PMU Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield PMU facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What term describes the percentage of pigment particles that actually remain in the skin after healing? → Retention rate
2. Which needle configuration is BEST suited for shading and powdering effects in PMU? → Curved magnum (curved mag)
3. In Eyebrow Design & Microblading, what is the FIRST step a PMU professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
4. Which of the following best describes how 'warm-toned' skin affects the final healed color of a cool ash-brown pigment? → The skin's warm undertones mix with the pigment, pulling the healed color warmer or taupe
5. Single-use PMU needles should be disposed of in a: → Biohazard sharps container
6. When mapping eyebrow shape, the 'golden ratio' most commonly refers to which proportion? → 1:1.618
7. Which pigment type is generally considered more stable and longer-lasting in PMU applications? → Inorganic (iron oxide and titanium dioxide) pigments
8. What must a client disclose before undergoing a PMU procedure? → Medical history and allergies
9. Why is it important to prime a new needle cartridge before beginning a PMU procedure? → To ensure pigment fills the needle tip and prevent dry-scratch on first contact
10. During eyeliner PMU, which area requires the most caution to avoid puncturing the orbital septum? → The inner canthus tear duct region
11. Which condition is a contraindication for microblading due to the risk of keloid formation? → A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
12. Why is stretching the skin important during application? → To allow precision and depth control
13. A client with oily skin is likely to experience which common healed PMU color change? → Colors may appear softer, more diffused, and fade faster
14. Which component of skin is primarily responsible for its yellow-orange undertone in lighter skin types? → Carotene (carotenoids) in the stratum corneum and fat
15. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Skin Types & Pigment Behavior for PMU professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
16. What is the primary purpose of a client consultation before a PMU procedure? → To manage expectations and assess suitability
17. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Eyeliner Procedures & Safety, what should a PMU professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
18. A PMU artist is selecting a pigment for a client who wants a natural hairline simulation on dark brown skin. Which pigment tone is most appropriate? → Soft dark brown matching existing hair, slightly lighter than the deepest skin tone
19. Which of the following scenarios represents a HIPAA concern in a PMU studio? → Discussing a client's medical history in the waiting room where others can hear
20. A client discloses she is pregnant during a PMU consultation. What is the correct course of action? → Decline the procedure until after delivery and breastfeeding
21. Which pigment base is best for clients with cool skin undertones? → Warm golden brown
22. A client discloses they are taking Accutane (isotretinoin). The safest course of action is to: → Postpone the procedure for at least 6–12 months after stopping
23. What is the recommended working distance of the needle tip from the cartridge tip when starting a PMU procedure? → 0.5–1 mm protrusion
24. What is the recommended skin stretching technique during microblading strokes? → Gentle three-point stretch using the non-dominant hand to create a taut surface
25. The mentolabial sulcus is the groove between which two facial structures? → The lower lip and the chin
26. What is the primary purpose of a PMU touch-up appointment? → To assess healed results and fill in areas where pigment did not retain well
27. A 3-point liner needle cluster is commonly written as: → 3RL
28. What should an artist assess at a touch-up consultation before adding more pigment? → The healed color tone, retention quality, and shape accuracy
29. What healed color shift should a PMU artist anticipate when applying a bright coral lip blush pigment? → It heals cooler and can shift pinkish or muted
30. Which hepatitis virus is most commonly transmitted through contaminated PMU needles and poses the greatest risk to practitioners? → Hepatitis B