VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation
Next Start Date | 27th October 2025
VTCT Level 4 Micropigmentation (Semi-Permanent Makeup) training in Ladbroke Grove, London. Master eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner PMU. 10-week course, maximum 6 students, individual treatment rooms, 45+ years tutor experience.
£2,100
Available!
Course Description
Professional Micropigmentation Training – Master Semi-Permanent Makeup
The VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation is designed for qualified beauty therapists wanting to specialise in semi-permanent makeup (PMU) treatments. It provides learners with the technical skills and artistic knowledge to perform professional micropigmentation for eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner. After completing this course, students can work in PMU studios, aesthetic clinics, or establish their own semi-permanent makeup practice offering life-changing cosmetic enhancement.
Your Pathway to Semi-Permanent Makeup Expertise
This VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation provides comprehensive training in professional semi-permanent makeup (PMU) techniques for eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner. Based in Ladbroke Grove, London – just 10 minutes’ walk from the station – you’ll master cosmetic tattooing using professional digital machines, understanding colour theory, brow mapping, symmetry, and artistic design for natural-looking enhancements.
Micropigmentation training in London is in exceptional demand as semi-permanent makeup continues to grow in popularity. Clients seek qualified professionals who can create beautiful, natural-looking brows, enhance lip colour and shape, and define eyes with permanent eyeliner. This comprehensive 10-week course (one day per week) provides technical skills, colour knowledge, skin understanding, and professional artistry – ensuring you’re confident performing micropigmentation in studios, clinics, or your own practice across London.
This Level 4 qualification is perfect for beauty therapists wanting to specialise in one of the most lucrative and creatively rewarding aesthetic treatments.
What Makes Our Level 4 Micropigmentation Training Different
Individual Treatment Rooms for PMU Practice
Unlike most beauty schools where students share equipment in crowded spaces, at Portobello Aesthetics Training Academy, you’ll practise micropigmentation in individual treatment rooms. This is crucial for semi-permanent makeup where you need to focus on precise needlework, colour selection, and artistic design without distractions. You’ll work exactly as you would in a real PMU studio or clinic environment, building confidence and professional rhythm.
Small Class Size – Maximum 4 Students
We believe in small classes because micropigmentation training requires precise technique, colour understanding, and individual attention when working with permanent cosmetic procedures. With just 4 students per course, you’ll receive personalised guidance from experienced PMU practitioners with over 45 years combined experience in aesthetic treatments. Your tutor can watch your needle technique, correct your hand positioning, and help you develop the artistic eye needed for beautiful results.
Comprehensive 10-Week Format
Our micropigmentation course in Ladbroke Grove is structured as a 10-week programme (one day per week), giving you thorough training in all three main PMU procedures: eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner. You’ll master brow mapping and design, lip colour theory, eyeliner precision, and professional consultation skills progressively, building both technical skills and artistic confidence.
Professional-Grade Equipment
Train with professional digital micropigmentation machines, needles, and pigments used in leading London PMU studios and aesthetic clinics. You’ll understand different needle configurations (1-point, 3-point, nano needles), machine settings, and how to select appropriate techniques for different skin types and desired effects.
Expert Tutors with Extensive PMU Experience
You’ll learn from highly experienced micropigmentation practitioners who perform semi-permanent makeup regularly in London studios. They bring over 45 years of combined experience in aesthetic treatments, meaning they understand colour theory, facial symmetry, current brow trends, and how to develop your technical skills and artistic abilities for professional practice.
About This Level 4 Micropigmentation Qualification
Duration: 10 weeks (one day per week)
Schedule: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Class Size: Maximum 4 students
Training Setup: Individual treatment rooms for practical sessions
Location: Ladbroke Grove, London (10 minute walk from the station)
This VTCT-accredited Level 4 qualification prepares you to offer professional semi-permanent makeup services. Upon completion, you’ll be qualified to perform micropigmentation for eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner in PMU studios, aesthetic clinics, salons, or your own practice across London and the UK.
You’ll need:
✓ Prior Qualifications: Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification or Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy Treatments (essential)
✓ Foundational Knowledge: Understanding of skin anatomy, facial treatments, colour theory, and professional consultation skills
✓ English Language: Good speaking, reading, writing, and understanding (essential for safety protocols and client consultations)
✓ Age: Minimum 19 years
✓ Artistic Interest: Whilst you don’t need to be an artist, interest in aesthetics, symmetry, and design is beneficial
This Level 4 micropigmentation course is perfect if you:
✓ Are a qualified beauty therapist wanting to specialise in semi-permanent makeup
✓ Want to work in PMU studios, aesthetic clinics, or establish your own practice
✓ Are interested in creative, artistic treatments with transformative results
✓ Want to offer premium cosmetic enhancement services in London
✓ Enjoy detailed, precise work and have good hand-eye co-ordination
✓ Prefer intensive training in individual treatment rooms with small class sizes
✓ Value personalised attention from experienced tutors
Don’t meet the requirements yet? Contact us – we can advise on the best pathway to get you qualified (like our Level 3 Access To Aesthetic Therapies course in Ladbroke Grove).
This comprehensive 10-week course covers all essential knowledge and skills for professional semi-permanent makeup:
Skin Science for Micropigmentation
Understanding permanent cosmetic procedures:
• Advanced skin anatomy relevant to PMU (epidermis, dermis, dermal-epidermal junction)
• How pigment is implanted and retained in skin
• Skin types, Fitzpatrick classifications, and ethnic skin considerations
• Understanding skin healing after micropigmentation
• Pigment migration, fading, and colour changes over time
• Scarring risks and keloid formation
• How medications and health conditions affect PMU results
Micropigmentation Equipment and Technology
Professional machine mastery:
Digital Micropigmentation Machines
• Understanding rotary machines vs. coil machines
• Digital machine controls and settings (speed, power)
• Pen-style vs. traditional machine configurations
• Professional vs. beginner equipment
• Machine sterilisation and maintenance
Needle Types and Configurations
• 1-Point Needles: Hair strokes, microblading effect, precision work
• 3-Point Needles: Soft brows, shading, powder effect
• Nano Needles: Very fine hair strokes and detailed work
• Round Needles: Shading, ombre brows, lip blending
• Flat Needles: Eyeliner, lip liner, solid coverage
• Single-use disposable needles and infection control
Pigments and Colour Theory
• Understanding PMU pigment composition (organic vs. inorganic)
• Colour theory for skin undertones (warm, cool, neutral)
• Pigment selection for different Fitzpatrick types
• How pigments fade and change over time
• Colour correction for previous PMU work
• Mixing and customising pigment colours
• Safe pigment brands and quality standards
Eyebrow Micropigmentation
Creating beautiful, natural brows:
Brow Design and Mapping
• Facial measurements and symmetry
• Golden ratio proportions for brow placement
• Understanding bone structure and facial shape
• Brow mapping techniques (string method, measurements)
• Designing brows to suit individual faces
• Current brow trends vs. timeless natural brows
• Correcting asymmetry and uneven brows
Eyebrow Techniques
• Hair Stroke Technique: Creating realistic individual hairs (nano brows, microblading effect with machine)
• Powder/Ombre Brows: Soft shaded brows from light to dark
• Combination Brows: Hair strokes at the front with shading through the body
• Choosing appropriate technique for skin type and client preference
• Needle selection for different brow styles
Eyebrow Procedure
• Numbing cream application and timing
• Skin preparation and marking design
• Machine settings for eyebrow work
• Needle depth for eyebrows (0.8mm-1.2mm typically)
• Working with the natural hair growth direction
• Managing bleeding and implanting pigment effectively
• Building colour gradually in layers
• Treatment time and client comfort
Lip Micropigmentation
Enhancing natural lip colour and shape:
Lip Design and Colour Selection
• Analysing natural lip colour and undertones
• Selecting flattering pigment colours
• Understanding lip anatomy and vermillion border
• Designing natural-looking lip shapes
• Correcting asymmetry and enhancing definition
• Full lip colour vs. lip liner vs. lip blush
Lip Techniques
• Lip Blush: Natural colour enhancement throughout lips
• Lip Liner: Defining and reshaping lip borders
• Full Lip Colour: Complete coverage for pale or uneven lips
• Needle selection for different lip procedures
• Managing sensitive lip tissue
Lip Procedure
• Numbing protocols for lips (more sensitive than brows)
• Skin preparation and design marking
• Machine settings for lip work
• Needle depth for lips (slightly deeper than brows)
• Managing swelling, bleeding, and client comfort
• Building colour in layers for even results
• Cold sore prevention protocols (antiviral medication)
Eyeliner Micropigmentation
Precision permanent eyeliner:
Eyeliner Design
• Classic lash line enhancement vs. winged liner
• Designing flattering eyeliner for different eye shapes
• Upper eyeliner vs. lower eyeliner considerations
• Thickness and placement options
• Understanding eye anatomy and danger zones
Eyeliner Techniques
• Lash Line Enhancement: Subtle definition between lashes
• Classic Liner: Visible line along lash line
• Winged Liner: Extended liner with flick
• Needle selection for eyeliner (very fine needles)
• Precision control for delicate eye area
Eyeliner Procedure
• Numbing protocols for eyes (eye drops and cream)
• Positioning and stretching skin properly
• Machine settings for eyeliner (lower speed typically)
• Needle depth for eyelids (most delicate area)
• Safety protocols working near eyes
• Managing tearing and client anxiety
• One eye at a time vs. both eyes approach
Professional Consultation and Client Care
Managing PMU clients professionally:
Client Consultation
• Comprehensive consultations for permanent procedures
• Understanding client expectations and motivations
• Showing realistic examples and managing expectations
• Medical history screening and contraindications
• Patch testing 48 hours before treatment
• Photography and consent documentation
• Pricing and explaining the 2-appointment process
Contraindications and Safety
When NOT to perform micropigmentation:
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Blood clotting disorders or anticoagulant medication
• Diabetes (poorly controlled)
• Keloid scarring tendency
• Active skin conditions in treatment area
• Recent Botox or fillers (wait 2 weeks)
• Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) use
• Chemotherapy or immunosuppression
• Unrealistic expectations or body dysmorphia
• Clients under 18 years
• Active cold sores (for lip procedures)
Aftercare and Healing
• Immediate aftercare instructions (no water, no makeup, no touching)
• The healing process day by day (scabbing, flaking, colour changes)
• Long-term aftercare and sun protection
• Touch-up appointments (typically 6-8 weeks after initial treatment)
• How pigment fades over 1-3 years
• Annual colour boosts and maintenance
Health, Safety, and Infection Control
Professional safety protocols for PMU:
• Bloodborne pathogen training and universal precautions
• Sterilisation and autoclaving (if using reusable equipment)
• Single-use disposable needles and infection control
• PPE (gloves, masks, aprons)
• Sharps disposal and waste management
• Professional hygiene standards
• Insurance and professional indemnity
• Legal requirements for micropigmentation practice
• Local authority registration requirements
Colour Correction and Advanced Work
Managing previous PMU:
• Assessing previous micropigmentation work
• When colour correction is possible vs. laser removal needed
• Colour theory for correcting unwanted pigment
• Lightening techniques and saline removal
• Managing client expectations for correction work
Business Skills for Micropigmentation
Building a successful PMU practice:
• Pricing semi-permanent makeup in London (£200-£600+ per procedure)
• Why PMU requires 2 appointments (initial + touch-up)
• Marketing your PMU services and building portfolio
• Before/after photography and client testimonials
• Social media strategies for PMU artists
• Insurance, licensing, and professional standards
• Setting up a PMU studio or working mobile
• Building client trust for permanent procedures
In your individual treatment room throughout the 10 weeks, you’ll practise micropigmentation on real clients, developing the technical skills and artistic eye needed for professional semi-permanent makeup practice.
Schedule: One day per week for 10 weeks
Hours: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Class Size: Maximum 4 students
Training Setup: Individual treatment rooms for practical sessions
Location: Ladbroke Grove, London (10 minute walk from the tube station)
What Makes Our Micropigmentation Training Different:
Semi-permanent makeup requires precision, artistic skill, and confident machine control. At Portobello Aesthetics Training Academy in Ladbroke Grove, you train in individual treatment rooms with just 4 students – ensuring you develop proper techniques without the distractions of large classroom environments.
Why individual treatment rooms matter for PMU training:
• Professional studio environment – Work exactly as you would in a real PMU practice
• Focus and precision – No distractions when performing permanent procedures
• Client comfort and privacy – Professional experience for your models
• Proper equipment setup – Learn correct workspace organisation and workflow
• Individual attention – Your tutor focuses on your specific technique, watches your needle work, and helps you develop artistic skills
Progressive Training Over 10 Weeks:
Weeks 1-2: Skin science, PMU theory, equipment and technology, colour theory, health and safety, demonstrations
Weeks 3-4: Eyebrow micropigmentation theory, brow mapping and design, hair stroke technique practice, numbing protocols
Weeks 5-6: Eyebrow practical sessions on models, powder/ombre brows, combination brows, supervised hands-on practice
Weeks 7-8: Lip micropigmentation theory and colour selection, lip blush and liner techniques, practical lip sessions on models
Weeks 9-10: Eyeliner micropigmentation, precision techniques for eyes, final practical assessments, business planning and marketing
Throughout: Building your PMU portfolio with before/after photos, completing case studies, receiving feedback on technique and artistry, developing your personal style
You Don’t Need to Worry About:
✓ Individual Treatment Room Access – Professional space for micropigmentation practice throughout your 10-week training
✓ Professional PMU Equipment – All digital machines, needles, and equipment provided (same professional devices used in London PMU studios)
✓ All Treatment Supplies – Pigments, numbing cream, aftercare products, PPE, sterile supplies
✓ Models Provided – We arrange models for your practical sessions (or you can bring your own if you prefer)
✓ Comprehensive Course Materials – Manuals covering techniques, colour theory, protocols, consent forms, aftercare sheets
✓ VTCT Registration & Assessment Fees – All included (no hidden costs)
What You Need to Bring:
✓ Uniform: Tunic, black trousers, flat closed-toe shoes
✓ Models: We provide models for your practical sessions (you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer)
✓ Commitment: Attend all 10 weekly sessions for comprehensive learning
✓ Portfolio Development: Take photos of your work for your professional portfolio
You’ll be assessed through:
✓ Practical Assessments – Performing micropigmentation procedures on models in your individual treatment room (eyebrows, lips, eyeliner)
✓ Theoretical Assessments – Written work covering skin science, colour theory, equipment knowledge, safety protocols, and professional practice
✓ Portfolio of Evidence – Before/after photography, case studies, consultation records, treatment plans, design work, reflective accounts
Assessment takes place throughout your course, not as separate exam days. Your tutor provides ongoing feedback on your technique and artistry, so you’ll know exactly where you stand before final assessment.
Upon Successful Completion:
You’ll receive your VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation that:
✓ Qualifies you to perform professional semi-permanent makeup (eyebrows, lips, eyeliner) in studios and clinics across London
✓ Enables you to obtain professional insurance for micropigmentation services
✓ Meets local authority registration requirements for PMU practice
✓ Is recognised by employers and professional bodies in the aesthetic industry
✓ Allows you to establish your own PMU practice or work in studios
✓ Opens doors to lucrative and creatively rewarding aesthetic careers
The Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation provides learners with professional PMU skills needed to work in semi-permanent makeup studios, aesthetic clinics, or establish independent practices. Micropigmentation is one of the most lucrative beauty treatments, with high earning potential and creative satisfaction.
Career Opportunities with Level 4 Micropigmentation:
• PMU Studios and Clinics – Work in established semi-permanent makeup practices across London
• Aesthetic Clinics – Many medical aesthetic clinics offer PMU alongside other treatments
• High-End Salons – Adding PMU elevates salon services and attracts premium clients
• Self-Employed PMU Artist – Establish your own studio or mobile practice
• Specialist Focus – Become known for exceptional brows, lips, or eyeliner
• Medical Micropigmentation – Areola reconstruction, scar camouflage (with additional training)
Why Micropigmentation is a Good Career Choice:
✓ Exceptional earning potential – £200-£400+ per eyebrow procedure, £250-£500+ for lips, £150-£350+ for eyeliner in London
✓ 2-appointment process – Initial treatment plus touch-up (6-8 weeks later) means double revenue per client
✓ Regular maintenance clients – Clients return annually for colour boosts (recurring income for years)
✓ Creative and artistic – One of the most creatively satisfying beauty treatments
✓ Transformative results – Life-changing for clients with sparse brows, pale lips, or medical needs
✓ Growing demand – PMU continues to increase in popularity across all age groups
✓ Work flexibility – Mobile PMU, studio-based, or employed in clinics
✓ Build a reputation – Social media and word-of-mouth build strong client bases
Earning Potential:
London PMU pricing typically:
• Eyebrows: £250-£400 (initial) + £100-£150 (touch-up)
• Lips: £300-£500 (initial) + £150-£200 (touch-up)
• Eyeliner: £200-£350 per eye line
• Annual Colour Boosts: £100-£200 per area
A full-time PMU artist seeing 2-3 clients daily can earn £60,000-£100,000+ annually in London.
Further Training Opportunities:
After completing basic micropigmentation, you can progress to advanced specialisations:
• Paramedical micropigmentation (areola reconstruction, scar camouflage)
• Advanced colour correction
• Scalp micropigmentation for hair loss
• Cosmetic tattooing (beauty marks, freckles)
But Here’s What Really Matters:
Even after completing micropigmentation training and starting to offer PMU, you can contact your tutor for advice.
Questions about colour selection? Need guidance on correcting previous work? Want advice about challenging clients or marketing your new skills?
We’re here for you.
That’s the PATA difference – you’re part of our professional network for life.
Questions You’re Probably Asking About Micropigmentation Training
Do I need to be artistic to do semi-permanent makeup?
You don’t need to be a trained artist, but interest in aesthetics, symmetry, and design is definitely helpful. Much of PMU artistry is learnt through training – brow mapping follows specific measurements and proportions, and technique develops with practice. With our small class size (just 6 students) and individual treatment rooms, you’ll receive the guidance needed to develop your artistic eye.
Will I be insured to work after completing this course?
Yes. This VTCT Level 4 qualification is recognised by professional insurance providers across the UK. Upon qualifying, you’ll be able to obtain appropriate insurance to perform micropigmentation. We recommend specialist PMU insurers such as Cosmetic Insure, Beauty Guild, or Hamilton Fraser, all of whom accept this qualification.
Do I need to register with the local council?
Yes – in most areas of the UK, you must register your micropigmentation practice with your local authority. Requirements vary by council but typically involve health and safety inspections and paying registration fees. This is separate from your qualification and insurance. We’ll explain the registration process during your course.
How many procedures will I perform during the course?
You’ll perform multiple micropigmentation procedures throughout the 10 weeks – typically 8-12 complete procedures across eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner. With only 6 students in your class and individual treatment rooms, you’ll have extensive hands-on practice with professional equipment and real models.
Is micropigmentation painful for clients?
Numbing cream is always used before procedures, making treatments very manageable for most clients. Eyebrows are least uncomfortable (most clients feel mild scratching), lips are more sensitive (but numbing makes it tolerable), and eyeliner varies (some areas more sensitive than others). You’ll learn proper numbing protocols and client management during training.
How long do results last?
Semi-permanent makeup typically lasts 1-3 years before requiring colour boosts, depending on skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, and pigment colour. Lighter colours fade faster than darker ones. Oily skin retains pigment less well than dry skin. Most clients return annually for colour refreshers, providing ongoing income.
What’s the difference between micropigmentation and microblading?
Microblading uses a manual hand tool with tiny blades to cut hair strokes into skin. Micropigmentation (machine work) uses a digital rotary machine with needles to implant pigment. Machines offer more control, consistency, and versatility (can do hair strokes, shading, and solid work). Machine work also typically lasts longer. You’ll train with professional machines, not manual blading.
How much should I charge for PMU once qualified?
London prices typically range from £250-£400 for eyebrows, £300-£500 for lips, and £200-£350 for eyeliner. Remember PMU requires 2 appointments – initial treatment plus touch-up 6-8 weeks later. Many artists charge separately for touch-ups (£100-£200) or include it in a package price. Annual colour boosts add recurring income.
Can I work on all skin tones?
Yes – micropigmentation works on all Fitzpatrick skin types, but darker skin requires specific colour knowledge to avoid ashy or unnatural results. Understanding warm and cool undertones is crucial. This is a major focus of your training – you’ll learn colour theory, pigment selection for different skin tones, and how to create natural-looking results on every client.
What if I haven’t worked in beauty therapy recently?
That’s fine. Whilst you need the Level 3 qualification to enrol, we don’t require recent practice. However, micropigmentation is a significant step from basic beauty therapy, so if you’ve been away from the industry for a long time, it may be worth refreshing your knowledge. Our small class size means your tutor can provide extra support if needed.
Do I need to buy my own equipment after qualifying?
Eventually yes, if you want to work independently. Professional digital micropigmentation machines cost £200-£1,500+, plus needles (£1-£3 each, single-use), pigments (£10-£25 per bottle), and numbing cream. Many practitioners start by working in established studios with equipment provided before investing in their own setup. We’ll discuss equipment purchasing during business training.
What happens if a client doesn’t like their PMU?
This is why thorough consultation, realistic examples, and design approval before starting are crucial (all covered extensively in training). If a client is unhappy, sometimes a touch-up can adjust shape or colour. In rare cases, pigment can be lightened with saline solution or removed with laser. Proper consent, photography, and realistic expectation-setting prevent most issues.
Can I do PMU if I’m pregnant?
You can attend the training whilst pregnant, though working with needles requires extra infection control precautions. You cannot perform micropigmentation on pregnant clients due to risks of infection and unpredictable healing.
What happens if I miss a session?
We understand emergencies happen. If you miss a session, you’ll need to make it up to meet course requirements and qualification criteria. Depending on circumstances, this might mean joining that specific session with our next cohort. Please inform us as soon as possible if you can’t attend, so we can arrange the best solution.
Available!
Payment Options
Pay Upfront
Get 10% off the price for paying upfront.
Full payment must be received 10 days before the course start date to receive this discount.
Instalments
A minimum deposit of £300 is required to hold your space.
Then monthly payments are required for the remaining balance.
Terms and Conditions apply. Contact us for more information.
Wahida Nicolaides –
The best academy in London, with all the support needed even after finishing the course still in touch.
Big thank you to Shabana and Korrin
Jesse Rochester –
Amazing academy, having never done micropigmentation before Shabana was very patient and knowledgeable, she’s a great teacher, I wouldn’t have wanted to go anywhere else. I now have the confidence and skills to go off and do treatments by myself, thank you to everyone at portobello training academy!