Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kelly Martinez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kelly , appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
At the heart of my mission lies a deep commitment to elevating the standards of the permanent makeup industry. The world of PMU operates within a landscape that lacks uniform regulations, a concerning trend has emerged in the permanent makeup industry, with new artists hastily establishing “PMU schools” without the necessary experience and expertise. While this may seem like a shortcut to success, the consequences can be detrimental for both the instructors and their students. The intricacies of permanent makeup require a solid foundation of knowledge and practical skills, honed over years of hands-on experience. Moreover, the rise of weekend courses offering a crash course in PMU can give a false sense of readiness, leading individuals to believe they’re prepared to work on clients after just a brief training period. As a result, the industry faces a challenge of ensuring that aspiring artists receive comprehensive education from qualified professionals to maintain high standards and safety for both artists and clients.
It is also concerning to witness the decline of even the few regulatory bodies that exist. A once-respected institution now grapples with misinformation, and wild accusations that positions are being leveraged for personal gain. It is crucial that leadership maintains a clear distinction between their role within the organization and any external ventures they may pursue. This ensures that the primary focus remains on promoting the growth, development, and credibility of the industry as a whole.
Recognizing the urgent need for a change, I initiated the Scottsdale Permanent Makeup & Aesthetic Conference with a steadfast goal: to usher quality education into the realm of permanent makeup. My vision is to unite master artists renowned for their established teaching methods. By bringing these experts together, we provide a platform for aspiring or established artists to acquire advanced skills and knowledge, filling the gaps left by inconsistent regulations.
Through the conference, I aim to empower professionals to excel in permanent makeup, build a network and ensure that artists receive the highest level of training and expertise.

Kelly , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Absolutely, I’d be happy to share my journey and my work. My name is Kelly Martinez, and I’ve forged my path in the world of paramedical permanent makeup, an artistry that I am deeply passionate about. My journey has been one of adaptation and transformation. For over a decade, I flourished in the dynamic world of events, working every aspect of events from bartending to Banquet Captain. However, when the pandemic brought everything to a standstill, I recognized the need to explore new horizons.
Immersing myself in the art of permanent makeup, I learned new skills that resonated with my passion for transformation.
Yet, I encountered a stark reality – the permanent makeup industry lacked the comprehensive education it deserved.
I embarked on a new mission. The birth of the Scottsdale Permanent Makeup & Aesthetic Conference was driven by a vision to unite artists of all levels, provide a platform for education, and create a vibrant network where skills and insights could be shared. This was my way of filling the education gap and fostering growth within the industry. The conference has evolved into a hub of learning, inspiration, and connection.
What sets me apart is my commitment to quality, continuous learning, and a client-centric approach. I take immense pride in being named the best in Phoenix for saline tattoo removal, a testament to the transformative impact my work has on people’s lives.
I’m most proud of creating a platform that educates, elevates, and empowers. Through my brand, I aspire to revolutionize the PMU industry, debunk myths, and replace them with informed practices. I’m dedicated to fostering an environment where artists thrive, clients experience the best, and the industry as a whole evolves for the better.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Networking has been the heartbeat of my journey in the PMU industry, propelling me forward and shaping my reputation. Through my connections and meaningful relationships, I’ve had the privilege to learn from master artists, exchange ideas with peers, and collaborate with other pmu professionals.
These connections have not only expanded my knowledge and skills but have also established me as a trusted and respected figure in the field. Networking has not only allowed me to learn from the best but also to contribute back to the pmu community by starting the Scottsdale Permanent Makeup & Aesthetic conference. It continually inspires me to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of permanent makeup.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Networking has proven to be a pivotal force in not only shaping my reputation but also in building a thriving clientele within the PMU industry.
Through the connections with fellow professionals like hairdressers, nail artists, and aestheticians, I’ve had opportunities to collaborate on projects that elevate the overall beauty experience for our shared clients. This collaboration is about fostering genuine relationships that lead to mutual referrals and a deeper understanding of each other’s craft. By tapping into these networks, I’ve been able to extend my reach and establish a diverse client base who see the value that these collaborations bring.
It’s through the power of networking that my client roster continues to grow, as satisfied clients spread the word about their enhanced beauty experiences.

Contact Info:
- Website: www.inkrediblepermanentmakeup.com
- Instagram: @scottsdalepmuconference
- Facebook: Scottsdale Permanent Makeup & Aesthetic Conference
Image Credits
Ken Robinson

