Wink Ink Studio & Training Academy

I researched the best paramedical-tattoo training endlessly. I was prepared to fly out of state for the top program—then I found Tabatha at Wink Ink Studio in Huntington Beach. I knew I wanted a trainer with years of experience (Tabatha has 17 + years) and someone who would teach me to mix custom pigments (not just use a machine). I also needed someone warm, responsive, and accessible when I had questions. Her classes are small—max 4 students—which meant I received personal attention and plenty of hands-on instruction. Tabatha ticked all my boxes, so I signed up for her “3-in-1” class covering both camo and ink-less techniques. Before arriving, I completed comprehensive online coursework covering everything from color theory and skin histology to machine set-up and sanitation. The way the curriculum progressed—from online to in-studio—felt seamless. Each lesson built on the last, and by the time I started working on my first live model, I was confident enough to mix my own custom color. Honestly, I could go on and on—but you get the idea. My experience was amazing. Tabatha provided everything I needed to successfully add these services to my business at Skin Bar. I’m so grateful I chose her and Wink Ink.

I came to Tabatha exactly a year ago to fix a problem area that had bothered me for a long time. It was dark and I wanted it lightened. After 4/5 sessions with her and about 9 MONTHS going to her, I was left with YELLOW ink in my skin rather than my skin tone. It made it look so much worse and it definitely took my confidence away completely. Tabatha is nice sure, but she didn’t seem to care much when I told her about the issue—seemed very superficial. She also took 1/2 to 1 full day to respond to my messages when I was clearly very upset and trying to see what we could do to fix it. Short and insincere messages from her btw. Yes, she offered saline removal (which would take multiple sessions and months longer), but honestly, if she messed up the ink, why wouldn’t I think she could mess up the removal as well? I opted not to go back to her and decided to seek help from other sources. I did my removal elsewhere and the area is still healing. Mind you, it looks WORSE than it did before I went to Tabatha and there is still some yellow ink there. I’m slowly fixing the problem myself, but for anyone who is interested ink ink camouflage with Tabatha, PLEASE take this into account! Yes she’s experienced, but after 25 years in this industry she STILL managed to botch my color matching and completely ruin my confidence. Zero stars if I could.

Ally did my brows & I love them!! No more filling them in with a brow pencil everyday. And they look so good! When people talk about permanent makeup, I mention I had my brows done and they inspect them closely. I have received so many compliments!

Tabitha is such a sweet and professional gal! She does amazing work and really takes care of her clients. I’ve had my eyebrows worked on a few times by others throughout the years, but Tabitha is by far is the best! I will continue to go to her for other services because she always keeps up with the current trends and you can be sure that she is well educated in those services.

Ladies and Gents. I could go on for days about how talented and knowledgeable Tabatha is, but I'll do my best to make my review as short & sweet as possible. I have taken a few trainings at different places and winkinkstudio is by far the best training experience. Not only did she exceed my expectations, but whenever I have a question she replies in a timely manner and she gives me the best feedback. I love that feeling of support and I believe it's helped me grow more confident knowing she is there. It has been 6 months since my training and I still reach out to Tabatha with random questions about supplies, techniques, marketing etc. She is a gem in the beauty industry and just knows so much that every conversationis intriguing. If you have a passion to start a business or even take a refresher course then look no further. Everything she teaches is a skill that works and it all makes sense that you'll feel comfortable and ready to take on clients right away. I also rent a room from her studio as well from time to time and I get to create such great content there and she is very helpful. The studio decor is love at first site. Every room is breath taking with all the detailed art and organized supplies. I felt like I walked into beauty school heaven. I am so grateful that I decided to go here and you will feel the same too.