Introduction
Makeup artists are creative professionals who use cosmetics, hair products, and prosthetics to transform people’s appearances for stage, film, television, and other media productions. In addition to creating character looks, makeup artists also specialize in beauty makeup, such as weddings and special events.
Makeup artistry is a highly competitive field, but those who have the right combination of training, skill, and passion can carve out a successful career in the industry. To get an idea of what you can expect from a career in makeup artistry, let’s take a closer look at makeup artist salaries, regional differences, and the impact of education and experience.
Makeup Artist Salaries, Nationally and by State
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for makeup artists and hairstylists was $25,850 in May 2019. The top 10 percent earned more than $57,930, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $17,240.
The BLS also provides data on wages by state, revealing that makeup artists in California, New York, Florida, and Nevada tend to earn the highest salaries. California topped the list, with the average makeup artist making $42,810 per year. New York came in second, with the average makeup artist making $39,140. Florida and Nevada rounded out the top four, with average salaries of $33,400 and $32,530, respectively.
Interviews with Professional Makeup Artists
We spoke to several professional makeup artists to get their perspectives on the field. One of the most common themes we heard from them was the importance of having a passion for the craft:
“My biggest piece of advice for aspiring makeup artists is to really love what you do. That passion will be your driving force and will keep you motivated even when times get tough,” said Jenna, a professional makeup artist based in Los Angeles. “It’s a competitive field, so it’s important to stay focused and passionate about your work.”
Another theme that emerged from our interviews was the importance of networking and building relationships in the industry. As Jenna put it:
“Networking is key in the makeup world. You never know who you might meet or where they may lead you. It’s important to build relationships and make connections wherever you can.”
A Comparison of Freelance and Salaried Makeup Artist Earnings
Makeup artists typically choose one of two paths: freelancing or salaried work. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at how much you can expect to earn in each.
Freelance makeup artists typically charge an hourly rate for their services. Rates vary widely depending on the artist’s experience level and market demand, but the average rate is around $50-75/hour. Freelancers are also responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and other expenses, which can cut into their earnings.
Salaried makeup artists typically make a base salary plus overtime pay, commissions, bonuses, and other benefits. Salaried makeup artists are usually employed by production companies, television networks, and other employers. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for makeup artists is $45,927 per year, with salaries ranging from $21,000 to $84,000 depending on experience, location, and employer.
The Impact of Education and Experience on Makeup Artist Salaries
Education and experience are two of the most important factors that affect makeup artist salaries. Formal education can provide you with valuable skills, knowledge, and connections that can help you stand out from the competition. Many aspiring makeup artists pursue a degree in cosmetology or related fields, such as theater arts.
In addition to formal education, apprenticeships, internships, and other hands-on experience can be invaluable for makeup artists. Working with experienced professionals can give you the opportunity to hone your skills and build relationships in the industry. These experiences can also help you develop a portfolio that you can use to demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.
How to Maximize Your Earnings as a Makeup Artist
Once you’ve established yourself as a makeup artist, there are several strategies you can use to maximize your earnings. Networking and marketing are essential. Not only can they help you find new clients, but they can also help you build relationships with other professionals in the industry. Social media, email campaigns, and word-of-mouth are all effective ways to promote your services.
Building a client base is also important. Developing a loyal customer base can help ensure a steady stream of income, and repeat customers often refer their friends and family members to you. Finally, staying up-to-date on the latest trends in makeup, hair, and fashion can help you stay ahead of the competition.
Trends in Makeup Artist Salaries Over Time
Historical data from the BLS shows that makeup artist salaries have been steadily increasing since 2010. The median annual wage for makeup artists and hairstylists was $19,750 in 2010, compared to $25,850 in 2019. This is a 31 percent increase over the past decade.
Experts predict that salaries for makeup artists will continue to rise in the coming years. The growing popularity of reality television shows and streaming services, such as Netflix, means that there will be a greater demand for makeup artists. Additionally, the trend of personalizing makeup looks for special occasions and everyday life is expected to boost the demand for makeup artists in the future.
Conclusion
Makeup artistry is a demanding but rewarding field. With the right combination of education, experience, and passion, makeup artists can carve out successful careers. Salaries for makeup artists vary widely depending on location, experience, and other factors, but the average salary is around $45,927 per year. Freelance makeup artists typically charge an hourly rate of around $50-75/hour. Salaries for makeup artists have been steadily increasing over the past decade, and experts predict that this trend will continue in the future.
If you’re considering a career as a makeup artist, make sure you’re passionate about the craft and willing to put in the time and effort to hone your skills. Be sure to take advantage of educational and experiential opportunities, network and promote your services, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends. With dedication and hard work, you can create a successful and fulfilling career as a makeup artist.
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