship in Nail
Technology, Beauty Services or Beauty Therapy.
Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.
Before selecting a course, check with potential employers to make sure
the course meets their requirements. Employers are less likely to
consider applicants who have completed a short course or have
qualifications not recognised by the industry. Nail technicians with
nationally accredited qualifications may work throughout Australia.
Local councils have specific requirements regarding the establishment
and delivery of mobile or salon beauty services, including adhering to
occupational health and safety regulations and state guidelines relating
to skin penetration.
An eyelash technician is
someone who applies cosmetic eyelash treatments to their clients. These
treatments can include adding semi-permanent eyelash extensions onto
existing lashes, completing a lash lift or tinting clients' natural
lashes. Clients often seek these treatments to help make their eyelashes
appear longer and fuller without wearing mascara.
It's common for lash
technicians to also offer other beauty treatments, such as eyebrow
services, including eyebrow waxing and tinting. They generally provide
consultations to their clients to understand what they're seeking and to
help determine the best colour to opt for when applying lash extensions
or tint to a client's natural eyelashes.
(Source:
Training.com.au)
OSCA ID 461131
Alternative names: Lash Technician,
CertLash Technician, Lash Stylist, Lash Artist, Eyelash Specialist,
Specialisations
As a lash technician gains experience, they may choose to specialise in
specific areas, such as volume lashes, hybrid lashes, or lash lifts.
Specialisation can set a technician apart in a competitive market and
attract a niche clientele. Exploring different techniques and finding a
personal style can lead to greater job satisfaction and career
advancement opportunities.
Knowledge, skills and attributes
A career as a lash technician requires a unique blend of technical
skills and personal attributes. Proficiency in applying and maintaining
eyelash extensions is essential, as is a strong understanding of
different lash styles and techniques. Attention to detail is crucial, as
even the smallest misalignment can affect the overall look.
Additionally, lash technicians must possess excellent customer service
skills, ensuring clients feel comfortable and valued throughout their
experience. This role also demands a commitment to hygiene and safety
practices, as well as the ability to stay updated with the latest trends
and products in the beauty industry.
Moreover, effective communication skills are vital for lash technicians,
as they need to understand client preferences and provide tailored
advice. Time management is another important skill, as technicians often
work with multiple clients throughout the day. A passion for beauty and
aesthetics can drive success in this field, motivating technicians to
continually refine their craft and expand their service offerings. With
the right skills and dedication, a career as a lash technician can be
both fulfilling and financially rewarding.
Skills & Attributes:
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
- Creativity and artistic ability
- Knowledge of beauty products and techniques
- Time management skills
- Customer service orientation
- Ability to work independently
- Understanding of health and safety regulations
- Patience and precision
- Willingness to learn and adapt
(Source:
Australian Beauty School)
AI
Overview of Knowledge, Skills & Attributes
Becoming a successful eyelash technician requires a blend of
technical expertise, artistic ability, and strong interpersonal skills.
Key knowledge areas include sanitation, eye anatomy, and adhesive
chemistry, while essential skills involve precise isolation and
application, and critical attributes include patience and attention to
detail.
Key Knowledge Areas
-
Sanitation & Safety: Strict adherence to health and
safety regulations to prevent infection, including sterilizing tools
(tweezers), using disposable items, and proper workspace hygiene.
- Eye Anatomy & Lash Growth
Cycle: Understanding the structure of the eye and the natural lash cycle
is crucial for recommending appropriate lash lengths and weights that do
not damage natural lashes.
- Product Knowledge:
Familiarity with different types of extensions (silk, mink, synthetic),
curls (J, B, C, D, L+), lengths, and the chemistry of adhesives (drying
times, sensitivities).
- Lash Mapping & Styling: The
ability to design a customized look based on a client's eye shape (e.g.,
almond, hooded, wide-set) and facial features.
- Aftercare Education: Knowledge of proper maintenance routines to educate clients on ensuring the longevity of their extensions.
Essential Skills
-
Isolation and Application: The ability to isolate a
single natural lash with tweezers and attach a single extension (or
volume fan) without clumping lashes together.
- Steady Hands (Manual
Dexterity): High-level fine motor skills are required to work on a
sensitive area with accuracy.
- Time Management: Efficiently
completing a full set or infill within an allotted time frame (usually
1.5 to 3 hours).
- Consultation &
Communication: Actively listening to client needs, managing
expectations, and offering professional advice to ensure satisfaction.
- Troubleshooting & Critical
Thinking: Identifying and resolving issues like poor retention or
allergic reactions, including knowing when to safely remove extensions.
- Business Acumen: Marketing services, managing appointments, keeping inventory, and handling finances.
Key Attributes
-
Patience and Concentration: The ability to remain
focused and composed during intricate, time-consuming, and repetitive
procedures.
- Attention to Detail:
Meticulousness to ensure every lash is placed perfectly for a safe and
aesthetically pleasing result.
- Creative Artistic Ability: A
passion for beauty and an eye for design, creating tailored looks that
enhance natural features.
- Adaptability: The drive to
continuously learn and stay updated with evolving industry trends, new
techniques, and products.
- Customer-Centric Focus:
Building rapport, empathy, and providing an exceptional experience that
fosters repeat business and referrals.
- Physical Stamina: The ability to sit or maintain a comfortable posture for long periods during back-to-back appointments.
(Source:
The Lash Lounge)
Duties and Tasks
From when your customer enters the workplace to the minute they
leave, your responsibility as a lash tech (or any beauty treatment
practitioner) is to look after them and provide them with a highly
professional service. Here are the jobs required:
- Preparing work areas for each client
- Performing a thorough client consultation - meeting with clients to understand their eyelash extension requirements
- Completing consultations to find the most suitable colour and length of eyelash extensions for clients
- Making bookings for eyelash extension appointments
- Applying eyelash extensions safely and precisely eg. applying different types of eyelash extensions, including Classic Lash and Volume Lash methods
- Communicating constantly to make sure the clients are happy with outcome
- Completing other eyelash cosmetic treatments, including eyelash tints and lifts
- Instructing clients on appropriate aftercare and maintenance products for clients
- Taking payment and booking follow-up appointments
- Following salon hygiene procedures
- Educating yourself on current eyelash extension techniques and products
- Purchasing stock including eyelashes, adhesive and cleaning products
Working conditions
A lash technician can work in a salon, spa or clinic environment and
apply eyelash extensions to people's natural lashes. This process
enhances the look of the eyelashes and is a popular treatment in beauty
salons. An eyelash tech listens carefully to their client's wants and
needs and uses professional beauty skills to create their desired look.
Lash technicians often work flexible hours, with many employed on a
casual basis, allowing for a work-life balance that suits their
lifestyle. On average, they may work around 20 to 40 hours per week,
depending on their employment type and client demand.
Working 40 hours a week could
entail a late start on one day and a late finish on the same day.
Weekend work is expected.
Clients need to schedule refills every 2 - 3 weeks.
(Source:
Graces Lashes & Cosmetic Tattooing)
Tools and technologies
Lash technicians rely
on a combination of precision hand tools, specialised chemical
solutions, and advanced ergonomic equipment to achieve long-lasting,
customised results. The industry is currently shifting toward
natural-looking enhancements and "lived-in luxury", which
requires tools that can handle ultra-fine fibres and complex mapping.
- Precision Tweezers: Modern kits include multiple shapes, such as straight isolation tweezers for the non-dominant hand and angled or L-shaped volume tweezers for creating and applying fans. New Nano Notch Technology helps secure ultra-fine lashes without slipping.
- Adhesives & Solutions: Advanced 2026 glues offer super-fast drying times (as low as 0.3 seconds) and up to 8 weeks of retention. Technicians also use primers to prep the natural lash, bonders to seal the adhesive and reduce fumes, and removers (cream or gel) for safe extraction.
- Lash Trays & Palettes: Extensions come in various materials like silk or synthetic mink, with diverse curls (C, CC, D, L) and diameters. Anti-glare lash tiles and magnetic tweezer cases help organise these supplies efficiently.
Workspace & Ergonomic Technology
To ensure precision during long appointments, technicians use
specialised equipment:
-
Half-Moon LED Lamps: These unique 320° rotating arc lights eliminate shadows and blind spots over the entire eye area while protecting the technician's eyes from fatigue.
-
Digital Monitoring: Thermo-hygrometers are used to track salon temperature and humidity, which are vital for the performance of lash adhesives.
-
Content Creation Kits: High-end lighting systems like the Glamcor Multimedia X
include phone holders and selfie functions for high-quality social media recording.
Essential Disposables
Hygienic, single-use items are required for every client:
-
Isolation Aids: Hydrogel eye pads and sensitive lash tape are used to secure lower lashes and lift eyelids for better access.
-
Application Wands: Spoolies (mascara brushes) and micro-brushes allow for precise application of cleansers and help separate lashes throughout the process.
(Source:
Australian Beauty School)
Education and training/entrance requirements
To become a competent lash technician in Australia, it's recommended to
complete a lash extension training course. While a qualification isn't
always mandatory for lash techs, it's strongly recommended for
professionalism, skill development, and to meet council or insurance
requirements.
These are often short courses run by private training providers. Look
for courses that cover theory (health, hygiene, anatomy of the eye) and
offer hands-on practice, starting on mannequins and progressing to live
models.
In Australia, accredited eyelash extension courses are often included in
broader beauty qualifications such as the Certificate III in Make-Up or
Certificate III in Beauty Services, but you can also find non-accredited
lash-specific short courses and training programs for beginners.
Once you’ve finished your lash training, you can choose to work as a
full-time, part-time or casual employee, an independent contractor, or
start your own lash business. Many lash technicians begin by working in
a salon or beauty clinic as an employee. This can help you gain hands-on
experience, grow your client base and earn a regular wage.
Employment Opportunities
You can start a role as a lash technician without any formal eyelash
extension training, but having the basic skills in eyelash extensions
and workplace processes under your belt makes it easier to get your foot
in the door for your new role. However, work experience is vital.
Reaching out to local beauty salons or spas to donate your time to help
around the workplace is a great way to get some experience and may even
open doors to job opportunities in the work environment. You may even
choose to apply for a salon reception role to get your foot in the door.
To gain the required skills to work as a lash technician and be an
attractive prospect to employers, studying a VET beauty certification
course can be a huge advantage.
In Australia, lash technicians are not currently regulated by a national
licensing body. However, local councils may require permits or approvals
for home-based or commercial beauty businesses. You can check with your
local council for requirements related to health, safety, and zoning,
especially if you operate from home. If working from a salon, ensure the
salon is council-approved. You can also consider taking a short course
in infection control, which some councils may require.
The beauty industry, including lash technicians, has shown resilience in
the job market, with unemployment rates remaining relatively low. As the
demand for beauty services continues to grow, particularly in urban
areas, the outlook for lash technicians is promising. Industry experts
predict a steady increase in job opportunities over the next few years,
driven by a rising interest in personal grooming and self-care. This
growth presents an encouraging landscape for aspiring lash technicians
to build a fulfilling career in a dynamic and evolving field.
There are "pop-ups" in shopping centres throughout
the Australian cities. It is now a popular accessory for females to
have.
A
Cosmetic Tattooist specializes in
enhancing, altering, or restoring facial features and, in some cases,
bodily features by depositing pigments into the upper layers of the
skin. They require a blend of artistic skill, technical knowledge of
skin anatomy, and strict adherence to hygiene standards.
Permanent makeup artists, also known as micropigmentation artists,
specialize in using cosmetic tattooing techniques to implant
long-lasting pigments into the upper layers of the skin, creating
effects like eyebrow microblading, eyeliner tattooing, and lip shading.
Their goal is to mimic the appearance of makeup and complement facial
features, offering a time-saving and semi-permanent solution for
individuals seeking enhanced or restored cosmetic effects. For people
with conditions like alopecia, scarring, or medical treatments causing
hair loss, permanent makeup artists provide a way to regain a more
normal appearance.
Part artist, part technician, these detail-oriented practitioners
require both creative flair and a steady hand. They must understand
colour theory and facial anatomy, as well as proper sterilization and
hygiene practices.
Scar Camouflage
(Source:
Professional Beauty)
OSCA ID 461131
Alternative names: Permanent Makeup
Artist, PMU Artist, Micropigmentation Artist,
Specialisations
Types of Permanent Makeup Artists
While some permanent makeup artists are generalists and offer a
combination of the services described above, there are also specialists
in the field, different types of permanent makeup artists that focus
their practice in a particular aspect of permanent makeup:
- Eyebrow Specialist – These artists focus
primarily on eyebrow enhancements, performing techniques like
microblading, ombre shading, and feathering. They create natural-looking
brows that complement the client's facial features.
They can also help those clients recovering from chemotherapy.
- Eyeliner and Lash Enhancement Artist – Artists
specializing in eyeliner and lash enhancements apply pigments along the
lash line to create the illusion of thicker lashes or more defined eyes.
They might also offer procedures like eyelash enhancement, where pigment
is delicately applied between the lashes for a fuller appearance.
- Lip Artist – Lip specialists focus on enhancing
the shape and colour of the lips. They offer procedures like lip liner
tattooing, lip blush, and full lip colour application to create a range
of natural to more defined lip looks.
- Areola Reconstruction Artist – These artists
specialize in creating the illusion of realistic areolas and nipples
after breast reconstruction surgery, providing a final touch to the
healing process for individuals who have undergone mastectomies.
- Scar Camouflage Artist – Scar camouflage
specialists use permanent makeup techniques to minimize the appearance
of scars from surgeries, accidents, or medical conditions. They match
the pigments to the client's skin tone and strategically apply them to
blend with the surrounding skin.
- Scalp Micropigmentation Artist – These artists
work on the scalp, creating the appearance of hair follicles to simulate
a fuller head of hair. This technique is often used to address hair loss
or to provide a shaved head look.
- Medical Tattoo Artist – Medical tattoo artists
specialize in procedures related to medical conditions and treatments,
such as areola reconstruction, scar camouflage, and creating
realistic-looking features for those with alopecia, vitiligo, or cleft
lips.
- Colour Correction Specialist – These artists
are skilled at correcting or adjusting previously done permanent makeup
procedures with the goal of achieving a more balanced and natural
result.
- Male Grooming Specialist – This specialization focuses on providing permanent makeup solutions tailored to men's grooming needs, including subtle enhancements to facial features.
(Source: All About Vision)
Knowledge, skills and attributes
- Artistic Talent & Precision: A natural eye for colour and symmetry.
- Health and Safety Training: Proficiency in infection control and, in many areas, bloodborne pathogen training.
- Technical Knowledge: Understanding skin anatomy, colour theory, and pigment behaviour.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to maintain concentration for long, detailed sessions.
(Source:
Sydney College of Hair and Beauty)
Duties and Tasks
-
Client Consultations: Meeting with clients to discuss desired aesthetic outcomes, assess skin type and tone, explain the procedure, and manage expectations.
-
Design and Mapping: Drawing the intended shape (e.g., brow mapping, lip liner) and choosing appropriate pigment colours to match the client's skin undertones, obtaining approval before tattooing.
-
Performing Procedures: Using specialized machines or hand tools to apply pigments for techniques such as:
- Eyebrow Feathering/Microblading: Creating fine, hair-like strokes.
- Powder/Ombré Brows: Creating a shaded, soft-pencil look.
- Eyeliner/Lash Enhancement: Defining the lash line.
- Lip Blushing/Tinting: Defining shape and adding colour.
- Paramedical Tattooing: Including areola reconstruction after breast surgery and scar camouflage.
-
Hygiene and Safety Control: Maintaining a sterile work environment, sterilizing equipment, using disposable materials, and adhering strictly to health regulations to prevent infection.
-
Anaesthetic Application: Applying topical numbing creams to minimize discomfort, in compliance with local regulations.
-
Aftercare Advice: Instructing clients on how to care for the tattooed area during the healing process to ensure optimal results.
-
Touch-ups and Corrections: Performing follow-up sessions (usually 4-6 weeks after the initial session) to adjust shape or colour and fix faded or uneven areas.
-
Administrative Work: Documenting treatment details, taking before-and-after photos, and managing bookings.
(Source:
The Beauty Base)
Working conditions
Permanent makeup artists can work for various types of
establishments or as independent practitioners. These are among their
most common employers:
- Salons and Beauty Clinics – Many permanent makeup artists work in established salons, beauty clinics, or medical spas. These establishments offer a range of cosmetic and beauty services, including permanent makeup.
- Medical Practices- Some permanent makeup artists work in medical settings, such as dermatology or plastic surgery clinics, specializing in medical tattooing.
- Tattoo Studios – Some tattoo studios offer permanent makeup as part of their portfolio of services.
- Spas and Wellness Centres – Spas that offer a variety of beauty and relaxation services may also have permanent makeup artists on staff.
- Freelance or Independent – Many permanent makeup artists choose to work independently as freelancers or sole proprietors. They may rent studio space, operate from home, or offer mobile services, allowing them greater flexibility and control over their schedules and services.
- Training Institutes – Experienced permanent makeup artists might also work as instructors at beauty schools or training institutes, teaching aspiring artists the techniques and skills needed for the profession.
- Events and Special Occasions – Some artists specialize in providing temporary or semi-permanent makeup services for special events like weddings, photoshoots, or theatrical performances.
- Online Platforms – With the rise of online presence and social media, some permanent makeup artists offer consultations, educational content, and even virtual services through platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or dedicated websites.
In each of these settings, the permanent makeup artist's workspace is equipped with specialized tools such as tattoo machines, pigments, and needles, as well as proper lighting to ensure precision and safety. Hygiene and sterilization protocols are of utmost importance in all scenarios. The workplace is designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing experience for clients while allowing the artist to perform their work effectively and efficiently.
(Source:
Tina Davies)
Tools and Technologies
AI Overview
Cosmetic tattooists (Permanent Makeup or PMU artists) utilize specialized, high-precision tools designed for delicate procedures on the face, such as microblading, eyebrow shading, eyeliner, and lip blushing. Key technologies focus on minimizing skin trauma, ensuring hygiene, and providing consistent pigment implantation.
- Cosmetic Tattoo Machines
Modern PMU artists generally prefer rotary pen-style machines over older coil machines due to their lightweight, ergonomic design, low vibration, and quiet operation.- Rotary Pen Machines: These are the most common, resembling a marker for natural grip and superior manoeuvrability. Popular options include the Biomaser U1 Pro, EZ P3 Pro, and Dragonhawk Mast Tour.
- Digital Tattoo Devices: These offer superior precision and stability for delicate work, such as eyeliner, using microprocessors to control speed consistently (e.g., VIP Digital Tattoo Device, Swiss Colour devices).
- Wireless Technology: Many devices are now wireless with rechargeable batteries, reducing cable clutter and allowing more freedom of movement (e.g., Mast Tour Wireless), providing up to 12 hours of use.
- Needles and Cartridges
Modern practice favours all-in-one needle cartridges over traditional needle bars, as they prevent pigment and bodily fluids from entering the machine, thus preventing cross-contamination.- Cartridge Types: 1RL (single round liner) is used for hair strokes and detailed work, while 3RL and 5RS are used for shading.
- Nano Needles: Ultra-fine cartridges (e.g., 0.18mm, 0.25mm, 0.3mm) are commonly used to create thin, precise hair strokes in nano-brow techniques.
- Microblading Hand Tools: Non-electric, manual tools used to hold disposable blades for manual hair strokes, often preferred for a very natural look.
- Pigments and Chemical
Supplies
- PMU Pigments: Specialized, biocompatible, and stable pigments are used (e.g., Perma Blend, Swiss Colour, BioTouch).
- Topical Anaesthetics: Numbing creams and gels, often containing lidocaine and tetracaine, are crucial for client comfort.
- Skin Prep & Cleanup: Green soap, witch hazel, and antiseptic wipes are used to prepare the skin.
- Pigment Removal: Solutions like Li-FT Saline are used to remove or lighten unsatisfactory tattoos.
- Mapping and Design
Technology
- Mapping Tools: Reusable brow rulers, calliper tools for the Golden Ratio, and pre-inked mapping string are essential for achieving symmetry before tattooing.
- Digital Apps: Tools like Procreate on tablets are used to design and overlay, and some artists use augmented reality apps like InkHunter to preview results.
- Mapping Paste: Thick white paste used to map out the shape of brows, lips, or eyeliner, keeping the sketch stable during the procedure.
- Hygiene and Safety Equipment
- Sterilization: While most items are disposable, reusable tools require autoclaves and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Barrier Protection: Machine covers, clip cord covers, barrier film, and hospital-grade disinfectant wipes (e.g., Whiteley Speedy Clean).
- PPE: Disposable gloves, face masks, and aprons are standard.
- Studio Infrastructure
- Comfort: Adjustable tattoo chairs, treatment beds, and armrests are vital to reduce fatigue for both the client and the artist.
- Lighting: Adjustable LED lamps, often paired with magnifiers (such as ring lights or "eyes" lamps), are used to see details clearly.
Cosmetic Tattooist's
Equipment
(Source:
Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne)
Education and training/entrance requirements
While there’s no one-size-fits-all national certification, the industry
standard in Australia is the SHBBSKS003 — Design and Provide Cosmetic
Tattooing unit from the SHB50216 Diploma of Cosmetic Tattooing or the
updated SHB50321 Diploma of Cosmetic Tattooing (where applicable). These
diplomas are considered part of the cosmetic tattoo training program,
which provides comprehensive training in both theory and practice,
laying a strong foundation for your cosmetic tattooing career.
Most reputable training providers offer nationally recognised courses
that align with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Check
that the provider is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) — that’s
your guarantee of professional standards and employment outcome.
Employment Opportunities
Before you can whip out your digital pen and start creating those tattoo
for lips, eyebrow tattoo, ombre brows, or even tattoo for eyes, you need
to know that in Australia, cosmetic tattooing is considered a form of
skin penetration. That means it’s regulated by each state and territory.
You need to register your business as a prescribed accommodation or
prescribed business with your local council. This registration ensures
your workspace meets infection control standards. You also need to
comply with strict infection control unit guidelines.
More clients are realising the benefits of cosmetic tattooing and are
using the service.
Hair or Beauty Salon Assistants assist Hairdressers or Beauty Therapists
by performing routine tasks in hairdressing or beauty salons.
OSCA ID:
461934
Alternative names: Hair Dresser Assistant,
Knowledge, skills and attributes
- Product Knowledge:
Salon assistants should have a strong knowledge of the
products and services offered by their employer. This allows them to
answer questions from clients about different treatments, styles and
other topics related to the salon industry. It also helps them make
informed recommendations when clients ask for suggestions on what
service or product they should try.
- Makeup Application:
A strong makeup application skill can help you support
clients by suggesting the right products and techniques for their
skin type. For example, if a client has dry skin, you might
recommend using moisturizer before applying foundation to avoid
flaking or irritation. You can also use your makeup skills to
demonstrate how to apply certain products so that clients can
recreate the look at home.
- Interpersonal Skills:
are the abilities to communicate with others and understand
their emotions. Salon assistants often work directly with customers,
so it’s important for them to be friendly and welcoming. They also
need to listen carefully when a customer is describing what they
want done to their hair. This requires active listening skills,
which are another example of interpersonal skills.
- Flexibility: is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. As a salon assistant, you may need to change your schedule or work with different clients than originally planned. Being flexible can help you meet these challenges and ensure that you provide excellent service to all of your customers. It’s also important to be flexible in your duties as an assistant so that you can learn new skills and take on more responsibility when needed.
(Source:
Your Career)
Duties and Tasks
- Prepares clients for beauty and hair appointments
- Assists during beauty treatments such as facials and manicures, or hair cutting, styling and colouring
- Cleans and maintains salon equipment and tools
- Assists with reception duties such as answering phone calls and scheduling appointments
- Stocks and organises salon products and supplies
- Performs facial and body treatments such as massages.
- Receives bookings, arranges appointments and maintains client records.
Education and training/entrance requirements
You usually need a
certificate II in a personal services field to work as a Hair or Beauty
Salon Assistant. Hair and Beauty Salon Assistants often complete a
certificate III or IV.
Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs
Hairdresser Hair/Beauty Salon Manager |
Makeup Artist Mortuary Makeup Artist |
Pet Groomer |
Salesperson |
Tattoo Artist |
Materials sourced from
Jobs & Skills WA [Beauty
Therapist];
CareersOnline [Nail
Technician]
Open Colleges [Nail
Technician; ]
JobHero [Nail
Technician; ]
Study [Nail
Technician; ]
Climb the Ladder [Salon
Assistant; ]
CareerFAQs [how
to become a Lash Technician; ]
Indeed [Lash
Technician; ]
Training.com.au [Lash
Technician; ]
Career Explorer [Permanent
Makeup Artist; ]
Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne [What
qualifications do you need to do cosmetic tattooing; ]
Your Career [Beauty
Therapist;
Hair or Beauty Salon Assistant;]
