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Make-Up Artist
Fashion and beauty

How to become a Make-Up Artist

What does a Make-Up Artist do?

You hate Monday because you hate your job. You should be a Makeup Artist…

As a Makeup Artist, you'll be tasked with creating whatever looks your clients need. This could be helping to sell a range of cosmetics, styling models for fashion or photo shoots, helping enhance the image of a television or film star, or even creating prosthetics for those cast in horror stories.

Although day-to-day responsibilities may vary, a Makeup Artist's tasks will typically include:

  • Researching and devising looks to fit clients' briefs
  • Applying makeup and hair products
  • Potentially specialising in certain areas or techniques, such as special effects, theatrical makeup, air brushing or high definition.
  • Photographing creations so they can be replicated later
  • Carrying out touch-ups during long shoots
  • Removing makeup and storing accessories at the end of each day

Is a career as a Make-Up Artist right for me?

To be successful in this position, a genuine passion for the beauty and cosmetics industry is an absolute pre-requisite. You may also be working for long hours, and to a strict deadline to ensure shoots or filming go smoothly, so reliability and punctuality are similarly essential.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that most Makeup Artists are freelance, so self-determination is key. You'll also generally be expected to have all your own kit for each job.

A good Makeup Artist will be:

  • Bursting with creativity to design new and exciting looks
  • Enthusiastic about new products
  • Able to work under pressure
  • Tactful and patient
  • Excellent at communicating with clients and those having their makeup done
  • Meticulous about attention to detail

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Career progression and salary expectations for a Make-Up Artist

1

Make-Up Artist

| Up to £25,000

Get qualified as a Make-Up Artist

Most professionals start by getting a specific beauty-related qualification. You should also aim to get plenty of practical experience in order to build up a portfolio of your work and create contacts, as competition in this field is very strong.

Recommended Makeup artist courses

  • Make-up Artist & Innovative Beauty Techniques- CPD Certified With Complete Career Guide

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    11 FREE Certificates | 11 CPD Accredited Courses | Unlimited Retake | Lifetime Access
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    Embark on a transformative journey into the captivating world of makeup artistry with our CPD Certified course. Unveil the secrets of sanitation, master the use of tools, and explore the realm of colours and foundations. Elevate your skills through contouring, eye makeup, and bri …
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  • Mastering Makeup Artistry: From Basic to Pro

    Skill Up
    20-in-1 Makeup Artistry Diploma | CPD Certified | Free PDF & HARDCOPY Certificates | New & Updated | Lifetime Access
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    • 108 hours · Self-paced
    • Certificate(s) included
    • 200 CPD points
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    ✿ 20 in 1 "Mastering Makeup Artistry: From Basic to Pro" Bundle ✿ According to recent statistics, the beauty industry in the UK is worth over £30 billion, with makeup being one of the top categories. The demand for professional makeup artists has grown by 12% over the past …
    £100

What's it like to be a Make-Up Artist?

"The best thing about being a Makeup Artist is the variation - no two days are the same and you never know what the next client will ask you for. I've worked on everything from album covers to making people look undead for zombie photoshoots. It's exciting and creative, although time management and a willingness to stand for long periods are essential. Provided you work hard, you can earn great money too."

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