How does someone go about becoming a make-up artist?

I am very artistic and I would enjoy doing make up for models, weddings, movies etc. I dont really have an interest in special effects make up although if I needed too I would learn.I dont want to do hair. I have read that there is no degrees required to be a make up artist is that true? Is all I need to get into the business a portfolio to show off my work? Is it a well paying career and are there enough job openings?How does someone go about becoming a make-up artist?
Well, here is the long and short of it. There is no general rule that says you need to have a degree to work in the makeup industry and often times having a strong portfolio is the most important factor in getting hired for a job. However, many states require that anyone who applies makeup as a business have some sort of license. That means going to beauty school. In New York City, where I live, I had to get a degree in either Cosmetology (hairdressing) or Esthetics (skincare) to be state licensed and work. That sucks as most of these programs will spend no more than 30hrs out of 600 learning hours on makeup. Unfortunately it is what you have to do in order to practice legally in most states. I personally got my degree in esthetics as I felt if would be more helpful than getting a degree in Cosmetology as I had no plans to cut hair EVER and it is a much longer course required for state license in hair. I did find the experience in skincare to be very useful as a makeup artist and it certainly has given me an edge in the industry. I also went to a professional cosmetic program that was a 1200 hour course that involved a whole unit on portfolio development and business as well. That gave me a ';degree';, but that didn't apply towards my state license. I wish states would realize that makeup artistry deserves it's own licensing board.





If you plan to have your own makeup business I would check with your state to see what licenses they require. If you plan to just do makeup on your own for individuals (like weddings or sweet 16's, etc.) then you can decide if you think getting licensed is worth it, but you do so at your own risk. If you plan to work in a salon or spa or for some editorial work then you will most likely need to be licensed.


To find beauty schools in your area do a search online and request a tour and some information on exactly what the program covers. You want to make sure what licenses (if any) you will be elidgable for upon completion of your learning hours.How does someone go about becoming a make-up artist?
going to beauty school for it, if you want. My sister went and she took make up courses, of you can apply for mac cosmetics or any macys makeup counters and if your hired they will send you to some courses. Yes you can make good money with it. And about job openings im sure there is always someone hiring.
you go to beauty school to be an Esthetician. I go to school for managing cosmetology so I will be licensed for hair, nails and skin, but my school also offers classes for girls/guys just interested in nails and another class for girls/guys just interested in skin.
a lot of practice


do your friends makeup and take pictures of them afterwards


like before and after =)