What 32 Years in PMU Taught Us About Education, Longevity & Ethics

No one becomes a master overnight.
And in permanent makeup, experience is earned one healed result at a time.

In Episode #115 of the Tatter-a-Fact® PMU Podcast, Teryn Darling sits down with Robin Hayes Velez, a PMU veteran with over 32 years of experience, to discuss the truth about PMU education, pigment science, and career longevity.

Why Ongoing Education Is the Key to Longevity

Learning Beyond Technique

Most artists enter PMU wanting to change lives, but many burn out early because they stop learning once they’re “good enough.”
The truth? “Good enough” doesn’t stay good for long.

Technology, regulations, and pigment science evolve constantly. The best artists are lifelong students.
As Teryn often says:

“Education isn’t a one-time event; it’s a career-long commitment.”

The Pigment Learning Curve

Understanding Pigment Behavior

Robin and Teryn emphasized that pigments don’t fail, artists fail to understand their chemistry.

• Iron oxides are stable, heal soft, and fade predictably.

• Organics deliver richer results but require control and proper skin prep.

• Hybrid lines like OMG and Aqua combine the best of both worlds when used correctly.

Knowing how each pigment oxidizes, sits in the skin, and fades over time determines how your work ages and how clients perceive your skill.

👉 To master pigment chemistry, check out Beyond the Epidermis: The Ultimate Color Theory Course .

Needles, Machines & Adaptability

Adapting Technique to Equipment

Every machine operates differently, stroke length, speed, torque and these variables change how pigment implants.
An artist’s ability to adapt is what separates confident professionals from frustrated beginners.

Understanding needle tapers, groupings, and movement techniques helps artists achieve consistent healed results no matter what device they use.

Learn how to do exactly that in Machine & Movements  and The Needle & The Prick  courses.

The Role of Ethics in Education

Teaching With Integrity

Education in PMU isn’t just about technique, it’s about responsibility.
When you teach, you’re shaping the next generation of artists who will tattoo real faces and change real lives.
Robin’s advice:

“You can’t teach ethics, but you can model them.”

At Girlz Ink Academy, we hold that belief close. Our goal is to build well-rounded artists who understand theory, safety, and responsibility, not just trends.

Avoiding Burnout and Staying Inspired

Boundaries Build Longevity

Burnout is one of the most common reasons talented artists leave PMU.
Robin reminded us that boundaries are a form of self-respect.
Say no when you need to, take breaks, and don’t let social media pressure dictate your worth.

Investing in your education, technique, and mindset ensures that your passion stays alive for years to come.

Keep Learning, Keep Growing

If you’re ready to take your career from good to great, explore these core courses that have helped thousands of artists worldwide:

🎓 Beyond the Epidermis: Color Theory 
🎓 The Needle & The Prick 
🎓 Machine & Movements 
🎓 Li-FT® Saline Removal 

These courses don’t just teach, they transform how you think, tattoo, and grow.

Listen to the Conversation That Started It All

🎧 Tatter-a-Fact® Podcast Episode #115 — The No-B.S. Truth About PMU with Robin Hayes Velez
Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.