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Mar 11
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3 Amazing Makeup Portfolios and Websites To Look Up To

By Your Makeup Career No Comments

As an up-and-coming MUA, your makeup portfolio and overall business website will be two of the most important aspects of your business. Together, they make your online resume! They will publicly showcase your work, your services, your overall business, and most importantly: YOU!

Your makeup portfolio should live on your business website. Importantly, this website can’t be hastily thrown together! It will require lots of time and effort. You’ll need to build everything from the ground up, make it the best it can look, and then regularly fine-tune up whenever possible. It’s not a one-and-done process, but an ongoing one. So we hope you’re willing to put in the work!

Your website and makeup portfolio can be the deciding factors in whether a potential client chooses to work with you or not. After all, they set the standard and make the first impression.

So if you’re unsure about what to do, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to see 3 awesome examples of makeup portfolios, and the awesome websites they live on!

Pin-up retro girl with curly hair winking, smiling and showing OK sign . Presenting your product. Expressive facial expressions

What should a good makeup website include?

You not only want your website to look good and showcase your brand, you want it to also include as much business information as possible for any interested customer. If you think the common client will want to know it, put it in there! It’ll look better if the information is already available to her, without her having to ask for it first.

Things you should include on your business’s website are:

  • Some info about you and your company. You want your clients to get to know you a bit, so a rapport can be established from the get-go.
  • List of your services.
  • Your current prices for your services. This information can be combined with the list of services, if desired.
  • Contact information. At the very least, include a phone number and email address for clients to reach you. If you have a physical address for your business, include that as well.
  • Reviews. In the beginning, you may not have any – and that’s okay. But as they start coming in (even from family and friends), include them on your site. Potential clients want some sort of proof that you’ve not only done legitimate work before, but that there’s tangible evidence your work is of good quality.
  • An image portfolio. Most importantly, you NEED high quality images in a well-rounded portfolio that show off your makeup skills. Whenever possible, have the photos professionally done. The floor is yours here to showcase your wide range of talents! Be as diverse as possible; display different skin colors, textures, etc. Show clients of different ages, sexes, and ethnicities.
    • It’s always a good idea to show clients that you can do an abundance of different makeup looks and styles. Here are 5 looks every MUA should try to have in their makeup portfolio! If you have a specific, preferred niche (such as bridal makeup), then try to spice up the different kinds of looks you do within this category. Throw in some focused application shots, like of the eyes or lips!

Now that we have the basics covered, let’s check out some examples that demonstrate the above flawlessly!

1. Alluring Makeup Artistry by Katey

QC graduate and professional MUA, Katey Stevens, is an absolutely rock-star! Not only are her makeup skills killer, and her freelance business successful – her online presence is something that every aspiring makeup artist should look up to.

On top of posting great content regularly on her social media pages, Katey’s business website and makeup portfolio are totally solid. The homepage of her site checks off all of the boxes we’ve listed above, but there’s also a navigation menu that allows you to go directly to each specific section, as desired.

Her Contact Us page not only includes all necessary details to reach her, but even embeds a map to her business location. She couldn’t possibly be making things any more convenient for her clients if she tried!

Two highlights of her makeup website are her Services pages, and her FAQs section. Firstly, Katey has worked hard to build on her skill set and offer MANY different services for her clients. In addition to her partial and full makeup services, she also offers (for example) tattoo coverage, groom touch-ups, Special FX makeup, photo shoots, makeup lessons, etc. Each and every service is listed all on one neat page, with rates clearly displayed, too.

Katey’s also clearly taken the time to research frequently asked questions, as well as take into account inquiries she personally receives often from her clients. She’s added an FAQs page to her makeup site so that potential clients can have these questions answered – before they even think to ask them! This is an awesome business decision, and make for a really strong online presence!

2. Gabrielle Eula

Created by QC Student Ambassador and certified makeup artist, Gabrielle Rivera, this makeup website and portfolio is another exceptional example we recommend taking a look at. Notice how Gabrielle’s business site maintains the same header image, regardless of which page you go to. Similarly, there’s a footer image throughout her whole website, displaying her contact info and links to social media.

There’s also a consistency in her font choices and color schemes. It all adds together to form a brand image, and give you a vibe of what Gabrielle’s about. This is an awesome example of incorporating your brand into your portfolio!

Like with Katey’s makeup site, Gabrielle’s website also ensures that all relevant and needed information about herself, her business, her services, her rates, and her reviews are all included in a clear and concise way.

Gabrielle also has a broad portfolio to showcase her past (and best) work, which is neatly categorized into 4 different areas:

  1. Bridal
  2. Special Occasion
  3. Modern Art & Photography, and
  4. Special FX & Body Painting

If I were a client looking for a skilled makeup artist, I’d be instantly impressed at how flexible her skills are. It’s clear that Gabrielle knows many different makeup techniques and applications. The professional quality of her photos lets me see all sorts of sides to her.

If I were a potential customer, Gabrielle’s portfolio would definitely assure me that she would be a reliable and professional MUA to book with!

Two awesome things stand out to me when looking at Gabrielle’s website. Firstly, she has a Book Online feature that allows clients to view Gabrielle’s availability. From there, they can schedule an appointment without needing to deal with any phone calls or emails.

Eliminating this back and forth hassle not only saves all parties time, it caters in favor of the client. This sort of thing doesn’t go unnoticed, trust me!

The other fun thing that Gabrielle’s worked into her makeup site is a live chat option. Should there be clients who can’t find something, or they simply wish to speak to a real person, they’ll benefit from having this option available to them. Gabrielle has really covered all the important aspects in her website!

3. Jacquie K.

This Ottawa-based makeup artist stands out to us for many reasons, but the biggest one has to be that she is the PERFECT example of what it means to find your own unique niche and then completely corner that market in the industry.

How does Jacquie do this? No, it’s not because all of her products are cruelty-free (although that’s a bonus for sure). It’s because she’s known for her converted school-bus-turned-beauty-bar.

brand new interior of european beauty salon

Yeah, you heard us. Go to her website and see what we’re talking about. Pretty gorgeous, right?

This definitely makes her stand out from the competition. In a city as big as Ottawa, that’s an impressive thing to accomplish! Not only is the bus a unique factor on its own, it also allows Jacquie and her team to travel directly to clients and rent out their services. Can you think of a more convenient freelance makeup business?

In terms of the way Jacquie’s makeup website looks, it’s hands-down one of the most beautiful examples. It works in all the needed information effortlessly, has a smooth flow from page to page, and showcases her brand to perfection.

Her portfolio is also jam-packed with quality content. It ranges from various images of makeup looks to hair styling. Jacquie’s even branched out into creating her very own makeup, which customers can choose to buy online from her website. Cool!

Note: It’s worth noting that another fantastic thing all 3 examples have in common is that they all outline reservation and cancellation policies directly on their websites. This detail can sometimes be forgotten, but it’s important that you remember to include it when outlining your services on your website!

Want to become even more of an expert at creating and building your portfolio? Enroll in QC’s Portfolio Development workshop today, and WOW your clients with images that clients won’t be able to ignore!

One of the best ways to impress clients is by being professionally certified. Enroll today in QC’s leading Master Makeup Artistry course and earn your certification in as little as 6 months!

Mar 06
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The Do’s and Don’ts of Henna – Part 1

By Education, Makeup Tips and Tricks No Comments

Online makeup classes can teach you a LOT more than just your standard makeup practices! As part of QC’s Global Beauty makeup workshop, you’ll explore other cultures and international makeup techniques to expand your skill set. One such practice you’ll become an expert at is the art of Henna.

Here, we’ll take a brief look at what Henna is, and where it comes from. Importantly, you’ll learn a handful of good habits you should adopt when doing Henna, as well as bad habits you need to avoid.

What is Henna?

Henna ‘tattoos’ are made from the dye of the natural henna plant, applied in intricate designs on the skin using a small piping bag and cone. It’s typically made by mixing pure henna powder with a liquid component, such as tea, lemon juice, or water.

Once applied, but before the Henna paste has dried, a mixture of lemon and sugar will also need to be added to it. This will keep it from flaking off too soon. After a few hours, the color settles into the top layers of your skin, leaving a “tattoo” once the paste is removed. The result will usually be brown in color at the beginning, before changing to red pigment, which will eventually fade.

While Henna tattoos can be applied anywhere on the skin, it’s most common seen on a person’s arms, hands, and/or fingers.

Where does it come from?

There are a many different cultural ties to the art of Henna tattoos. Originally, historians claim that it first became popular among those living in warmer climates, thanks to its natural cooling properties on the skin. Due to the beautiful stain it would leave behind, it eventually transformed from a cooling aid and topical treatment, to a beauty practice.

Some examples of where Henna’s historical and cultural roots can be found are:

  • The Pharaohs of ancient Egypt
  • Muslim and Hindu weddings
  • Festivals such as the Diwali, Vat Purnima, Karva Chauth, and Teej monsoon celebrations

Henna tattoos rose in popular throughout North America and Western Europe in the 1990s. Today, they are a global and very common beauty practice. In addition to religious and cultural purposes, Henna is also commonly used today for aesthetic expression.

Henna practices: what to do versus what not to do

As a professional makeup artist, if you wish to incorporate Henna into your business services, there are certain things you’ll need to do in order to be a good Henna tattoo artist. Similarly, there are a number of Henna sins you’ll want to make sure you never commit. Let’s take a deeper look at those…

DO: Thorough research

Just like with the art of makeup, you can’t expect to be good at what you do if you don’t take the time to properly learn about it. But we’re willing to bet you love to learn! So research the practice of Henna; read as much as you can, and absorb everything possible.

Look deeper into its different cultural backgrounds and significance. Find out about its different ingredients, and the suppliers involved. Don’t just focus solely on the pros of Henna tattoos – discover any potential cons to the practice as well.

Approach it from a business standpoint, too. What would be required in order to add it to your existing makeup services? What’s the market like in your area for Henna beauty services? What sort of a wage increase could you realistically hope to see by adding this extra service to your business?

While there will ALWAYS be more for you to learn, your goal should always be to strive at becoming an expert in the field. So research and learn everything you can!

DON’T: Neglect proper schooling

A good makeup school will offer online makeup classes that cover Henna, such as in QC’s Global Beauty workshop. Yes, while many Henna artists don’t obtain any actual education, what’s the honest harm in doing so?

You know you’ll be taught properly, by a trained professional who knows what they’re doing. You’ll receive so many incredible resource materials that will help you not only learn Henna inside and out, but start practicing it in a real-world setting.

Plus, actual education from an accredited makeup school and its online makeup classes will equip you with a physical certificate of completion. While certification isn’t required to practice Henna, having this certificate is guaranteed to look better on your resume and seriously impress clients.

On top of expanding your skill set, it signifies your drive, dedication, and hard work. If you’re looking to outshine your competition, this is the sort of thing that WILL do the trick!

DO: Learn (and then practice) various Henna designs

There are many symbolic designs in the world of Henna artistry; many tied to specific cultures. If you wish to be able to provide this sort of Henna art to clients of different cultures, it could prove worthwhile to do your homework and begin learning the different symbols of different geographical locations.

In North America, however, Henna is more abstract and less tied to symbolic meaning. Geometric shapes – such as dots, lines, triangles, etc. – are most commonly used in repetition to create the designs.

FUN FACT: most Henna is free-hand, meaning that there’s no stencilling involved before the application. You’ll need to become knowledgeable and confident do it on the spot. So it’s critical that you first take the time to PRACTICE designs on your own, before ever attempting them on a client. Start by drawing them out on paper.

If it makes things easier, keep a sketchbook entirely devoted to your different Henna practice designs. The more you work at them, the better and more natural you’ll become.

DON’T: Skip practicing with a Henna cone

Drawing your designs on paper alone isn’t enough practice to make you ready to apply actual Henna on a client. This is because using the Henna piping bag and cone is an entirely different process, requiring a deeper level of skill.

Once you’ve become super comfortable with drawing your Henna designs on paper, maybe you can start by tracing over these designs with Henna. Then you can start attempting to free-hand designs with the Henna (but still on paper). After more practice, you can graduate to the next step by finding friends, family, and parts of your own body to work on.

By breaking up the learning process into these steps, it’ll make for a smoother transition from paper to a paying human canvas.

Think the list ends there? Definitely not! There are plenty more useful do’s and don’ts to consider when it comes to which Henna ingredients you use, how to best apply it, and the sort of aftercare practices you need to ensure you take.

Want to learn all about this? Then stay tuned for Part 2 of this Henna crash course, and in the meantime, keep on practicing!

Want to pair your Henna training with a full-scale makeup course? Enroll today in QC’s leading Master Makeup Artistry course, and get your Global Beauty Workshop at 50% off!

Mar 04
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Katey Stevens sugar skull makeup look

Graduate Feature: Katey Stevens

By Graduate Feature No Comments

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I’m a freelance makeup artist that mainly focuses on collaborating with local photographers and wedding venues. I provide my makeup services for a variety of photoshoot types, such as:

  • Editorial
  • Boudoir
  • Bridal
  • Headshots
  • Prom
  • Special events
  • And any other occasion wherein someone might want to be a little “extra” and done up!

I was born and raised in the beautiful Evergreen State of Washington. I found my passion for makeup as a young child, admiring my Mom getting ready in her bathroom mirror. Outside of makeup, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Cameron, and our two boys, Logan and Jameson.

I’m an avid hiker and enjoy exploring the Cascade Mountains. Also, I love spelunking, riding dirt bikes, quads, gardening, and enjoying good food with good people!

Why did you decide to become a professional makeup artist?

Back when I first met my husband, I found he was/is so ambitious and encouraging. He gave me the confidence boost I needed to believe that I could run my own business and follow my dreams. It’s largely due to his support that I decided to become a full-time MUA!

makeup for photoshoot model

How would you describe your makeup style? What is your favorite makeup style?

I would describe my makeup style as diverse. I view makeup as an art form. I have a variety of interests; from soft glam and bridal, to SFX makeup (involving liquid latex and prosthetics). My favorite makeup style, though, would have to be an evening glam look. Nothing beats a smoky eye or a bold lip!

Tell us a little about your makeup business, Alluring Makeup Artistry. What was the process like in starting your own business?

I visualized the start of my business as a checklist of tasks and goals. I knew I had to start the journey with a makeup academy that could provide me with the tools I needed to get started, and a flexible schedule. I was still working full-time back then, as well as raising two young boys. A flexible makeup school was a must!

I began gaining experience by doing makeup for weddings on the weekends throughout summer. I’d get referred through friends and family, which is how I started getting my name out there. Then I created a makeup-related Instagram page, Facebook Business page, and website. I worked hard to build clientele through social media, local networking groups, and referrals.

You specialize in on-location makeup services for your clients. Can you tell us a little about what that means? Do you feel that providing this service gives you any advantages over your competition?

Adaptability is everything in the makeup industry! That includes being able to function well while being on the move, with a strict timeline.

Whether I’m indoors or outdoors, I can show up at any location and adapt. Regardless of the venue, the weather, or any other circumstances, I’ll have my makeup train, my chair and folding table, my lighting and camera, and be prepared for anything!

It’s also really important to understand how to do a bunch of different makeup styles. That way, you can be flexible, and still suit the person and vision for a project.  My artistic diversity and willingness to adapt to my surroundings gives me a HUGE advantage over my competition.

You focus a large part of your business on collaborating with other local vendors and suppliers. Can you elaborate on this (in terms of the types of collaborations you do, and why you find it beneficial to your career)? Would you recommend this practice to other aspiring MUAs, and if so, why?

I focus on collaborating with local vendors because, as vendors, we’re all working toward a common goal: to have the best customer satisfaction by providing our strongest skill-sets.

Katey Stevens crazy eye makeup look

Photographers, wedding planners, venues, event coordinators, salons, bridal boutiques… All these people that we build relationships with will benefit from the experience. Likewise, our customer traffic will grow once we’re all referring clients to one another and supporting each other’s businesses. This is especially helpful in my case, because I live in such a rural area.

What is the proudest moment in your makeup career so far?

EVERY special moment I share with my clients, when they see themselves in a different way, is my proudest moment. Sometimes, I feel I can maybe help them see themselves in a way they’ve never seen themselves before. That’s incredibly rewarding.

Do you have a favorite look that you’ve done, either on yourself or a client?

Yes, it was a purple, sugar skull makeup look. I did for fun on a friend, and it’s definitely my favorite look so far! It was really cool, because I had all the time in the world to be creative and really take my time with it. It turned out exactly how I had imagined it would. I was very happy with my work.

Two hours later, we had some pretty awesome results. We then went outside to my backyard, took pictures with my camera, and had an impromptu photoshoot!

Why did you choose QC Makeup Academy over all the other makeup schools out there? How do you think QC Makeup Academy has prepared you for working in the field?

The reason I chose QC Makeup Academy, over all the other schools out there, was because I felt they were truly one-on-one. But yet, it was still in a format that allowed me to continue working full-time and managing my life at home with my two young boys.

The entire QC staff were all great, too! From the instructors, to the Student Support Specialist team, everyone was very professional, kind, and helpful. I feel that QC Makeup Academy definitely prepared me to work in this field. They gave me the knowledge and the sense of professionalism that allows me to continue to grow, even to this day!

What’s on the horizon for your Alluring Makeup Artistry in 2020?

In 2020, my goals for Alluring Makeup Artistry are to:

  1. Continue filling my appointment book with clients, and
  2. Continue networking with local vendors, so I can build relationships and grow my freelance business.

Long-term, I hope to be the go-to MUA for events around my area. Who knows, maybe I can even become an international business someday!

Finally, if you were trapped on a desert island, what makeup product would you bring and why?

Mascara! I feel eyelashes are the finishing touch to every look! 😉

Want to become a professional makeup artist, just like Katey? Enroll in QC’s internationally leading Master Makeup Artistry course today, and get certified in 2020!

Feb 28
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redhead having hair curled with straightener

Hair Styling vs. Hair Dressing: A Breakdown

By Hair Styling No Comments

As a makeup artist, you may have dabbled with the idea of adding hair-related services to your business (or at least, to your resume). There’s definitely incentive to do this, as it could very likely improve your overall success! But in doing your research, we’re willing to bet you’ve come across the following 2 job terms: hair styling, and hair dressing.

But wait, aren’t they the exact same thing? Actually, no! While they do share certain similarities, they also have fundamental differences. So what does each term mean? How are they similar, and where do they differ? Is one better than the other to add to your makeup business? Let’s find out!

What is hair styling?

The answer is in the name itself: it means to style hair! As a hair stylist, you would help shape the client’s hair into an attractive style of her choosing (or as expertly recommended by you). You’d create things in her hair such as waves, curls, volume, and/or braids. You’d have the skills and training to be able to give your clients all sorts of up-dos, down-dos, and everything in-between. Of course, you’d know how to do all this with the aid of:

  • Hot styling tools (tools that specifically use heat), such as a: hair dryer, curling iron, straightener, etc.
  • Hair styling products, such as: hairspray, gel, mouse, etc.
  • Other styling tools, such as bobby pins, elastics, headbands, hair accessories, etc.

As a hair stylist, you would use your knowledge and understanding of face shapes and structures to recommend flattering styles, up-dos, extensions, etc. to your client. When a client has their heart set on a particular style, it’s your job to deliver it (if possible), to the best of your ability.

To be a working hair stylist, you don’t necessarily need any formal certification. This is due to the fact that nothing you’d be doing to a client’s hair would permanently change it. You wouldn’t be using any harsh chemicals, or altering color or length. Everything you’d do would always be temporary!

That being said, while many hair stylists don’t always need certification, having it will definitely make you stand out from the competition and look better to clients. Plus, if you really want to know what you’re doing, there’s no better way than by taking a hair styling class, being educated, and getting properly trained!

What is hair dressing?

Hair dressing involves everything that a hair stylist does, but more. The defining thing that separate a hair dresser from a stylist is that a hair dresser is qualified to make permanent changes to a client’s hair. This means that they’re allowed to do any of the following to their clients’ hair:

  • Cut it
  • Bleach and/or dye it (basically give it some type of chemical treatment)
  • Install permanent hair extensions

To be VERY clear: a hair dresser is qualified to do these things. A hair stylist is NOT!

Much like a hair stylist, a hair dresser needs to rely on her knowledge of the client’s overall appearance, facial structure, etc. to be able to make the final call on what will suit them best. You can provide suggestions, give caution against bad ideas, and then apply your skills to execute the chosen look as flawlessly as possible.

To work as a professional hair dresser, most places will require you to obtain a cosmetology license in your city, state, or country. In addition to this, there may be a requirement that you’ve completed a certain number of hours of education, training, and practice.

In these locations, to work as a hair dresser without these things would quite literally be illegal. The consequences could be anywhere from a fine, to criminal charges (if, for example, a client were to be injured in some way).

If you’re interested in become a hair dresser, make sure you research the legislation in your area. If required, ensure you get yourself certified accordingly!

Other Similarities vs. Differences

Of course, we’ve already touched on some of the major things hair styling and hair dressing have in common. We’ve also laid out some pretty huge differences they also have. But here are a couple more to keep in mind…

Potential Income

Because more education, training, and a more extensive skillset is required to be a hair dresser, your income will likely be greater than it would be as a hair stylist. That being said, it also depends on what sort of setting you’re working in.

If you’re employed within a salon as an MUA, you may be able to increase your overall salary due to your additional hair styling qualifications. That being said, those skills may not be required if it already employs hair dressers.

Alternately, if you’re a freelancer, you get to choose how much you charge for your services. If you’re a popular makeup artist with a devoted client base, you may be able to increase your rates with the addition of hair styling services, and make the equivalent of a hair dresser.

People Skills

Both professions definitely have this in common! Whether you’re a hair stylist or a hair dresser, you absolutely HAVE to be good with people. A lot of clients like to make conversation, so introverts will struggle with this type of job.

Plus, your clients would be trusting you with their appearance – that’s a big thing for them to put in your hands. If you don’t at least try to create a positive connection with them, you’ll probably never see them again.

But hey, if you’re already a makeup artist, you know ALL about this already!

Which would go better with your makeup business?

Hair styling services pair extremely well with makeup services because often times, the client is requiring these services for a specific, important event. She is not as likely to want the full services of a hair dresser (such as needing it cut, colored, etc.) on the day of. Rather, she likely will only need/want it to be styled.

Because of this, the likelihood that she will also like to get her hair styled in addition to getting her makeup done (or vice versa) for this big event is high. Thus, these 2 beauty services have a tendency to go hand-in-hand nicely.

That being said, you can by all means still offer full hair dressing services as part of your makeup business. Though not all of your makeup clients will be as likely to need both services on the same day, that’s not to say it’ll never happen.

One positive is that hair dressing services opens up your clientele to more than just a makeup-related audience. You’ll also become open to clients who may only want hair-related services.

Keep in mind, though, that hair dressing is seen as its own job in-and-of itself. There’s also more equipment involved, so the start-up and maintenance costs will be higher than if you were just hair styling alone.

There’s also the potential issue of time management. It might be hard to balance being a makeup artist and a hair dresser. If you want to first and foremost be an MUA, your hair dressing services may need to take a step (or two, or three) back, in terms of your business priorities.

So while technically, there’s absolutely nothing stopping you from adding both types of services to your makeup business, hair styling services tend to mesh a little better. It’ll cost you less to maintain within your business, and won’t be as big of a timely commitment for you to try and juggle.

It’s ultimately your choice when it comes to picking the career path that’s best suited for you and your goals. Go with your gut, and don’t let anything stop you! As long as you properly prepare yourself, do all the needed research, and then put your all into it, your career ahead will be a long and successful one!

Interested in hair styling class? Enroll in QC’s leading Hair Styling Essentials course today!

Feb 27
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airbrush machine and regular makeup on table

Airbrush Makeup vs. Regular Makeup: Which is Better?

By Makeup Tips and Tricks, Your Makeup Career No Comments

In the cosmetic world, there’s a long-standing debate over which is better for your makeup artist kit: airbrush makeup or traditional makeup? The truth is, if you’re looking for a definitive answer, you’re probably not going to find it. This is because one is not better than the other 100% of the time! Instead, you’ll find that for some clients, airbrush makeup is the better option. But for others, regular makeup is the way to go.

So what’s the difference between the two? In which areas does airbrush makeup triumph? Alternately, when is regular makeup the stronger choice? Let’s find out!

What is Airbrush Makeup?

True to its name, airbrush makeup is a type of makeup specifically created for an airbrush gun and air compressor. The makeup itself is most often water-based, alcohol-based, or silicone-based. Airbrush makeup is typically applied in multiple, sheen layers.

These layers build up a flawless finish on the skin that photographs effortlessly, blends beautifully, and is most often times waterproof. Furthermore, airbrush makeup can also be used for other areas of the face, such as eye makeup, blush, contour, and highlighting, etc.

What is Regular Makeup?

More frequently used and convenient for everyday wear, traditional makeup is considered any of the following products that are applied to the skin using makeup brushes, sponges, etc.:

  • Liquid, cream, and powder foundations
  • Primers and eye shadows
  • Blush
  • Contour and highlights, etc.

Which is Better?

Some situations may deem airbrush makeup the leading contender, while in others, traditional makeup is the winner. In some cases, both are equally good. For example, some may argue that airbrush makeup lasts longer than regular makeup since most airbrush makeup is waterproof.

However, plenty of traditional makeup is also waterproof. But even for products that aren’t, so long as the makeup has been properly primed, applied, and finished with a strong setting powder and/or spray, it should hold throughout the day just as well as airbrush makeup would.

Similarly, while airbrush makeup is known for its incredible illusion of flawless skin, that doesn’t mean traditional makeup can’t do the same. If the products are properly prepped, applied, and finished by an expert who knows what they’re doing, both makeup types can create exceptional results on the client and photograph really well.

But we’re here to see the differences between airbrush and regular makeup, not just their similarities. So, here are some circumstances that show when one may be better than the other…

makeup tools, with model having makeup put on her in background

Covering Pimples and Other Blemishes

While both types of makeup can do this, regular makeup is superior. Yes, airbrush makeup – especially when layered – can help reduce the appearance of blemishes, but that’s not what it was designed for. Airbrush makeup is lighter, whereas traditional makeup is created for fuller coverage.

On top of this, airbrush makeup often times can be limited in terms of its color choices. Some clients may have skin tones, acne, or blemishes that airbrush makeup just doesn’t have the right pigments for. But regular makeup offers a much large range of colors to work with and choose from.

Regular makeup also has color correctors, specifically made to help mask imperfections. If your client has something she needs to be covered up, you will be able to find a regular product in your makeup artist kit to do the job.

The winner: Regular makeup.

Withstanding Moisture

Especially for those who’s clients are going to be outside in the hot sun, or taking part in an emotional event (such as a wedding), makeup artists need to arm themselves with the right products that can best combat moisture. If your client sweats or cries, she doesn’t want to have to worry about her makeup cracking, creasing, or running down her face.

Technically, with the right setting products, both airbrush and regular makeup can handle this task. That being said, airbrush makeup is inherently better at this – especially if the airbrush makeup is silicone-based. Most airbrush makeup is already waterproof, but when it’s silicone-based, it adds that extra layer of protection that regular makeup doesn’t have.

The winner: Airbrush makeup.

mua applying makeup on client using airbrush machine

Working with Right Skin Type

But as we discussed, most airbrush makeup is waterproof, giving it a much thinner consistency. It doesn’t create that appealing, flawless finish on dry and oily skin. Rather, it can often appear flaky once applied, especially on drier skin. For these skin types, your clients would benefit more from traditional makeup.

If, however, your client has dry or oily skin, airbrush makeup might be unflattering. Regular makeup has a thicker, creamier texture. It can help add moisture or properly mask oiliness, depending on what the skin requires.

Neither makeup is a one-fits-all when it comes to the various different skin types. Airbrush makeup is best for those with well-hydrated skin. As a rule of thumb, if your client has normal to combination skin, airbrush makeup is going to look jaw-droppingly stunning on her (so long as the makeup is applied by an MUA who’s trained in using an airbrush machine, of course). Between airbrush makeup and regular makeup, a client with either of these skin types would likely best benefit from airbrush makeup.

The winner: Draw. It depends on the client’s skin type.

Cost

But you also need to keep in mind that if you have clients on a budget, they may not want to shell out more money for airbrush services.

In general, airbrush makeup can actually prove to be a bit pricier. You have to factor in the cost of a good quality machine, and then the makeup products themselves (which aren’t exactly cheap). Sure, you can make up for that by charging clients more for your airbrush services than you would your regular makeup services.

But don’t forget: with regular makeup, there are plenty of products you can swap for their drugstore counterparts. You have the option to save money, without sacrificing quality. That leftover cash can then be put towards buying even more products!

Because there appear to be more products you’d need to purchase for traditional makeup, you may think that it would be more expensive than airbrush makeup.

As a professional MUA, building up and then maintaining your makeup artist kit will be an investment. Whether it’s regular makeup or airbrush equipment/makeup, it’s going to cost money, and it won’t always be cheap. This is a reality every makeup artist faces, and while we know it may suck sometimes, it’s also worth it.

How it Looks on Your Resume

Here are the facts: so long as you have formal makeup training and certification under your belt, regardless of whether it’s in airbrush makeup or regular makeup, your resume will impress clients. Any education and professional training are going to help you stand out from the competition.

That being said, an MUA with experience in both regular makeup and airbrush makeup might look more proficient overall than an MUA without the additional airbrush training. It not only tells this client that you’re an even more well-rounded makeup artist, capable of different methods and applications. It also demonstrates that you have the passion, dedication, and drive to acquire even more schooling and certifications to your name.

The winner: Airbrush makeup – though schooling and certification in BOTH are strongly recommended.

At the end of the day, there are pros and cons to airbrush makeup AND traditional makeup. It really depends on your level of training, your comfort level with the products, your client’s skin type, what she wants, etc. There are tons of factors to be considered, and as you can see, no singular situation in which airbrush makeup or regular makeup is 100% the best option.

That being said, which do YOU prefer more? Let us know in the comments!

Want to learn 3 different airbrush looks from the ‘King of Airbrush’, Marc Harvey? Check out his webinar with Nathan Johnson here!

Feb 21
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Why Fashion Styling Services will Help Your Makeup Artist Training

By Your Makeup Career No Comments

With each passing year, there are more and more aspiring MUAs in the industry. Perhaps you’re brand new to this world and just starting your makeup artist training. Or maybe you’ve been a professional in the field for quite some time. Either way, competition is fierce, so standing out to potential clients is key. It never hurts to have that extra edge over all the other makeup artists in your area!

Offering additional services as part of your makeup business is a guaranteed way to expand your business and gain that competitive edge. Fashion styling is a perfect example, and we’re here to tell you why!

young fashion stylist at photoshoot

It Opens You Up to a Wider Clientele

In terms of a business strategy, being able to appeal to an even larger audience in the beauty community is absolutely going to benefit you. The more services you can offer, the more clients you can attract. No matter how you look at it, more clients equal more business – and more business means more revenue.

On top of this, cornering the various areas of the beauty market and offering them all from one business is going to make you look good. Let’s say that a client needed her makeup done, was looking for consulting advice about what to wear to a big event, and maybe even needed her hair styled. She’s more likely to book with a talented professional who can give that ALL to her than to book with multiple different vendors. It’s simply more convenient for her to deal with one business!

You Can Earn More Money

As we mentioned above, it’s a logical conclusion that by offering additional services to your makeup business, you’re going to make more money. These different services can then be charged individually, or in bundles.

Providing different kinds of payment options to customers is another way to further entice them to work with you, since you’re flexible to many different budgets.

Furthermore, if you were to add Fashion Styling services, you could do more than simply add those additional service charges in and of themselves… You could update and increase ALL of your prices, makeup services included!

Why? Because you have even more schooling and training under your belt! You’ve invested into your education in order to get that extra certification, so your work does deserve to be valued accordingly.

If you’re worried about scaring off potential clients by charging a bit more than your competition, don’t worry! You can always raise your rates slowly, in smaller increments. This way, it’s fair to both you AND your clients.

Trust us: the right customers will see and understand the worth of what you’re providing them. Not only will they be willing to pay the few extra bucks, but they’ll also likely be loyal repeat clients!

Fashionable clothes in a boutique store in London.

You’ll Have Even Better Chances with Employers

This is another thing that’s common sense: the more education you have and the more skills you’ve acquired (especially ones related to the industry you’re in), the more impressive you and your resume are going to be to those thinking of hiring you.

Even if they’re not necessarily interested in utilizing all of your skills for the given role, just the fact that you’ve acquired them all in the first place is going to signify you’re drive and ambition.

It also opens more doors to different areas of the beauty world that you can work in. For instance, let’s say that you have no interest in being a freelancer. But at that given time, the market isn’t really in need of makeup artists in your area.

You may be out of luck until the need for MUAs changes in your city! But with more certifications and training in your arsenal, you could apply to other types of jobs within the industry.

The more skills you have, and the more types of labor you’re qualified to do, the more opportunities that’ll come your way. Your chances of getting hired will only go up!

You’ll Become a More Well-Rounded Beauty Professional

We’re willing to bet that you’re a professional makeup artist for 2 main reasons:

  • You LOVE makeup and doing makeup.
  • You love making others feel beautiful in their own skin.

It takes a truly awesome person to devote their lives to a career based on helping another feel the absolute best way about themselves. Doing so improves her confidence and may even help give her a new, positive perspective about herself. You have a big heart, and the world is better for it.

So it makes sense that if you acquired other beauty-related skills that you could provide, in addition to makeup, you’d only be strengthening your ability to help another human being feel and look their best.

Fashion designer trying new designer clothes on a model. Woman entrepreneur in her cloth shop designing new clothes.

From a business standpoint, we’ve already discussed why and how adding fashion styling services is a smart career choice. But in this industry, it goes a lot deeper than that: it’s just as much about how it would help YOU improve. Not just as a beauty expert, but in knowing that you’re even more equipped and capable of positively influencing your client’s life.

It’ll Feed Your Hunger For More Knowledge

Professional MUAs are some of the most eager and pioneering people I’ve personally ever encountered. You genuinely enjoy what you’re doing, you love to discover all sorts of new products and techniques, and there’s NEVER too much information you’re not ready and willing to learn.

So in terms of broadening your own horizons and slating that need to learn more, and more, and more, why not branch out and discover the other areas of your industry? There’s quite literally no downside to doing so!

All this being said, we want to make one thing clear: in no way are we trying to say that you’re any less of a great makeup artist if you choose to focus solely on makeup. You could very well have no interest in offering additional services like fashion styling, or hair styling, or what-have-you. This doesn’t mean you’re not still an exceptional makeup artist, or that you don’t deserve many clients or as much success… And we wholeheartedly agree!

All we’re trying to say is that if you ARE looking for ways to grow your makeup business, shine just a tiny bit brighter than a lot of your competition, and add to your overall repertoire of skills, then adding fashion styling services is something worth considering. It has many incredible benefits, both professionally AND personally. So go for it!

personal style consultant or fashion stylist choosing trendy clothing for her client. woman holding two tops on hangers.

If you want to add even MORE services to your makeup business, become a certified hair stylist! Learn more here, and get started today!

Feb 20
Love2

What NOT to Do When Running Your Own Makeup Business

By Your Makeup Career No Comments

Being a makeup artist is a labor of love. You don’t get into this industry without first and foremost have a passion for the craft. You’re likely also a very motivated and hard-working person since you know full well that being an MUA is not an easy profession.

So why would you put all this time, effort, training, and money into your own makeup business… Only to blow it by committing the most basic faux pas out there? You DON’T want that to happen, and we know that. You’re serious about what you do, and you love your job.

So take it from us: so long as you don’t do any of the following things on a regular (or intentional) basis, your makeup career will continue heading in the right direction!

Make-up artist work in her studio.

Be unorganized

Running your own business isn’t for the lazy or disorderly. The entire fate of your career is in your hands – meaning, you’re going to be in charge of a lot of things. You’d better be prepared to stay on top of everything, or else you’ll quickly become overwhelmed and start making mistakes. Really, making sure you stay organized is going to help YOU more than anyone else.

Add to this the fact that being a professional makeup artist quite literally means that your livelihood is based on appointments: making or taking them, properly scheduling them, keeping track of them, and seeing them through. Your appointments are your top priority as a makeup artist. Being late is a big no-no. Missing appointments altogether is even worse!

Neglecting the importance of being organized in this industry could also lead to other annoying mishaps, such as double-booking clients. It’s one thing if it’s a genuine mistake that only happens once in a blue moon. But if you’re doing any of the above on a regular basis, your reputation is going to tank pretty quickly. You may be better off re-evaluating yourself, as being a professional MUA just may not mesh with your personality and lifestyle.

Skimp on your makeup products

This shouldn’t require a whole lot of explanation. You’re a professional makeup artist! How can you ever expect to be successful amongst all the competition if you don’t even care or invest in your makeup kit? That would quite literally be like if you were a cowboy in the Old West, got challenged to a pistol duel at dawn, and then showed up with a limp spaghetti noodle as your weapon.

Look, we’re not saying that you need to go broke in order to fill up your professional makeup kit. You don’t even need the fanciest, most expensive products! But you do need to be realistic about the fact that if this is truly what you want your career to be, you’re going to need to invest SOME money into your products. They may not need to be the most costly, but they do need to be of good quality.

Professional make up set: eyeshadow palette, lipstick, make-up brushes and many cosmetics close up. Film and flare effect.

Disregard your client’s skin type and color

Fun fact: back in 2013, my University graduation was nearly ruined for me, thanks to the job a salon makeup artist did on my face. I’m not exactly sure what happened, because I’d done my research, and the salon in question had had great reviews across the board.

The gist of the problem was that I’m fairly sure she’d never heard of color matching in her entire life, much less studied it. The end result was that the skin on my face was a dark, orangey hue – while the rest of me was pretty pale (my natural shade).

Also, there was absolutely ZERO blending into my neck. There’s a good chance that from a distance, I probably looked like a pumpkin wearing a graduation gown. It was pretty bad – and I wish I was exaggerating when I say that way too many people definitely noticed.

My point is your clients’ skin type, color, texture, etc. matter! Understanding her skin and choosing the products best suited for it can, and often does, mean the difference between flawless results or a botched experience. Your client is coming to you because they’re trusting you to make her feel beautiful. No one is going to feel beautiful if they’re very clearly wearing the wrong product that doesn’t flatter her at all.

This means being able to observe your client’s skin, ask the right questions, and confidently conclude:

  • If her skin is normal, oily, dry, or combination skin
  • If she has any skin conditions, what they are, and what’s best for them
  • If she has sensitive skin, and if so, which safe products you can use on her
  • The proper range of her skin shade
  • Where color-correcting may be required, and what correctives you should use

If you have any training in skincare consulting, you can also potentially rely on that to recommend products that would best suit your client’s skin during her skincare routine!

Makeup products for perfect complexion. Concealer, foundation and correcting, bronzing, highlighting powders with make up brushes. Toned image

Charge unrealistic rates

There are 2 main ways you can do this:

1. Being unfair to clients

Typically, this would be in the form of charging way too much for your service(s). Sometimes, it’s simply due to not understanding the going rate in your area for the work you’re doing. Other times, it’s a new makeup artist charging too much based on her level of experience.

If you’re first starting out as a professional makeup artist, you definitely shouldn’t give away your work for free. But remember to be realistic at first: you’re new, you don’t have any traction in the community yet, and you still need to prove yourself.

Your talent may be worth a higher figure and trust us, you’ll get there. But in the beginning, you may need to take a small pay cut in order to build up your credibility.

2. Being unfair to yourself

The other end of the spectrum is that you wind up charging too little for the services you provide, and you’re actually ripping yourself off. Newbie makeup artists are also just as susceptible to this pitfall: they haven’t gained enough confidence in themselves and their abilities to charge what they feel is fair, so they low-ball in order to try to get clients.

Sure, this may be fine for the first few jobs – but you need to know your worth, too! Compare the rates of other MUAs in your area, and then don’t be afraid to mark your prices in a similar ballpark. Don’t sell yourself short!

Go without makeup artist training

If a client has the option to choose between a makeup artist with professional training under their belt, versus someone who doesn’t, that client is always going to choose the MUA with more experience and education.

ALWAYS.

Makeup trial notes on paper with brushes and color powder professional makeup class

Not only that, but you’ll be provided with quality products, become an expert in makeup theory and application, and have a major edge up on your competition.

You’re not doing yourself, or your makeup business, any favors by believing you know it all and don’t have any room for improvement. Proper makeup artist training, courses, and schooling is led by actual specialists in the field. It’s a type of learning experience that will take your knowledge, understanding, and skills to a whole other level!

Continued training, practice, and education are some of the single greatest things you can ever do for both your makeup career and business. Can you think of other critical things needed for a successful makeup artist business? Let us know in the comments below!

Want only the best for your makeup artist training? Enroll in QC’s leading Master Makeup Artistry course, and be instructed by a professional celebrity MUA!

Feb 19
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Special Effects Makeup for Beginners: 5 Best Ways to Start Learning

By From the Experts, Makeup Tips and Tricks, Your Makeup Career 4 Comments

Gabrielle Rivera is a QC Makeup Academy graduate and professional makeup artist. To see more of her work, visit her Instagram here. Today, she draws on her professional expertise to share 5 of the best ways that one can break into the world of Special Effects makeup and begin learning how to do it.

1. Education

One of the most important things I learned when beginning my journey into the world of SFX makeup is how vital the right makeup education is!

I fully understand that the era we live in is one driven by social media and YouTube. However, when working with Special FX makeup, you have to know how to properly apply, mix, create, and work with these specialized products. To be able to do this correctly is a game changer for your business – and such techniques can only be taught in proper online makeup classes.

Unlike regular, everyday makeup tools and products, SFX makeup products can contain chemicals that are potentially harmful to the skin. This is why proper training is required, in order to know how to safely use and apply such products.

For example: when working with various types of paints, you would need to know which items are safe to put around your client’s eyes and/or mouth, and which ones are NOT. To not know your stuff can quite literally mean that you’re putting your client’s health and safety at risk, which we know if something you’d never want!

Similarly, it’s also critical to know what specific ingredients are in the SFX makeup products you’re using. This way, you can avoid your clients experiencing negative reactions, such as skin allergies.

If you want to become serious about growing your skills in Special FX makeup, one of the most beneficial things you can do for both yourself and your craft is to enroll in a makeup school that provides specialty classes. QC Makeup Academy is a great example, as they specifically offer a Special FX online makeup class! Not only does this course teach you the proper care and handling of SFX products, it also shows you first-hand how to apply these products and use the tools professionally!

2. Tutorials

Aside from taking online makeup classes and obtaining a professional certification, tutorials can be a simple way for you to start learning about the Special FX world.

There’s so much information available to you online, and countless artists that you can learn from. When I first got into SFX makeup, two of my personal favorite YouTube accounts to watch were (and still are, to this day):

  1. GlamandGore (Mykie) and
  2. Ellimacs Sfx Makeup

What I love most about these two makeup vloggers is that they’re both professionally trained! They teach viewers how to properly use, apply, and safely remove Special FX makeup products. Through watching their videos, you can also learn how to create certain SFX products from scratch! There are even tutorials teaching you how to use simple, everyday products in order to create gory and whimsical SFX looks. Pretty cool!

Keep in mind that watching online tutorials can’t replace the education you’d receive from real online makeup classes. But that being said, it’s definitely a start!

3. Practice, practice, and even more practice!

No amount of education and tutorials are going to help you improve your skills in SFX makeup if you aren’t actually practicing and obtaining real-world experience. The whole point of the education you gain from online makeup classes, or through watching YouTube tutorials, is to help you hone your skills through practice.

Pro tip: Doing makeup on just yourself won’t cut it, either. You need to also practice on as many models as you can, too! This is the only way you can get used to different skin textures, shades, types, etc.

MUA pouring airbrush paint into airbrush machine

My professional advice is to practice on models of all types. Here are some ways you can practice your Special FX makeup on as many different faces as possible:

  • Work with both male and female models
  • Work with clients who have facial hair, as well as those who don’t
  • Actively trying to work with clients that have differing skin types

Pushing yourself to practice on as wide of a clientele as possible will help you see just how versatile the makeup products are. Likewise, this real-world experience will help you learn how to use the products and tools – not just properly, but professionally as well!

4. Purchasing the right tools and makeup products

A question that I get frequently asked is, “What are the best products to buy to create Special FX looks?”

For beginners, my advice is always: learn how to do SFX makeup by first using the basics. It’s the best foundation to build off of. The more experience you get, the more prepared you’ll be to move onto more advanced makeup products and tools.

Often times, up-and-coming SFX makeup artists or enthusiasts want to purchase the most expensive products and tools right from the get-go. The problem is, they don’t know how to actually use them properly or safely! Making this error can result in you not only wasting a LOT of product and money, you can once again be putting the client (and her skin) at risk by your lack of knowledge.

Special FX makeup takes a lot of practice to get it right. Sometimes, trial and error is required in order to figure out the best products and tools needed to create a look. (Which, again, is why an education and online makeup classes are so important!)

At first, many people who want to get into SFX makeup may feel overwhelmed or intimidated by all of the types of products and tools available. However, many Special FX techniques – even the more complicated ones – can be created using simple cosmetics!

makeup special effect with brush

If you’re ready to begin working with Special FX makeup, you can start by using basic SFX products such as:

  • Paints
  • Liquid latex
  • Scar wax
  • Spirit gum and other adhesives

Something that can easily help you gather your tools and build your kit is to purchase a Special FX makeup kit! QC Makeup Academy offers a Special FX Essentials kit that comes with all of the basics, plus so much more!

5. Networking

The last – but JUST as critical – thing you can do to prepare yourself for the professional world of SFX makeup artistry is to network yourself! Not only does it help you get to know other important people within the industry, networking is yet another irreplaceable way to gain knowledge about the craft!

Networking provides you with opportunities to connect with other artists. It’s a fantastic way to improve your skills, because you’re constantly being shown new tips and tricks of the trade. There’s nothing like learning hands-on from others!

Networking is also a great business move, too, as it can potentially advance your career. By meeting others within the industry, you open yourself up to possibilities you may not have had available to you before. For example, meeting the right people could possibly lead to you getting the chance to learn what it’s like to work on or behind the scenes of a movie set!

There are many ways that you can enter the world of Special FX makeup, and learn the ropes. But again, the single most effective way to become a pro is to enroll in online makeup classes and be taught by experts in the field. If you’re looking to dive into the world of SFX, but aren’t sure how or where to start, check out QC Makeup Academy today!

Serious about being a professional SFX artist? Don’t weigh down your SFX makeup kit with these 5 awful products!

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