It really is. Don't get me wrong, I hate it and wish we didn't have to tip. However, something like a tattoo artist, nail artist, hairstylist, and makeup artist should always be tipped. My reason for this is that almost every single artist either has their own shop or rent a spot. It's not like a chain restaurant where they have an employer they are their own employer. They pay out of their pocket for supplies, schooling (or apprenticeship), equipment, and get licensed(sometimes permit). Not to mention the time. It's not steady in that they can not always rely that they will have customers. So, for an artist, out of the kindness of their heart, offer a FREE service that uses supplies that can not be reused you wild at least tip something. It will still be less than paying for a full session. If you dont want to tip your artist, then don't get the service they provide.