What Makes A Great Makeup Artist in 2023?

10 Things to Excel in Your Career in Makeup Artistry in 2023

In 2021 it has never been more important to chart your career path. In the world of entertainment, skilled make-up artists are at the heart of the action. All the nominees for Best Make-Up in the 2021 Oscars achieved some remarkable effects. So what makes a great make-up artist (MUA)? Here are 4 pieces of advice for those aspiring to the role.

1. Find Your Makeup Artistry Niche

You must take your time to find your niche. So, one of the first pieces of advice from our tutors is to be open-minded. Which suits you best – fast-paced or more leisurely make-up work? Are you after something different each time, maybe with lots of travel involved? Or do you want to specialise?

Knowing where your strengths lie is what makes a good make-up artist. And you’ll only know this when you’ve broadened your experience.

You could find your niche working on a long-running stage show or well-established TV series (Casualty, Silent Witness, etc). Make-up artists often talk about the family feel of working with the same group of people. Brushstroke tutor and BTEC Qualification Manager, Paula Cahill agrees. A regular make-up artist on BBC1’s Eastenders, Paula loves the team spirit the programme creates. Without it, they couldn’t work at such an adrenaline-fuelled pace and get through such a steady queue of actors!

A fashion show or crowd scene in a film can call for the same kind of speed and agility. However, your personality might suit less frantic work such as getting a lead actor ready. Generally, you have more time, especially if wigs or prosthetics are involved.

Don’t turn down any job – you don’t know where it might lead, particularly when you are starting out in your career.

3. Propel Your Career as a Makeup Artist With Proper Training

It’s a competitive industry, so naturally, those make-up artists with the right skills and attitude do well. What makes a great make-up artist is a foundation of proper training behind you, whether you decide to specialise or not. That’s why we include hair and wig in our syllabus so our make-up artists have a more complete set of skills.

Make-up artists working in fashion and photography are often asked to create iconic looks. This can include special effects or the use of different materials – anything to help a designer achieve their vision. For this reason, you need a good knowledge of anatomy, hairlines and face shapes. Being able to recreate a range of period styles is also important if you are interested in working in film and TV productions such as The Crown and Call the Midwife.

Jo Chang chose Brushstroke to help her broaden her skills. Already working as a make-up artist in fashion, Jo wanted to break into other areas of the industry. She knew the solution lay in proper training to give her both the skills and confidence she needed.

The professionally trained make-up artist draws upon a bank of knowledge and techniques to help them fulfil their brief – however, challenging that brief might be.

3. Be an Organised Make-up Artist (MUA)

An important part of what makes a great make-up artist is being organised. The students who get noticed and chosen for trainee jobs are not only good with the make-up brush. They’re willing to work hard and get things done; they’re organised and observant. As a past Brushstroke student, Dani Haigh explains, continuity is an important responsibility-taking photo, preserving prosthetics and being super observant. How you organise yourself and your work can really help your job prospects and enable you to achieve a degree of financial security.

4. Get Proper Makeup Artistry Training

For those with the right skills and attitude, make-up artistry is a great career. Look at the variety – from film, TV and stage to fashion, music videos and advertising. In every case, the make-up artist is vital in helping ensure the success of a production. And there are so many opportunities to be creative. How about the amazing special effects that transform an actor into a fantasy creature (or Gary Oldman into Winston Churchill)? At the other end of the scale, ‘barely there’ make-up is equally important to make someone look natural on camera.

We can’t think of a better industry – it’s global, the UK is a major player and the opportunities are numerous. But such a great industry deserves well-trained make-up artists.

So, what makes a great make-up artist? Good, solid training and being prepared to keep fine-tuning your skills. Stay open-minded and see every opportunity as a chance to learn something new. You’ll meet some great people and give yourself the chance of an amazing career.

5. Embrace the Latest Makeup Technologies and Trends

If you want to excel as a makeup artist in 2023, it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest technologies, tools, and trends in the industry. The makeup world is continually evolving, and to remain relevant, you need to grow and adapt along with it. For instance, makeup artists are now using airbrushing techniques, 3D makeup printing, and even virtual reality applications to experiment with different looks and styles.

In addition to mastering new tools, it’s essential to keep up with the latest makeup trends and incorporate them into your work. From sustainable and eco-friendly makeup products to inclusive and diverse makeup shades and styles, being aware of current trends will give you an edge over your competition.

6. Develop Strong Networking and Social Media Skills

In the age of social media, having a strong online presence is vital for makeup artists looking to build their brands and showcase their work. Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are popular platforms for makeup artists to share their artistry, connect with potential clients, and network with other professionals in the industry.

Networking and collaboration are essential aspects of a successful makeup artist’s career. Attend industry events, workshops, and conferences to meet other professionals, learn from their experiences, and possibly collaborate on future projects. Building strong relationships in the industry will not only help you grow professionally but also provide invaluable support and advice along the way.

7. Cultivate Your Unique Makeup Artistry Style

What sets great makeup artists apart is their ability to create a unique style and signature that reflects their personality and vision. Experiment with different techniques, colours, and materials to find your voice and style. Your signature look will become your calling card, making you stand out in the industry and attracting clients who appreciate and resonate with your work.

8. Prioritise Client Relationships and Communication

A great makeup artist knows the importance of establishing and maintaining strong relationships with their clients. Effective communication is key to understanding a client’s expectations and vision for their makeup. By listening carefully and adapting your skills to meet their needs, you’ll create a trusting relationship that leads to satisfied clients and repeat business. Additionally, it’s essential to treat every client with respect, professionalism, and empathy. This includes understanding their personal preferences, cultural backgrounds, and potential sensitivities, ensuring they feel comfortable and well taken care of throughout the process. 

Changing Career?

Changing career to become a makeup artist is within your reach – with Brushstroke training behind you.