PMU Supplies Checklist: Everything a New Studio Needs in 2026

Core equipment (one-time)

• Rotary PMU machine — US $250–$900
• Backup machine (recommended) — $250–$500
• Adjustable client chair — $400–$1,500
• Artist stool — $150–$400
• Magnifying lamp with LED ring — $80–$200
• Sterilization unit (autoclave or single-use system)
• Fitted station with drawers — $300–$800
• LED photo lighting for portfolio — $200–$500

Subtotal: $1,650–$4,800

Consumables (monthly restock)

• Sterile cartridges (200 pcs) — $120
• Pigment refills (5 shades) — $150–$250
• Nitrile gloves (200 pairs) — $30
• Cotton pads, gauze, saline — $40
• Aftercare balm (client take-home) — $80
• Barrier film, ink cups, contour pencils — $60
• Practice skins for continued training — $50

Monthly total: ~$530–$630

Sterilization by country

• USA: state-by-state, most require autoclave OR fully single-use setup
• UK: HTM 01-05 compliance, autoclave standard
• Singapore: NEA regulation, autoclave inspection annually
• Hong Kong: DOH licence, single-use disposable + surface sterilization
• Indonesia: Ministry of Health licensing, local by kabupaten
• Australia: state health department, autoclave mandatory

Insurance & licensing (year 1)

• Professional indemnity insurance — $400–$1,200/yr
• Public liability — $300–$800/yr
• Local health department licence — $200–$800
• Business registration — $100–$400

Subtotal: $1,000–$3,200/yr

Marketing supplies

• Branded aftercare packaging — $200
• Consultation forms & consent (printed) — $80
• Business cards, price cards — $120
• Website + booking system — $300 setup, $30/mo

Complete year-1 startup budget

Category	Budget
Equipment	$1,650–$4,800
Consumables (12 months)	$6,400–$7,600
Insurance & licensing	$1,000–$3,200
Marketing	$1,200
Certification (if not done)	$2,000–$5,000
Total year 1	$12,250–$21,800

What to skip to launch lean

• Fancy chair (start with $400 not $1,500)
• Backup machine (add year 2)
• Premium autoclave if fully single-use is allowed in your region
• Custom-branded aftercare packaging (start plain)

What NEVER to skip

• Insurance
• Certification
• Sterilization compliance
• MSDS on every pigment