If you love makeup, color, and cosmetics, and have the creativity to experiment with new looks, then becoming a makeup artist would be a good option for you, provided that you enjoy a flexible time schedule and work place. A makeup artist needs to complete various duties, depending on the job type. You should give attention to the job description published in the advertisement. Makeup artists for theater and film studios have different duties and responsibilities from a wedding and fashion makeup artist. Makeup artists working for a TV soap opera need to bring out natural looks and hide any scar or deformation. An FX makeup artist completely changes the look of an artist and transform the actor into a different person.
Requirements to Become a Makeup Artist
The requirement to become a makeup artist differs from state to state. Some states require licensure to practice as a makeup artist, while others do not. Some states require a certification with some practical classes, while some states do not require the practical classes. Here is a list containing the cosmetology license requirement by states. If you’re from a state where the certification is not mandatory, being a certified makeup artist would be a plus point to succeed in this field.
Salary of a Makeup Artist
There is a big difference in earnings from person to person. A makeup artist can start his/her career in a departmental store or the theater group in local schools and, after practicing some time, he/she can shift to a beauty salon, theater group, or TV/film studio. A large part of makeup artists choose to freelance. That’s why the range of earnings is very large. As per the employment report by BLS on May, 2013 median annual wage is $47,210. But, the total income is much higher, as this data does not includes tips. Some celebrity makeup artists earn more than $100k per annum.
Makeup Artist Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities differ from one job to another, as a makeup artist can work many types of jobs and environments. Here are some duties you might have as a makeup artist.
- Apply makeup, cosmetics, mascara, eyelash, lip liner, eye liner, powder etc.
- Shape eyebrow, lip line, hair, and facial hair.
- Style hair in different looks/hairdressing.
- Sketch different looks for a character.
- Read scripts and arrange sittings with director and producer to identify proper looks for characters.
- Makeup for different events like weddings, dates, funerals, etc.
- Makeup for bride, bridesmaids, and family members.
- Makeup trial for bride.
- Makeup for theater and TV/ film production.
- Special effects makeup using prosthetics, wigs, and other materials.
- Photograph final result for future reference.
- Buy cosmetics from vendors.
- Sell cosmetics to clients.
- Remove makeup from clothes.
- Remove makeup after performance/event.
- Give advice to clients about maintaining hygiene after applying/removing makeup.
Melissa Reyes says
I love make up and I love doing make up…