Microblading Salary: How Much Do Microbladers Make?

If you’re thinking about a career in microblading, you’re probably wondering: How much do microbladers actually make? The short answer? It depends. But for many brow techs, it can be a highly rewarding and profitable job, with the potential to earn good money in the field.

Whether you’re still training or are already shaping brows daily, this guide will walk you through what to expect when it comes to income, pricing, and the real earning potential behind the blade. Microblading ranges widely in terms of income, so understanding the different variables is key to knowing what you might earn.

What is Microblading and Why Is It So Popular?

Microblading is a form of semi-permanent makeup where pigment is implanted into the skin using a fine blade to create realistic-looking eyebrows. It’s usually a service booked by people with sparse eyebrows who want a fuller, more defined look. Thanks to social media and the rise of low-maintenance beauty, it’s become one of the most in-demand services in the beauty industry.

Microblading is considered a specialized procedure within the field of cosmetology, making it an attractive career path if you're looking to expand your services. Why not take advantage of this opportunity?A person using a pair of scissors to trim a person's eyebrows

Training and Education: What It Takes to Become a Microblader

Breaking into the beauty industry as a microblading artist starts with the right training and education. Aspiring microblading technicians typically enroll in specialized microblading courses approved by respected organizations like the American Academy of Micropigmentation (AAM) or the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP). These courses are designed to teach the fundamentals of permanent makeup like sanitation, safety protocols, and the artistry behind creating natural looking brows.

A high-quality microblading course will also cover how to select and use high quality pigments, understand different skin types, and master the techniques for beautiful, lasting results. The cost of the courses can vary depending on the location and which one you choose, and ranges between a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. But investing in your education is crucial to building a successful microblading business. With the right skills and knowledge, you’ll be prepared to offer amazing microblading services, stand out in a competitive market, and set yourself up for a rewarding career path in the world of permanent makeup.

How Much Do Microbladers Make on Average?

Clients typically pay a significant amount for microblading services, and the price of a microblading session can vary depending on location, clientele, and market demand.

On average, most microblading artists take 2 clients a week with each appointment lasting between 2-4 hours. (Talk about a flexible schedule!)

Let’s break down typical income levels by experience, keeping in mind that consistent practice is essential for building skills and increasing earning potential, and that considerable effort is required to succeed and grow your income as a microblader.

Entry-Level Microbladers

New to the brow industry? Once you’ve completed certification, there are entry-level jobs available in salons, clinics, or beauty boutiques for new microbladers. On average, beginner microbladers charge between $250-$400 per session. Assuming just 2 clients a week, that’s $1,000-$1,600/month, even as you’re building your portfolio. If you stay at this appointment rate and entry-level for a year, your annual salary can range from $12,000-$19,000.

Alternatively, some entry-level microbladers choose to start a small business, which can impact both income and expenses.

Experienced Microblading Artists

Once you’ve gained experience, a loyal client base, and glowing reviews, you can charge $500-$800+ per session. Since these numbers reflect entry level artists who take 2 clients a week, some seasoned professionals can earn $2,000-$3,200/month or more.

As you level up your skills and take on more clients, your annual salary will start at $24,000-$38,400+, if you continue to take only two appointments a week. That’s not to say you don’t have the potential to earn much more money by adding available slots to your calendar! Add in additional services like touch-ups, brow lamination, or combo treatments, and the sky’s the limit.

What Affects a Microbladers Income?

A microbladers earning potential is shaped by a variety of factors, many of them are unique to the beauty industry. There are plenty of key factors that influence how much you can make as a permanent makeup artist:

Business Location: Microblading artists working in metropolitan areas with a higher cost of living can often charge higher prices for their services.
Experience & Education: Certification and advanced training justify premium pricing. The quality of your work, including your use of high-quality pigments and advanced techniques, plays a major role in attracting more clients and charging higher fees.
Client Volume: More clients = more income. The number of clients you see each week, your appointment pricing, and the range of microblading services you offer all contribute to your overall income.
Reputation & Reviews: Building a strong reputation and a loyal client base is crucial for long term success, since returning clients and word-of-mouth referrals can help your microblading business thrive.
Add-On Services: Offering brows + lamination or touch-up packages can increase per client value.

Need help getting clients through the door? Check out these 7 tips for marketing your micoblading business. By understanding these factors and continuously improving your skills, you can navigate the market more effectively and create a successful, sustainable career as a microblading technician.

Cost vs. Profit: What You Really Earn Per Session

It’s easy to see that a $600 microblading session sounds great, but what’s the actual profit? While the session price is high, there are several costs involved, including material costs, location cost, and possible fees for renting space or equipment.

Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Disposable Microblading Tools: $10-$20
Pigments: $5-$15
Numbing Cream: $3-$10
Aftercare Kits: $5-$10
Other Supplies (gloves, masks, wraps): $5-$10

Total cost per session: ~$30-$65

Net profit per session: ~$535-$570

Location cost is another expense that can impact your net profit. Make sure you consider renting space or supplies. In some cases, artists pay a small percentage of their earnings to the salon or studio owner instead of a fixed fee.

With that being said, it’s not bad for a 2-hour service! At this rate, you’re likely making around $260-$280 per hour.

Pro Tip

Want to make sure your forms are in compliance? Vagaro’s Microblading Consent Form Guide helps you check every box before the blade touches the skin.

How to Grow Your Microblading Income

If you want to move from part-time hobbyist to a six-figure pro, it’s all about working smarter. Here’s how you can get there:

Offer Touch-up Packages: Clients usually return 6-8 weeks after their first appointment.
Sell Aftercare Products: Healing balm, brow serum, etc.
Expand Your Skill Set: Add brow lamination, ombre shading, or nano brows.
Educate Others: Run beginner classes or one-on-one shadowing sessions.
Get Software That Works for You: Online booking, client reminders, forms, and payment all in one place.

Vagaro helps microblading artists grow by giving you tools to schedule smarter, collect deposits, and sell retail products online or in person – all from one platform.

Time to Build That Brow Empire

Microblading can absolutely be a full-time, high-earning career. But like any beauty service, your success grows with consistency, professionalism, and the right tools. Staying organized and client-focused is important to reach your income goals faster, no matter the size of your business.

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