Becoming a freelance makeup artist—the ultimate guide

Looking to become a freelance makeup artist? It's an exciting, creative industry with unlimited opportunities, freedom and income that can seem overwhelming if you've never done it before or are unsure where to start.

Our guide to becoming a freelance makeup artist has everything you need to know about getting into the industry.

 

Why become a freelance makeup artist?

Becoming a freelance makeup artist can open the door to a career you enjoy and give you freedom and creativity. As a freelancer, you're in charge of your schedule, deciding when, where and how much you work. This level of autonomy allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to tailor your career around your life.

The artistic freedom that comes with being a makeup artist is another reason. A job as a makeup artist lets you explore your creativity and experiment with looks and allows you to express yourself through makeup. The job also lets you support clients at some of their lives' biggest, most exciting points. Whether it's working on weddings, fashion shoots, or film sets, each project presents an opportunity to showcase your skills and style.

Independence is also a driving force. As your own boss, you determine your rates, select your clients and shape your brand. This independence gives you a sense of ownership and empowerment, allowing you to steer your career in your desired direction. There's also huge potential for growth, learning and earnings.

 

What does a freelance makeup artist do?

A freelance makeup artist offers their services on a freelance or independent basis, often rather than being employed by a specific company or salon. Their role revolves around providing makeup services to clients.

Here's a breakdown of what a freelance makeup artist typically does:

• makeup application
• understanding which products to use and why
• building client relationships
• using different techniques to create the desired results
• marketing and promotion
• hygiene and safety

You also need to do all the other things any other business owner needs to do—staying on top of trends, investing in education, day-to-day business operations and travel. There are options on how and where you work—we'll go into those in more detail shortly.

 

What training do you need to be a freelance makeup artist?

Formal education isn't always mandatory to become a successful freelance makeup artist (MUA), but training, certifications and skill development greatly enhance your prospects. Sometimes, you'll also need these certifications to get insurance for your business.

Some makeup artists have beauty qualifications (rather than just specifically makeup) or are self-taught, learning from other artists online or in person. Other makeup artists might have specialist training such as bridal makeup, special effects makeup (SFX) or costume makeup from recognised institutions or makeup academies.

Other makeup artists have carried out apprenticeships or worked to gain experience by assisting established makeup artists while they work with their clients. Getting hands-on can be a great way to learn such a practical skill set, but you need to ensure you understand the theory behind it.

You'll also need to check local regulations and laws to ensure you have the qualifications and skills to do your makeup artistry.

As a makeup artist, you'll never stop learning. There are always new trends, skills and updates within the industry, so it makes sense to keep up to date and make yourself a key player in the industry.

 

Benefits of a career as a makeup artist

There are some great benefits that come with a career as a makeup artist. You'll have flexibility, independence, and control over your business decisions and the types of clients you work with. You get to work at times convenient, allowing for a better work-life balance. You're in charge of how your business runs.

It's a cliche, but no two days are the same as a freelance makeup artist. There are many different opportunities and work to be found in TV, film, weddings, fashion shows, photo shoots, theatre and even working with clients who just want to look and feel their best.

There's also the ability to showcase, explore and express your creativity, along with growing your skillset and development by staying up to date with trends, techniques and products your clients will love.

You also get to build relationships and networks. You'll meet so many people daily that it's a great career if you love people and making personal connections—many recommendations come through referrals and word of mouth. There are also opportunities to network with professionals in different industries, expanding your client base and collaboration prospects.

 

Downsides of being a freelance makeup artist

Just like every career, there can be some downsides to being a freelance makeup artist. Being self-employed can mean setting your own prices and having unlimited earning potential. It can also mean inconsistent income and job security or a lack of stability. There's no guaranteed income flow, payment or job security that you'd expect with traditional employment.

You're also responsible for every aspect of your business, from marketing to finance, makeup artistry and diary management. It can be a bit of a balancing act to work with the demands of your clients and running your business.

The beauty industry is competitive, so gaining clients and work can feel like a constant effort. It's crowded, and there aren't any guarantees, so you always need to be marketing your services and business to stay booked and busy. Acquiring clients and work while dealing with different expectations, preferences, and challenges can be tricky, especially at first.

Like any self-employed role, there are no employee benefits like sick pay, holiday pay or pension plans. This can put pressure on you when it comes to taking time off or if you need some extra support.

Freelance makeup artistry offers freedom and creativity but requires dedication, business acumen, and resilience to navigate the competitive and fluctuating nature of the industry. Success often hinges on balancing artistic passion with business skills.

 

How to become a freelance makeup artist

If you want to start your career as a freelance makeup artist, our guide can help you understand the steps you need to take to get started.

Business plan

A business plan is an important place to start as it outlines everything about your business, finances and how you work. In a business plan, there are some key things that you'll need to include, especially if you're seeking finance from elsewhere:

• define your niche and specialisation (bridal, special effects, editorial, etc)
• outline your target audience, the market and what you know about both
• services, pricing and payment
• legal, insurance and financial considerations, like registering your business and how it's set up financially
• business name
• branding and marketing plan
• equipment and costs
• how you're going to manage your business and clients
• business Location

Setting up your business

As a freelance makeup artist, you'll be self-employed. You can either set your business up as a limited company or as a sole trader. An accountant or business adviser can help you understand more about which options are better for you.

Freelance makeup artists have various ways of working, each with its own advantages and considerations, too. You may rent a chair at a salon or studio, where you can benefit from existing clients of the location and use shared facilities. This usually comes at a cost, and you might need to adhere to some of the rules of the salon.

You can also choose to set up your own space by renting or creating one at home. This means you fully control the branding, ambience, services, schedule, rates, products and costs. However, this means you need to invest more in your business and be responsible for marketing and attracting clients.

There's also the option to go mobile, visiting clients in their homes. This is flexible and great for your clients but comes with travel, a lack of control over the environment and you'll need to attract your own clients. This could also mean working on a shoot or set to do makeup for a theatre production. Some freelance makeup artists do a hybrid approach too, which can be flexible but needs some serious organisation.

Choosing the right working style depends on your preferences, budget, target clientele and the level of autonomy and control you want over your business. Some makeup artists succeed in combining these approaches, adapting based on client needs and business growth.

Building your kit

What you need in your freelance makeup artist kit will vary depending on your clients and the circumstances you're working with. Having a well-equipped kit is essential to ensure you can cater to various clients and occasions. Here are some essential items to add to your kit:

• foundations (various shades for different skin tones)
• concealers
• setting powders
• blushes and bronzers
• eyeshadow palettes (with a range of colours and finishes)
• eyeliners (liquid, gel, pencil)
• mascara
• lipsticks, lip liners, and lip glosses
• makeup setting spray
• makeup brushes, sponges and tools
• tweezers
• eyelash curler
• makeup remover
• moisturiser
• primer
• makeup brush cleaner
• sanitising spray or wipes
• disposable makeup applicators
• tissues and cotton pads

If you travel for your clients, you'll also need a good quality carrying case to get your supplies from A to B. You might also want to think about some portable lighting, a makeup chair and a mirror to stay in control of your environment.

Setting your prices and services

Do some market research on prices and services for makeup in your area. It's up to you to decide whether you fill a gap in the market or if you go with what's already in demand in the area—there are benefits to both approaches.

You need to make sure that you also consider your costs when setting your prices. It's important that you're still making a profit when setting your prices and offers—it isn't in your interests to be working for free.

Marketing your business

As a freelance makeup artist, securing clients involves a combination of networking, marketing, and establishing a strong online and offline presence. You need to build up a strong portfolio that showcases your work across your website and social channels—social media is a huge part of marketing your MUA business.

Networking and collaboration are also an important part of marketing your business. Attend industry events, local events, trade shows, and workshops. You'll also want to contact photographers, models, event planners and other professionals. Collaborating with others in the industry can help mean that you're first when they need to recommend a makeup artist.

Offers, referral programmes and incentives can also help you to generate new business. Building up your brand as an expert is important, too, so look to get featured on things like podcasts or in magazines if you're looking for more editorial work.

On a local level, flyers, business cards, events and online directories can be useful. Client testimonials, reviews and word of mouth are really important, too. Promotions and packages can make a big difference to how booked and busy you are. Freelance platforms are also handy to list your business for wider reach.

Customer service

Exceptional customer service is the backbone of a successful freelance makeup artist's career. It's more than just applying makeup—it's about creating an experience that leaves clients feeling valued and heard. However good your skills are, if your customer service is poor, clients won't keep returning. It's how you help to gain clients.

 

Freelance success requires business expertise

Becoming a freelance makeup artist is an exciting journey that offers freedom, creativity, and potential income. As a freelancer, you set your own schedule and work on projects like weddings, fashion shoots, or films. While formal training isn't always necessary, it can enhance your skills and credibility.

There are perks—flexibility and creativity—but challenges, too, like inconsistent income and the need for self-management. Success requires not just makeup skills but also business savvy and exceptional customer service.

Our guide helps you navigate this path, from setting up your business and marketing yourself to providing top-notch service. It's a journey of passion and entrepreneurship, along with incredible makeup skills.

 

Specialist makeup artist insurance through Ripe

As a professional makeup artist, insuring your business through Ripe can help provide financial protection and peace of mind should the worst happen.

Specialist makeup artist insurance arranged by Ripe includes Public and Products Liability cover and treatment risk cover, with the opportunity to build your own policy so you’re never paying for more than you need.

Find out more about how we can help here, or get an instant online quote today.