How to Rise Through the Ranks as a Makeup Artist

Is your goal to rise through the ranks as a makeup artist in 2022? You've come to the right place. We've got tips for how to improve your craft, the types of career paths that are possible, and advice on the next steps.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Like many artistic pursuits, the best advice is simply to practice, practice, practice. The more time you put into your craft, the better you will be. Keeping the mindset that there is always room to improve and new things to learn will set you apart in an industry that is ever-evolving. With the growth of social platforms like YouTube and Tiktok, many people are trying their hands at becoming makeup gurus. The difference you can make is the time you spend perfecting your abilities and style — making you everyone’s top makeup artist choice.

Makeup can be a very personal profession. Not only is it birthed from self-expression, but it also requires artists to be up close and personal with their clients. You will be literally face-to-face with clients, invading personal space and touching their faces. Developing an appropriate touch and confident way of moving through your steps is imperative. Finding your personal brand of bedside manner is important.

Spending time with a variety of products and brands on different skin types and shades will only prove to be beneficial. Knowing what brands lay nicely on oily versus dry skin, what works for being on camera, and what can last all day. Being an artist that is well versed in what brands work for your style is nearly just as important as the skills you have developed. Find your go-to brands and master them.

Learning the rules of makeup is vital. Before breaking the rules and paving your own path, you must know the basics. Understanding color theory and balancing texture and design is a great first step. This is where formal training from a makeup artist school can become very helpful.

The Many Paths to Take

Within the world of makeup artistry, there are so many paths you can take and many makeup artist jobs to choose from. Whether it's event makeup like weddings, theater, and performances, or everyday makeup with a natural look, finding your niche within the saturated market is very important. Whether it's working as a freelance makeup artist or alongside a company, knowing your style is important.

If you're passionate about grandiose wedding and event looks, do that! If you enjoy sharing your knowledge of combining skincare and natural makeup, then do that! Finding your lane of expertise can set you apart from a specific group of artists. The goal is to have a unique aesthetic so that others in the industry know that something is your work and no one else’s.

Continue to Take Risks While Staying Humble

You entered this field of work because it's fun, right? It's self-expression; it's beautiful; it's art. Don't lose sight of why you started doing this — there are so many good reasons to enter this field. Seeing a client's eye light up when you've transformed them into a more confident version of themselves is priceless. So, keep working hard and don't be afraid to take risks. Makeup is removable. Try new things and stay willing to notice when something isn't working. Always be willing to admit you're wrong or don't know something. That's the kind of person people want to work with.

Are you looking for those skills and techniques to get you to the next level in your makeup artist career? At Hollywood Institute of Beauty Careers, we want to help you reach your goals and grow into your potential. Visit our website for information on courses that can help you reach your goals.