What Makeup Artists DoApply makeup to performers to reflect period, setting, and situation of their role.
- Apply makeup to enhance or alter the appearance of people appearing in productions such as movies.
- Select desired makeup shades from stock, or mix oil, grease, and coloring to achieve specific color effects.
- Duplicate work precisely to replicate characters' appearances on a daily basis.
- Cleanse and tone the skin to prepare it for makeup application.
- Assess performers' skin type to ensure that makeup will not cause break-outs or skin irritations.
Makeup Artists Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationVocational Training
Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)
Training Time1 to 2 years
Job Openings1,100 Annually
Median Earnings
$132,890 in California
$50,280 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
@tiyanarobinsonbeauty
@tiyanarobinsonbeauty
@rachel.luskhmua
@itsinnooo
@glamwithlunamonet
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Being creative or artistic
- Working with my hands
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Job security
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Coordination
- Service Orientation
- Social Perceptiveness
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Makeup Artists Explained
Makeup ArtistExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
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