We were lucky to catch up with Susan Grothe recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Susan, thanks for joining us today. How’s you first get into your field – what was your first job in this field?

In 2018 I took a huge leap of faith by launching a career in Permanent Makeup. This career reinvention was a radical departure from nearly 3 decades spent climbing the ladder in a very traditional Corporate setting. A common thread had always run through my thoughts at the end of a typically exhausting week: what (or whom) had I really impacted? I wanted to work with people and was motivated to provide a service that was personal in nature and could positively impact self-esteem. I took a giant leap and launched into training, continued on into an apprentice program and was licensed in 2019. It was wonderful to see how thrilled Clients were with newly defined features and not having to put on makeup. I kept training, learning new techniques and building my skills. I was on my way to opening my own new studio a year later when suddenly everything stopped–due to COVID. All services were shut down and most small business ground to a disappointing halt–literally on the eve of opening my new studio! I used the time during shut-down to begin training in Medical Tattoo, which was very challenging work –it required a higher level of skill, deeper insight into pigments, more knowledge about healing and skin. I was fascinated with 3D Areola and had seen examples of this work –I was in awe of how realistic it could look. It became my mission to learn how to do this amazing service. I completed several training courses–and searched for more. Shortly after business opened back up again, I scheduled my first Areola Client –the results had an immediate positive impact on her self-esteem. The work was challenging, complicated and required a very artistic level of skill–I was hooked and I couldn’t wait to do more! Over the next few years, I took more training, put in a lot of hard work, gained more clients and honed my skills to master this life-changing work. I saw how transformational Areola Tattoo was and the great emotional impact it had on my Clients. This was the last step in the healing journey for many diagnosed with Breast Cancer–usually the first time they got anything “back” in a long process marked by loss, fear and emotional challenge. I knew that I had found my passion–THIS was the rewarding fulfillment I had always been searching for!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Since 2019, Lasting Impression has offered all traditional Cosmetic Tattoo services: Brows, Eyeliner and Lip Color. My philosophy and business foundation is EDUCATION–both sharing information with clients and pursuing advanced training. There are many misconceptions about Permanent Cosmetics and it is important for clients to understand the differences between techniques and what options are the most suitable for them based on their skin type, skin condition and lifestyle. I have particular expertise with mature skin and the ability to create an end result that highlights natural features, without over-powering them. Medical Tattoo quickly became an area of focus and expertise: a number of treatments are offered with emphasis on 3D Areola Tattoo and Scar Camouflage. I take the time to focus on each Client and offer a solution that is customized to their skin and situation. From design to pigment choice to technique, I carefully consider the approach with every Client. Areola Tattoo is such fulfilling work–it is inspiring and has become a true passion. Many are not aware a non-surgical option for Areola restoration even exists. Because of how impactful the end result is, it has become my mission to bring more visibility to this life-changing service. This purposeful work drives me to create ART that truly heals—and that delivers lasting confidence. Reviews show top ratings from Clients who are thrilled by their results—whether that is regaining body confidence or transforming their look, the end results are credited as making them feel great when they look in the mirror.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

One of the key skills that has driven my success is listening and communication –really understanding the goals and objectives of each Client. Often times, expectations are not aligned with what can actually be achieved through these services. It is very important to understand what outcome is desired–or the motivation behind wanting a particular service. In some cases, a desired end result may not be possible –due to skin type or condition, existing features or other limiting factors. I am honest and candid in an effort to help Clients understand what can be achieved by Cosmetic or Medical Tattoo. I believe that ‘knowledge is power’ and it is important to educate and share information so Clients can make the best decision for themselves.

My reputation has been built on honesty, skill/expertise and genuinely caring about the outcome of a service. Many Clients have come to me with prior Permanent Makeup which can not (or should not) be modified or covered. I think there are many in this industry who would just do the work, regardless of the long term implications. I have invested in extensive training and education about pigment formulation and skin—to know how pigment will age in skin over time. This is key knowledge to achieve results that will look good long-term—over many years. I believe that “less is more” in most cases, and I take a conservative approach with most Clients. I often dissuade those who want Cosmetic tattoo to be the focal point of their look—I feel it should be done to enhance features, not over-power them. I will not take on Scar Camouflage work unless I think 80% improvement can be achieved. I am candid when approached with an opportunity that I do not believe my services can improve. Because of this perspective, I am recognized as a skilled, honest and caring provider. My journey in Cosmetic/Medical tattoo has been to grow, learn and master these techniques —I am thrilled to be able to offer ART that truly heals!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lastingimpressionpmu.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sglastingimpression
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sglastingimpression