Meet Stephanie Merritt | Cosmetic & Paramedical Tattoo Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Merritt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I began my career in cosmetic tattooing nearly 5 years ago after working for over a decade in the financial & brokerage industry. It was not a career that I enjoyed, so I always had my eyes open for new options. Working in a corporate world for so many years was mentally distressing and I knew I something had to change. I have always loved art & music and grew up in a household that was always open to artistic expression. What I didn’t have was formal training or education. So, when I was fortunate to meet some talented tattoo artists, it lead me to an unconventional career opportunity! It’s been the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life, but I am fulfilled in a way I never thought possible before. I’m super grateful to those that have helped me develop as an artist and expand skills to flourish in this industry!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I specialize in cosmetic and paramedical tattooing! Many people look to eyebrow tattooing as a paramedical solution for eyebrow hair loss from cancer treatments, alopecia, thyroid conditions, etc. Lip tattooing brightens lip tones, can neutralize melanin-rich tones, and enhance and/or correct lip shape. Many are simply interested for cosmetic purposes, so they don’t have to wear makeup or less makeup, in general. Some cosmetic clients are looking to feminize or masculinize their overall appearance. As far as paramedical tattooing, I specialize in Areola Restoration. Most of my Areola clients seek this service due to mastectomies from breast cancer or transitioning. Some clients have lost their entire or partial Areola from poor healing of breast surgery and also sometimes, skin cancer.

It is very much a difficult path! This is a career where learning literally never stops. The idea of tattooing faces is terrifying to a lot of people! It’s really hard to gain a stranger’s trust. There’s a fear of not meeting expectations. I had to learn to be confident, regardless of my experience. However, with gained experience, there is also gained confidence. It’s just like anything else, you just have to keep practicing! This is a very specialized market in the tattoo industry, so there are a lot of learning curves that you have to figure out by yourself at times. I’m fortunate that many of my colleagues specialize in realism, which often goes hand-in-hand with my specialty.

There really are a lot of different reasons as to why people seek cosmetic and paramedical tattooing. It’s a blessing to be able to use this art form to enrich others lives. I really try the best I can to make people feel heard, treated with dignity and kindness.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m an art and music nerd, so my friends know I’m always up for concerts at venues like the Variety Playhouse, The Eastern or Terminal West (just to name a few) or the many exhibits that come through at the High Museum! I love trying lots of restaurants all over Atlanta but my favorite spot is El Rey in Doraville!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
April Ramirez @aprilshowerstattoo

Website: https://www.southernmagnoliabodyartstudio.com

Instagram: @stephaniejadepmu

Facebook: Stephanie Jade Permanent Makeup