How to Become a Makeup Artist

Posted on June 1st, 2009 by Marck

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Whether it’s a theater play, a feature film, a fashion show or a beauty pageant, makeup is a way to enhance or change the facial features of a performer. Some performers prefer to put their makeup on their own, but the best effects are still achieved with the help of makeup artists. If you want to be a makeup artist, here are some tips to help you out.

Cosmetology

The formal training and technique in applying makeup and other beauty treatments is called cosmetology. Many makeup artists spend months or years in a school that specializes in cosmetology. Some of the techniques taught in cosmetology schools include the following:

Hair styling. Hair is a very important part of beauty. Cosmetologists may study and practice the various kinds of hairstyles that can be used for all sorts of situations and occasions.
Skin care. Cosmetologists also study the best ways to treat and manage different textures, feels, kinds, and colors of skin.
Manicures and pedicures. Well-cared for nails can also affect a person’s understanding and perception of physical beauty, which is why cosmetologists also offer manicures and pedicures.
Film and theater makeup. The most complex makeup techniques involve changing facial features for use in a play or a movie. In some presentations, hours of work and a tremendous amount of focus is needed to complete the makeup of a single performer.

Self-Training

While there’s no substitute to formal training, you can still practice makeup techniques through home correspondence courses, either online or through a mail-order kit. While self-training does not offer the same comprehensive results as cosmetology schools, you can still pull off an awesome makeup job with enough dedication and attention.

Build a Clientele

Once you have finished a formal or correspondence course in cosmetology, it’s very important to build a clientele. Whether you’re employed as a cosmetologist or if you have your own business, you need to have a steady stream of clients to help you keep the business going. Make sure to provide excellent service so that your customers will partronize your makeup skills and become believers on your expertise in skin and body care.

For many cosmetologists, beauty is both an art form and a science. With these tips, you can become a makeup artist specializing not only in making people look good, but making them feel good as well.