If you’re a natural with a blusher brush and an expert with a lip liner, a job as a makeup artist could be a wonderful fit for you.
From being qualified to finding clients, our step-by-step guide will help you get started as a makeup artist.
The role of a makeup artist
A makeup artist is a cosmetics specialist who employs creative abilities and make-up tools to enhance or transform the appearance of someone.
Makeup artists are frequently hired for weddings and other special occasions, as well as modeling assignments, theatre productions, film, and television shows.
Makeup artists working on films and other productions may employ unique procedures to drastically alter an actor’s appearance, such as making them appear much older than they are or making them appear to have been in a fight.
While you might be able to find work as a makeup artist, the vast majority of makeup artists are self-employed.
Is it difficult to work as a makeup artist?
It shouldn’t be too tough for you to complete a makeup artist course and develop a portfolio if you enjoy cosmetics and have a creative flare.
However, being a professional makeup artist is far more difficult. Because there is no formal professional path and most makeup artists are self-employed, building a customer base and getting consistent employment as a make-up artist takes expertise, effort, and patience.
Although a degree is not required to work as a make-up artist, a recognized makeup qualification is a fantastic place to start. There are several makeup artist schools offered across the country, so examine your options and pick a course that is right for you.
A BTEC Level 3 Diploma, a VTCT Level 3 Diploma, an ITEC Level 3 Diploma, a City and Guilds Diploma, and a Make-up Standards Authority (MASA) diploma are some of the most popular makeup artist degrees available. Colleges, creative arts schools, and beauty academies all offer these courses.
Self-employed makeup artist
After you’ve honed your skills and built up a strong portfolio, you can work for yourself as a makeup artist. This will entail registering with HMRC as self-employed or forming a limited company.
The most difficult thing for a make-up artist who is just starting out is ensuring that you have enough work. To expand your network, you may work as a resident make-up artist at a hair and beauty salon, advertise your bridal make-up skills at wedding shows, or assist a more experienced makeup artist.