Here at Dermace, we LOVE encouraging the use of Practice Pads for students to hone their skills. We even sometimes send them out prior to training in order for students to get the hang of the stroke-feel and what the Handpiece feels like. However, we insist that practice pads are for practice - NOT for training.

There is literally no substitute for REAL skin (and yes, we’ve tried ReelSkin - great product) and a Practice pad cannot simulate the feeling of tattooing onto human skin. This is why we’re totally against training courses where you don’t get a live model to work on. We’ve heard of a few companies recently that are using practice pads during training without the addition of live models. So the first time you’re working on real human skin is during your portfolio when you’re flying solo!

This is pretty shocking really. Practice pads have a very important role in training, but they’re a Semi Permanent Makeup training SUPPLEMENT, not a replacement! Most students experience enough pressure on their first solo treatment without the added pressure of never having tattooed on human skin before. Online training also has its place, but not as a replacement for in-person tuition. How can a trainer gauge your pressure if they’re not with you in the same room?

When you’re selecting your training provider, ask questions. LOTS of questions. Any Academy that’s proud of what they offer will be delighted to have the opportunity to chat with you about their Semi Permanent Makeup training courses.