About RPM Institute
RPM Institute was founded by Vanessa Dougherty in 2022 when she opened Restorative Permanent Makeup in La Jolla, California. We offer training courses for various cosmetic and medical tattoo services such as 3D Areola Tattoos, Scar Camouflage, Eyebrows, Lips, and Eyeliner. While we're not in class, we operate as Restorative Permanent Makeup and continue to see our amazing clients for appointments! Vanessa is our expert lead trainer who has over two decades of experience in restorative tattooing. We are dedicated to the experience and education of our valued students and clients alike.
Hi, I'm Vanessa Dougherty
Owner and lead artist at Restorative Permanent Makeup. My journey began with a passion for art, which led me to work in makeup at a department store when I was 18. It was there that I first learned about permanent makeup, and I became certified in 2002.
After getting certified, I took on a part-time role as a tattoo artist while continuing my makeup career for weddings and special events. At 30, I joined a plastic surgery center, where my permanent makeup business truly flourished. This experience allowed me to combine my makeup skills with tattoo artistry, providing realistic results and exploring techniques like scar camouflage and areola restoration after surgeries. Over the past 12 years, I've worked with several plastic surgery centers, including the Plastic Surgery Institute associated with Dr. Ordon and Dr. Chopra from “The Doctors.”
In 2022, I opened my own location in La Jolla, where I see clients and operate RPM Institute, offering classes and workshops for aspiring artists. I love helping others feel beautiful and confident in their skin while teaching fellow artists how to turn their creativity into a rewarding career. Cosmetic and medical tattooing is my passion!
Office Gallery
Meet our Restorative Tattoo Team
Kaylee Garrett
Hi, I’m Kaylee, and I have been working at RPM for 3 years now! I’ve always had a passion for makeup and all things beauty. I love being around people & especially love helping them feel confident through permanent makeup. I’m a mother of two, and I enjoy spending time connecting with friends and family. Since I love the beach, I’m so grateful to live and work in beautiful La Jolla!
Melissa Sellars
1 Year Apprentice
Hello! My name is Melissa and I have been an apprentice at Restorative Permanent Makeup since May of 2024. My favorite part of what I do is helping others feel empowered and confident by way of medical & cosmetic tattoo! In my free time, I enjoy weight training, listening to music, and spending time with my kids.
Emily Bauer
Project Manager
Hi! I'm Emily, and I oversee social media, marketing, and customer service at Restorative Permanent Makeup. I am deeply passionate about design and content creation, and I am dedicated to ensuring our customers receive exceptional care before and after their procedures. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with our talented team of artists and contribute to our clients' transformative experiences!