Today we’d like to introduce you to Mika Muramatsu
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was born in Japan and moved to Chicago due to my father’s work when I was 3, spending my early childhood there before returning to Japan at age 8. After finishing college, I worked in an office role at a construction company for nearly five years, but I knew my true passion lay elsewhere. Wanting to become a kindergarten English teacher in Japan, I moved to California to improve my English, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development and completing a one-year internship.
Life took a turn when I got married in 2010 and had my daughter in 2011. My priorities shifted—I wanted to be present for her as much as possible. My husband and I balanced work and childcare, leading me to transition from full-time work to part-time jobs, including waiting tables. In 2013, we moved to Austin, and I continued this balance, but in 2015, my husband and I decided to part ways. This was a defining moment for me—learning to navigate single parenthood while maintaining a strong bond with my daughter and finding financial stability.
I took on multiple jobs, from working at a children’s playhouse to house cleaning and trying online businesses, all while still waiting tables on weekends. However, the physical toll became evident when I suffered from cervical hernia, which made me realize I needed a change. In 2017, I discovered Microblading, a permanent makeup technique, and was captivated by the artistry and potential. I dedicated myself to mastering the craft, practicing endlessly while renting a space from a kind artist.
The beauty industry continued to evolve, and in 2018, a friend encouraged me to expand my skills. I took advanced training in Lip Blush and Foxy Eyeliner, got certified, and in 2019, I finally rented my own studio, sharing the space with another PMU artist.
Then, COVID-19 hit in 2020, forcing me to pause operations. During that downtime, I took the opportunity to get certified in eyelash extensions, further deepening my expertise in the beauty industry. Since 2021, my husband and I have been living together again, and through everything, our family has grown stronger.
Today, I run my own business specializing in permanent makeup and eyelash extensions. My journey has been full of twists and challenges, but each step has led me to where I am now—doing what I love and continuously growing.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Trying to acquire new skills and build my business while being a single parent was incredibly challenging because I always felt like I never had enough time. My daughter was my number one priority, so I shaped my life around her schedule, ensuring I could spend as much time as possible with her while still working toward my goals. This forced me to develop strong time management skills and focus, but it was far from easy.
Although I faced struggles, I was fortunate to have many supportive friends and clients who believed in me. The more effort I put into my practice, the more opportunities seemed to present themselves at just the right moments. There were times when I felt like I was running on a hamster wheel—juggling multiple jobs, practicing late at night, and constantly pushing myself—but each step brought me closer to where I wanted to be. No matter how exhausted I was, the moment I saw my daughter’s happy face, all the pain went away. She kept me going further and further.
Now that I have my family back together, I have the full support and more time to focus on myself, improving my skills and mastering the best techniques for my clients. My goal is to provide the most natural and safest procedures while building long-term relationships with my clients. Always finding ways to improve is my motto, and I’m committed to growing, learning, and offering the best in my industry.”
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a permanent makeup artist specializing in natural-looking enhancements, including Microblading, Lip Blush, and Eyeliner, as well as eyelash extensions. My focus is on creating results that complement each client’s unique features while ensuring a safe and comfortable experience. I take pride in offering a personalized approach, where I carefully listen to my clients’ needs and design enhancements that feel effortless and natural.
What I’m most proud of is the trust I’ve built with my clients. Many of them come to me feeling insecure about certain features, and seeing their confidence grow after a procedure is the most rewarding part of my work. I love that my craft allows me to make people feel beautiful and empowered every day.
What sets me apart is my continuous dedication to learning and improving my techniques. I believe that the beauty industry is always evolving, and I push myself to stay ahead by refining my skills and prioritizing the safest, most advanced methods available. My motto is always to keep improving—both for myself and for my clients. More than just a service provider, I strive to build long-term relationships, making sure every person who walks through my door feels comfortable, valued, and beautiful in their own way.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is seeing the people I care about smiling—especially my daughter. No matter how difficult things have been, her happiness has always given me the strength to keep pushing forward. Knowing that I can provide for her, be present in her life, and set an example of resilience and hard work brings me so much joy.
On a professional level, nothing makes me happier than seeing my clients’ faces light up after a procedure. Many come in feeling insecure or unsure, and when they look in the mirror and see themselves in a new, confident way, it’s the most fulfilling feeling. I love that my work allows me to help people feel beautiful and empowered.
Beyond that, I find happiness in growth—both personally and professionally. I love learning new skills, perfecting my craft, and continuously improving. It keeps me motivated and excited for the future. Life has had its ups and downs, but staying focused on the things that truly matter—family, passion, and growth—has always been my source of happiness.
And of course, I can’t forget about food! Eating great meals made with natural, locally raised ingredients brings me so much joy. I love the connection between good food, health, and community—it’s a simple but meaningful pleasure in my life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mishasbeautytx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mishasbeautytx
Image Credits
Portfolio picture was taken by Nappy Portrait Sonoe Tarbox.
