New Jersey Department of Health | Public Health & Food Protection Program
Microblading/Permanent Cosmetics
Guidance Document
Microblading is the practice of using a hand-held instrument, tipped with a grouping or configuration of
needles, utilized for penetrating into the lower epidermal layers and/or dermis, so that pigments are
introduced and implanted into the lower epidermal layers and/or dermis. It is also known by a variety of
names such as eyebrow embroidery, micro-stroking, feather touch and hair like strokes as a form of
permanent makeup that provides a means to partially or fully camouflage missing eyebrow hair with the
appearance of simulated hair using fine deposits of pigments, colors, and/or dyes. While some refer to
microblading as “semi-permanent cosmetics” because the colorants eventually fade, there is no
conclusive, consistent, and reliable proof that the pigments, colors, and/or dies will be completely
eliminated from the dermal and epidermal layers of skin.
In N.J.A.C. 8:27-1.3, "Permanent Cosmetics," "Micropigmentation," or "Dermal Pigmentation" are defined
as the implanting of inert pigments, colors, and/or dyes intradermally which results in permanent
alteration of tissue to gain a cosmetic effect." By definition, Microblading is
Micropigmentation. Therefore, operators, practitioners, and apprentices of microblading are subject to
the requirements of N.J.A.C. 8:27, and in particular subchapter 8 Permanent Cosmetics.
Contents
Q: What certifications are required to be licensed to perform microblading? ........................................ 2
Q: What licenses/permits are required for this type of business? ........................................................... 2
Q: I am microblade-certified in another state. Is there anything else that I need in NJ? ........................ 2
Q: Can microblading be conducted in a doctor’s office? .......................................................................... 2
Q: How is microblading different than permanent cosmetics? ................................................................ 3
Q: Are the pigments used in microblading safe and regulated? ............................................................... 3
Q: Does microblading use real blades? ..................................................................................................... 3
Q: Is an autoclave required? ..................................................................................................................... 3
Q: I found a hair salon in my jurisdiction doing eye brow microblading…what should I do? ................... 3
Q: Should a permanent cosmetic establishment have a written agreement with a licensed physician
for consultative services? .......................................................................................................................... 3
Q: Is a body art establishment permitted in every town or county? ........................................................ 4
Q: Do I have to have a separate room to perform pre-cleaning and sterilization? .................................. 4