July 2026 SPCP Newsletter
In this issue:
NEW SMP Certification release
NEW Certified Professionals
Convention News - 4 presentations announced
This month's Sip 'n Share Replay
Article. Health Coverage Options for Independent Contractors, 1099 Workers, and Sole Proprietors
Member News
CPTP is now available online.
Apply for CSMP exam at the Phoenix Convention
Setting the Benchmark for SMP Excellence
As Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) continues to grow worldwide, one challenge remains: many states, provinces, and countries still have no standardized training requirements or professional certification for SMP practitioners.
For decades, the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) has been dedicated to promoting permanent makeup safety, excellence, and professional standards through education, certification, and industry guidelines. As the organization behind the industry's respected CPCP and CPTP certifications, the SPCP has helped establish benchmarks for professional competency across the permanent makeup field.
Recognizing the rapid growth of scalp micropigmentation and the need for greater professional standards, the SPCP is proud to introduce the new Certified Scalp Micropigmentation Professional (CSMP) Certification.
The CSMP credential has been developed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated both education and competency in scalp micropigmentation.
To qualify, candidates must:
✔ Complete a minimum of 100 hours of SMP education and hands-on training
✔ Meet eligibility requirements
✔ Successfully pass an industry-specific certification examination
The goal is simple: to help elevate the profession, support practitioner excellence, and provide the public with confidence when choosing an SMP provider.
As our industry continues to evolve, professional standards matter more than ever.
Interested in becoming one of the first Certified Scalp Micropigmentation Professionals?
Learn more about the CSMP certification and application process today.
https://spcp.org/smp-certification
Congratulations To our Latest achievers
Convention News
2026 SPCP Convention - September 19 - 21 in Phoenix, AZ
Only 21 Tickets still available.
Four More Reasons You Won't Want to Miss Convention
As if four immersive hands-on workshops weren't enough, we've also added four additional educational presentations designed to give you practical techniques, fresh perspectives, and real-world knowledge you can immediately apply in your clinic.
This year's additional presentations include:
The ReTone™ Method with Francesca Scognamiglio – A strategic approach to color correction that helps you better understand healed pigment, undertones, and corrective treatment planning.
Creating Predictable Healed Results with Rose Prieto – Learn how to assess skin, reduce guesswork, and achieve more consistent healed outcomes through better decision-making.
Virtual Brow Consultations with Procreate with Angela Maione – Discover how digital brow design can elevate your consultations, improve client communication, and increase treatment confidence before you ever pick up your machine.
Saline Removal with Samantha Cham, CT, CPTP, CPCP, CPT – Explore when saline removal is the best choice for pigment correction and removal, treatment protocols, candidate selection, and real case studies.
Together with our featured hands-on workshops, these presentations make the 2026 SPCP Convention one of our most comprehensive educational events yet. Whether you're looking to refine your skills, add new services, or improve your treatment outcomes, you'll leave with practical knowledge you can put into practice right away
We can't wait to see you in Phoenix this September!
Read more about the 4 workshops & other presentations, plus Register here: https://spcp.org/convention
July Sip 'n' Share Replay
If you missed both sessions, you can now catch up all at once.
We're excited to share that the replay for SPCP Sip 'n' Share Series | When Skin Pushes Back - Recognizing Resistance. Knowing the Next Step with Vicki Hansen, CPCP is now available!
ARTICLE
Health Coverage Options for Independent Contractors, 1099 Workers, and Sole Proprietors
For independent contractors, 1099 workers, and sole proprietors, securing affordable, comprehensive health coverage is often a top concern. Without access to employer-sponsored plans, the landscape can feel overwhelming. In reality, there are several practical options available to support both short-term needs and long-term health goals.
Here’s a breakdown of the four primary coverage paths:
1. ACA Coverage (Obamacare) for Individuals Under 65
For those without employer-sponsored insurance, ACA-compliant plans (commonly called “Obamacare”) are often the most comprehensive and accessible option. These plans offer:
Guaranteed coverage: You cannot be denied or charged more due to pre-existing conditions
Plan flexibility: A range of options to fit your health needs, budget, and preferred providers
Financial help: Depending on income, you may qualify for subsidies that lower monthly premiums
Cost protection: Annual out-of-pocket limits and no lifetime or annual coverage caps
As of 2026, all Bronze and Catastrophic ACA plans are also HSA-compatible, creating additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings.
2. Alternatives to ACA Plans for Individuals Under 65
While ACA plans provide robust coverage, lower-cost alternatives may fit certain situations:
Short-Term Medical Plans:
Designed for temporary needs, these plans are typically available in 3- to 12-month increments (up to three years in many states).Lower monthly premiums
Limited coverage (often excluding maternity, prescriptions, and preventive care)
Medical underwriting required, meaning pre-existing conditions are not covered
These plans may suit individuals between jobs, waiting for coverage to begin, or those seeking short-term protection.
Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) Plans:
These budget-friendly plans focus on preventive care.Preventive services covered at 100% (annual checkups, screenings, immunizations)
Limited additional benefits such as telehealth
Do not cover major services like hospitalization, specialists, or most prescriptions
MEC plans are often paired with supplemental coverage and are typically available year-round without a qualifying life event.
3. Medicare Options for Individuals 65 and Older
Medicare provides coverage for individuals age 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with qualifying disabilities or conditions. Options can vary, and understanding what’s included - and what isn’t - is an important part of selecting the right coverage.
4. Supplemental and Voluntary Benefits
Supplemental coverage can help fill gaps in primary health insurance and manage out-of-pocket costs. Common options include:
Dental and vision insurance
Life insurance
Critical illness plans
Hospital indemnity coverage
These benefits can provide additional financial protection for expenses not covered by major medical plans.
Enrollment Periods and Access
Timing is an important part of securing coverage:
ACA Open Enrollment: November 1 – December 15
Medicare Annual Enrollment: October 15 – December 7
Short-Term and MEC Plans: Typically available year-round
Outside of open enrollment, you may still qualify for ACA coverage if you experience a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), such as job loss, relocation, marriage, or having a child.
Independent workers have more health coverage options than ever before. Whether you prioritize comprehensive protection, affordability, or flexibility, there’s a solution to fit your needs.
As a member of your association, you have access to Gallagher as an exclusive benefit. A licensed broker can help you evaluate your options and build a coverage approach that aligns with your situation. Connect by calling 800-913-0479 or visiting https://ahs-member-us.ajg.com/spcp/
Member News
APPLY FOR CPTP ONLINE EXAM NOW
The Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional (CPTP) exam is now available online. Applications are open.
The CPTP designation is the first certification developed specifically for paramedical tattooing, including nipple/areola restoration and scar camouflage.
Created to establish clear professional standards, this credential formally recognizes practitioners who demonstrate competency, knowledge, and ethical responsibility within this specialized field.
Approved candidates can schedule their secure online exam at a time convenient to them. There is no longer a need to wait until "exam day."
For professionals seeking to distinguish their expertise in paramedical tattooing, eligibility requirements and application details are available here: https://spcp.org/paramedical-tattoo-certification
APPLY FOR THE INAUGURAL CSMP CERTIFICATION EXAM
The Certified Scalp Micropigmentation Professional (CSMP) certification exam is launching at the 2026 SPCP Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, and applications are now open.
The CSMP designation was developed by the SPCP to establish recognized professional standards for the rapidly growing scalp micropigmentation industry. This board certification recognizes practitioners who demonstrate advanced knowledge, competency, and a commitment to safe, ethical SMP practices.
The CSMP exam will be offered exclusively in person at the 2026 SPCP Convention. The online examination platform is scheduled to launch in 2027.
Eligible professionals are invited to apply now for this inaugural live examination opportunity and be among the first artists to earn the prestigious Certified Scalp Micropigmentation Professional (CSMP) credential.
View the eligibility requirements and submit your application here: https://spcp.org/scalp-micropigmentation-certification
