Makeup Artist Job Description, Career as a Makeup Artist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job
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Education and Training: Varies—see profile
Salary: Median—$32,630 per year
Employment Outlook: Good
Definition and Nature of the Work
Makeup artists are experts at giving people a desired look through the use of makeup, wigs, and other tools of the trade. Many makeup artists work in a theater or performance environment. Others apply makeup for television and film. Some makeup artists put lipstick and mascara on department store customers in order to help sell mass-market makeup products. Cosmetic companies also employ makeup artists as consultants. Makeup artists are often hired for one-time events like fashion shows or weddings.
The job of show business makeup artists is to apply makeup to performers according to the specific needs of the person or show. In some cases, they may use makeup to make an actor look much older or younger, or even to look like a monster or alien. In other situations, the job involves simply hiding blemishes and making the performer look as beautiful as possible under stage lights. Makeup artists who work in this type of setting must be knowledgeable about the effects of stage lighting on a person's appearance. These artists must also be good at analyzing a script to make sure the characters end up looking the way they are described. All of these decisions must be made in collaboration with directors and costume designers.
Makeup artists are also special effects experts in a sense. They must have the skill to give performers realistic looking scars, make them look sick, or give them other unusual physical characteristics as necessary. Sometimes this involves making rubber or plastic "prostheses," or pieces that are applied to change the performers' appearance. To design the right prostheses, a makeup artist must be able to accurately evaluate the place in which the performance will take place, taking into account the size of the venue, lighting, and distance between the audience and the stage.
In the consumer market, a makeup artist must understand color and skin tone in order to match each customer with the right makeup. They must also understand what kinds and amounts of makeup are appropriate for different people. For example, makeup that looks good on a nightclub bartender might be totally inappropriate on a business executive—even if the two are identical twins.
Makeup artists must also be skin care experts. They must be on the lookout for allergic reactions and other possible negative effects of makeup. This involves knowing how to assess performers' skin types to avoid irritation or rashes.
The most important trait in successful makeup artists is creativity. They must be able to visualize a particular look, then bring it to life with the makeup, wigs, and prosthesis they have available.
Education and Training Requirements
Education and training requirements for makeup artists varies widely from one type of job to another. While students can specialize in makeup application at some schools of cosmetology, there is no standard certification required to work in the field. Many makeup artists acquire their skills by participating in amateur community theater or other smaller performance environments and learning from others with more experience.
Getting the Job
College placement offices can often provide information about how to find a job with a commercial cosmetics company or department store. The best route to a job in a performance environment may be to volunteer with smaller organizations in order to build an impressive portfolio—a collection of photographs of work samples. Internships may be available with television stations, theater companies, or fashion designers.
Advancement Possibilities and Employment Outlook
While the demand for makeup artists is expected to grow ten to twenty percent through 2014, it is difficult to earn a comfortable living in this occupation. A very small percentage of makeup artists become well known and are sought after by stars and wealthy individuals for personal service. Fewer still end up designing their own lines of makeup products. Many makeup artists must supplement their incomes with "day jobs" that pay stable wages.
Working Conditions
Makeup artists who work for department stores, makeup manufacturers, or established film or television production companies or performance organizations can expect to work regular hours in a well-lit, comfortable setting.
Earnings and Benefits
Makeup artists' income varies widely according to experience and the nature of the job. Median annual earnings in 2004 were $32,630. Salaries for those just beginning their career tend to be quite low. Those with established careers in network television, the Hollywood film industry, or the Broadway theater business may command substantially higher wages. Makeup artists working full time for large companies usually receive health insurance, paid vacation, and other benefits, while those on the fringes of the industry must often provide their own insurance and retirement plans.
User Comments
almost 4 years ago
how much would a makeup artist be able to make if they are much farther into working? And also thaks for the information you have given me it was very helpful.
about 2 years ago
Lakia
There is an excellent school called Make-Up Designory(MUD for short). There is one in C.A. and one in N.Y. You can go to their website and check them out. They also have a facebook page.
9 months ago
Aolani agostinho
What can I do to get myself started ? And how can make-up artist lets say that work at department stores be hired by celebrities? As well as what requirements are need to work as a make-up artist for a company such as M.A.C ?
about 1 year ago
I love this
11 months ago
selena
it help me for a poject:D i love this site!!!!!!!!!!!
8 months ago
Various people in all countries receive the home loans in various creditors, because that is comfortable and fast.
9 months ago
is there a school in new york
about 3 years ago
i want to know what is the scope of make up artists in india. and what is the average income,which can be earned from this proffession in india.
almost 3 years ago
Raeanna
Hey, I was wondering, how much schooling, if any, do you need to be taken seriously as a makeup artist? Also, what are employment opportunities looking like in smaller-city areas?
5 months ago
helped with my home-ec project!!
12 months ago
i really want this job please call me at 1870-250=9934 thank you!!!
over 3 years ago
i was wondering what kind of jobs are offered in ohio as a makeup artist. I am only 17,and i know that is young but i have so much experience with makeup. i do almost allmy frinds makup for prom/homecomming,parties and huge get togethers. i have done 4 weddings(all brides maids) and i have done 2 people for debbs ball along with other social gatherings. i think i am ready to go into makup, i just dont know where to start! Any tipps?
9 months ago
nakisha
this website really helped with an essay for school! i really want to be a makeup artist!
over 1 year ago
I have been looking for a job and I cannot find one. Can you guys help me?
about 2 years ago
Hi, do you need to be licensed to become a makeup artist and do updo's for bridal party's at their choice of location i.e. their hotel rooms, homes etc.?
Thank you,
Rona
over 3 years ago
i was wondering how much a special effects make-up makes every pay check
almost 4 years ago
after finishing a training center. what would be the best way to network into working in film studios. I will be trying this out in the Hollywood area. thanks
7 months ago
marcia
dumo
4 months ago
shaiiiii
blah blah blah blah
7 months ago
Jamie
What is the best school to go to for this?
8 months ago
I will recommend not to hold off until you get big sum of money to order different goods! You should just get the home loans or short term loan and feel fine
over 4 years ago
how many colleges are in the state of Kentucky that you can attend for this career?
over 1 year ago
Rebecca
I am a cosmetologist/makeup artist in NJ. Went to cosmetology school and now work at a Spa. I ordered "The Event Make Up Artist" online which is a DVD system (about $200) which I think is an invaluable tool to help me learn deeper skills for makeup application. I do not do makeup at the spa, however I am looking forward to trying to build up a steady clientele of freelance appointments with my current clients.
over 2 years ago
Christine
hi i was just wondering were there is a good cosomotolgy school by centerville,texas. I would realy want to go to a good make- up artist school and i need to know the cost
about 1 year ago
As a Motives consultant, I am seeking make-up artists who may be interested in looking at the Motives makeup line. Celebrities such as Eva Longoria, Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian have endorsed this line. Motives cosmetics is a premier line with superior quality. We can offer make-up artists like your self an opportunity to earn supplemental income in conjunction with your artist practice. Our unique custom blend liquid and powder foundation provide a unique opportuity for your customers. If you would like to know more, please let me know.
www.motivescosmetics.com/mostbeautiful
The Motives Pro-Artist program gives makeup professionals (makeup artists, fashion stylists, costume designers, models, on-air talent/performers and photographers) exclusive access to Motives by Loren Ridinger, a cutting-edge cosmetics line. This program offers the makeup professional a direct link to Motives by Loren Ridinger, as well as member-exclusive benefits such as a Motives website, where makeup artists can sell directly to their clients and earn up to a 40 percent retail profit on Motives cosmetics and skincare products. Throughout the program you can count on us to provide you with the highest level of service, exclusive benefits other makeup artist programs do not offer, and the most comprehensive, highest-quality line of makeup.
10 months ago
bella
boring
7 months ago
Amie
I RECENTLY DISCOVERED THIS REALLY AMAZING SCHOOL, IN NYC, CALLED, "CHIC STUDIOS- STUDIO OF MAKEUP ARTISTRY". THEY OFFER SMALLER CLASS SIZES SO THE COURSES ARE MORE HANDS-ON, WHICH I LOVE! (AND NOT TO MENTION THEIR CHEERFUL STAFF, WHEN I CALLED, THEY ANSWERED ALL MY QUESTIONS!
THEIR WEBSITE IS:
http://www.chicstudiosnyc.com/
over 1 year ago
hi guys and gals, i want to start my career as make-up artist, beside taking a course, where i can find a great make-up artist site to share their information about how to development our ability as make-up artist?it's such as blog, Facebook or others?plz reply to my email.thx a lot
about 2 years ago
Hey guys,
Ashley,the Make Up Designory School in C.A & N.Y is an excellent school and very credible.
over 2 years ago
Catherine
For those of you out there that wouldn't mind traveling states check out the EI school of make-up artistry in California. They do nothing other then make-up it took me some time of searching. I know when I am able this is the school I will be attending.
over 2 years ago
I have been looking for about 2 years for the best make up school in Arizona. I have found many cosmetology schools, but i just want to learn about make up.
over 2 years ago
how long do you have to work to become an expert of makeup artist?
over 2 years ago
polly
Hey- i was wondering, what courses/classes should you take in high school if you want to become a makeup artist? also, what's the best college school to go to, to become a pro makeup artist?
almost 3 years ago
Hi I wanted to know being a makeup artists is it safe or it just depends on were you are a employmented at?
almost 3 years ago
Hi, I wanted to know how much does a makeup artist get payed a year this year(2008).
about 3 years ago
Hi,i was wondering...I'm a senoir in high school in i wanted to know where do i start if i want to be a makeup Artere do i go to get the skills? I always do friends, and familys make-up
over 3 years ago
I am extremely interested in pursueing a career in special effects makeup and would like to know if you have any information on the annual pay and how i may go about it. Would it be better to attend a college which specializes in special effects makeup and then go onto study it in university or attend a school to take courses in this?
over 3 years ago
hi..i was wondering..im barely a freshman in college..and i wanted to know where do i start if i want to go into this make-up artistry? how far am i to go into college for this profession? who do i talk to when im done with my training? where is the best school in houston for make-up artistry? i want to use the make-up for models...please help..i really want something out of the make-up artistry...ive always wanted to learn more and more about make-up and work for models
almost 4 years ago
Dear pupil that wrote this article,
I need to know more... I need to know how many jobs are avaible and how much the job pays to start out. Please email back with this info. if you know it. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Jacqui
almost 4 years ago
are there any good schools in des moines iowa for make-up artist could you go to a cosmotology school to become a make-up artist how do you start a make-up/ hair stylist buisnness plus thanks for all of the help it was really helpoful!!!!!!!!!!!!!
about 4 years ago
What makeup artist jobs are availible for me in Nashville, Tennessee?
7 months ago
That's great that people are able to take the personal loans and it opens new chances.
11 months ago
Hyun ah
Il y a une école : élégance GONTARD International, elle est réputée pour ses 100% de réussite, les élèves pratiquent depuis la seconde sur de réal clients puisque cette école est aussi un institut. Ils organisent aussi des voyages avec leur partenaires au Japon pour faire un stage de 2 jours sur le Shiatsu. Cette école propose un CAP, BP, Bac Pro option Spa, BTS Spa , BTS Spa praticien+Spa management .
almost 5 years ago
How old do you have to became a make up artist and what college can i go if i am underage?
9 months ago
i wouldnt want to do that........
over 2 years ago
Thanks for the great and usefull information you provided us about the education and your point of view of the definition behind the beauty of art. I'v deeply thought about going into the make-up industry, and now i'v moved to sac. but i havn't found a good cosmetology school yet. Do you have any advice you could give me of what school around here is a great start to learn more about make up?
thanks ashley!!
15 days ago
cacca
oh yea i luv dis job goo poo
15 days ago
cacca
oh yea i luv dis job goo poo
15 days ago
cacca
oh yea i luv dis job goo poo
3 months ago
I would like to be a make up artist because I love to create things I love color and beauty and fashion. So what are the other requirements I'd need for something like this..