Makeup Artist

Nov 3, 2011

Marian C.

Just wondering if anyone knows the steps I need to take to become a makeup artist? Do I have to get my cosmetology license?

Nov 3, 2011

Shelly T.

You need to research the laws for your state to see what you need to do in regards to a cosmetology license and whether you need one to become a professional MUA. Some states require it; others don't.

Nov 3, 2011

Zakiya S.

The answer to that one Marian is a yes/no!

I agree with Shelly...definitely do the research!

I did makeup before beauty school but now I finished my beauty course. Im happy I did. I learned alot about sanitation practices which will protect you and your client and also open you up to more opportunities. 

Nov 3, 2011

Marian C.

Thanks ladies for the information!! Much appreciated!!

Nov 4, 2011

Angel M.

Below I copied & pasted an excerpt from a little interview I recently did. Shelly is right, example NY does not regulate MUA's but Florida does & you must be a cosmetologist or esthetician to practice make-up...there are loop holes but check the state regulation first.

Do you think it essential to go through formal training to become a make-up artist?
Angel Michele – Yes and no. In any creative field you can’t be taught creativity – you either have it or you don’t. Most aspiring make-up artist don’t go through training to learn how to apply blush they go to learn how to break into the field. People often ask me how to become a make-up artist and I tell them to call themselves a make-up artist. It’s really that easy. Breaking into the field is what requires the most training and sadly most training institutes charge an arm and a leg but still don’t cover the business aspects of the career. After I went to school it took me a good five years to no longer be a starving artist. And that’s huge, many people go to school to become a MUA but then don’t pursue it because they feel it’s not a lucrative career…which is sadly not true but you have to know what you’re doing.
Do you feel that your workshops offer aspiring make-up artist those tools they need to be successful?
Angel Michele – Honestly, I try my best, but with time limits most often many of my workshops leaves that critical element out. I have a 48hr workshop that’s like my baby. It covers everything from the skills to business training, to how to find gigs, to business etiquette, to living your life as a tax deduction. At the end of the week the students have a started portfolio and a full starter kit. I think I cover everything in this workshop. Sadly, with my schedule and students’ schedule, it’s hard for me to offer this workshop as often as I’d like.


BOTTOM LINE: going to the right school, I think, is very important and will possibly save you valuable years and money as well as offer you the confidence boost you need. Research the school and try to get a copy of the course outline to make sure they cover the business aspect and also make sure they include a full kit in the tuition cost.