It’s hard to believe it’s been two whole years since Sculpted Studios teamed up with Perma Blend to drop some of the most game-changing pigment collections the PMU world has ever seen: the Embody and Enhance sets for lip neutralization and the Reclaim and Restore sets for SMP. Designed by Sculpted founders Carla Ricciardone and Stevey G, these sets continue to empower artists and raise the bar for pigment sets worldwide.
 
To celebrate the anniversary, we caught up with Carla and Stevey to reflect on their creative journeys, chat about trends, and share what’s on the horizon. Spoilers: there were some major announcements, including who’s set to take the stage at PMU World 2025.

What was it like collaborating with Perma Blend to create your pigment sets?

Carla:
It was one of the most creatively demanding and rewarding projects of my career. We weren’t just developing pretty colors. We were building something completely new: biomimetic pigments based on science, density-relative colorants, and a palette that gave artists real control.

That meant starting from scratch and asking how pigments interact with the skin, how they heal, and how we can better replicate natural tissue tones.

Perma Blend believed in that vision from day one. Innovation at this level only happens with a team that’s willing to push boundaries. These sets, Embody, Enhance, Restore, and Reclaim, aren’t just pigment. They’re potential.
 
Stevey:
It was incredible. I had been working on the concept for years, and finally getting to bring it to life with the Perma Blend team, especially the chemists and formulation experts, was a career highlight. Their support allowed us to push limits and reimagine what SMP pigments could be. It felt like the beginning of something bigger.

Have you seen artists using your sets in creative or unexpected ways?

Carla:
Absolutely. These collections were designed to be flexible and modular, and artists have taken that to heart. I’ve seen everything from ombré and watercolor lips to multi-tonal neutralizations and corrective procedures. The work being done with these pigments—on lips, brows, scars, even areolas—has been inspiring.

Stevey:
The most surprising use? Eyeliner! I was so focused on optimizing the sets for scalp micropigmentation that I didn’t even think about other applications. But once artists started using them for eyeliner—because of the color payoff and retention—it totally made sense. That versatility has been really rewarding to witness.

What are your go-to products in the studio right now?

Carla:
Honestly, I use our four collections for everything. They’ve completely changed how I approach my work. I’m able to create intentionally, with consistency and precision, every time.

Stevey:
Reclaim 1 and 2 are my workhorses. I also use the Vertix .20 3RLT needles and my Sculptura V3 prototype machine, which I designed. They’re all my go-tos because they help me work at my absolute best.

What advice would you give to new or emerging PMU artists?

Carla:
Adjust your expectations. This is a craft, and mastering it takes time. You’re not supposed to get it all in three days. Embrace being a beginner. Focus on your growth and your why, and chase excellence, not shortcuts. That’s where longevity lives.

Stevey:
Get the right training. Your first trainer can either set you up for success or slow you down. Do your research, take it seriously, and practice as much as possible. There’s no replacement for hands-on repetition.

What trends are you most excited about in PMU right now?

Carla:
It’s not a style or color—it’s the shift in mindset. Artists are moving away from fast, low-quality education and toward real learning, high-integrity training, and foundational knowledge. That’s the trend I want to see grow.

Stevey:
I don’t follow trends too much, but I’ll say this: SMP for women is starting to gain serious momentum. That’s exactly why I created Restore, and I’m excited to see more artists start offering this transformative service.

Will we see you at PMU World 2025?

Carla:
Yes! I’m so excited to be on stage at PMU World again. This year, I’ll be diving into a topic that’s crucial for every artist—how to run your business so it doesn’t run you. I’ll be sharing systems and strategies I use to build a global brand without burning out. Expect practical, actionable tips that help you step into your next level without sacrificing your sanity.
 
Stevey:
You know it! Carla’s headlining, and we’ll both be at the Perma Blend booth connecting with artists. We’ve also got two major launches coming soon. One is called Sculpted OS, a digital business solution built for PMU and SMP artists. The other is a creative training tool I can’t talk about yet… but it’s big. Stay tuned.

Final Thoughts

Two years in, these pigment sets have transformed the lives of clients and artists around the world! Designed by artists, for artists, they’ve redefined what’s possible in PMU. And with Carla and Stevey continuing to lead with innovation, we can’t wait to see what year three brings, can you?
 
Ready to reclaim, restore, embody, and enhance your artistry? Shop the collections here.

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