Building Your Makeup Career: The Essential Guide for Aspiring Makeup Artists
So, you want to be a makeup artist? Whether you dream of working backstage at fashion shows, glamming up brides, or creating editorial looks, the beauty industry is full of opportunities. But just where do you start?
This guide will walk you through the first steps of building a successful makeup career, from developing your skills to getting your first paying clients. Let’s break it down!
1. Learn the Fundamentals
No matter how passionate you are about makeup, technical skill is key. While some artists are self-taught, formal training can give you an advantage by covering everything from hygiene standards to advanced techniques.
Ways to Learn as a New MUA:
Enrol in a Makeup Course – A good course will teach you skin prep, colour theory, blending techniques, and industry standards. Look for accredited training.
Follow Industry Experts Online – Platforms like YouTube and Instagram are full of professional makeup artists sharing tips and tutorials.
Practice on Different Faces – Makeup on yourself is one thing—learning to work on different skin types and tones is another.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if you train formally, practice makes perfect. Set aside time to experiment and refine your skills.
2. Build Your First Makeup Kit (Without Breaking the Bank!)
Your kit is your toolkit—having the right products and brushes will set you up for success. But when you're just starting, you don’t need to splurge on luxury brands.
Must-Have Products for a Beginner MUA:
✔ Skin Prep – Moisturiser, primer, and setting spray for a flawless base. Skin prep products to suit everyone - from dry skin to the oilest skin, sensitive to mature. What you carry determines the final makeup look - shop wisely and broadly.
✔ Foundation & Concealer – A mix of shades you can customise for different skin tones.
✔ Eyeshadow Palettes – A solid neutral palette is essential; add pops of colour later.
✔ Lip Products – A small selection of lipsticks or a lip palette saves space. Remember, not everyone will want a pinky-nude! Shop with this in mind.
✔ Brushes & Tools – Invest in high-quality brushes, sponges, and disposables (like mascara wands and lip applicators) for hygiene.
💡 Pro Tip: Many pro brands offer MUA discounts! Check out MAC Pro, Charlotte Tilbury and NARS.
3. Define Your Niche & Find Your Style
The makeup industry is broad - choosing a specialisation can help you stand out. You don’t have to decide immediately, but exploring different areas will help you find what excites you the most.
Popular Makeup Career Paths:
Bridal & Special Occasion Makeup – Ideal if you love enhancing natural beauty.
Editorial & Fashion Makeup – Great for creatives who love pushing artistic boundaries.
TV, Film & SFX – Involves high-definition techniques and special effects work.
Retail & Brand Work – Perfect if you enjoy teaching customers and working with big beauty brands.
💡 Pro Tip: Start by assisting other MUAs in different fields to gain experience and see what fits.
4. Create a Portfolio & Build Your Online Presence
A strong portfolio is your key to booking jobs. Since most clients will find you online, it’s important to showcase your best work professionally.
How to Build Your Portfolio as a Beginner:
Do Test Shoots – Collaborate with photographers and models to build your portfolio.
Offer Discounted Sessions – Work with friends and family to create diverse looks.
Post on Instagram & TikTok – Share your work, behind-the-scenes clips, and before & after transformations.
Create a Simple Website – A professional site with your portfolio, contact details, and pricing makes booking easier.
💡 Pro Tip: Always use natural lighting for portfolio photos—clients want to see realistic results!
5. Start Booking Clients & Making Money
Once you’ve built your kit, skills, and portfolio, it’s time to start working professionally. Finding clients takes time, but these steps will help you get booked:
How to Land Your First Paying Clients:
Network with Local Photographers & Stylists – Collaboration is key in the beauty industry.
Promote Yourself on Social Media – Use Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook groups to showcase your work.
Encourage Word of Mouth – Ask happy clients to tag you in their photos and leave reviews.
💡 Pro Tip: Start with competitive but fair pricing—undervaluing your work makes it harder to increase prices later!
Final Thoughts: Ready to Start Your Makeup Career?
Becoming a successful makeup artist takes time, practice, and dedication. But with the right strategy, you can turn your passion into a thriving career.
✔ Learn the fundamentals
✔ Build a strong, budget-friendly kit
✔ Find your niche & personal style
✔ Create a professional portfolio
✔ Start marketing yourself & booking clients
💬 What stage are you at in your journey? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your experiences!
🎓 Want expert guidance? Book a class with me for industry insights, business coaching, and skill-building courses.
As always, I’d love to hear from you! What’s worked for you? What hasn’t? What do you need help with? Drop me a comment below!
Jen x