Meet the expert behind inked stories | An interview with Shauna Magrath, founder of BEAUTYINK®

Today the cosmetic industry is much more than old school brows, red lips and smokey eyes. It has evolved into something that has the ability to empower and encourage people to embrace their stories by proudly inking their journeys into their lives. For Shauna Magrath, founder of BEAUTYINK®, this is what drives her to continue doing what she does day in and day out.

As a thriving founder of BEAUTYINK® since 2008, Shauna has empowered countless individuals who are challenged with physical disabilities such as Vision Impairment, Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson’s and Tourette Syndrome. The artist in her is constantly striving to create new, innovative ways to help her clients look and feel their best and the educator in her is passionate about sharing her knowledge and expertise with others so they can achieve the same level of success.

As an award-winning FX makeup artist, one of only three certified SPCP trainers in Canada with over 60 certifications and an expert with over 30 years experience. Shauna has navigated numerous individuals to their dream careers in no time. In addition to her work in the field of permanent cosmetics, Shauna is also a 3D areola tattooing specialist and scar camouflaging expert. She has dedicated her life to helping those who have been affected by breast cancer by providing them with the tools they need to regain their confidence and feel whole again.

While she has been thriving ceaselessly in the cosmetology field, we were curious to know more about her journey and the secrets to her success. Recently, we had a chance to snag a few moments of her time and discovered a lot behind the perfected tattoo techniques. Here’s a glimpse of the interview.

1). We are so happy to have you for our interview series. Before we talk about your company, we’d love to know a bit about your past life and what encouraged you to become a Cosmetic Tattoo Specialist?

For as long as I can remember, I have always wanted to help people. I always gravitated to the underdog in school to help give them support, and even helped strangers broken down on the side of the road. I didn’t know I was going to become a Cosmetic Tattoo Specialist until I received what I consider a divine vision mapping out my new business venture.

The vision that I experienced was so intense I left my film career just after receiving Emmy honors to build a life of purpose to help others with my gift.

2). What are your thoughts on the current state of the cosmetic industry and where do you see it headed in the future?

The cosmetic industry is growing at an exponential rate. It’s mind-blowing to grasp from year to year as we see new innovations that are popping up daily. As Permanent makeup is unregulated we, unfortunately, are seeing too many coming into the industry wanting to get rich quick with very little skill just by taking a 3-day class. This has brought the industry down on many levels and the market is oversaturated with underqualified technicians. With so many insurance cases happening I think regulations will come into effect in the years to come to help protect the public. I think more people desire simple & natural beauty and permanent makeup will continue to have great advancements on products, equipment, and techniques.

3). What does it feel like to help people transform? What are some of your favorite client moments?

I’m so grateful to have the ability to give men and women instant confidence and take away their suffering in just a few hours. Some of my favorite moments have been with alopecia clients who they’ve grown hair back, and with women who were so distressed, that they could not conceive, and after having the confidence from their brows beauty inked, they were pregnant within months.

Some of our most magical moments are when we can give back to our cancer survivors. Some have been through countless surgeries, their journey has been so long and painful that we are the last stop with their recovery. To see a women's or man's face light up after their areola reconstruction with tears in their eyes is the greatest reward and why we continue to empower those who need it most.

4). What are your thoughts on the importance of engaging with your clients and understanding their individual needs?

We love to engage with our clients from the moment we speak with them on the phone, to the moment they are walking out the door. It is important for us to understand what they’ve been through, and empathize with their journey as everyone's situation is different. At BEAUTYINK® we pride ourselves on the unique customization so every client leaves feeling the best version of themselves.

5). What can your people expect from your training program?

People can expect a thorough solid fundamental education! Our SMP Essentials™ is an online interactive portal for those looking to learn Scalp Micro-pigmentation. They receive 1-year access, with personal mentorship and support. Our one-on-one hands-on training is extremely in-depth, robust & intense. It’s jam-packed with over 100 hours of essential fundamental knowledge that is required for a solid foundation in the industry as set out by the SPCP (Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals). People can expect to work hard, learn a ton and have ongoing support after their training.

6). What are your plans with BEAUTYINK? How are you looking to continue empowering people through your work?

We are continuing to grow our brand, developing products & training, as well as educating the next generation. We’ve been working on 2 new innovations for the industry, both based on hand tool methods that don’t require a machine. Tattooing was traditionally a manual technique and we’ve found a way to utilize and evolve the skill. We are the first to create manual SMP™ and GentleTouch Liner™ for artists who love a more practical method. The tools we’ve created will give artists more variety for detailing and customizing the work they do.