Hello 2026: Back at Studio One + what I’m excited to create this year
- Erik Berntsen
- Jan 2
- 3 min read
2026 feels like opening a brand-new sketchbook. Clean pages. Sharper tools. Bigger ideas.
And this year, my fresh start comes with a very familiar door.
I’ve officially moved back to Studio One, where I performed permanent makeup from 2009–2015. It’s a full-circle return that feels equal parts nostalgic and exciting. Same roots. New branches.
***A quick note so you don’t get thrown off by the sign***
Because Studio One is located inside the building, the exterior signage you’ll see out front says “W Salon.”
So if you pull up and see W Salon, you’re in the right place. That’s the entrance for Studio One (where I’m working). You’ll also love how easy it is: parking out front and an outside, ground-floor entrance.
Back where it started (with 2026 energy)
Returning to Studio One feels like stepping back into a chapter that helped shape my standards and style. Between 2009 and 2015, I built my foundation here: precision, thoughtful design, and results that age beautifully.
Coming back now isn’t a rewind. It’s a refinement.
What I’m excited to explore in 2026
Permanent makeup keeps evolving, and this year I’m leaning hard into results that are soft, modern, and flattering in real life (not just “perfect in a filtered photo”).
Brows
In 2026, brows are all about balance: structure without harshness.
Airy, soft finishes with smooth transitions
More tailored mapping and shaping (your face first, trends second)
A focus on healed results, because that’s where the real magic is
Eyeliner
Eyeliner continues to be one of the most underrated confidence upgrades.
Lash line enhancement for subtle definition and brighter-looking eyes
Timeless liner styles designed to stay flattering long-term
Thoughtful design based on your eye shape and lifestyle
Lips 💋
I’m especially excited about lip blush this year.
“Your lips but better” tones that look natural and fresh
Softer healed results and more nuanced color choices
Subtle definition and balance without a harsh lipstick look
If lips have been on your “maybe someday” list, 2026 might be the year to make it happen.
Staying current: the PMU shows I’m attending in 2026
One of the ways I keep my work improving year after year is by staying immersed in education, demos, and industry innovations. In 2026, I’ll be attending several major events where I’ll get the chance to see and learn about the newest techniques, pigments, tools, and safety practices.
Here are the show dates currently on my calendar:
Premiere Anaheim: February 1–2, 2026
Cosmoprof North America (Las Vegas): July 13–15, 2026
WULOP Dubai: September 12–13, 2026
PMU World at Sea: October 12–16, 2026
These events are where the “latest and greatest” shows up first. I love bringing that knowledge back home and translating it into better outcomes for my clients. Especially excited for the Dubai competition and the cruise! Those will be a first.
January Special: Save 20% on Brows + Eyeliner 💚
To kick off 2026, I’m offering a January-only bundle:
Save 20% when you book BOTH an eyeliner + brow treatment together ($200 value)
Cash only
Valid for January bookings
If you’ve been considering doing both, this is the month to bundle your refresh.
Book Here Or message me with “BROW + LINER” and I’ll help you choose the best options for your features and goals.
Here’s to a beautifully intentional 2026
New year, new ideas, and a return to the studio where it all started for me. I’m grateful for the clients who’ve been with me since the early Studio One days and excited to welcome new faces in 2026.
If you’re ready for a fresh, natural-looking update to your brows, eyeliner, or lips, I’d love to work with you.
See you soon,
Erik
