The Education Required for a Make-Up Artist

Tools of the trade for makeup artists

Makeup artists are the unsung heroes of glamorous women and terrifying zombies. Makeup artists use their education and their personal creative abilities to create an illusion of beauty or horror, whichever is necessary for the moment. These creative individuals do not paint on canvas, but rather on the human skin, using removable paints to create the illusion and change.

Personal Requirements

The prospective makeup artist should be an individual who has a steady hand and good color perception. In addition to these traits, a makeup artist should also be artistic and creative, be flexible and attentive to detail, process the tact and patience necessary to deal with stressful situations and individuals.

Training Requirements

All makeup artists must attend a school for makeup artistry. This school is most often a traditional school, as it can be difficult to teach different techniques online. These educations can be anything from a certificate to a bachelor's degree. Some students obtain a master's degree in makeup artistry, but for most individuals a bachelor's degree is sufficient.

Areas of Specialization

Specialties include studio makeup training for the beauty industry, special effects makeup training for the entertainment Industry, and artistry of makeup, which is a combination of the two. In addition, there are master classes for makeup artists in which additional training in subject of their choosing and refresher courses can be offered.

Financial Aid

It is possible to obtain federal financial aid from an accredited make-up artistry school. Most common federal loans include the Stafford Loan and the PLUS loan. In addition, private banks may be able to provide financial assistance. It is vital that you contact the admissions department of the school before applying for financial aid to ensure your enrollment and to obtain the school's code.

Job Outlooks

While the outlook for the need for makeup artists is rather good and expected to grow, the actual income for the profession can vary significantly. A good makeup artist can make a lot of money once his name is on the market. However, most make-up artists end up working at department stores or other small venues, not necessarily making a lot of money, but making enough to support themselves.

References

• Makeup Artist World.com: Personal Requirements to become a makeup artist
• EI.edu: Programs that we offer
• EI.edu: Financial Aid
• State University.com: Makeup Artist Job Description

Resources

• Degree Directory: Make-up Artist