Sarah Cavanagh, Author at Beauty Buzz

Nov 17

Running a Makeup Business: Expectation vs. Reality

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

There’s no question that owning your own business is a dream for many professional makeup artists. But what is the reality of owning and running a makeup business? Is it all glitz and glamor – or are there some hidden truths that you need to know before taking the plunge? Today, we’ll explore the expectations vs. realities you may not have considered.

So, keep reading to learn everything about the reality of having your own makeup business!

What It’s Like To Run Your Own Makeup Artistry Business: Expectation vs. Reality

Alright, let’s dive right in! Here are 10 expectations vs. realities of running a makeup business that you need to know…

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Expectation #1: You’ll Make Bank Right Off The Bat

Many people expect that they’ll make a ton of money right away when they start their own makeup business. As in, they’ll be raking in cash hand-over-fist and living the high life within a few short months.

Where does this myth come from?

Probably from all of the social media “gurus” out there who make it look like they’re swimming in dough. Similarly, celebrity MUAs who work with A-listers probably charge – and earn – a pretty penny. In turn, this can mislead the everyday makeup artist into thinking that they, too, will be making a killing right out of the gate.

HOWEVER, that’s not to say that you can’t eventually make a wicked income! Learn more about the average yearly salary for a makeup artist to get a better idea of the kind of figures YOU can earn!

Reality #1: It Might Take A While To Build Up Your Makeup Business (and In Turn, Your Profits)

In the real world, it will likely take time to build up a clientele and establish yourself as a reputable makeup artist. This means that in the beginning, you might not be bringing in as much money as you’d like.

And that’s okay! Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day.

The same goes for building up a successful makeup business. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of hard work. So, if you’re not making bank right away, don’t sweat it. Just keep hustling and eventually, the money will start rolling in.

Expectation #2: Starting a Makeup Business Can Be Done For Dirt Cheap

If you want to start your own makeup business, you might think that all you need is a few decent brushes, some good quality products, and voila – you’re in business! Understandably, this misconception is especially appealing to those who are just starting out and might not have a lot of disposable income.

Reality #2: Starting ANY Business Requires an Investment

While you might be able to get away with spending very little money when you first start out, it’s important to understand that starting ANY business requires some level of investment.

For example, in addition to brushes and products, you’ll also need things like:

A registered business name
A website
Business cards
Business insurance
Marketing materials, etc.

Plus, if you’re planning on working from a brick-and-mortar location, you’ll need to factor in the cost of rent, utilities, etc.

Furthermore, you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure your finances are covered for the first year of operation. This is especially important because it can take time to build up a clientele when starting any business… And that means your income might be a bit erratic in the beginning. Therefore, during the first year of business, there may be times where you’ll need to dip into your own pockets in order to stay afloat.

To give you a tangible number that you can work with, Small Biz Trends states that in the United States, the average startup + first-year costs for small businesses tends to range between $30,000 and $40,000 USD. Of course, it’s 100% possible to spend less (or more) than this – it all depends on the specific business being started and where it’s located.

What we’re basically saying is, while you might be able to get by with spending very little in the beginning, understand that there will be some costs associated with starting your own makeup business!

Expectation #3: You Can Work Anywhere, Anytime

As a makeup artist, you might think that you can work whenever, wherever, since you get to determine your schedule. After all, you’re your own boss, right? So, if you feel like working at 3 am on a Tuesday, who’s going to stop you?

Reality #3: Running a Makeup Business Means Making Certain Sacrifices

While it’s true that being your own boss has its perks, it’s important to understand that running a business also requires making certain sacrifices.

For example, as much as you might want to, you can’t always work whenever, wherever. Yes, having the ability to create your own schedule is amazing… But ultimately, you’ll need to be available when your clients are available. And that might mean working during weekends, evenings, and even holidays!

Furthermore, you’ll need to be willing to travel to wherever your clients are. So, if you’re not up for putting in the extra miles (literally), then being a makeup artist might not be the right career for you.

Young woman sitting at dressing table and looking in the mirror while makeup artist applying concealer with cosmetic brush. Female stylist doing professional makeup for client in beauty salon. Makeup article.

Expectation #4: You Can Quit Your Day Job Immediately

This is a big one. A lot of people think that once they decide to start their own makeup business, they can immediately quit their day job and pursue their passion full-time.

Reality #4: You Should Probably Keep Your Day Job – At Least for a Little While

Look, we totally get it. Choosing to pursue your passion and start your very own business is a huge accomplishment – and it’s super exciting! So, it’s understandable that you might get caught up in all of the hype and want to quit your day job immediately in order to pursue your new career.

But here’s the thing: as much as we’d all love to be able to do that, it’s just not realistic for most people. In fact, unless you have a ton of savings that you can fall back on, quitting your day job without any sort of backup plan is actually a pretty big gamble. This is because, in reality, the average small business takes approximately 2-3 years to become profitable.

So, while we know it might be tempting, our best advice would be to keep your day job (at least in the beginning) and work on building up your makeup business on the side. This way, you’ll have a steady income to fall back on in case things don’t go as planned.

Expectation #5: Running a Makeup Business is All Fun and Games

Another common misconception about running a makeup business is that it’s all fun and games.

After all, what could be better than getting paid to do something that you love? Not to mention, the world of makeup artistry is not like, say, the world of finance. Rather, it’s creative, it’s fun, and it’s pretty darn glamorous.

So, understandably, this might lead you to believe that running a makeup business is all rainbows and butterflies…

Reality #5: Running a Makeup Business is a Lot of Hard Work

Make no mistake about it – running a successful makeup business IS creative, fun, and glamorous. But at the same time, it also takes a lot of hard work.

Yes, you’ll get to play with makeup all day long and make people look and feel their best… But you’ll also have to deal with the not-so-fun parts of running a business, like advertising, marketing, accounting, and (if you have employees) HR.

So, if you’re thinking about starting your own makeup business, just know that it’s not all fun and games. Running a successful business requires dedication, discipline, and a whole lot of hard work. But if you’re up for the challenge, then we say go for it!

Expectation #6: You Can Operate a Successful Business WITHOUT Proper Makeup Training

Interesting fact that you may not have known: in many places around the world, makeup artistry (unlike cosmetology and esthetics) is NOT actually a regulated field. Meaning, there are no formal education or training requirements in order to become a makeup artist.

So, obviously this means that you have the green light to launch a career – and makeup business – without first getting some professional training under your belt… Right?

WRONG.

Reality #6: Professional Training is a MUST If You Want Your Makeup Business to Succeed

Just because there are no formal education or training requirements in place for makeup artists, doesn’t mean that you can operate a successful business without proper makeup training. In fact, we would argue that the opposite is true.

If you want people to take your business seriously (and trust us, they will), then it’s important that you have some sort of professional makeup training. This could be anything from a certification program (such as the self-paced, online certification courses offered at QC Makeup Academy) to a full-blown degree from a cosmetology school.

Think of it this way: if YOU were the client, and you had to choose between an MUA without any formal training and an MUA with a professional certification or degree, who would you choose? We’re guessing the answer is pretty obvious.

So, if you’re serious about starting your own makeup business, then our best advice would be to get some proper training first. Trust us, it’ll be worth it in the long run!

Check out the full list of online makeup certification courses currently offered at QC Makeup Academy!

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Expectation #7: Running a Makeup Business is Expensive

This is another common misconception about running a makeup business – that it’s expensive. While we can’t pinpoint for sure where this myth stemmed from, our best guess is due to the fact that, in order to run a successful business, you need to make sure you have the proper tools and equipment.

And let’s face it, quality makeup products aren’t exactly cheap!

Reality #7: You Can Easily Operate Your Makeup Business On a Budget

While it’s true that you running a makeup business requires having the proper tools and equipment, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s expensive. In fact, depending on how you choose to operate your business, it can actually be quite inexpensive.

For example, if you decide to work freelance and visit your clients at their homes or chosen location, then you won’t need to worry about the costs associated with renting out a studio space.

Or, if you choose to specialize in a certain area of makeup (like weddings or special effects), then you can invest in the specific tools and products required for that area, rather than buying a bunch of expensive, general-use products.

So, as you can see, there are a number of ways to operate your makeup business on a budget. It’s all about being strategic with your finances and only investing in what you need.

Tips For Creating a Realistic Budget for Your Business

Now that we’ve busted this common myth about starting a makeup business, it’s time to give you some practical tips for creating a realistic budget for your own business. Here are a few of our best suggestions:

First and foremost, it’s important that you have a clear understanding of your financial situation. This means knowing how much money you have to work with and what your regular expenses are. Once you have a good handle on this, you can start to think about how much you can realistically afford to spend on your business.
Next, make a list of all the essential items you need for your business. This could include things like makeup products, brushes, a website, business cards, etc. Once you have your list, start to research the prices of these items so that you can get a better idea of what they will cost.
Finally, remember that your business budget is not set in stone. As your business grows and changes, so too will your budget. So, don’t be afraid to revisit it on a regular basis to make sure that it’s still accurate and realistic.

PRO TIP: Discover how you can better budget yourself as a makeup artist with the help of these 4 industry secrets!

Expectation #8: You’ll Need To Undercharge Your Makeup Services At First

This is another myth that we hear all the time from aspiring MUAs: that they’ll need to undercharge their services at first in order to get their business off the ground. Now, we can absolutely understand why this logic appears to make sense. After all, if you want to attract customers, then you need to offer them a good deal, right?

Furthermore, especially if no one knows who you are yet, you might think that it’s going to be hard to charge top dollar for your services.

Reality #8: You Should NEVER Undercharge Your Makeup Services

As a general rule, you should never undercharge your services in order to attract customers. In fact, if you do this, you could actually end up doing more harm than good.

Why? Well, first of all, it sends the wrong message to your potential clients. If you charge too little for your services, they might think that your work is also low quality. After all, why would someone pay top dollar for something that’s not worth it?

Secondly, undercharging for your services can also make it difficult to run a profitable business. After all, if you’re not making enough money to cover your costs, then how are you supposed to stay in business?

But thirdly, and arguably most importantly, undercharging your makeup services is doing YOU a major disservice! As a professional makeup artist, you have invested time, money, and energy into perfecting your craft (especially if you’ve gotten professionally trained and certified). So, why sell yourself short by not charging what you’re truly worth?

So, What’s The Solution?

The key is to find a happy medium between charging too little and too much for your services. Do some research on what other makeup artists in your area are charging and use that information to help you determine a fair price for your own services. And, of course, don’t forget to factor in your own unique experience and skills when setting your prices.

Need help figuring out what you should be charging clients for your makeup services? Here are 4 types of makeup artistry services and what you should be charging for them!

Expectation #9: You Can (and Should) Be Doing Everything Yourself

Running your own business can be a lot of work. But as a result, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you have to do everything yourself in order to be successful. After all, it’s your makeup business. So, shouldn’t you be the one in charge of everything?

Reality #9: This Will Probably Lead To Burnout

One of the biggest mistakes that new makeup artists make is trying to do everything themselves. And while it’s admirable to want to be in control of every aspect of your business, the truth is that this is simply not realistic (or sustainable) in the long run.

Think about it this way: as a makeup artist, your time is better spent doing what you’re good at (i.e. doing makeup). So, why waste your time on tasks that someone else could easily do for you (like social media, marketing, bookkeeping, etc.)?

The key is to learn how to delegate and outsource the tasks that you’re not good at or that you don’t have time for. This way, you can focus your energy on growing your business and doing what you love!

But What If You Don’t Have The Budget For This?

If you’re just starting out, then it’s understandable if you don’t have the budget to hire someone to help you with your business.

In this case, the key is to be strategic about the tasks that you delegate. Start with the tasks that are taking up the most time or that are causing you the most stress. Then, once you have more money coming in, you can gradually start outsourcing more and more tasks.

Expectation #10: Getting Your Startup Running Will Take Up Most Of Your Time

Depending on how you view this particular myth, this may actually be a reason why you’re hesitant to start your own makeup business. After all, if it’s going to take over and dominate your entire life, then is this endeavor really worth it?

This can be an especially damaging misconception if you happen to have a full-time job, are a student, and/or are a busy parent.

Reality #10: This Depends On Your Definition Of “Most Of Your Time”

Yes, the truth is that starting your own makeup business will probably take up more of your time than you originally anticipated. But this doesn’t mean that it has to take over your whole life!

As we mentioned earlier, one of the best things about being your own boss is that you get to set your own hours. So, if you only have a limited amount of time to work on your business, then you can simply schedule your work around the other important things in your life.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you won’t have to make some sacrifices in the beginning. But if you’re strategic about how you use your time, then you should be able to get your business up and running without completely sacrificing your personal life.

After all, keeping a healthy work-life balance is one of the most important things you can do for your business (and for yourself)!

Young girl with a make-up artist in the studio in front of a mirror. Makeup article.

Final Thoughts

Starting your own makeup business can be a very rewarding experience. But it’s important to go into it with your eyes wide open. Be prepared for the challenges that you’ll face and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

If you can do these things, then you’ll be well on your way to success!

Got any questions or comments for us? We’d love to hear from you! Leave us a comment down below or send us an email at info@qcmakeupacademy.com.

Thanks for reading! 💕

Enroll with QC Makeup Academy today and become a professionally-certified MUA in as little as 2 short months!

Nov 11

Love14

Pros and cons of airbrush makeup Feature Image

The Top 10 Pros and Cons of Airbrush Makeup

By Sarah Cavanagh Airbrush Makeup, Education One Comment

Updated 2024

There’s a lot of buzz around airbrush makeup – and for good reason! In fact, many would argue that it offers a lot of benefits over traditional makeup. But like everything, it also has its downsides… Which is why today, we’re going to break down the top 10 pros and cons of airbrush makeup for you.

Let’s dive in!

Pro Tip: Are you already a working MUA? If so, here are 4 key reasons why you should consider adding airbrush makeup to your repertoire!

Airbrush Foundation vs Traditional Foundation

Airbrush foundation and traditional foundation both serve the purpose of creating a smooth, even complexion. However, they differ significantly in their application methods and finish.

Airbrush foundation is applied using an airbrush gun that sprays a fine mist of product onto the skin. This creates a lightweight and natural-looking coverage with buildable options for more intense looks. On the other hand, traditional foundation can be applied with various tools such as sponges, brushes, or fingers, and typically has a thicker consistency that provides full coverage.

The finish of airbrush foundation is often described as “skin-like,” while traditional foundation may have a more matte or dewy finish depending on the formula. Additionally, the airbrush foundation is known for its long-lasting effects and is a popular choice for events or photoshoots.

To summarize:

Both types of foundations have benefits and suit different needs and preferences.
Airbrush foundation offers a unique application experience and finishes adaptable for various looks.
It’s worth trying both options to find what works best for you.
Mastering airbrush makeup can elevate an artist’s skills and create long-lasting flawless looks.
Continuous practice and experimentation can lead to expertise in this specialized makeup

10 Pros and Cons of Airbrush Makeup

Pro #1: Airbrush makeup is flawless!

There’s no denying that one of the biggest benefits of airbrush makeup is that it looks incredibly natural and flawless. In fact, many people say it offers a much more “airbrushed” look than traditional foundation – hence the name! This is because it’s applied using an airbrush gun, which gives you a much more precise finish.

What’s more, airbrush makeup is also great at hiding imperfections like scars, blemishes, and under-eye circles. And because it’s applied in very fine layers, it doesn’t settle into fine lines and wrinkles like some traditional foundations can.

Con #1: The price of airbrush makeup products

When first starting out, airbrush makeup can be a bit of an investment. Not only do you need to buy the airbrush machine itself, but you also need to purchase special airbrush foundation. On average, the amount it’ll cost you to get a good-quality airbrush machine, foundation, and other necessary products is around $200-$300.

HOWEVER…

While the initial investment for airbrush makeup might be a bit higher than traditional foundation, it actually works out to be cheaper in the long run. This is because a little goes a LONG way with airbrush makeup. Essentially, you only need a few drops of foundation to cover your entire face.

Plus, if you take care of your airbrush machine, it can last for years and years!

Pro #2: Airbrush makeup lasts all day long!

Another great thing about airbrush makeup is that it’s incredibly long-wearing. In fact, when applied correctly, it can last for up to 24 hours! This is thanks to the fact that it’s applied in very fine layers – meaning there’s less chance of it rubbing off or transferring onto clothing.

What’s more, airbrush makeup is also waterproof. So, if you’re planning on hitting the beach or pool this summer, it’s a great option to help ensure your makeup stays put. Similarly, if you’re a professional MUA, offering long-lasting makeup applications will be a major selling point for clients such as brides.

Con #2: It can be difficult to find products that match your skin tone.

While there are now more airbrush foundation shades available on the market than ever before, it can still be tricky to find the perfect match for your skin tone. This is because, unlike traditional foundation, airbrush makeup is applied in very fine layers. As a result, any mismatched shades will be much more noticeable.

So, if you’re thinking of trying out airbrush makeup, make sure to take your time in finding a foundation shade that matches your skin tone perfectly. Once you’ve found the right shade, though, you’ll be good to go!

What If You Can’t Find Your Shade?

Now, it’s also worth mentioning that sometimes, you simply won’t be able to find a product that already comes in a shade closest to your skin tone. In a situation like this, it’ll be up to you to mix and match different shades until you create the perfect custom color.

Doing this properly can be a bit difficult… Unless you have the proper training! Especially if you are (or want to be) a professional makeup artist, this is just one of many reasons we strongly recommend taking a proper airbrush course.

Fun Fact: With QC Makeup Academy‘s self-paced, online Airbrush Makeup Workshop, you’ll learn everything you need to know to professionally apply airbrush makeup to your face – as well as clients’ faces – in as little as 2-6 months!

Pro #3: Airbrush makeup is good for your skin!

One of the best things about airbrush makeup is that it’s actually good for your skin. This is thanks to the fact that it’s applied in very fine layers, as we mentioned before. As a result, this helps to reduce clogged pores.

Not to mention, airbrush makeup also contains fewer chemicals than traditional foundation. So, if you’re someone with sensitive skin, it’s a great option to help ensure your skin stays healthy and free of irritation.

Con #3: Applying airbrush makeup takes time to master.

One downside of airbrush makeup is that it can take some time to master. This is because, unlike traditional foundation, you need to be very careful when applying it. If you’re not careful, you could end up with an uneven finish – or worse, a makeup disaster!

So, if you’re thinking of trying out airbrush makeup, make sure you’re prepared to take your time in learning how to apply it properly. Fortunately, though, once you get the hang of it, applying airbrush makeup will be a breeze!

Pro #4: Airbrush makeup is very versatile!

Another great thing about airbrush makeup is that it’s incredibly versatile. Not only can you use it to achieve a natural look, but you can also use it to create more dramatic looks – such as smoky eyes or contoured cheekbones.

Moreover, airbrush makeup isn’t just for everyday looks or bridal applications. Rather, it can also be used for special effects makeup – which is great if you’re a makeup artist interested in working in theatre, film, and/or television.

So, whether you’re a beginner just starting out with makeup, or a professional MUA looking to add another skill to your repertoire, airbrush makeup is definitely a great option for you!

Con #4: It can be dangerous if you don’t know proper airbrush makeup etiquette and safety.

Now, although airbrush makeup is definitely a great option for both beginners and professionals alike, it’s important to note that it can be dangerous if you don’t know proper safety procedures.

This is because, when used improperly, airbrush makeup can actually cause physical injury – such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or even blindness.

So, if you’re thinking of using airbrush makeup, it’s important to make sure you’re aware of proper safety procedures. Fortunately, though, as long as you take the necessary precautions, you’ll be able to use airbrush makeup without any problems!

Pro Tip: Learn how to apply airbrush makeup safely with the help of these 7 tips!

Pro #5: There are different airbrush makeup bases to choose from!

When it comes to airbrush makeup, there are actually 4 main bases you can choose from:

Water-based
Silicone-based
Alcohol-based
Mineral-based

Water-Based Airbrush Makeup

Water-based airbrush makeup is the most popular type of base. This is because it’s the most user-friendly, and it’s also the least likely to cause irritation.

Silicone-Based Airbrush Makeup

Silicone-based airbrush makeup is another popular option. This is because it provides a smooth, long-lasting finish. However, it is worth noting that silicone-based airbrush makeup can be a bit more difficult to apply than water-based makeup. This is because it tends to dry out more quickly, so you need to work quickly when applying it.

Alcohol-Based Airbrush Makeup

Next, there’s alcohol-based airbrush makeup. This type of makeup is great for those who want a quick, easy way to apply their makeup, since it dries almost instantly. In the same breath, however, it’s important to note that alcohol-based makeup can be very drying for the skin. As such, it’s not a good option for those with dry or sensitive skin.

Mineral-Based Airbrush Makeup

Lastly, there’s mineral-based airbrush makeup. This type of makeup is ideal for those who want a natural look, since it contains no synthetic ingredients. However, it is worth noting that mineral-based airbrush makeup can be a bit more difficult to apply than other types of bases. This is because it tends to be thicker, so you need to be careful when applying it or else it’ll look cakey.

Con #5: It’s tough to re-blend airbrush makeup once it’s been applied.

Another downside of airbrush makeup is that it can be tough to re-blend once it’s been applied. This is because the makeup dries quickly – meaning, you have to work quickly when applying it.

Moreover, airbrush makeup can also be difficult to build up. So, if you’re looking for a full-coverage look but don’t have the time to patiently layer up the application, airbrush makeup might not be the best option for you.

How To Re-Blend Airbrush Makeup

If you do find yourself needing to re-blend airbrush makeup, there are a few things you can do. First, try using a setting spray. This will help to re-hydrate the makeup and make it easier to blend.

Another option is to use a beauty blender or sponge. This will help to absorb any excess makeup and help blend it out more evenly.

Pro Tip: You can also use a setting spray to help extend the wear time of your airbrush makeup after it’s been applied to your liking!

Pro #6: Airbrush makeup can help you apply makeup on more people in less time!

This one is especially beneficial if you’re a bridal makeup artist or an MUA working on set. For jobs like this, there will be time crunches to abide by… And airbrush makeup can help you adhere to these time limits while still providing your clients with a flawless finish!

So, why is airbrush makeup capable of allowing you to apply makeup so much faster?

Well, for one, airbrush makeup is incredibly lightweight. This means that you don’t have to worry about layering on too much product, which can save a lot of time.

Another reason why airbrush makeup is so quick to apply is because it’s very buildable. So, if you need to achieve a full-coverage look, you can do so without having to go through the process of meticulously layering on product.

Lastly, airbrush makeup is also great for those who want to apply a sheer, natural-looking finish. This is because you can simply add a light layer of foundation and be done – no need to spend time applying concealer, powder, blush, etc.

Con #6: There’s a higher chance of the look being flakey.

When it comes to airbrush makeup, one of the biggest downfalls is that there’s a higher chance of the look coming out flakey. This is because airbrush makeup dries quickly – meaning, if you don’t work quickly enough or you apply too much product, the makeup can start to flake off.

However, there are a few easy steps you can take to avoid this:

Make sure to start with a clean, exfoliated face. This will help to create a smooth canvas for your makeup.
Next, apply a hydrating primer. This will help to keep your skin from drying out and will create a barrier between your skin and the airbrush makeup.
Finally, make sure to apply the airbrush makeup in thin, even layers. It’s better to build up the coverage than to cake on too much product at once.

Pro #7: Airbrush makeup is especially great on oily skin!

If you have an oily skin type, then you know the struggle of trying to find a foundation that won’t slide off your face by midday. But, thankfully, airbrush makeup can help to combat this issue!

This is because airbrush makeup is water-resistant and oil-free. So, even if your skin starts to get a bit shiny throughout the day, your makeup will still look just as good as it did when you first applied it.

Pro Tip: Do you have oily skin, or simply want to better understand how to work with clients who have this skin type? Then make sure to watch our informative webinar, The Power of Skincare: Dealing with Oily Skin, hosted by celebrity MUA and skincare expert, Nathan Johnson!

Con #7: That said, airbrush makeup isn’t a magical eraser for scars or active breakouts.

While airbrush makeup can do wonders for those with oily skin, it’s important to remember that it’s not a magical eraser for scars or active breakouts. Yes, one of the biggest perks of airbrush makeup is that it can give you that photoshopped, flawless-looking finish…

But, at the end of the day, it’s still makeup. So, if you or your clients have any scars or blemishes that you’re trying to cover up, it’s important to use a concealer beforehand. And even then, just make sure that the expectations for what the airbrush makeup can do are realistic.

Chances are, while airbrush makeup can help to camouflage scars and blemishes, it won’t completely make them disappear.

Pro #8: Airbrush makeup is perfect for editorial makeup and photoshoots!

If you’re a professional makeup artist, then chances are you’ve done your fair share of editorial shoots and photoshoots. At the very least, you’ve taken part in some in order to build up your professional portfolio.

Either way, you know just how important it is to have a long-lasting, photo-ready makeup look. And thankfully, airbrush makeup is perfect for just this!

This is because, as we talked about before, airbrush makeup is water-resistant and oil-free. So, even if you’re shooting in hot and humid conditions, or if your clients are sweating under the lights, their makeup will still look amazing.

Pro Tip: Need help building your professional makeup portfolio? Learn everything you need to know in as little as 8 weeks with the help of QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online Portfolio Development Workshop!

Con #8: Airbrush makeup can be more expensive to re-stock than traditional makeup.

Earlier, we discussed the initial cost of airbrush makeup. And while it may be a bit more expensive to purchase an airbrush machine and compressor, once you have these items, they should last you for years to come.

The only time you’ll need to spend more money is when it comes time to re-stock your makeup supply. And unfortunately, airbrush makeup can be a bit more expensive than traditional makeup.

So, if you’re on a budget, or if you’re just starting out in your professional makeup career, it might be best to stick with traditional makeup for now. Once you’ve built up your clientele and have a bit more financial wiggle room, then you can experiment with airbrush makeup.

Pro #9: Airbrush makeup can be used for way more than just foundation!

One of the best things about airbrush makeup is that it’s not just limited to foundation. In fact, there are a ton of different products that can be used with an airbrush machine!

This includes things like:

Blush
Bronzer
Eyeshadow
Lip color
Highlighter
Contour
SFX stenciling
Body/face art
And more!

So, if you’re looking for a way to mix things up and add some variety to your makeup routine, then definitely consider investing in an airbrush machine.

Con #9: You’ll need to clean your airbrush machine regularly.

Another downside to airbrush makeup is that you’ll need to clean your airbrush machine regularly. Depending on how often you use it, you might need to clean it after each use. Or, if you only use it occasionally, you might be able to get away with cleaning it once a week.

Either way, cleaning an airbrush machine is pretty simple and only takes a few minutes. But, it’s still something that you’ll need to factor into your makeup routine.

How To Clean Your Airbrush Machine

If you’re not sure how to clean your equipment, simply follow these 6 steps:

Empty any remaining makeup from the cup.
Run water through the airbrush machine to flush out any leftover makeup.
Fill the cup with warm water and a few drops of airbrush cleaner.
Run the machine for a few seconds to allow the cleaner to circulate.
Empty the cup and rinse with warm water.
Repeat steps 5-7 until the water runs clear.

Pro #10: If you’re a professional MUA, airbrush makeup will make you more money!

As a professional makeup artist, your ultimate goal is to make your clients happy and to make as much money as possible. And luckily, airbrush makeup is a great way to do both!

This is because most people are willing to spend a bit more money on their makeup if they know it will last all day (or night) long. So, if you offer airbrush makeup services, you can charge a bit more than you would for traditional makeup services.

Not to mention, once you’ve mastered the art of airbrush makeup, you’ll be able to complete makeup applications much faster than with traditional methods. This means you can take on more clients and make even more money!

Pro Tip: Learn more about why it’s in a professional MUA’s best interest to get trained in airbrush makeup!

Con #10: Airbrush makeup is not easy to apply if you’re a beginner.

If you’re new to airbrush makeup, it’s definitely not going to be easy for you to apply – at least, not at first. This is because airbrush makeup is applied with a machine, which can be difficult to maneuver if you’re not used to it. Moreover, airbrush makeup is also very buildable, so it’s easy to go overboard and end up with a cakey, unnatural-looking finish.

So, if you’re thinking about trying airbrush makeup for the first time, we recommend doing your research beforehand. It’d also be worth it to practice your techniques on yourself a few times before applying them onto others.

Furthermore, as we briefly discussed earlier, we also recommend looking into some sort of professional airbrush training – particularly if you want to offer this type of service to clients.

Airbrush Makeup for Dry Skin

Airbrush makeup is renowned for its flawless, long-lasting coverage, but it’s not always the best for dry skin. The high-pressure application can sometimes highlight dry patches and make skin look even drier.

However, there are ways to adapt airbrush makeup for dry skin. One tip is to use a moisturizing primer before applying airbrush foundation, which helps create a smooth base and prevents the foundation from settling into dry areas. Choosing a hydrating formula or adding a few drops of facial oil to the foundation can also help combat dryness. Properly prepping the skin by exfoliating and moisturizing regularly is crucial for a smooth application.

While airbrush makeup may need some adjustments for dry skin, it can still achieve a flawless, long-lasting look. With the right techniques and products, even those with dry skin can enjoy the benefits of airbrush makeup.

FAQs About Airbrush Makeup

Does airbrush makeup last longer than traditional makeup?

Yes, airbrush makeup does tend to last longer than traditional makeup. This is because it’s applied with a machine, which provides a more even and consistent finish. Plus, airbrush makeup is also waterproof and sweat-resistant, so it’s ideal for special occasions or long days/nights.

Is airbrush makeup better for your skin than traditional makeup?

Yes, airbrush makeup is actually much better for your skin than traditional makeup. This is because it’s applied with a machine, which allows for a more even and consistent finish. Plus, as we’ve already mentioned, airbrush makeup is also waterproof and sweat-resistant. This means it won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts.

Is airbrush makeup better in general than traditional makeup?

There’s no real “yes” or “no” answer to this question, because it depends on who you ask. Some people prefer airbrush makeup because it lasts longer and provides a more even finish. Others prefer traditional makeup because they find it easier to apply and remove.

At the end of the day, it really comes down to personal preference. If you’re thinking about trying airbrush makeup for the first time, we recommend doing your research beforehand to see whether it’s a good fit for you or not.

What are the benefits of airbrush makeup services for a professional MUA?

As we’ve already mentioned, airbrush makeup is a great way to make more money as a professional makeup artist. This is because most people are willing to spend a bit more money on their makeup if they know it will last all day (or night) long. So, if you offer airbrush makeup services, you can charge a bit more than you would for traditional makeup services.

Other benefits of offering airbrush makeup services to clients include (but aren’t limited to):

Offering a popular niche service that not many other makeup artists are offering
Being able to create a more flawless finish
Building a great portfolio
Standing out from your competitors
The capability of working in various areas of the beauty industry (e.g. weddings, movies, theatre, film, live events, editorial makeup, photoshoots, etc.)

Are there any disadvantages of airbrush makeup services as a professional MUA?

You may be wondering, “Are there any reasons I might not want to offer airbrush makeup services as a professional MUA?”

Well, the answer to that question is, yes, there can be a few disadvantages (if you see them that way).

The first one is that you’ll need to invest in an airbrush machine and compressor, which can be quite expensive. If you’re just starting out as a makeup artist, this may not be the best investment for you.

Another disadvantage of airbrush makeup is that it can take some time to master the technique. This means you’ll likely need to practice on yourself (and/or friends and family members) a few times before you’re able to provide this type of service to clients.

Of course, as we mentioned earlier, you could always look into getting professional airbrush makeup training to speed up the learning process.

So, those are a few things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about offering airbrush makeup services as a professional MUA. Just remember that, at the end of the day, it’s really up to you whether or not this is something you want to do.

What are some of the most popular airbrush makeup brands?

Some of the most popular airbrush makeup brands include Dinair, TEMPTU, Marc Harvey Beauty Cosmetics, and Iwata. These brands offer high-quality products that will help you create a flawless finish.

Of course, there are other airbrush makeup brands out there, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase. This way, you can find the brand that’s right for you and your needs!

Is airbrush makeup good for mature skin?

Yes, airbrush makeup is actually a great option for mature skin! This is because it can help to create a smooth, even finish that will diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Is airbrush makeup hard to remove?

No, airbrush makeup is actually quite easy to remove! All you need is a gentle cleanser and some warm water.

Do celebrities use airbrush makeup?

Yes, many celebrities use airbrush makeup! In fact, it’s become quite popular in Hollywood over the last few years. Some popular celebrities you’ve likely seen wearing airbrush makeup include Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyonce.

Can you use airbrush makeup daily?

Yes, you can use airbrush makeup daily! However, it’s important to make sure you’re using a gentle, alcohol-free formula that won’t dry out your skin.

Is airbrush makeup worth the investment?

If you wear makeup regularly, then airbrush makeup is definitely worth the investment! Not only will it save you time, but it will also give you a more flawless finish.

Furthermore, if you’re a professional MUA (or you’re thinking of becoming one), offering airbrush makeup services is a great way to set yourself apart from your competitors. And while the commitment will require an initial investment, it’ll be well worth it in the long run when you make back that money (and then some)!

Did You Know: As a student of QC Makeup Academy’s Airbrush Makeup Workshop, you’re automatically eligible for a 15% industry-level discount with TEMPTU? It’s true! And if you’re a graduate of this program, that discount increases to a 30% artisan discount!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Those are the top 10 pros and top 10 cons of airbrush makeup. As you can see, there are some great benefits to using this type of makeup. However, there are also a few things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about offering airbrush makeup services as a professional MUA. Just remember that, at the end of the day, it’s really up to you whether or not this is something you want to do.

Do you have any questions about airbrush makeup? Leave a comment below and we’ll be sure to answer them!

Thanks for reading! 😘

Enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online Airbrush Makeup Workshop today and earn your globally-recognized certificate in as little as 2 short months!

Nov 02

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Hiring a Makeup Artist: Everything You Need To Know

By Sarah Cavanagh From the Experts, Makeup Tips and Tricks No Comments

Is hiring a makeup artist worth it?

Well, picture this… You’re all dolled up for your friend’s wedding, and as you take a step back to admire your handiwork in the mirror, you realize that something doesn’t look quite right. Your eyes are puffy, your lipstick is smudged, and your blush is streaky.

Uh oh!

It’s time for a wardrobe change – but not before you put on some concealer to cover up those dark circles!

If this sounds like a familiar story, then you know firsthand how important it is to have a good makeup artist on-hand. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hiring a makeup artist – from the benefits they offer to the key information you should gather before booking with anyone.

So, let’s jump in!

First Thing’s First: What Is a Makeup Artist?

A makeup artist is a professional who uses their creative talents to apply cosmetics and enhance an individual’s appearance. They have the ability to completely transform a person’s look with the stroke of a brush, and they often work in the fashion, film, television, and theater industries.

Makeup artists typically use a wide range of products, including:

Foundation
Powder
Concealer
Eye shadow
Eyeliner
Mascara
Lipstick
Lip gloss
Fake eyelashes
And more!

What’s more, they may also use special-effect makeup to create certain looks or bruises.

What Does a Makeup Artist Do?

In terms of job duties and responsibilities, makeup artists typically:

Meet with clients to discuss their specific needs and wants
Create a custom makeup look that meets the client’s individual needs
Apply the makeup using a variety of techniques
Touch-up the makeup throughout the day or evening as needed
Remove the makeup at the end of the event or shoot

Furthermore, many MUAs work as freelancers and/or run their own business. As such, they are also responsible for:

Marketing their business to potential clients
Scheduling appointments
Maintaining a strong portfolio
Keeping up with industry trends
And more!

Pro Tip: Learn even more about the job description of a professional makeup artist!

Hiring a Makeup Artist: Know The Different Types

There are six main types of makeup artists:

Beauty makeup artists
Theatrical and performance makeup artists
Airbrush makeup artists
Makeup artists for TV and film
Special FX makeup artists
Celebrity makeup artists

Let’s take a closer look at each one, shall we?

Beauty Makeup Artists

Beauty makeup artists typically work in the cosmetics industry. They may be employed by a cosmetics company, department store, or salon. Alternately, they may freelance and/or run their own business. Either way, their job is to apply makeup. They may also teach people how to properly use cosmetics as well.

Bridal makeup artists are a particularly popular type of beauty makeup artist. As the name suggests, they specialize in doing makeup for brides (as well as, potentially, bridesmaids and family members) on their big day.

Interested in professional beauty makeup? Check out QC Makeup Academy‘s self-paced, online Master Makeup Artistry Course and discover how YOU can become a trained Master International Makeup Professional (MIMP) in as little as 8 short weeks!

Theatrical and Performance Makeup Artists

Theatrical and performance makeup artists are responsible for applying makeup to actors, dancers, and other performers. They often work in live theater or film and television productions.

Airbrush Makeup Artists

Airbrush makeup artists use an airbrush gun to apply a thin layer of makeup. This type of makeup is often used in weddings, proms, and other special events. It can also be used in the film and television industry.

Interested in airbrush makeup? QC Makeup Academy also offers a self-paced, online Airbrush Makeup Workshop, too. We’ll even provide you with your very own airbrush kit as part of the course – absolutely free!

Makeup Artists for TV and Film

Speaking of the film and television industry, makeup artists who work in this field are responsible for creating makeup looks for actors, actresses, and other on-screen talent. This may include special effects makeup as well.

Special FX Makeup Artists

And then we have special FX MUAs. These professionals are responsible for creating realistic (or even unreal!) effects using makeup. This might include wounds, bruises, scars, aging, etc. Special FX makeup artists often work in the film and television industry as well.

Interested in special effects makeup? You guessed it – you can also get professionally trained and certified in this niche with QC Makeup Academy! Check out our self-paced, online Special FX Makeup Course to see how you can become an International Special FX Makeup Professional (ISMP) in just 2 months!

Celebrity Makeup Artists

Last but not least, we have celebrity makeup artists. As the name suggests, these professionals work with celebrities to help them create red carpet-ready looks. They may also work with models, athletes, and other high-profile individuals.

Should YOU Hire a Makeup Artist?

There are countless scenarios in which hiring a makeup artist can help save the day! For instance, maybe you’re getting married and want to look your absolute best for the big day. Or, perhaps you’ve been invited to a gala or black-tie event and need some help creating a glamorous look.

Other times, you might just need a little pick-me-up after a long week. Hiring a makeup artist for a makeup lesson can teach you techniques to help you feel more confident in your everyday makeup routine.

Additionally, if you have a big job interview or presentation coming up, having your makeup professionally done can help boost your confidence – not to mention make the right impression on your potential employer or client.

In short, there are lots of reasons why someone might seek out the services of a makeup artist. And there’s no shame in it! Hiring a professional to help you look and feel your best is a smart investment.

Benefits of Hiring a Makeup Artist

There are many benefits of hiring a makeup artist, whether you’re getting ready for a special event or you just want to feel more confident in your everyday makeup routine.

For one, a professional makeup artist can help you create a look that’s tailored specifically for you. They’ll take into account your unique features, skin type, and personal style to create a look that flatters you and makes you feel your best.

Additionally, makeup artists have access to the latest products, trends, and techniques. They know which products work best for different skin types and can help you find the right foundation, concealer, eyeshadow, etc. to suit your needs.

And lastly, a makeup artist can save you time and hassle. They’ll do all the hard work for you so that you can sit back and relax while they transform you into a glam goddess!

Makeup artist working on young diva before filming.

How Much Do Makeup Artists Cost?

Now that we’ve discussed some of the reasons why you might want to hire a makeup artist, let’s talk about how much it might cost.

The average cost of hiring a makeup artist varies depending on a number of factors, including:

Their location
Their experience of the makeup artist
The length of time needed
The type(s) of service(s) you’re requesting

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50-$200+ for professional makeup services. According to Thumbtack, for example, the current national average cost for an MUA in the United States is between $120 and $170 USD.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that you usually get what you pay for.

If you’re looking for a top-notch makeup artist to help you create a stunning look for your wedding day, you can expect to pay on the higher end of the spectrum. However, if you just need a little help with your everyday makeup routine, you may be able to find someone who charges on the lower end.

It’s also worth noting that many makeup artists offer discounts for groups, so if you’re getting your makeup done with a friend or family member, you may be able to save some money!

What’s Included In The Cost?

When hiring a makeup artist, you’re not simply paying for them to apply makeup in a one-and-done situation. Instead, you’re paying for their time, expertise, and access to high-quality products.

Typically, the cost of hiring a makeup artist includes:

A consultation: This is where you’ll discuss your desired look, skin type, etc. with the makeup artist. They’ll use this information to create a custom look for you.
A makeup trial: This is an optional service, but it’s a good idea if you’re hiring a makeup artist for your wedding day or another major event. During a trial run, the makeup artist will do your makeup exactly as they would on the day of the event. That way, you can see how you like the finished product and make any necessary adjustments.
The actual makeup application: This is the time when the magic happens! The makeup artist will use their skills and expertise to transform you into a glam queen.
A touch-up: Once the initial makeup application is complete, the makeup artist will usually do a quick touch-up to ensure that everything looks perfect.

What You Should Know Hiring a Makeup Artist: Key Questions To Ask

Before The Consultation

If you’re thinking about hiring a makeup artist, there are a few key questions you should ask before making your decision and scheduling a consultation. These include:

“How professional is their website?” A professional website is a good indication that the makeup artist is serious about their work and takes pride in their business. It also shows that they’re willing to invest in their career.
“What is their education and/or experience?” It’s important to hire a makeup artist who has plenty of experience. If they also have some sort of professional training/certification, this is also a great indication that this MUA is the real deal… And will be worth your time and money!
“What are their rates?” As we mentioned before, the average cost of hiring a makeup artist ranges from $50-$200+. However, it’s important to get an idea of the MUA’s specific rates before booking anything. That way, there are no surprises later on.
“What’s their portfolio like?” Seeing a makeup artist’s previous work is critical! After all, this will give you a good idea of their style and whether or not they’re a good fit for you.
“Do they currently have any discounts?” Many makeup artists offer discounts for groups, so if you’re getting your makeup done with a friend or family member, you may be able to save some money.
“Are they on social media?” Social media is a great way to see what kind of work a makeup artist does on a day-to-day basis. It’s also a good way to get an idea of their personality and see if you’ll be a good fit.
“What do their reviews say?” Checking out online reviews is always a good idea before hiring any type of professional. That way, you can see what other people’s experiences have been like and get an idea of what to expect.

During The Consultation

Once you’ve found a makeup artist whose work you like and who you feel you can trust, it’s time to schedule a consultation. This is where you’ll discuss your desired look, skin type, etc. with the makeup artist. They’ll use this information to create a custom look for you.

Some things you should ask during the consultation include:

“Do you offer trials?” As we discussed earlier, trials are a great way to see how the makeup artist’s work will look on you in person. Not all makeup artists offer trials, but it’s worth asking if they do.
“What’s included in your rates?” When hiring a makeup artist, you’re not just paying for them to apply makeup. You’re also paying for their time, travel expenses, etc. So, it’s important to know what’s included in their rates.
“What products do you use?” Make sure to ask about the products the makeup artist uses. That way, you can avoid any potential allergies or skin reactions.
“Are you available on the day and time that I’ll need you?” This is critical! Make sure to ask about the makeup artist’s availability before booking anything.
“Can you do my makeup on site?” If you’re getting your makeup done for a special event, you’ll want to make sure that the makeup artist can do your makeup on site. Otherwise, you’ll have to travel to them, which can be inconvenient.
“What is your cancellation policy?” Life happens, and sometimes things come up that we can’t control. So, it’s important to know the makeup artist’s cancellation policy in case you need to cancel or reschedule.
“Can I take a look at your contract?” Always, always, always read over the contract before signing anything! This will help you avoid any misunderstandings or surprises later on.
“Do you have insurance?” Hiring a makeup artist who is insured is always a good idea. That way, if anything goes wrong, you’ll be covered. If you discover that the MUA does not have any insurance, this should be considered a red flag.
“What makeup look would you suggest for me?” Although you may come prepared with some inspiration/reference photos, it’s always a good idea to get the makeup artist’s professional opinion. After all, they’re the experts!
“Do you have any questions for me?” This is an important one! Make sure to ask if the makeup artist has any questions for you. This will help them understand your vision and create a look that you love. And if they don’t have any questions for you, just know that that’s a bad sign.

Fun Fact: Here are 6 questions that most makeup artists will ask you during the consultation!

How To Pick a Makeup Artist: Breaking Down The Process

Now that you know what to ask and what to look for, it’s time to start the process of finding a makeup artist. Here’s how to do it:

1. Know what you need!

The first step in finding a makeup artist is knowing what you need. Are you looking for someone to do your makeup for your wedding? Or do you just need a makeup lesson? Once you know what you need, you can start the process of finding a makeup artist who can provide that service.

2. Set a budget!

Before you start reaching out to makeup artists, it’s important to set a budget. Makeup artists typically charge by the hour, so you’ll need to know how much you’re willing to spend. That way, you can avoid any sticker shock later on.

3. Do your research!

Use Google, social media, etc. to find makeup artists in your area. Once you’ve found a few MUAs that you like, check out their websites and social media pages to get a better idea of their work.

4. Make a list of your top 3-5 choices!

After you’ve done your research, it’s time to make a list of your top 3-5 choices. Once you have your list, you can start reaching out to the makeup artists to set up consultations.

5. Set up the consultations!

This is where you’ll get to meet the makeup artists in person and see their work up close. During the consultation, be sure to ask all of the questions that we listed above. And when you’re done, you should have a good idea of which makeup artist is the right fit for you.

How To Pick a Makeup Artist: Red Flags To Avoid

Now that you know how to find a makeup artist, it’s time to talk about some red flags to avoid. Here are a few things to watch out for:

Makeup artists who are underinsured or uninsured. As we mentioned earlier, it’s always a good idea to hire a makeup artist who is insured. That way, if anything goes wrong, you’ll be covered.
Makeup artists who refuse to sign a contract. A contract is important because it protects both you and the makeup artist. So, if a makeup artist refuses to sign a contract, that’s a major red flag because it shows that they’re not professional.
Makeup artists who are late to the consultation. This is just unprofessional and shows a lack of respect for your time.
Makeup artists who are inexperienced or untrained. Hiring an inexperienced and/or untrained makeup artist is definitely a gamble. And while you may get lucky, it’s probably not worth the risk.
Makeup artists who have little to no online presence. In today’s day and age, it’s important for businesses to have an online presence. So, if a makeup artist doesn’t have a legitimate website or social media page, that’s a major red flag!
Makeup artists who have more bad reviews than good ones. When you’re looking at reviews, it’s important to take the bad with the good. But if a makeup artist has more bad reviews than good ones, that’s definitely something to be aware of.
Makeup artists who are self-taught through YouTube videos. Watching YouTube videos does not make someone a professional makeup artist – FULL STOP! Hiring a self-taught makeup artist is a huge risk because they likely have no formal training. Instead, they’ve only learned the style of “social media makeup”, rather than actually learning the core techniques that’ll allow them to do ANY style of makeup.

Pro Tip: Here’s why YouTube tutorials are NOT the same as professional makeup training!

So, Is Hiring a Makeup Artist Worth It?

Now that we’ve gone over everything you need to know about hiring a makeup artist, it’s time to answer the big question: is hiring a makeup artist worth it?

The short answer is: yes, hiring a makeup artist is definitely worth it! Here’s why:

A professional makeup artist has the experience and training to do your makeup exactly the way you want it!
Professional makeup artists will save you time and hassle!
A professional makeup artist comes with a kit full of high-quality products – products that you likely don’t have access to!
Professional makeup artists can give you advice on what colors and styles will look best on you!
Hiring a makeup artist is a great way to pamper yourself and feel your best on a special day!

beautiful woman makeup artist painting brows for client in beauty salon. makeup for model, applying paint on eyebrows

How To Become a Makeup Artist Yourself

If by now, you’re thinking to yourself, “Hey, that sounds like an awesome career… I want to do that!” – then great news, because you can ABSOLUTELY make this happen.

What’s more, with the help of QC Makeup Academy, you can make it happen in as little as 2 short months!

With QC’s self-paced, online makeup certification training, you’ll gain all the skills you need to take the beauty industry by storm – all while learning right from the comfort of home, on your preferred schedule!

Starting from the date you first enroll, you’ll be given two full years to finish your program. However, since there are no deadlines or due dates, you get to choose how much or how little of those two years you’ll actually need. For reference, many of our grads found that they could complete their training and earn their internationally-recognized certification in approx. 2-6 months… All by dedicating a mere 1-2 hours of their week to their studies!

If this sounds like the path for you, then make sure you check out our full list of wildly popular online makeup and beauty courses!

Helpful Resources To Bookmark

From there, we recommend bookmarking the following resources to help you on your journey:

Wrapping It Up

We hope this article has helped to give you a better understanding of what’s involved in hiring a makeup artist, as well as whether or not it’s worth it for you.

Remember, if you’re thinking of becoming a professional makeup artist yourself, then QC Makeup Academy can help make your dream a reality! With our world-renowned, online makeup courses, you’ll be able to study right from home and graduate in as little as 2-6 months!

Have any questions? Feel free to reach out in the comments below and we’ll answer them as best we can. Alternatively, our Support Team is available 7 days a week (between 9am and 5pm EST) and are always happy to chat. Don’t hesitate to contact them by email, phone, or live chat.

Thanks for reading! 💕

Become a working, successful makeup artist by starting your training with QC Makeup Academy today!

Jul 29

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Tips to market your makeup business Feature Image

15 Best Tips To Market Your Makeup Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career 3 Comments

As a makeup artist, it is important to know how to market your business. If you don’t have a plan in place, your business will likely not make it very far. In this blog post, we will outline the top 15 tips to market your makeup business successfully.

By following these tips, you will be able to reach new customers and grow your business!

Don’t have any experience and not sure how to kick-start your professional makeup career? Discover how YOU can become a makeup artist in as little as 3 simple steps!

10 Tips To Market Your Makeup Business Successfully

Starting a makeup business can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to marketing your makeup business like a pro in no time.

Tip #1: Build a professional, polished website for your makeup business!

Your website is often the first impression potential customers will have of your business. So, make sure it reflects your brand well and provides visitors with all the information they need to know about your business.

What specific info should your website have? Here are just some of the things to include:

Your business name, logo, and contact information
A brief description of your services
Some before and after photos or a portfolio of your work
Testimonials from satisfied customers
Links to your social media profiles
An option for online booking

If your website is hard to navigate or lacks key information, prospective clients will likely move on to another makeup artist.

Moreover, creating a professional, well-designed website doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. There are plenty of easy-to-use website builders out there that can help you get started. Plus, there are all sorts of resources you can turn to, such as this article by Forbes.

Tip #2: Get on social media!

These days, it’s essential for businesses to have a strong social media presence. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube are great ways to connect with potential (and current) customers. Not only that, but it’s also a powerful marketing tool, too.

When it comes to social media, consistency is key. Posting regularly (at least once or twice a week) will help you stay top of mind with your followers. And, when you do post, make sure your content is engaging, original, and visually appealing.

In addition to posting interesting content, make sure you’re interacting with your followers as well! Respond to comments and questions in a timely manner and like/share other users’ content that’s relevant to your business.

By building up a strong social media following, you’ll be able to reach more people with your marketing message. As a result, you may even get some new clients through word-of-mouth marketing!

Tips to market your makeup business in-post image 1

Tip #3: Prioritize SEO!

If you want your website to rank high in search engine results, you need to focus on SEO – a.k.a. search engine optimization. This simply means using the right keywords and phrases on your website so that people can find it easily when they’re searching for something related online.

For example, let’s say someone is searching for “makeup artists in Los Angeles.” If you include those keywords on your website (in the title, meta description, etc.), there’s a much higher chance that your site will show up in the search results. And, if it’s one of the first few results, even better!

Not sure how to get started with SEO? We recommend giving Moz’s Beginner’s Guide a read!

Tip #4: Have a killer makeup portfolio!

As a makeup artist, your portfolio is essential in both attracting new clients and keeping the ones you have. After all, it’s a representation of your work and what potential clients can expect from you.

So, make sure your portfolio is up-to-date with your best work! And, if you don’t have one already, now’s the perfect time to start putting one together. Oh, and don’t forget to showcase your portfolio on both your website and social media channels!

PRO TIP: Never put together a makeup portfolio before? Here’s everything you need to know about developing a a portfolio that’ll blow people’s minds!

Tip #5: Get as much real-world experience as possible!

There’s no better way to hone your skills as a makeup artist than by getting lots of real-world experience. So, if you’re just starting out, offer your services for free or at a discounted rate. Reach out to friends and family and gain experience by working on them for free. Also, another great idea is to do makeup for a stylized photoshoot.

Firstly, these strategies will help you build up your portfolio. But secondly, they’ll also give you the opportunity to try out different looks and techniques in a legitimate setting.

Plus, working with real clients (even if they are friends or family) can be great practice for dealing with the pressures of a real job. It’ll also give you a chance to get feedback from clients so that you can improve your work!

Tip #6: Get involved in your local community!

One great way to market your makeup business is by getting involved in your local community. This could mean anything from volunteering at events to partnering with other businesses in your area.

For example, let’s say you own a makeup studio. You could partner with a local hair salon and offer a discount to customers who book both services together. Or, you could volunteer your time to do makeup for a charity event.

There are many different ways to get involved in your community – it just takes some creativity! And, not only will this help you market your business, but it’ll also make you feel good knowing that you’re giving back.

Tip #7: Get creative with your marketing campaigns!

There are endless possibilities when it comes to marketing your makeup business. Get creative and think outside the box to come up with unique campaigns that will grab attention.

Some ideas include partnering with another local business for a joint promotion, holding a contest or giveaway, or creating social media challenges.

No matter what you do, make sure your campaigns are aligned with your brand identity and target audience. With a little creativity and effort, you’ll be able to reach new customers and grow your business!

Tip #8: Invest in paid advertising!

Paid advertising is a great way to reach new customers and grow your business. And, with the vast array of online advertising platforms available today, it’s easier than ever to get started!

Examples of paid advertising include (but aren’t limited to):

Google Ads
Facebook Ads
Instagram Ads
TikTok Ads
YouTube Ads

Paid advertising can be a great way to reach new customers while giving your business a more immediate boost. But, it’s important to remember that you’ll need to invest both time and money into creating and managing your campaigns.

So, be sure to do your research and create a campaign that’s right for your business!

Photo of nice optimistic brunette hairdo lady apply make up look empty space wear white shirt isolated on pink color background. Market makeup business article.

Tip #9: Focus on your USP (unique selling proposition)!

Your USP is what makes your business unique and sets you apart from your competition. When marketing your makeup business, be sure to focus on your USP!

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

What makes my business different?
What can I offer that my competition doesn’t?
How can I position my business in the market?

Answering these questions will help you identify your USP and figure out how to market it effectively. Remember, customers are always looking for something unique. So, make sure you’re highlighting what makes your business special!

Tip #10: Know who your target market is!

One of the most important things to do when marketing your makeup business is to know who your target market is. This means understanding who your ideal customer is and what they’re looking for.

To help you identify your target market, ask yourself these questions:

Who are my ideal customers?
What are their demographics (age, gender, location, etc.)?
What are their interests?
Which needs or problems do they have that I can solve?
How can I show them that I am the best makeup artist for their needs and/or problems?

By answering these questions, you’ll have a more comprehensive idea of who your target market is – and how to reach them. Remember: it’s important to focus on quality over quantity. Meaning, it’s better to have 100 ideal customers than 1000 uninterested ones!

Tip #11: Have a strong brand identity for your makeup business!

Your brand identity is what makes your business recognizable and sets you apart from your competition. So, it’s important to have a strong brand identity when marketing your makeup business!

Some things to consider when creating or refining your brand identity include your:

Mission statement
Values
Target market
USP (unique selling proposition)
Logo and other visuals (colors, fonts, etc.)
Tone of voice

By having a strong brand identity, you’ll be able to create consistent and cohesive marketing materials. In turn, this will help you attract new customers and grow your business!

PRO TIP: Learn the ins and outs of branding your makeup business properly!

Tip #12: Network literally ALL of the time!

Networking is a great way to meet new people, learn about new opportunities, collaborate, and grow your business. So, make sure you’re always networking!

Here are some invaluable ways you can network yourself and your makeup business:

Attend industry events and tradeshows
Join relevant online communities
Reach out to other businesses in your field
Connect with artists you admire through social media
Build relationships with influencers and thought leaders

Remember: it’s not all about meeting new people. It’s also about building strong relationships with the people you already know. So, don’t forget to stay in touch with your current contacts!

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Tip #13: Write a beauty blog and/or film a vlog!

Blogging and vlogging are great ways to show off your makeup skills, build your brand, grow your social media following, and attract new customers. Not to mention, they’re also a lot of fun!

Some things to keep in mind when starting a beauty blog or vlog:

Find your niche: what kind of makeup and/or beauty services do you want to focus on?
Be consistent: try to post new content regularly (at least once a week)
Promote your content: share your blog posts and videos on social media, in email campaigns, etc.
Engage with your audience: respond to comments and questions promptly

It’s also just as important to know what not to do as well. So, before getting started, make sure you know which steps to take – and which to avoid altogether.

Tip #14: Stock up on business cards for your makeup business!

Business cards are an essential marketing tool for any business – and your makeup business is no exception! After all, you never know when you’ll meet a potential new client or collaborator.

Here are some useful things to keep in mind when designing your business cards:

Include your name, title, contact information, website, and logo
Make sure the design is professional and aligned with your brand identity
Use high-quality materials (e.g. thick paper stock, raised printing, etc.)
Avoid using cheesy or gimmicky designs

Remember: less is more! So, make sure your business card design is simple and straightforward. Furthermore, make sure you always order extra business cards. This way, you always have them on hand!

Tip #15: Add a professional certification + designation to your makeup resume!

Investing in a professional certification or designation is a great way to show your commitment to your craft – and it can also help you attract new clients. Not to mention, getting properly trained by a reputable institution is the only sure-fire way to develop the skills you need to be a successful makeup artist.

So, if you’re serious about taking your makeup business to the next level, consider getting certified or designated by a professional organization, such as QC Makeup Academy.

Did you know that QC Makeup Academy offers a wide range of self-paced, online makeup and beauty-related courses? It’s true… And these programs can all be completed in as little as 8 short weeks!

How To Market a Makeup Business: Frequently Asked Questions

Now that we’ve gone over 15 of the best tips for marketing your makeup business, let’s answer some common questions about this topic…

“How Do I Get More Makeup Clients?”

The answer to this question may vary depending on your specific situation. However, some of the most effective ways to attract new clients include networking, creating a strong online presence, and marketing yourself through beauty blogging, vlogging, and paid advertisements.

“How Do Makeup Artists Get Noticed?”

There are a few things you can do to make sure you’re noticed by potential clients, collaborators, and industry professionals. First, it’s important to have a strong online presence. This means having an active social media account and/or website for your makeup business.

Second, you should also consider investing in some paid advertising, such as Google Ads or Facebook Ads. Finally, networking is always a great way to get noticed. Attend industry events, meetups, and workshops – and don’t forget to bring plenty of business cards!

Beautiful woman face with perfect makeup. Makeup artist applies eye shadow. Hand of visagiste, painting cosmetics of young beauty model girl. Beauty girl with perfect skin. Market makeup business article.

“How Do Makeup Artists Expand?”

There are a few things you can do to expand your makeup business…

First, you can offer new services, such as skincare consultations, bridal makeup, or special effects makeup. Second, you can also consider opening a second location or investing in mobile makeup services. Finally, expanding your team by hiring additional hair and makeup artists is also a great way to grow your business.

“What Are Some Makeup Artist Content Ideas?”

If you’re looking for some content ideas for your makeup business website or social media accounts, consider creating blog articles or videos on topics like:

Tips for applying makeup
Makeup trends
How to choose the right foundation shade
Tips for contouring
How to do a smoky eye
Tips for creating a natural makeup look
How to do your own wedding makeup
Tips for doing Halloween and/or SFX makeup
Tips for taking care of your skin
Get ready with me (GRWM) videos of you doing your own makeup
Various makeup tutorials
Behind the scenes videos of you working on client applications, photoshoots, etc.
Before vs. after comparisons
Tips for proper color correcting

“What Are Some Successful Makeup Artist Business Ideas?”

There are a few things you can do to set your makeup business up for success…

First, make sure you have a strong online presence. This means having an active social media account and/or website for your makeup business.
Then invest in some quality marketing materials, such as professional business cards, flyers, and postcards.
Next, consider investing in a good CRM (customer relationship management) system to help you keep track of your clients, appointments, and payments.
From there, create a price list for your services. Make sure to include any discounts or package deals you offer.
Finally, always be willing to go the extra mile for your clients. This could mean providing complimentary touch-ups or offering to do their makeup for special events.

Marketing a Makeup Business: Final Thoughts

There you have it – 15 of the best tips for marketing your makeup business! Remember: it’s important to have a strong online presence, network with other industry professionals, and always be willing to go the extra mile for your clients.

Do YOU have any other questions about how to market a makeup business? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy marketing, beauties! 💕

Become a certified MUA (and launch your makeup business in as little as 2 months) by starting your training with QC Makeup Academy today!

Jul 18

Love12

How To Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

As a makeup artist, you know that your business is only as good as your last booking. So, how can you make sure that you are always booked solid and bringing in more revenue? In this article, we will discuss how to boost revenue for your makeup business.

In particular, we’ll cover the various ways that you can increase sales and bookings. From online marketing to client management, discover how you can start bringing in more money today!

Dream of becoming a makeup artist? This How-To Guide will cover everything you need to know!

How Do Makeup Artists Get Noticed?

The first step in getting booked solid is to make sure that people know about your makeup artist business. How do you do that? By marketing yourself online and offline!

There are many ways to market your makeup artist business. You can start by creating a strong social media presence. Make sure to post high-quality photos of your work, as well as helpful tips and tutorials. Additionally, you can also create a website or blog to showcase your work.

On top of digital marketing, don’t forget about old-fashioned offline marketing methods like passing out business cards and Flyers. Attend local events and meetups related to the beauty industry. And, most importantly, always be friendly and professional when meeting potential clients!

How Do Makeup Artists Expand?

If you’re looking to take your makeup artist business to the next level, then it’s time to start expanding. One way to do that is by offering new services. For example, if you currently only offer makeup application, why not add on complementary services like hair styling and/or skincare consulting?

Another way to expand your business is by increasing your prices. Of course, you don’t want to price yourself too high. Otherwise, you could alienate potential customers. However, if you feel confident in your abilities and have built up a strong client base, then raising your prices in a realistic manner is a great way to boost revenue.

Finally, another way to expand your business is by adding more team members. This could include hiring additional makeup artists or bringing on support staff like receptionists or assistants. By expanding your team, you’ll be able to take on more bookings and generate more revenue.

Did you know that in addition to makeup certification courses, QC Makeup Academy also teaches skincare consulting, hair styling, and more? Check out our full list of self-paced, online programs here!

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How Do I Get More Makeup Clients?

Now let’s talk about client management. How can you get more clients and keep them coming back?

Client Management 101

The first step is to make sure that you have a solid client management system in place. This could include using appointment scheduling software, keeping track of client contact information, and sending out reminders for upcoming appointments.

(For our recommended list of software tools, give this blog article a read!)

By having a strong client management system, you’ll be able to stay organized and efficient. This will allow you to take on more clients without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, your clients will appreciate the professionalism and they’ll be more likely to book future appointments with you.

It’s also important to build strong relationships with your clients. After all, they’re the ones who are helping to support your business! Therefore, be friendly and personable when meeting with them. Get to know them on a personal level so that you can provide them with the best possible service.

Finally, always go above and beyond for your clients. Whether it’s providing them with a complimentary makeup touch-up or giving them a discount on their next appointment, find ways to show your appreciation. By doing this, you’ll ensure that they have a positive experience with your business.

In turn, they’ll be more likely to recommend you to their friends!

How Can I Promote Myself as a Makeup Artist?: Where To Find Makeup Clients

So, now that we’ve gone over some tips for client management, where can you actually find new clients?

There are a few different ways to go about this…

First of all, as we mentioned earlier, you can attend local events and meetups related to the beauty industry. This is a great way to network with potential customers, as well as collaborators.

Speaking of collaborations, this is another excellent option at your disposal! Get your name out there by working with other businesses and/or professionals in the industry. For example, you could partner with a local salon or spa. They could promote your services to their clients and vice versa.

Another way you can collaborate is by working with other industry experts on a stylized photoshoot. Not only will this give you real-world experience and allow you to network… You’ll also get high-quality images that you can use in your portfolio, too!

Finally, you can also use online directories to find new clients. Make sure to list your business on popular platforms like Google My Business and Yelp. You can also create profiles on freelancer websites like Upwork and Fiverr.

Remember, these are just some of the ways you can generate more leads and book more appointments. There are many more opportunities out there for you, which we will touch on shortly. At the end of the day, though, the key is to be proactive and to put yourself out there!

How To Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business: Marketing Suggestions

Alright, now let’s discuss how – and where – you should be marketing your makeup business.

1. Social Media Marketing

In today’s world, it’s more important than ever to have an active presence on social media. Why? Because that’s where your potential clients are hanging out!

Some of the benefits of social media marketing include:

It’s relatively affordable (or even free!)
You can reach a large audience with minimal effort
It’s a great way to build relationships with your clients
You can get instant feedback from your target market

So, make sure to create profiles on all of the major social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Use original, high-quality images and videos
Post regularly (but don’t spam your followers!)
Engage with other users (like, comment, and share their content)
Run paid social media ads
Link your business website in all of your social media bios
Use your social media accounts to network with other beauty experts you admire

Young beautiful Asian woman professional beauty vlogger or blogger recording make up tutorial video by smartphone to share on social media. Makeup business.

How Do Makeup Artists Get More Followers?

Here are some tips to quickly grow your social media following:

#1 Host a giveaway or contest

One of the best ways to get more eyes on your social media accounts is to host a giveaway or contest. This will not only increase your following but also help you to engage with your target market.

When hosting a giveaway, make sure to set some guidelines. For example, you could require participants to follow your account and share your posts in order to enter. Additionally, you could also ask them to tag their friends in the comments section.

Not only will this help you to get more followers, but it will also increase brand awareness and reach.

Not sure where to start? This article by Memberquest breaks down the process in 5 easy steps!

#2 Collaborate with other industry experts

As we mentioned earlier, collaborating with other businesses and professionals in the industry is a great way to get your name out there. The same applies to the world of social media!

When partnering with someone for a collaboration, make sure to promote it across all of your social media channels. Additionally, you could also try to cross-promote with the other person or business involved. For example, you could share their content on your channels and vice versa.

This is a great way to reach new audiences and grow your social media following organically.

#3 Use relevant, popular hashtags

Hashtags are a great way to get your content seen by more people, as they allow you to be discoverable on social media platforms. When using hashtags, make sure to use ones that are relevant to your industry and niche. Additionally, try to use popular and trending hashtags whenever possible.

Here are some examples of relevant hashtags for makeup artists:

#mua
#makeupartist
#makeupaddict
#makeuplover
#wakeupandmakeup
#bblogger
#beautyblogger

Check out more trending beauty hashtags here.

Basically, by using relevant and popular hashtags, you can reach new audiences and grow your social media following in no time!

#4 Post high-quality images and videos

When it comes to social media, content is king. That’s why it’s important to post high-quality images and videos that will capture the attention of your target market.

If you’re not sure where to start, here are some tips:

Use bright, vibrant colors in your images
Include before-and-after shots
Showcase your work with before-and-after photos or videos
Use close-ups and detail shots
Edit your images and videos professionally

By following these tips, you can be sure that your content will stand out from the rest!

#5 Engage with other users regularly

Lastly, as previously mentioned, it’s important to engage with other users on social media. This includes liking, commenting, and sharing their content. Additionally, you could also try to tag them in your posts or stories.

When engaging with others, make sure to be genuine and authentic. Additionally, try to add value to the conversation by leaving thoughtful comments. By doing so, you’ll not only build relationships but also grow your social media following organically.

By following these 5 key tips, you should see a significant increase in your social media reach and engagement in no time! And, of course, the more followers you have, the more people you’ll be able to market your business to.

How Can I Promote My Makeup on Instagram?

Now, let’s say that you want to focus a lot of your social media marketing efforts to Instagram. After all, it is one of the most popular platforms out there with over a billion monthly active users!

In addition to the tips we’ve already covered, here’s some bonus advice on how to promote your makeup business on Instagram specifically:

#1 Make use of Instagram Stories

With over 500 million daily active users, Instagram Stories is a great way to reach new audiences and promote your business. When using Stories, make sure to use relevant hashtags, post high-quality images and videos, and tag other users whenever possible.

Additionally, you could also try using Instagram Story Highlights. This feature allows you to save your Stories and display them on your profile permanently. This is a great way to showcase your work, highlight your services, and promote any special offers or discounts that you may be running.

To learn more about using Instagram Stories for business, check out this helpful guide by Hootsuite!

#2 Use hashtags strategically

As we’ve mentioned before, hashtags are a great way to get your content seen by more people. When using them on Instagram, make sure to use a mix of popular, relevant, and niche-specific hashtags. Additionally, try to use a variety of different hashtag types, such as branded hashtags, campaign hashtags, and location-based hashtags.

For more tips on using hashtags effectively, be sure to read this article.

#3 Run an Instagram marketing campaign

Another great way to promote your makeup business on Instagram is by running a marketing campaign. When running a campaign, you can use a variety of different strategies, such as influencer marketing, user-generated content (UGC), and giveaways.

To learn more about running an effective Instagram marketing campaign, check out this helpful guide by Wordstream.

PRO TIP: It’s worth it to note that, in general, paid marketing campaigns are worth running elsewhere, too. For instance, it could be a worthwhile investment to create marketing campaigns on Facebook, Google, and TikTok – just as a few examples.

#4 Partner with micro-influencers

Micro-influencers are social media users with a relatively small but engaged following. When working with micro-influencers, you can expect to see high levels of engagement and reach. Additionally, partnering with micro-influencers is often more affordable than working with larger influencers.

Now, you might be wondering, “Why micro-influencers and not macro-influencers?” Well, micro-influencers typically have a more engaged following than macro-influencers (a.k.a. celebrities). Additionally, their smaller followings tend to be more tight-knit and responsive to the content that they share.

To learn more about partnering with micro-influencers, check out this useful article by Forbes!

#5 Use relevant, high-quality visuals

Finally, when promoting your makeup business on Instagram, make sure to use relevant and high-quality visuals. This means posting images and videos that are visually appealing and on-brand. Additionally, try to use a mix of both static and moving content to keep things interesting.

For more tips on creating high-quality visuals, be sure to read this blog post.

As you can see, there are plenty of strategies that you can use to promote your makeup business on this popular platform!

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2. Email Marketing

Another great way to promote your makeup business is through email marketing. This involves sending out newsletters, special offers, and other marketing materials to your email list.

Email marketing can be an effective way to reach new customers and promote your business. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re sending high-quality content that is relevant to your audience. Additionally, you’ll want to avoid spamming people with too many emails.

To learn more about email marketing, check out this breakdown by Mailchimp!

PRO TIP: If you don’t have an email list yet, now is the time to start building one! You can do this by collecting emails at events, through sign-ups on your website or social media platforms, or even by offering a freebie in exchange for people’s contact information.

3. Build a Website For Your Makeup Business

Another great way to market your makeup business and boost revenue is by creating a website. This will give you a platform to showcase your work, as well as list your contact information and available services.

Creating a website is a great way to build your brand and attract new customers. It’s also relatively easy and affordable to do, especially if you use a platform like WordPress. In terms of boosting revenue, having a professional website is critical because it will help you appear more credible and trustworthy to potential clients.

Not to mention, if it offers an option for online booking (which we highly recommend), it can make it even easier for people to book your services!

If you’ve never put together a business website before, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Use high-quality images that accurately represent your brand
Keep your website design simple and easy to navigate
Provide links to your social media profiles
Include clear calls-to-action (e.g. “Book Now,” “Contact Us,” etc.)
Make sure your contact information is up-to-date and easy to find

You can also check out this article by Business News Daily for 12 handy tips on creating a successful business website.

Why SEO Will Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business

SEO (a.k.a. Search Engine Optimization) is one of the most important aspects of online marketing, yet it’s often misunderstood or overlooked by small businesses. Simply put, SEO is the process of optimizing your website and content to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs).

So, why does this matter? Furthermore, how will it positively impact your makeup business’s revenue?

The answer is simple: when people are looking for makeup artists in their area, they’re likely to use a search engine like Google. And if you can get your website to appear on the first page of results, you’ll be much more likely to get bookings and boost revenue for your makeup business!

There are a number of different factors that go into SEO, but some of the most important ones include:

The quality of your website and content
How well your website is optimized for search engines
How many high-quality inbound links you have to your website
Your social media presence

In a nutshell, SEO is important because it can help you get more visibility for your makeup business online. And the more visible you are, the easier it will be to attract new clients and boost revenue.

To learn more about how SEO works and how you can use it to promote your business, check out this informative Beginner’s Guide from Moz. This article by Reliable Soft Digital Marketing Agency also provides a list of 10 free SEO courses (with certificates) that you can complete in just a few short hours!

4. Invest in Business Cards

Business cards may seem like a small thing, but they can be a powerful marketing tool for your makeup business. They’re an easy and affordable way to promote your brand and make it easier for people to remember your contact information.

Plus, if you get creative with your business card design, you can use them as mini-portfolios! This is a great way to showcase your work and convince potential clients to book your services.

To find out more about how to create an effective business card design, check out this helpful guide from 99designs. You can also search for “business card printing” on Google or another search engine to find reliable printing services in your area.

Cosmetic, fashion, beauty, makeup business.

How To Boost Makeup Revenue Through Service Pricing and Client Incentives

Setting Your Makeup Business Rates

If you want to boost revenue for your makeup business, it’s important to be strategic about pricing your services. Many makeup artists make the mistake of undercharging for their services, which can leave them feeling overworked and underpaid.

On the other hand, if you charge too much, you may price yourself out of the market or deter potential clients from booking your services.

To find a happy medium, start by considering your target market. How much are they willing to pay for makeup services? How much do your competitors charge? Use this information to come up with a pricing strategy that will attract clients without breaking the bank.

If you’re new to the professional beauty industry and aren’t sure how to confidently set your rates for the first time, keep the following in mind:

Your experience: How long have you been working as a makeup artist? Are you just starting out or do you have years of experience under your belt?
The type of services you offer: What kinds of makeup services do you provide? Are they simple or complex? How long do they take to complete?
The cost of your supplies: How much do you spend on makeup and other supplies? Make sure to factor in the cost of your time as well!
Your overhead costs: How much does it cost to maintain your business? This includes things like rent, utilities, insurance, etc.

Once you have a good understanding of your costs and the going rates in your area, you can start to set your own rates with confidence. If you’re still not sure where to start, consider using a pricing calculator like this one from Calculator Academy.

Fun Fact: QC Makeup Academy‘s online certification courses all come with an ENTIRE unit devoted to business training. And as part of this training, you’ll learn how to price your makeup services properly!

Discounts and Client Incentives

In addition to setting competitive rates, you can also offer discounts and incentives to attract new clients and boost revenue. For example, you could offer a discount for first-time clients or run a promotion for couples getting married. Just be sure not to devalue your services in the process!

Here are some more popular examples of effective incentives to offer:

Bulk discounts: Offer a discount when clients book multiple services at once.
Referral programs: Give clients a discount or free service for referring their friends.
Loyalty programs: Provide loyalty rewards, such as a free service after every ten appointments.

Remember: people love a good deal! If you can offer them something of value, they’ll be more likely to book your services – and come back for more in the future.

Increase Makeup Sales By Selling Cosmetic Products

In addition to selling your makeup services, you can also boost revenue by selling products. This could include anything from makeup brushes and eyeshadow palettes to skincare products and foundations.

The key is to find a balance between offering enough products to generate sales – but not so many that it becomes overwhelming for your clients. Start by surveying your target market to see what kinds of products they’re interested in. Then, create a product lineup that meets their needs and budget.

To learn more about how to sell makeup products, check out this helpful guide from Website Builder Expert.

Starting Your Own Makeup Line

Another great way to boost revenue for your makeup business is to start your own makeup line. This could include anything from lipstick and mascara to false eyelashes and foundations.

Not only will this give you a new stream of revenue; it’ll also help you build brand awareness and establish yourself as an expert in the industry.

If you’re interested in starting your own makeup line, there are a few things you’ll need to do first:

Research the market: What kinds of products are in demand? How much are people willing to pay?
Know which ingredients to use (and which to avoid): Not all ingredients are created equal. Some are better for the skin than others.
Create a business plan: This will help you map out your goals, budget, and marketing strategy.
Find a manufacturer: You’ll need to find a reputable cosmetics manufacturer who can produce high-quality products at a reasonable price.
Create packaging: Your packaging should be eye-catching and reflective of your brand.
Market your products: Once you have everything in place, you’ll need to start marketing your products to reach your target audience.

For more information on starting your own makeup line (and sell it online), check out this awesome guide from Shopify.

Just keep in mind that launching your own cosmetics line will require some sort of investment. So, be sure to do your research and create a solid business plan before you get started. That said, once your line is up and running, it has the potential to be a very profitable venture!

Becoming a Brand Ambassador

Another great way to boost revenue for your makeup business is to become a brand ambassador. This involves partnering with a cosmetic company and representing their products.

As a brand ambassador, you’ll typically receive free products (which you can use in your own work), as well as discounts and commission on sales. Plus, it’s a great way to build relationships with other industry professionals!

To learn more about becoming a brand ambassador, Keep Calm and Chiffon has a great article that breaks down everything you need to know to get started!

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Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business By Getting Professionally Certified

If you’re not already certified, getting your professional makeup certification is one of the smartest ways to boost revenue for your makeup business. Firstly, this will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful makeup artist in the first place. And secondly, it’ll also make you a LOT more attractive to potential clients.

Plus, being certified will help you stand out from the competition – which is always a good thing!

There are plenty of ways to get certified, but one of the most popular (and affordable) options is online courses. QC Makeup Academy, for example, offers an excellent Master Makeup Artistry Course that covers everything from basic techniques to advanced concepts.

Once you’ve completed this course, you’ll be mailed a physical copy of your globally-recognized Master International Makeup Professional (MIMP) certification. Plus, this title acts as your official designation, too! You can then use this to market yourself as a certified makeup artist – which will help you attract higher-paying clients.

So, if you’re serious about boosting revenue for your makeup business, getting certified is definitely the way to go!

View the full course page for QC’s Master Makeup Artistry certification program here – and discover how you can become a certified MUA in as little as 8 short weeks!

5 Extra Ways To Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business

On top of everything we’ve already covered in this article, here are a few more tips to help you boost revenue for your makeup business…

Get involved with bridal shows!

Bridal shows are a great way to meet potential clients and get your name out there. Plus, they typically attract a high-end clientele – which means you can charge a bit more for your services.

To learn more about bridal shows (and why you need to attend them), check out this wonderful article from Here Comes The Guide.

Offer group discounts!

If you’re looking to attract more clients, offering group discounts can be a great way to do it. This could involve anything from giving a discount for booking multiple services at once to offering a lower rate for larger groups. Just remember that you’ll need to adjust your pricing accordingly so that you’re still making a profit!

Offer virtual makeup artistry services!

With the rise of technology, more and more people are opting for virtual makeup services. This is a great way to reach a wider audience – and it can be done from the comfort of your own home!

By providing virtual services, you can:

Expand your client reach on a global scale
Teach one-on-one and/or group makeup classes
Conduct contact-free client consultations
Offer makeup advice and tips
And so much more!

PRO TIP: Want to add virtual beauty services to your makeup business? Take QC Makeup Academy’s 1-unit Virtual Makeup Training mini course and learn everything you need to know in less than a month!

Get involved with charity work!

Charity work is a great way to give back – and it can also be a great marketing tool. By getting involved with local charities, you can not only help those in need but you can also attract attention to your business. Plus, it’s a great way to build relationships with other industry professionals!

There are plenty of ways to get involved with charity work, so there’s sure to be something that’s a perfect fit for your business.

Offer free (or discounted) makeup services to friend and family!

This one might seem a bit counterintuitive, but hear us out! Offering free or discounted makeup services to your friends and family can actually be a great way to attract new clients.

How so?

Well, first of all, it’s a great way to get real-world practice. Secondly, it’s a great way to build up your portfolio. As your friends and family see the amazing work you’re doing, they’re sure to spread the word – which can help you attract new clients and boost your revenue.

Happy fair-skinned young lady applying makeup with brush to woman in white shirt indoors. Blonde girls enjoy girls day. Cosmetic products, concept. Makeup business, makeup artist working on client.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to boost revenue for your makeup business! So, if you’re looking to increase sales and get more bookings, be sure to implement some (or all) of the strategies we’ve covered in this article. Trust us – you won’t regret it!

What other tips do you have for boosting revenue for your makeup business? Let us know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading! 💕

Enroll with QC Makeup Academy today and be ready launch your makeup business in as little as 2-6 months!

Jun 27

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Makeup theory learning about different face shapes.

28 Of The Best Tools To Grow Your Skincare Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Skincare No Comments

If you’re looking to start or grow a business as a skincare consultant, you’re in luck! There are a number of great tools out there that can help you do just that. In this article, we’ll discuss 28 of the best tools to grow your skincare business and find success in the beauty industry.

Specifically, we’ll look at software tools, business tools, and on-the-job supplies that’ll help you reach your goals. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game for a while, these essentials will help you take your career to the next level!

Were you born to be a skincare expert? Then you NEED to check out our Ultimate Guide to becoming a skincare consultant! It’ll walk you through the entire process from start to finish – even if you have no experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Before we dive into the meat and potatoes of this article, let’s first answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the skincare industry…

Is Skincare Business Profitable?

This is a great question and the answer may surprise you! The skincare industry is actually very profitable. In fact, according to GlobeNewsire, it’s expected to hit a revenue of $145.82 billion (USD) by 2028. For reference, the market was valued at $98.83 billion (USD) in 2020.

What does this mean for you?

It means that NOW is the perfect time to get into the business!

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What Is a Skincare Consultant?

A skincare consultant is someone who provides expert advice on all things related to skincare. This can include product recommendations, skin type analysis, and tips on how to properly take care of your skin.

What Are a Skincare Consultant’s Job Duties?

The duties of a skincare consultant vary depending on the needs of the client. That said, regular parts of your day-to-day work might include:

Conducting an initial client consultation
Analyzing the client’s skin type
Recommending products
Demonstrating how to use products
Formulating a customized skincare regimen for each individual client
Providing tips and advice on how to properly care for the skin
Providing tips and advice on how to combine skincare products with makeup products

What Can’t a Skincare Consultant Do?

Unlike estheticians or cosmetologists, skincare consultants are not qualified to perform any surgical cosmetic procedures. This includes services such as chemical peels or waxing.

Similarly, you won’t be qualified to prescribe medical treatments. If a client needs this type of assistance, you can use your expertise to advise them to seek out the help of a licensed dermatologist.

What Is The Average Salary for a Skincare Consultant?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits all answer to this question. This is because the amount of money you make will ultimately depend on a number of factors, such as your experience, qualifications, location, whether you run your own business or not, etc.

However, we can give you an idea of the potential earnings you can make! Here are some up-to-date salary ranges for skincare consultants in the following countries:

United States: Between approx. $27,500 USD and $61,500 USD per year (Source: ZipRecruiter)
Canada: Between approx. $22,000 CAD and $49,000 CAD per year (Source: Glassdoor)
United Kingdom: Between approx. £15,000 GBP and £33,000 GBP per year (Source: Glassdoor)
Australia: Between approx. $42,000 AUD to $80,000 AUD per year (Source: Payscale)

Consultation with skincare consultant. Female beauty doctor talking with patient and selling cream or mask.

Ways To Increase Your Salary

There are also a few things you can do to try and increase your income as a skincare consultant. Here are a few examples:

1. Get Certified

Many employers and/or clients prefer to hire skincare consultants who have completed some sort of reputable certification training. So, this is definitely something that will help you earn a higher salary!

2. Gain Experience

The more experience you have, the more likely you are to be offered a higher salary (or be able to charge higher rates). If you’re just starting out in the skincare consulting industry, consider taking on some internships or entry-level roles to gain some valuable experience first.

And if you run your own business? Take the time at the beginning of your career to actively seek out new clients and projects. Gaining real-world experience by working on people you know – such as friends and/or family – is a great example of this!

3. Relocate

Typically, salaries tend to be higher in developed countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. So, if you’re willing to relocate, this could be a good way to earn a higher salary and open you up to a larger clientele.

4. Offer Virtual Skincare Services

If you don’t want to relocate (or simply don’t have the means to), that’s totally fine – you have other options!

Since the start of the global pandemic, many businesses have had to pivot and offer their services online. And as more and more people are shopping for beauty products and services online, this is definitely a service YOU could consider offering as well. Not only will it help you reach a wider audience; it can also be a great way to earn a higher income.

5. Offer Other Relevant Services

Another way to increase your earnings as a skincare consultant is to offer additional services that are related to the beauty industry. For instance, you could also offer:

Makeup artistry (e.g., bridal, everyday wear, Special FX makeup, makeup for film and television, virtual makeup classes, etc.)
Hair styling
Fashion styling
And more!

The more services clients can get from under one roof, the more likely they’ll be to book these additional services with you – rather than seek out someone else. By expanding the number of services your business offers, you’ll be able to reach a wider range of clients AND charge higher rates for all of your services as a whole.

6. Start Your Own Skincare Consulting Business

If you’re self-employed, then the sky’s the limit in terms of your earnings potential! Of course, this does mean you’ll have to work harder and put in more hours in order to be successful. But if you’re motivated by money, want to be your own boss, and desire creative freedom, then the effort will definitely be worth it!

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What Are The Benefits of Being a Skincare Consultant?

There are many benefits to being a skincare consultant! Here are just a few examples:

You have the ability to help people feel better about themselves
You’re given the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients
You have the chance to be your own boss
There’s massive potential to earn a high income

Basically, so long as you’re passionate about skincare and enjoy helping others, a career as a skincare consultant would be a great fit for you!

Do You Need a Certification To Be a Skincare Consultant?

Okay, so the thing is, you don’t technically “need” a professional certification to work as a skincare consultant. However, it’ll be extremely hard to set yourself up for success without one! After all, employers and clients alike won’t be inclined to hire you if you can’t prove that you know what you’re doing – or that you’ve taken the time to earn your stripes!

For this reason, many skincare consultants choose to pursue professional certification in order to improve their skills and increase their knowledge about the industry as a whole. There are a variety of different professional certifications available for skincare consultants – such as the Skincare Course offered by QC Makeup Academy.

About QC Makeup Academy

QC Makeup Academy is a faculty of QC Career School, a pioneer of distance learning since 1984. All of our courses are entirely self-paced and done online. Meaning, you have the flexibility and freedom to earn your globally-recognized International Skincare Consulting Professional (ISCP) certification + designation whenever (and from wherever) you want!

Moreover, QC Makeup Academy holds an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau, and has over 200 5-star reviews on Facebook alone. Countless graduates of QC Makeup Academy have since gone on to launch lucrative careers in:

Bridal makeup/special events makeup
SFX makeup
Makeup for film, TV, and theater
Celebrity makeup
Skincare consulting
Hair styling
Fashion styling
Airbrush makeup
Global beauty

What’s more, countless alumni have even gone on to become Ambassadors for major beauty brands – and even launch their own cosmetic and skincare lines, too!

If you’re interested in learning more about QC Makeup Academy, or connecting with us directly, we welcome you to check us out on the following social media platforms:

If you have any questions or wish to speak with a member of QC’s amazing Support Staff, you can also reach out via email, phone, or live chat – depending on your personal preference!

Beautician showing information about new cosmetics and beauty products on tablet computer to client

QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course

In this 5-unit online program, you’ll learn everything needed to launch your career as a professionally-certified skincare consultant. Here’s a sneak peek of what will be covered in each unit…

Unit A

The basics of skincare
The role of a professional skincare consultant
Skin anatomy
Different skin types

Unit B

Understanding labels on skincare products
Morning vs. nighttime skincare routines
How to recommend the right cleanser and moisturizer
Recommending different skincare tools
Pairing makeup recommendations with skincare recommendations

Unit C

How to work with skin conditions
Accessing a client’s skin and accurately addressing any of its concerns
Morning and nighttime skincare regimens for acne-prone skin

Unit D

What causes aging skin
Anti-aging ingredients and skincare products
Anti-aging skincare regimens for mature clients
How to properly evaluate anti-aging creams

Unit E

The basics of natural skincare
How to select the right natural skincare products
DIY recipes for skincare
How to conduct a skincare consultation with a client
Problem-solving during the consultation process

Oh, and the best part? Because you get to decide how often you work on your studies, you can graduate and earn your skincare consultant certification in as little as 2-6 months (maybe even sooner)!

View the full details for QC’s Skincare Course here and get started today!

Essential Tools To Start a Skincare Business

Okay, now it’s time to look at the various tools you’ll need to grow your skincare business. Let’s start by first breaking down the must-have tools you’ll need to start this exciting venture in the first place!

1. A Skincare Business Plan

The first thing you’re going to need is a business plan. This document will outline your overall goals and strategies, and how you plan on achieving them. Your business plan will be essential to the success of your skincare business!

Moreover, if you want to try and get financial assistance from a bank, they’re going to require this business plan from you.

Never written a business plan before?

No sweat! Just make sure that it contains the following key info:

An executive summary of your skincare business
A general description of company
Market analysis research
A sales/marketing plan
Your operational plan
A brief overview of your management team
Your financial plan and goals

If you need a little more help getting the ball rolling, there are all sorts of free templates and guidebooks available online!

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2. Insurance for Your Skincare Business

The next must-have is, of course, business insurance! Business insurance will protect you in the event of any accidents, injuries, or damages that occur while working with clients (or even afterwards).

There are a variety of different policies that you can choose from, and you may find yourself a bit overwhelmed at first by all of your options. Just take a breath, go through each type of insurance individually, and remember that your business won’t need all of them. By doing a little research, you’ll be able to narrow down the list and find the one (or two) that’s right for your company.

General liability insurance, for instance, will cover any third-party injuries that occur in your salon, on your property, etc. Another example would be insurance that can protect you in the event that a client tries out a product you’ve recommended, only for it to have unwanted reactions to their skin. In this kind of case, the best type of insurance to cover you would be professional liability insurance.

Other types of business insurance that you may want to consider include:

Product liability insurance
Property damage insurance
Business interruption insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance
Employment practices liability insurance

Tips For Finding The Right Coverage For YOUR Skincare Business

The best way to determine which type (or types) of business insurance you need is by doing a risk assessment of your company. This will help identify any potential areas where you may be vulnerable, and therefore in need of protection.

Once you have a good understanding of the risks that come with your skincare business, you can start shopping around for the right insurance policy!

There are a few things that you’ll want to keep in mind while you’re searching for the perfect policy, such as:

The size of your business
Your company’s location
How many employees you have
The type of products and services you offer
Your target market
Your business’s growth potential

By taking all of these factors into consideration, you’ll be able to find an insurance policy that’s both comprehensive and affordable.

3. A Registered Business Name

Before you can start legally operating your skincare business, you’ll first need to register it with the government. One major perk to registering your business name is that no one else will be able to use it. Instead, it’ll belong to you and you alone!

The process of registering a business name involves first coming up with a name for your company (that isn’t already in use, obviously) and then filing the appropriate paperwork. This process is actually quite simple and straightforward, so don’t feel overwhelmed! All you need to do is check with your local government office for the specific requirements where you live.

Need help coming up with the right name for your skincare business? Here are the Top 5 rules to picking the PERFECT name!

4. A Laptop and/or Smart Phone

Literally every business owner needs a laptop and/or smart phone these days. After all, these devices will be essential for keeping track of your bookings/appointments, communicating with clients, managing your finances, etc. Plus, you’ll need to be reachable, as you never know when a prospective client will be trying to contact you!

The good news is that these days, there are all sorts of great laptops and smartphones on the market that won’t break the bank. If you don’t have one already, we recommend doing some comparison shopping. This way, you can find the perfect device for your needs!

5. A Business Website

In today’s day and age, it’s absolutely essential to have a strong online presence for your skincare business – and one of the best ways to do this is by creating an official business website!

The thing is, your website doesn’t even need to be fancy or complicated. So long as it includes all the basic information about your company – such as your contact info, services offered, prices, online booking, etc. – you’ll be good to go.

Never created a website before? There are countless resources and guides available online, such as this guide by Business News Daily. Another option, if you have the budget for it, is to hire a web designer who can create the site for you.

Either way, just make sure to set aside the appropriate amount of time and money for this important task!

Client being recommended a product by skincare consultant

6. Your Professional Skincare Portfolio

When you’re first starting out in the skincare industry, it’s important to build up a strong portfolio of your work. Your portfolio will show clients what you’re capable of – as well as help them decide if you’re the right consultant for their needs.

Your portfolio can include things like before vs. after photos, client testimonials, behind-the-scenes videos, etc. And if you have any previous experience working as a skincare consultant, be sure to include that as well!

The thing is, building up a strong portfolio takes time and effort. But it will be worth it in the long run when you start booking clients left and right. Not to mention, it can be an ongoing effort. Your portfolio doesn’t have to be perfect right at the start of your career – you can continue to build upon and refine it, the longer you gain experience!

Did you know that QC Makeup Academy’s online Portfolio Development Workshop is ALL about helping you put together a solid portfolio to launch your career with? It’s true – and it’s one of the many reasons why this course is so popular!

7. Business Cards

Another important marketing tool when starting up your skincare business are business cards. These can be handed out to potential customers, left at local businesses, distributed at networking events, or simply given to anyone who expresses interest in your beauty services.

Your business card should include your:

Name
Professional title
Skincare business’s name
Link to your website
Social media handle
Contact information

Additionally, you can also include a brief tagline or slogan on your card – something that sums up what you do and why you’re the best at it!

There are all sorts of online printing companies that offer affordable business card printing services. The main thing we recommend is making sure that you order enough cards for all your marketing needs!

8. Social Media Accounts

Lastly, it’s important to have a strong social media presence for your skincare business. Through the power of social media, you’ll be able to reach a wider audience and connect with potential clients from all over the world!

Some of the most popular social media platforms for businesses these days include Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. That said, of course, there are plenty of other options out there as well. Why not look around and see which one(s) would make the most sense for your business!

Once you’ve set up your profiles, be sure to regularly populate them with high-quality content. Original photos/videos, blog posts, skincare advice/tips, and client testimonials are all excellent examples. When you do this, you’ll be showing people how serious you are about your business. Not to mention, posting high-quality content on a consistent basis will help you attract more followers.

Software To Grow Your Skincare Business

Now let’s move on and talk about some software tools that can help you grow your company. Keep in mind that everything we’re about to list are just some of the options at your disposal. If you do a little online research, you’ll find even more potential software that could work for you.

1. Asana

Asana is a project management software that can help you keep track of all your skincare clients, appointments, and tasks – all in one place. This can be massively helpful when you’re trying to stay organized and on top of your business… Which, of course, is what every business owner is literally always doing!

Another perk to Asana is that they offer a free version, which should be more than enough for most small businesses! With that in mind, if you’re looking for an alternative to Asana, we also recommend Trello or Basecamp.

2. Mailchimp

Mailchimp is a very handy tool that’ll help you create and send newsletters, email campaigns, and other marketing materials. This is super important, as you’ll then be able to stay in touch with your clients, while also promote your business at the same time!

Mailchimp also offers a free plan for small businesses, which we recommend taking advantage of. Alternatives to Mailchimp include – but aren’t limited to – Sendinblue or Constant Contact.

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3. QuickBooks

If you’re running your own business, you’re absolutely going to need accounting software – especially if you don’t have the budget to hire a personal accountant to do this type of work for you. And when it comes to accounting software, QuickBooks is considered the best of the best!

With QuickBooks, you can effortlessly manage your finances, invoices, and expenses. Furthermore, they offer a free trial, thereby giving you the flexibility to try their services before committing to a paid plan.

If you’re not a fan of QuickBooks and are looking for an alternate option for accounting software, then we would also recommend FreshBooks.

4. Zoom Events

These days, virtual beauty services are all the rage! Zoom Events is a tool that can help you flawlessly manage and execute virtual client consultations, follow-up appointments, online lessons, group classes, etc. With Zoom Events, you can live stream, host webinars, have chat rooms, and allow for breakout sessions. Another bonus is that their platform is super user-friendly and easy to navigate.

That said, probably our favorite thing about Zoom Events is that they offer a free plan for small businesses. That said, of course, if you don’t want to use Zoom, software like Webex or Google Meet are also a great alternative, too.

5. Wix

Wix is considered to be BEST all-around website builder… Just take it from Superb Website Builders! This is because Wix’s platform is super user-friendly, offers tons of free website templates and designs to choose from, and has powerful (yet easy-to-use) features.

I mean, what’s not to love?

Of course, Wix isn’t the only website builder available to you. If you’re not 100% sold on Wix, we also recommend giving Weebly, WordPress, or Squarespace a try.

6. Booker by Mindbody

Booker by Mindbody is considered one of THE best appointment booking software solutions for/in salons. It can be used to manage everything from client bookings and payments to marketing and staff management. Plus, this tool is great for small businesses that offer beauty services, as it can help streamline and optimize your day-to-day operations.

One thing to note about Booker, however, is that it’s a little pricey. It’s cheapest tier, for reference, is $125.00 per month. But if you’re not interested in any of the fancy bells and whistles, and just need a cohesive place to manage all of your appointments and a simple payment method, then this may be worth the cost for you.

7. Timely

Timely is another highly recommended scheduling software that comes at a bit more of an affordable price. In fact, their cheapest tier starts at only $15.00 per month! With Timely, you can manage your staff’s schedules, track time-off requests, and set goals and limits.

Overall, we think Timely is a great scheduling tool for small businesses – especially if you’re on a tighter budget.

9. Think Dirty

No, this isn’t an NSFW app, don’t worry… But it is an app you should have at your disposal!

The Talk Dirty app was first launched by Lily Tse, as Lily wanted to avoid toxic skincare ingredients due to the existing history of cancer already running in her family. With this free app, you can simply scan the barcode of any product and it’ll give you a “Dirty Meter” reading, which ranges from “Clean” to “Very Dirty.”

Furthermore, Talk Dirty will also provide you with a list of ingredients used in the product, as well as any health concerns associated with them.

Although your skincare certification training will make you an expert when it comes to good (and bad) product ingredients, this handy app can still prove useful in the event that you’re ever unsure. Plus, you can recommend it to your clients so they can double-check skincare ingredients when they’re not with you!

10. Hubspot’s Free CRM Software

Lastly, you’re going to want some sort of software in place that’ll help you manage your contacts, clients, and client profiles. And while there are a number of great CRM software options out there, we think Hubspot’s is one of the best – especially because it’s free to use!

With Hubspot’s CRM, you can keep track of your client interactions (both online and offline), create detailed contact profiles (which can help you keep track of each person’s skincare concerns, progress, etc.), and set reminders for follow-ups. Plus, their CRM is also great for team collaboration, as it has features that’ll allow you to assign tasks to specific team members.

Overall, we think Hubspot’s CRM is a great tool for small businesses – and it doesn’t hurt that it’s free to use!

Herbal essence. Alternative healthy medicine. Skin care. Essential oil or water dropping from fresh leaf to the bottle.

Must-Have Supplies and Tools To Grow Your Skincare Business

Lastly, let’s take look at the items you’ll need in order to actually do your job as a professional skincare consultant. After all, you can’t deliver your clients’ results without the proper supplies!

1. Proper Knowledge of Skin Types

As we briefly touched on earlier, one of the most important things you need in order to be a successful skincare consultant is an understanding of skin types.

Your certification training will teach you all about the different skin types – from oily and dry to combination and sensitive. But it’s important to note that every client’s skin type is unique. So, you’ll need to be able to properly assess each individual’s complexion before beginning any treatment or recommending any products.

Furthermore, you should also have a good understanding of common skincare concerns (i.e. acne, wrinkles, dark spots, etc.), as this will help you better treat your clients’ specific needs.

Once you have a solid understanding of both skin types and skincare concerns, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful skincare consultant!

2. A Client Consultation Form

The next item you’ll need in order to grow your skincare business and do your job properly is a client consultation form.

A client consultation form is a document that you’ll have your clients fill out before beginning any treatments or recommending any products. Usually, this form will be filled out by your client either before or during the first consultation.

In the form itself, you should be asking them questions about their skin type, concerns, and goals. This information is essential, as it’ll help you better understand each individual’s needs. Plus, it’s a great way to keep track of your clients’ progress over time!

If you’re not sure where to get started, there are plenty of free client assessment forms available online. Simply do a quick Google search and you should be able to find what you’re looking for!

3. A Client Assessment Form

Unlike a client consultation form, a client assessment form will get filled out along the way, as you and your client work together to reach the client’s skincare goals. Basically, the client assessment form is a way for you to track your clients’ progress over time, as well as their satisfaction with your services.

Some of the information you may track in this form will be similar to the information provided in the consultation form, such as:

The client’s skin type
Issues and concerns the client wishes to address/correct
Their current skincare routine
Current skincare products used

However, once you evaluate things and make recommendations, and your client starts implementing the regimen you’ve helped them create, your assessment form might also include information like:

Results from using certain recommended products
Before vs. after results throughout the process
Updates to the skincare regimen, should new and/or alternate products need to be recommended
Final results at the end of your time together

Again, there are plenty of free client assessment forms available online. But if you want to get really fancy, you can always create your own!

4. Skincare Product Samples

Next, you’ll also need to have skincare product samples on hand for your clients. This is especially important if you’re just starting out and don’t yet have a brick-and-mortar location where clients can purchase products.

Product samples are a great way to let your clients try out products before they commit to buying them. Plus, it’s a great marketing tool, as it allows you to introduce your clients to new products that they might not be familiar with otherwise.

If you don’t have any product samples on hand, don’t worry! Many skincare companies offer free (or low-cost) product samples that you can order for your business. All you have to do is reach out and ask!

5. Disposable Applicators

Another key thing you’ll need to have are disposable applicators. After all, some clients may wish to try a certain product during your consultation or appointment. Also, if your business also provides makeup services and you’re applying skincare products prior to the application, you’ll need to have disposable applicators on hand as well.

There are a few different types of disposable applicators that you can use for skincare, such as:

Cotton balls
Cotton swabs
Sponges
Brushes
Pads

The type of applicator you use will depend on the product being applied, as well as personal preference. However, cotton balls and cotton swabs are usually a safe bet and can be used for a variety of products. You can find disposable applicators at most drugstores or online.

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5. Sanitization Products

To do your job properly as a skincare consultant, you’ll also need to have some sanitization products on hand, such as alcohol wipes and/or sanitizing spray. This is important for both you and your client’s safety!

You’ll want to use sanitization products to clean your work station before and after each client, as well as in between any skincare and/or makeup applications on different clients. This will help to ensure that any bacteria or other contaminants are removed from the area, which will prevent the spread of infection.

You can find sanitization products at most drugstores or online.

6. A First Aid Kit

You should also have a first aid kit on hand, just in case of any accidents. This is especially important if you’ll be working with clients who have sensitive skin, as they may be more prone to developing rashes or other reactions.

A basic first aid kit should include:

Band-aids
Antibiotic ointment
Cotton balls
Gauze pads
Adhesive tape
Tweezers
Scissors

A first aid kit is a must-have for any business, but it’s especially important if you work in the skincare industry! You can find a first aid kit at most drugstores or online.

7. Client Surveys

You should also consider using client surveys to get feedback from your clients. This is a great way to learn what’s working and what’s not, as well as get ideas for new products or skincare services that you can offer. Plus, when you receive positive feedback, you can showcase this client testimonial on your website and social media (just make sure to get the client’s permission first)!

Client surveys can be done in person, by mail, or online. There are a variety of different survey platforms that you can use, such as SurveyMonkey or Google Forms. You can also find plenty of free survey templates online.

8. A Positive Attitude

Having a good attitude is undoubtedly one of THE most important things to not only help you do your job properly – but build a long-term, successful career. After all, clients won’t want to recommend or re-book with a skincare consultant who makes a bad impression and is unpleasant to be around.

If you want to be successful in the skincare and beauty industry, you need to be able to maintain a good attitude, even when you’re feeling stresses. Remember: every day is a new opportunity to learn and grow – both as a skincare expert and as a person.

9. Solid Communication (and Listening) Skills

Another key thing you’re going to need as a skincare consultant are strong communication skills. This includes being able to listen to your clients’ needs and concerns, as well as explain things in a way that is easy for them to understand. Otherwise, they’re going to have a hard time following the skincare regimen you develop for them – and they won’t understand why they’ll benefit from it.

It’s also important that you’re able to communicate effectively with other members of your team (if you have one), as well as any vendors or suppliers that you work with. Having good communication skills will help to make sure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal.

10. Patience

Last but not least, one of the most important things you need to grow your skincare business is patience! Building a successful business takes time, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results overnight. Just keep putting in the hard work and believe in yourself and your business – you’ll get there eventually!

Beauty cream in a glass jars on a light gray background. Decorated with white spring flowers. Unbranded skincare product. Cosmetic cream. Close up, selective focus, side view.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! These are just a handful of the things you’ll need to grow your skincare business. Just remember to be patient, stay positive, and always keep learning and growing as both a skincare expert and a business owner. Good luck!

Do you have any other tips for growing a skincare business? Share them in the comments below!

And don’t forget to check out our step-by-step guide for starting a skincare business. Thanks for reading! 😘

Enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s online Skincare Course today and graduate with your globally-recognized certification in as little as 8 short weeks!

Jun 20

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How to Choose The Best Online Makeup School

By Sarah Cavanagh About the School, Education, Your Makeup Career No Comments

When it comes to finding the right makeup school, there are a lot of things to consider. For example, what should the school criteria include? How can you tell if a makeup academy is reputable or not? In this article, we’ll show you how to choose the best online makeup school for YOU and your career goals!

Let’s get started, shall we?

Is professional makeup the right career for you? Here are the top pros and cons of this job, so you can decide once and for all!

How To Choose The Right Makeup School For You: In-Person Vs. Online

When it comes to choosing the best makeup school, you have 2 options: in-person or online. So, let’s begin by breaking down the pros and cons of each type of makeup program…

In-Person Makeup School

Pros

You can build a strong rapport with your classmates and instructor(s).
You’re able to get immediate feedback on your work/progress.
It can be easier to find models to work on during your classes.

Cons

It can be expensive to travel to/from the school – especially these days, with the current price of gas.
Typically, in-person schooling is a lot more expensive.
The class schedule might not be flexible enough to work around your work/life schedule.
You may not be able to find a makeup program that’s close to home.

Online Makeup School

Pros

Generally, online schooling a lot more affordable (e.g., lower tuition, payment plan options, etc.).
You get the freedom to study on your own schedule and at your preferred pace.
There are a lot of online makeup programs to choose from, from foundation courses to advanced/specialty classes.

Cons

The wrong kind of online makeup school will make it more difficult to get helpful feedback on your progress.
Your interactions with classmates and instructors may be more limited.
It can be easy to get distracted while studying at home if you aren’t self-disciplined.

So, which type of learning environment is the right fit for you?

On the one hand, you might feel like you’d benefit from the structure of an in-person course, as well as want the chance to build relationships with classmates and tutors. If so, then this is probably the route for you.

On the other hand, however, you may be looking for a more affordable option that allows you to study at your own pace. If this is the case, then an online makeup school would be the better choice for your goals.

For the purpose of this article, let’s assume that moving forward, you want to learn more about picking the best online makeup school…

How To Choose The Best Online Makeup School: Must-Have Criteria

When you’re looking for an online makeup school, there are certain criteria that the school itself should meet. Some critical green flags include the following:

✅ The Online Makeup School Is Properly Accredited

These days, there are a LOT of scammers out there who want nothing more than to steal your hard-earned money. For this reason, when looking at online makeup schools, be sure to check and see that the institution is properly accredited. This means that it’s been evaluated by an outside agency and determined to meet certain educational standards.

QC Makeup Academy, for example, holds an A+ ranking from the Better Business Bureau. On top of that, we’re a faculty of QC Career School – a trustworthy pioneer of distance learning since 1984!

Pretty happy businesswoman doing make up in home office

✅ The School Has a Legit Website

When you’re looking at an online makeup school, take a look at the company’s website. Does it look legitimate? Is it user-friendly? Are the school’s policies, procedures, and course information easy to find?

An online school’s website will tell you a LOT about that school as a whole. If it’s poorly designed and/or lacks need-to-know info, that’s a pretty big red flag!

QC Makeup Academy’s website, for example, is designed with the student in mind. For starters, it’s incredibly easy to navigate. Plus, it’s got all the information you need – right at your fingertips!

✅ The Makeup Tutors Are Qualified

The best online makeup school will have qualified instructors who are the real deal. Not only will they possess the experience and expertise needed to be teaching your course; they’ll also be properly certified.

The tutors and expert instructors at QC Makeup Academy are all exceptionally qualified! They have years of experience in the professional beauty industry, as well as countless designations and qualifications to their names.

Take our lead instructor, Nathan Johnson, as an example. Nathan helped handcraft QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, in addition to many other QC programs. With over 20 years of experience as a celebrity MUA and makeup coach, Nathan has worked with such A-listers like Paula Abdul, Lea Michele, Kyra Sedgwick, Kevin Bacon, Paul McCartney, and more!

✅ They’re On Social Media

When choosing the best online makeup school, the next thing you’ll want to do is see if they’re active on social media. These days, any business that isn’t on social media in some way is pretty sus. After all, social media is a great way for an online school to showcase their culture, the kind of awesome community they have, etc.

QC Makeup Academy is VERY active on social media! This is because we love connecting with our students/alumni, as well as sharing tips, tricks, blog posts, and useful resources. Plus, we’re always looking for an excuse to post pictures and videos of our happy students/grads and the beautiful makeup looks they’ve done!

Interested in checking out QC’s social media?

Connect with us here:

✅ The School’s Support Team Is Actually Reachable

How annoying is it when you try to get a hold of a company’s support team, only to be met with radio silence? If an online makeup school’s Support Staff aren’t easy to get a hold of, are prone to ghosting, and/or have a terrible attitude, proceed with major caution!

Here’s yet another awesome perk of becoming a student at QC Makeup Academy: our Support Team is quite literally the BEST! 💕 They’re available 7 days a week by phone, email, and live chat – depending on your personal preference. Plus, they’re always quick to respond to any inquiries or issues you might have.

It also helps that they’re super friendly and more than happy to help you out, no matter what the concern might be!

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How To Find an Online Makeup School: Course Criteria

Okay, so we’ve gone over some things to look for in an online makeup school. Now let’s talk about the actual criteria the program itself should meet. When trying to choose the best online makeup school, make sure the course offers the following:

✅ A Solid Makeup Curriculum

When you’re looking at online makeup courses, make sure to check out the curriculum of the course itself.

Does it cover everything you’re hoping to learn? Has the program been designed by experienced beauty experts? Does it cater to beginner makeup artists, experienced MUAs, or both?

QC Makeup Academy offers a wide, comprehensive list of makeup and beauty certification programs that cover all of the following areas of the industry:

Makeup Artistry (for personal makeup)
Master Makeup Artistry (for professional makeup on clients)
Skincare Consulting
Pro Makeup (meant to be taken after the MMA Course)
Global Beauty
Portfolio Development
Airbrush Makeup
Hair Styling Essentials
Special FX Makeup
Fashion Styling
Virtual Makeup Training

Want to learn more about these courses? Check out the full curricula for QC’s self-paced, online certification programs here!

✅ Affordable Tuition

Of course, you want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth when you sign up for an online makeup course. But this does NOT mean you have to break the bank in the process!

The truth is, there are plenty of affordable options out there, in terms of online makeup schools.

Take QC Makeup Academy, for instance! Our online programs are some of the most affordable you’ll find! For starters, we offer a low monthly payment plan option, thereby allowing you to spread out the cost of your course over time!

What’s more – the moment you enroll in one QC course, every other course is then available to you at a whopping 50% off!

Click here to learn more about the cost (and payment options) of QC Makeup Academy’s courses!

✅ Hands-On Experience

MYTH: You won’t be able to get any hands-on experience through an online makeup school.

FACT: The best online makeup school will guarantee that you get plenty of hands-on training on actual models!

This makes total sense… After all, what’s the point of taking a makeup course – yes, even online ones – if it won’t prepare you for the real world?

QC Makeup Academy’s online programs offer students countless opportunities to put their skills to the test via practical, hands-on assignments. You’ll be challenged to find and work on models of different ages, genders, etc. Furthermore, you’ll be required to complete assignments on models with different skin tones, skin types, etc.

closeup young lady prepared by makeup artist

✅ Business Training

If your goal is to start your own makeup business, then it’s important to find a course that also offers business training as part of its curriculum. After all, there’s a lot more to being a successful MUA than just knowing how to apply makeup!

All of QC’s courses provide a full unit devoted entirely to business training. As a result, graduates walk away knowing exactly how to launch – and run – a successful company of their very own. From building a clientele to marketing your services, our certification programs cover it all!

Pro Tip: Join QC Makeup Academy alumnus and industry expert, Devyn Gregorio, as she breaks down why a business class is ESSENTIAL to your makeup training!

✅ A Legitimate Makeup Certification Upon Graduating

When graduating from an online makeup school, you should be proud of your accomplishment! And what better way to show off your new skills – and certification – than by displaying it for the whole world to see?

As we mentioned earlier, QC Makeup Academy is a well-respected and accredited institution. As such, when you graduate from any of our courses, you’ll receive either a certificate of completion or an internationally-recognized certification + designation!

The following QC courses will provide a globally-recognized certification:

Master Makeup Artistry Course – Master International Makeup Professional (MIMP) certification/designation
Skincare Course – International Skincare Consulting Professional (ISCP) certification/designation
Special FX Makeup Course – International Special FX Makeup Professional (ISMP) certification/designation
Fashion Styling Course – International Styling Professional (CISP™) certification/designation

The remainder of QC’s courses provide a globally-recognized certificate of completion!

Deciding On an Online Makeup Academy: Red Flags To Avoid

Now it’s time to move onto the red flags you’ll want to watch out for. After all, choosing the wrong school can be a very costly mistake – both in terms of your time and money.

When it comes shady online makeup schools, keep an eye out for the following warning signs…

🚩 The Online Makeup School Is Unaccredited

As we mentioned earlier, one of the many benefits of QC Makeup Academy is our accreditation. But there are many online makeup schools out there that are not accredited. While this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re a bad makeup school, it’s still something to be aware of.

Generally speaking, if an online school isn’t properly recognized, it could mean that:

They don’t adhere to certain quality standards
They’re not properly licensed
They might not have been around for very long
It’s not a legitimate online makeup school

Obviously, these are all totally valid concerns! As such, if you come across an online makeup school that’s unaccredited, make sure to do your due diligence before enrolling. Make sure they’re legit first.

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🚩 They Have a Bad Reputation

Another HUGE red flag is to watch out for is if the school has a bad reputation, both online or otherwise. For instance, do they have more negative reviews than positive ones? Are there countless complaints about them?

Of course, every makeup school – whether it be online or in-person – is going to have at least a few unhappy students. That’s just the way it is. But if the majority of what you see online is negative, then that’s a glaring red flag you shouldn’t ignore.

The best way to get an accurate idea of an online makeup school’s reputation is by reading reviews from multiple sources. This way, you can get the most accurate picture of what people are saying about them.

Curious about what people are saying about QC Makeup Academy? Take a look at our Facebook reviews!

🚩 You’re Promised “Quick and Easy” Results

In order to choose the best online makeup school, it’s important to avoid any place whose promises seem too good to be true. For instance, if a school claims that they can turn you (and your skill-set) into that of a professional MUA in less than a month, then that’s probably not realistic.

Now, we’re not saying that it’s impossible to become a certified makeup artist quickly. After all, some people pick things up faster than others and will be able to finish their makeup course in less time. But generally speaking, it’s going to take more than just a month to acquire all the skills needed for long-term success in the beauty industry.

So, if an online makeup school is making any grandiose promises, be at least a little wary. After all, we know that the LAST thing you want to do is waste your time and money on something that’s not actually going to work.

🚩 The Cost of The Makeup Course is Dirt Cheap

Now, this rule doesn’t necessary apply to all makeup courses. Some schools, for example, may offer short workshops or quick modules that you can purchase à la carte. In these cases, it makes sense that these may be offered at a very low price.

What we’re referring to are extensive, full-on certification courses offered at a ludicrously low cost.

Here’s a good rule-of-thumb to abide by: if a school’s tuition fees are suspiciously low, there’s a reason for that… And it’s not a good one! Good-quality makeup courses will typically cost a few hundred dollars, at the VERY least.

And most high-quality programs? Well, you’ll be looking at paying anywhere from approx. $500 to $1300. (Although, as we mentioned earlier, this is still relatively cheaper than in-person courses – and you’ll have more payment options at your disposal!)

Now, it obviously goes without saying that there are always exceptions to the rule. However, if an online makeup school is claiming that they can fully train you (from no experience to the level of a professional MUA) for less than $100, that’s a MAJOR red flag!

If the price seems too good to be true, that’s because it probably is. So, just keep that in mind.

🚩 Your Makeup Certification Costs Extra

Another red flag to watch out for is any online makeup school that tries to make you pay extra for your certification. This isn’t cool, no matter the circumstance!

The fee for your certification should be included within the cost of tuition. After all, you’ve earned it! If a school is trying to make you pay additional and/or hidden fees for it, you’re being scammed.

So, as we’ve suggested before (and will continue to suggest again), do your research before enrolling in any online makeup class. This way, you can make sure the certification provided is included in the cost of tuition before signing up with the school!

Young brunette girl holding graduate degree diploma smiling happy pointing with hand and finger to the side

🚩 You’re Only Given Textbook Learning

When choosing the best online makeup school, make sure they offer more than just textbook learning. While it’s important to have a foundation in theoretical makeup artistry knowledge, you also want to make sure you’re getting hands-on training, too.

Ideally, your online makeup course should offer both classroom-based learning AND practical assignments. Only this way will you then be able to graduate with the confidence needed to actually apply any style of makeup professionally – and not just understand the theory behind it.

How To Become a Makeup Artist

Now that you know how to choose the best online makeup school, it’s time to start your journey to becoming a certified MUA! So long as you remember to do your research, ask around for recommendations, and ensure that the program you choose is properly accredited, you’ll be well on your way!

We also STRONGLY encourage you to check out our Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide to Becoming a Makeup Artist! This informative article will break down all of the following information:

Whether or not being a makeup artist is truly a good career
Educational requirements
Cosmetology school vs. makeup school
The length of time it’ll take to become a certified makeup artist
Which field is best for makeup artists
How to become a certified MUA in 3 easy steps, even if you don’t have any experience

More Useful Resources You Should Definitely Bookmark

If you’re serious about becoming a professional makeup artist (and we know you are), then we also recommend bookmarking the following resources as well:

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Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed reading this article on how to choose the best online makeup school. With the right research, and so long as you know which criteria to look for, we guarantee you’ll find the course that best suits your needs!

Do YOU have any questions or comments about choosing the best online makeup school? Let us know in the comment section below! We love hearing from our readers!

Stay glam, beauties! 😘

Become an internationally-certified makeup artist in as little as 2-6 months by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

Jun 13

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The best tools to grow your makeup business Feature Image

34 Of The Best Tools To Grow Your Makeup Business!

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

If you’re looking to grow your makeup business, you’re in luck! There are a number of great tools out there that can help you do just that. In this article, we’ll discuss 34 of the best tools to grow your makeup business and find success in this exciting industry.

In particular, we’ll look at software tools, business tools, and makeup products/supplies that can help you reach your goals. So, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the business for a while, these tools will help you take your business to the next level!

Pro Tip: Is makeup artistry your DREAM job? Then make sure you check out our Ultimate Guide to becoming a makeup artist – even if you don’t have any experience!

The 34 Best Tools To Grow Your Makeup Business

Software To Grow Your Makeup Business

Okay, let’s say that your goal is to start your own cosmetics line. In this case, the best software to grow your makeup business is an eCommerce platform. If you want to sell products online, then you’ll need a platform that lets you do just that.

We recommend Shopify as the best eCommerce platform for makeup businesses that are selling actual cosmetics. With Shopify, you can create a beautiful online store, add products and descriptions, process payments, and more!

On the other hand, what if you don’t want to run your own cosmetics line, or be a Brand Ambassador for another company? What if you want to run a business that offers makeup application services? What software will work for you best in this case?

Well, here are some of our top recommendations:

1. Wish

A shopping app like Wish will be your best friend when it comes to stocking up your professional makeup kit and building your salon. The app offers a wide variety of cosmetics at incredibly low prices. As a result, you can get all the products you need – without breaking the bank!

Plus, with Wish, you can order in bulk and save even more money. This is perfect if you’re just starting out and need to build up your kit quickly.

2. AliExpress

Similarly, AliExpress is another great option for stocking up on affordable cosmetics. The website offers a wide variety of products, from makeup brushes to eyeshadow palettes, so you’re sure to find everything you need!

And like Wish, AliExpress also offers discounts when you order in bulk. Thus, if you’re looking to save some money, this is the website for you!

3. Sephora

If you’re looking for high-end makeup products, then Sephora is the place to go. The website offers a wide variety of cosmetics from top brands, so you’re sure to find what you’re looking for!

Plus, with Sephora’s loyalty program, you can earn points on every purchase that you make. These points can then be redeemed for discounts on future purchases, so you can save money in the long run!

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4. MakeUp Sketchbook

If you’re looking for a way to keep track of your work and progress, as well as play with ideas before testing them out on actual clients, then we recommend using MakeUp Sketchbook. With this software, you can create face charts, play with designs, and see how certain looks and products will combine with each other.

The most beneficial part of this type of software is that you can brainstorm new ideas and looks to try out. This is the perfect way to stay creative, expand your skill-set, and perfect the looks you’re going to be applying onto real customers.

5. Social Media Apps

When it comes to promoting your makeup business, social media is key! After all, what better way to reach potential customers than by using the platforms they already use every day?

Some of our favorite social media apps for makeup businesses are Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and Twitter. With these apps, you can post photos and videos of your work, share special offers and discounts, network, and reach a wide audience of potential customers!

Pro Tip: Not sure how to get started with social media? Learn how to market your business properly on social media in this article!

Business Software To Invest In

1. PocketSuite

This is a great software solution for makeup artists who want to manage their business on the go. PocketSuite lets you track client appointments, send invoices, process payments, and more – all from your phone!

2. Acuity Scheduling

Acuity Scheduling is another great option for makeup artists who want to manage their business on the go. With Acuity Scheduling, you can schedule appointments, send reminders, and accept payments – again, all from your phone!

3. Makeup Artist Directories

Getting yourself listed on some sort of online directory a great way to reach potential customers who are looking for makeup artists in their area. Some of our favorite directories to list your business on include (but aren’t limited to):

Makeup artist applying bright pink lipstick to lips of young woman in curlers

4. Asana

Asana is a great project management tool that can be used by makeup artists to keep track of their to-do lists, tasks, and goals. With Asana, you can create projects, add tasks and subtasks, set deadlines, and assign team members to each task. This is a great way to stay organized and make sure that your makeup business is running smoothly!

5. Daysmart Salon

This software is perfect for makeup artists who want to manage their business from one central location. Daysmart Salon Software lets you schedule clients with ease, track clients and appointments, handle payments, and more. Not only will this help you to keep your business organized; it’ll also help you to provide a better experience for your clients!

6. QuickBooks

QuickBooks is a must-have for any business – and that includes makeup businesses! This software lets you track your income and expenses, send invoices, process payments, run reports, and so much more. QuickBooks is essential for keeping your finances in order, and in turn, keeping your business running seamlessly.

7. Mailchimp

Mailchimp is a great tool for makeup artists who want to stay in touch with their clients and promote their business. With Mailchimp, you can create email newsletters, send out coupons and discounts, announce new products and services, and more. Plus, it’s easy to use and very affordable!

8. Wave

If your makeup business consists of only you, and does not house any employees, then a simpler payment solution like Wave may be better suited for your needs. With Wave, you can send simple invoices, receive payments, track your expenses, run reports, and more. Wave is a great option for makeup artists who want to keep their finances organized – without all the bells and whistles of a more complex software solution.

What Tools Do You Need To Be a Makeup Artist?: Other Business Essentials

1. Makeup Business Plan

Any good business starts with a solid plan. This will help you to define your goals, target market, and marketing strategy – all of which are essential for a successful business. Plus, if you want to get financial assistance from your bank, they’ll likely require a business plan as well.

You can find free templates and examples of business plans online, or you can hire a professional to help you write one. Either way, just make sure it contains the following information:

Executive Summary
Company Description
Products and Services
Market Analysis
Competition
Sales and Marketing Strategy
Financial Plan

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2. Operating Agreement (If You’re Starting an LLC)

If you’re starting a limited liability company (LLC), you’ll need to create an operating agreement. This document outlines the ownership and structure of your LLC, as well as the rules and regulations that you and your partners will need to follow.

You can find templates for operating agreements online, or you can hire an attorney to help you create one. Just make sure it covers the following topics:

Names and contact information of the LLC’s owners
Ownership percentage of each owner
The LLC’s management structure
Roles and responsibilities of each owner
Rules for voting on important decisions
Procedures for admitting new owners-
Dissolution procedures in the event that one of the owners wants to leave the LLC

Note: Operating agreements are not required in all states, but they’re a good idea regardless!

3. Business Insurance

Business insurance is essential for any business, and your makeup business is of no exception! Insurance will protect you financially in the event that something goes wrong, such as if someone gets injured at your salon or if you’re sued.

There are many different types of business insurance to choose from. So, make sure to do your research and find the policy that’s right for your business. Some common types of business insurance include:

4. A Registered Business Name

If you want to operate your business under a name that’s different from your own, you’ll need to register it with your state or province. This is also known as “doing business as” (a.k.a. DBA). Getting your business name registered stops anyone else from being able to operate under the same name for their company… And obviously, this is super important!

To register your business name, you’ll need to file the appropriate paperwork with your secretary of state and pay the required fees. The process varies from state to state, as well as province to province. So, make sure to check with your local governing regulations for specific instructions.

Importantly, after you’ve registered your business name, be sure to use it on all of your marketing materials – such as your website, business cards, and signage!

5. A Strong Brand Identity

Your brand identity is how your business is perceived by the public. It’s what sets you apart from your competitors and makes you recognizable to your target market. As such, it’s important to take some time to develop a strong brand identity for your makeup business!

There are many different aspects to consider when creating your brand identity, such as your logo, tagline, color scheme, etc. But perhaps the most important element is your mission statement. This is a brief summary of what your company does and why it exists – and it should be reflected in everything you do!

Need help developing a strong brand identity for your makeup business? Check out our blog post on How To Brand Your Makeup Business!

Blonde Girl with Elegant and shiny Hairstyle. Beautiful Model Woman with Curly Hairstyle. Care and Beauty Hair products. Nails and Manicure

6. Your Professional Makeup Portfolio

As a makeup artist, your portfolio is essential in both getting hired for jobs and landing new clients. It’s a collection of your best work that showcases your skills and style to potential employers and customers.

If you don’t already have a portfolio, now is the time to start putting one together! Start by gathering all of the photos you have of your previous work, as well as any testimonials or letters of recommendation you may have. Then, create a website or an online gallery to showcase your portfolio – and make sure it’s easily accessible to anyone who might be interested in seeing it!

Never put together a professional makeup portfolio before? Learn everything you need to know in QC Makeup Academy‘s self-paced, online Portfolio Development Workshop!

7. A Professional Business Website

In today’s day and age, it’s critical to have a professional website for your business – no matter what industry you’re in. Your website is often the first point of contact between you and your potential customers. Because of this, it’s important to make sure that it makes the BEST impression possible!

Your website should be informative, well-designed, and easy to navigate. It should also be mobile-friendly, as more and more people are now using their smartphones to access the internet. Plus, don’t forget to showcase your portfolio on your site, as well as link visitors to your social media channels.

And of course, don’t forget to include your contact information prominently on your site! Otherwise, how can you expect anyone to be able to get a hold of you?

Products, Supplies, and Tools To Start a Makeup Business

Now that we’ve gone over some of the business basics, let’s move on to the fun stuff – makeup products! Here are a few essential items you’ll need to get started…

1. A Good Quality Makeup Brush Set

As a makeup artist, your brushes are some of your most important tools. After all, they’re what you’ll use to apply all of the products in your kit. So, it’s important to make sure you have a good set! Look for a set that includes both natural and synthetic brushes, as well as a variety of different shapes and sizes.

Fun Fact: Did you know that as part of the FREE makeup kit you’ll get in QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, you’ll receive a whopping 16 makeup brushes? It’s true!

2. A Wide Variety of Foundation Shades

When it comes to foundation, it’s important to have a wide range of shades to choose from. This way, you can match any client’s skin tone – no matter how light or dark!

We recommend stocking your kit with foundations in both liquid and powder form, as well as a BB cream or two. And don’t forget about concealer! You’ll need that, too.

3. Eyeshadows in Different Colors and Finishes

In your eyeshadow kit, you’ll want to include a variety of colors and finishes. This way, you can create any look your client desires – from natural and subtle to bold and dramatic!

Some essential eyeshadow shades to include are:

Nudes
Shimmers
Metallics
Smoky shades
Bright colors

Remember, it’s also important to have a good quality eyeshadow primer in your kit. This will help the shadows stay in place all day (or night!) long.

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4. A Good Quality Eyeliner

A good eyeliner is essential for creating any type of eye makeup look. Whether your client wants a simple cat eye or something more dramatic, you’ll need a liner that goes on smoothly and evenly.

We recommend stocking your kit with both pencil and liquid liners, as well as some false lashes.

5. False Eyelashes

False lashes are a great way to take any eye makeup look from ordinary to extraordinary! They come in all different shapes, sizes, and styles – so you can find the perfect ones for each of your clients.

Just make sure you have a good quality lash adhesive in your kit, too. This will ensure that the lashes stay put all day!

6. Mascara

Of course, you can’t forget about mascara! This is another essential product for creating any type of eye makeup look. When choosing a mascara, look for one that doesn’t flake or smudge. You’ll also want to make sure it has a good brush – this will help you get an even application.

7. Lipstick, Lip Gloss, and/or Lip Tint in a Variety of Shades

For the lips, you’ll want to stock your kit with a variety of shades. This way, you can create any look – from a natural lip to a bold and dramatic one.

Some essential shades to include are:

Nudes
Pinks
Reds
Berries

Remember, it’s also important to have a lip liner in your kit. This will help you create a sharp, defined look.

8. Color Correctives

Color correctors are a great way to conceal any imperfections on the skin. They come in a variety of colors, each of which cancels out a different type of imperfection.

Some essential color correctors to include in your kit are:

Green – for redness
Pink – for dark circles
Purple – for sallowness
Orange – for darkness
Yellow – for brightening
Salmon – the “Holy Grail” of color correctives

Color correcting will often need to be done on your clients – and this is yet another reason to also have a high quality concealer in your kit. The right concealer will help you cover up any imperfections that the color correctors don’t quite manage to conceal.

Pro Tip: Watch this handy webinar by QC Makeup Academy executive instructor and celebrity MUA, Nathan Johnson, to become a master of color correcting!

Beautiful woman with natural makeup and long blonde hair standing isolated over pink background, posing

9. Disposable Applicators

Disposable applicators are essential for hygienic reasons. You’ll want to have a good supply of them on hand at all times, as you’ll use them for everything from applying foundation to blending eyeshadow.

Some essential disposable applicators to include in your kit are:

Sponges
Brushes
Q-tips
Cotton pads
Makeup wipes

Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to hygiene. It’s better to use too many disposable applicators than not enough!

10. Sanitization Products

Speaking of hygiene, you’ll also need to have some sanitization products in your kit. This is important for both you and your clients’ safety! Not to mention, it’s downright disgusting how dirty makeup products can get if not properly kept clean.

Some essential sanitization products to include in your kit are:

Hand sanitizer
Disinfectant wipes
Makeup brush cleaner
Spray disinfectant

As a rule of thumb, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So, be sure to use these products regularly – especially if you’re working with multiple clients in one day. And don’t forget to clean your makeup products on a regular basis, regardless of whether you’re working on clients or not!

11. A Travel Makeup Bag/Kit

Another thing we strongly recommend having in your arsenal is a travel makeup bag or kit. This is essential for storing all of your makeup products and tools when you’re on the go!

There are many different types of travel makeup bags – from small cosmetic pouches to large rolling cases. The type you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.

No matter what type of travel makeup bag you choose, be sure to pack it carefully. You don’t want your products to get damaged while you’re on the road!

12. An Emergency Kit

Additionally, it’s a super smart idea to have an emergency kit on-hand. This is especially important if you’re working with clients on a regular basis. Your emergency kit should include all of the essentials – from band-aids to bobby pins.

Because the truth is, you never know when you or your client might need them!

Some essential items to include in your emergency kit are:

Band-aids
Bobby pins
Hair ties
Safety pins
Tissues
Mints
Aspirin
Female sanitary products

Again, it’s always better to be prepared for anything – you never know when an emergency might strike!

The best tools to grow your makeup business in-post image 7

13. A Business Planner/Organizer

Next, you’ll need a business planner or organizer. This is essential for keeping track of your appointments, clients, bookings, and more! There are many different types of planners/organizers on the market – from simple to-do lists to comprehensive appointment books.

The type you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. That said, no matter what type of planner/organizer you choose, be sure to use it regularly. This will help you stay on top of your business and ensure that you’re meeting your goals!

14. The Right Attitude

Last but not least, the most important thing you need in order to succeed as a makeup artist is the right attitude! This industry is competitive, and it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to make it to the top.

But if you’re passionate about makeup and willing to put in the time and effort, then there’s no reason why you can’t succeed! Just remember to stay positive, always keep learning, and be open to constructive feedback.

The more you know, the better your chances of success will be!

How To Start a Successful Makeup Business 101

Now that you know what the best tools are to grow your makeup business, it’s time to put them into action! But first, let’s go over 5 basic rules for starting a successful makeup business.

These days, starting a business is easier than ever before – but that doesn’t mean it’s easy! In order to be successful, you’ll need to put in the hard work and dedication. But with these 5 tips, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving business:

Tip #1: Choose Your Niche

When starting any business, it’s important to choose a niche. The makeup industry is huge, so it’s important to narrow down your focus and find your target market. For instance, are you going to specialize in bridal makeup? Or are you going to focus on special effects makeup?

Knowing your niche will help you determine what products and services you’re going to offer. It will also help you target your marketing efforts, which we’ll discuss more in-depth shortly.

Tip #2: Do Your Research

Before starting any business, it’s important to do your research. This includes everything from studying the competition to learning about the latest trends in the industry. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to start and grow your business!

When it comes to research, there are a few key things you should look into:

The competition: Who are they? What do they offer? How can you differentiate yourself from them?
The industry: What are the latest trends? Which products and services are in demand? What’s the outlook for the future?
Your target market: Who are they? What do they want/need? How can you reach them?

By taking the time to research your industry, competition, and target market, you’ll be in a much better position to start and grow your makeup business. Trust us – it’s worth the effort!

Tip #3: Know Your Target Market

As we mentioned above, it’s important to know your target market. This includes everything from their age and gender to their location and interests. The more you know about your target market, the better equipped you’ll be to reach them with your marketing efforts.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself when trying to identify your target market:

Who are they?
What do they want/need?
How can you reach them?
What’s the best way to communicate with them?

By taking the time to answer these questions, you’ll be well on your way to identifying your target market. And once you’ve done that, you can start working on reaching them with your marketing efforts!

Tip #4: Come Up With a Marketing Strategy

Now that you know your target market, it’s time to start working on your marketing strategy. The goal of your marketing efforts should be to reach your target market and persuade them to use your products or services.

There are a number of ways to go about this, but some of the most effective include:

Social media: Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram to reach your target market. Be sure to post engaging content that will capture their attention!
Email marketing: This is a great way to stay in touch with your customers and prospects. Be sure to send out regular newsletters with helpful information and exclusive offers.
Paid ads: Paid ads are a great way to reach a wider audience. You can use platforms like Google AdWords and Facebook Ads to reach your target market.
Word-of-mouth: Never underestimate the power of word of mouth! Make sure you’re providing quality products and services that will keep your customers coming back for more.

By taking the time to develop a strong marketing strategy, you’ll be in a much better position to reach your target market and grow your business.

Hand pointing at abstract digital text on circuit background. Advertising, media and web concept

Tip #5: Stay Organized

Last but not least, it’s important to stay organized when running a business. This includes everything from keeping track of your finances to staying on top of your inventory. The more organized you are, the easier it will be to run your business smoothly and efficiently.

There are a number of ways to stay organized, but some of the most effective include:

Use software: As we looked at earlier, there are tons of great software programs out there designed specifically for businesses. By using one of these programs, you can keep track of your finances, inventory, customers, and more.
Hire an assistant: If you’re finding it difficult to keep up with everything, consider hiring an assistant. This can be a great way to take some of the pressure off yourself and free up your time to focus on other aspects of your business.
Stay on top of your schedule: Make sure you’re keeping track of your appointments, deadlines, and to-do lists. The more organized you are, the easier it will be to stay on top of everything.

By taking the time to stay organized, you’ll be in a much better position to run your business effectively. And believe us, your customers will appreciate it, too!

Conclusion

There you have it! These are just some the best tips for growing your makeup business. By following all of this invaluable advice, you’ll be well on your way to success.

So, what are you waiting for? Get started today! 💕

We hope you found this article helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share your thoughts down below. And as always, thanks again for reading!

Stay glam, beauties! 😘

Become an internationally-certified makeup artist in as little as 12 short weeks by training online with QC Makeup Academy!

Jun 06

Love5

How to Brand Your Makeup Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Starting a makeup business can be an extremely rewarding experience! However, it’s important to take the time to brand your business in a way that will set you apart from the competition. Not sure how to brand your makeup business?

Don’t worry, we’re here to help!

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about successfully branding your makeup business from start to finish. We’ll cover topics such as creating a logo and tagline, developing a marketing strategy, and building a website that will help promote your brand.

With the right tools and knowledge, YOU can create a successful makeup artist brand that will attract new customers and help your business grow!

Dream of being a professional MUA? Then this Ultimate Guide to becoming a makeup artist (even with no prior experience) is a MUST-READ!

What Is a “Brand”?

A brand is much more than just a logo or name. It’s the overall look, feel, and personality of your business. When done correctly, branding can make your business appear more credible, trustworthy, and likeable. As you can imagine, these are all qualities that are essential for attracting new customers!

Why Branding Is Important for Makeup Artists

As an MUA, it’s important to stand out from the competition. After all, there are thousands of other makeup artists out there vying for the attention of potential clients. So, it’s important to create a brand that will make you memorable!

Branding can also help build trust with potential clients. When you have a strong brand identity, potential clients will be more likely to book you for their next event knowing that you’re a credible and trustworthy makeup artist.

Another reason why branding is essential to your makeup business has to do with marketing. A well-branded business will have an easier time promoting itself and attracting new customers. This is because people are more likely to remember and purchase products from businesses that they recognize!

What Makes a Brand Successful?

There are a few key elements that all successful brands have in common…

First, all great brands have a strong visual identity. This means having a well-designed logo and cohesive branding colors that are used consistently across all marketing materials.

Second, another important element of successful brands is a clear and concise message. Your brand’s message should be easy to understand and should accurately reflect the overall feel of your business.

Finally, all successful brands have a target audience that they focus their marketing efforts on. By clearly defining who your target market is, you’ll be able to create branding and marketing materials that resonates with them and attract new customers!

How To Brand Your Business Name

Your business name is one of the first things that potential customers will see. So, it’s important to choose something that accurately reflects the feel of your brand!

If you’re having trouble coming up with a name for your business, try brainstorming a list of words that describe the overall look and feel of your brand. Once you have a list of keywords, try combining them to create unique and memorable names for your business!

Did you know that there are 5 KEY RULES to keep in mind when naming your makeup business? Discover what they are here!

How To Brand Your Makeup Business: What Are The 4 Steps of Branding?

Now that we’ve covered the importance of branding and what makes a brand successful, let’s discuss the steps you need to take to create a strong brand for your makeup business!

Step 1: Creating a Logo and Tagline

Once you’ve settled on a name for your business, the first real step in branding your makeup business is to create a logo and tagline that accurately represents your brand. Your logo should be simple and easy to remember, while your tagline should be reflective of the overall feel of your business.

For example, if you’re aiming to create a luxury brand, then your logo and tagline should reflect that. Think about using luxurious fonts and colors in your branding materials. Alternatively, if you’re going for a more natural look, then your branding should reflect that as well.

Designing Your Logo

As we’ve just mentioned, your logo is an important part of your visual identity and should be used consistently across all marketing materials. When designing a logo, keep in mind the overall look and feel of your brand. Try to use colors and fonts that reflect the personality of your business!

If you’re not a designer, don’t worry! There are plenty of logo design templates available online that you can use to create a professional-looking logo for your business.

Deciding On Your Tagline

In addition to a strong visual identity, all great brands have a clear and concise message that accurately reflects the overall feel of their business. This is where your tagline comes in!

Your tagline should be reflective of the type of makeup artist you are and the services you offer. For example, if you specialize in natural makeup looks, then your tagline could be something like: “The perfect blend of natural beauty and artistry.”

If you need some help coming up with the optimal tagline for your business, try out this free slogan generator on Shopify!

Step 2: Developing a Marketing Strategy

The next step in branding your makeup business is to develop a marketing strategy. This will involve creating marketing materials such as business cards, flyers, and social media posts that accurately represent your brand.

When developing your marketing strategy, it’s important to keep your target audience in mind. This will ensure that your marketing materials are focused on attracting the right type of customer!

Step 3: Creating a Brand Voice

The third step in branding your makeup business is to create a brand voice. This is the overall tone and personality of your business that should be reflected in all marketing materials.

For example, if you’re aiming for a luxury brand, then your brand voice should be sophisticated and upscale. Alternatively, if you’re going for a more natural look, then your brand voice should be earthy and down-to-earth.

Step 4: Consistency is Key

The final step in branding your makeup business is to be consistent! This means using the same logo, colors, fonts, and messaging across all marketing materials. By being consistent with your branding, you’ll make it easier for potential customers to remember and recognize your business.

Creating a Makeup Artist Brand: Why Proper Training is Essential

Next, let’s discuss why proper training is essential for any successful MUA.

As a makeup artist, it’s important to have extensive knowledge of the products you’re using – as well as how to apply them correctly. This not only ensures that your clients are happy with their makeup; it also helps to build trust in your brand!

In addition, by receiving proper training, you’ll be able to develop your own unique style and voice as a makeup artist. In turn, it’ll then be easier for you to stand out from other artists in your field and attract new clients!

Receiving proper training is essential for any makeup artist who wants to build a successful career. Not only will it help you to provide excellent service to your clients… It will also allow you to develop your own unique style and voice.

Why You Should Train with QC Makeup Academy

If you’re ready to start training as a makeup artist, then your best bet is to enroll with QC Makeup Academy! QC Makeup Academy is a faculty of QC Career School – a pioneer of distance learning since 1984. We proudly hold an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau, and have over 200 raving reviews on Facebook alone.

The beauty of all of our courses is that they’re 100% self-paced and online. Thus, you get to complete your makeup certification training whenever and wherever YOU want! Starting from the date you first enroll, you’ll have a full 2 years to finish your program. However, many of our graduates have found that by devoting a mere 1-2 hours per week to their studies, they were able to graduate in as little as 2-6 months… Sometimes sooner!

QC Makeup Academy offers a 21-Day Money Back Guarantee, and all of the certifications provided through our school are internationally-recognized. Currently, we offer the following courses for makeup artists of all experience and skill levels:

Foundation Courses

Makeup Artistry
Master Makeup Artistry
Skincare

Advanced Courses

Pro Makeup
Global Beauty Workshop
Portfolio Development Workshop

Specialty Courses

Airbrush Makeup Workshop
Special FX Makeup
Fashion Styling
Hair Styling Essentials
Virtual Makeup Training

Interested in learning more about these online makeup courses? Check out all of our individual programs in FULL detail here!

Branding a Makeup Artist Business Online: Your Website, Social Media, and Marketing Strategies

Now that you know all about branding your makeup business, let’s talk about how to put your brand online!

Your Business Website

One of the most important aspects of creating a successful makeup artist brand is having an excellent website. Your website should be beautiful, user-friendly, and informative. It should also be fully optimized for search engines so that potential clients can easily find you online!

Here are some examples of how you can use your website to reflect your brand:

Use your brand colors, fonts, and logo throughout your website design!
Write compelling content that accurately reflects your tone of voice and style as a makeup artist!
Include high-quality images (preferably professional photos) of your work!
Use social media widgets to link to your accounts on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc.!
Make sure your contact information is prominently displayed and easy to find!

Pro Tip: Your professional makeup portfolio can also be used to help reflect your brand! If you don’t have a portfolio yet, make sure to check out our Portfolio Development Workshop!

Your Social Media Accounts

In addition to having a website, you should also make sure to create social media accounts for your business. These days, potential clients are often more likely to find you through Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok than they are through a Google search.

That’s why it’s so important to make sure that your social media accounts are active, well-curated, and informative!

Here are some tips for creating a strong social media presence:

Consistently post high-quality content that accurately reflects your brand!
Engage with other users regularly – like, comment, and share other people’s posts!
Use relevant hashtags to help potential clients find your content!
Run regular social media promotions and giveaways to help grow your following!

Furthermore, here are some BONUS tips to help properly incorporate your brand into your social media channels:

Use your brand colors, fonts, and logo in your social media profile images and bios!
Write compelling descriptions of your business that accurately reflect your brand!
When writing post descriptions, replying to comments, and responding to DMs, speak in a way that’s consistent with your brand voice!
Include links to your website and contact information in your social media bios!

Pro Tip: Not sure how to get started with branding your makeup business online? All of QC Makeup Academy’s certification courses come with a FULL unit devoted entirely to business training… And this is just one of the many topics that will be covered for you!

Your Marketing Strategies

Now that you have a website and social media accounts for your makeup business, it’s time to start marketing yourself online! There are many different ways to market your business online, but some of the most effective methods include search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, ad marketing, and email marketing.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing

One of the best ways to market your makeup business online is through SEO marketing. Essentially, this involves optimizing your website and social media accounts so that they rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). As a result, this will help potential clients find you more easily online!

Here are some tips for improving your SEO:

Use relevant keywords throughout your website and social media content!
Make sure your website is fully optimized for search engines!
Link to your website and social media accounts from other websites and online directories!

Content Marketing

Another great way to market your makeup business online is through content marketing. This involves creating high-quality blog posts, videos, infographics, etc. that are relevant to your business. Not only will this help improve your SEO, but it will also give potential clients a better idea of what you do and how you can help them!

Here are some tips for successful online marketing:

Make sure your website is fully optimized for search engines! This includes using relevant keywords throughout your website’s content, as well as in your titles, tags, and descriptions.
Use social media to drive traffic to your website! You can do this by sharing links to your website on your social media accounts, or by running social media ads that direct users to your site.
Create high-quality content that accurately reflects your brand! This could include blog posts, videos, infographics, etc. Once you’ve created this content, make sure to share it on your social media channels and through email newsletters.

Ad Marketing

Another effective way to market your makeup business online is through ad marketing. This involves creating and running online ads that promote your business. Ad marketing can be a great way to reach potential clients who might not otherwise find you online!

Here are some tips for successful ad campaigns:

Choose the right platforms for your ads! Make sure to research where your target audience is most active, and then place your ads accordingly.
Create compelling ad content that accurately reflects your brand! Your headlines and descriptions should be clear, concise, and attention-grabbing.
Include relevant keywords in your ad content! This will help improve your SEO and ensure that potential clients see your ad when they search for related terms online.

Email Marketing

Finally, email marketing is another great way to market your makeup business online. This involves sending newsletters, promotional offers, and other updates to your email list. Moreover, email marketing can be a great way to keep potential clients up-to-date on what you’re doing, as well as promote special offers and discounts!

Here are some tips for successful email marketing:

Build up your email list by offering something of value in exchange for sign-ups! This could be a free eBook, discount code, or access to exclusive content.
Segment your email list so that you can send targeted messages to specific groups of people! For example, you might segment your list by location, age group, or interests.
Make sure your emails are clear, concise, and attention-grabbing! Include compelling subject lines and eye-catching images to encourage people to open and read your messages.

Sending out regular email newsletters is a great way to keep potential clients up-to-date on what you’re doing, as well as promote special offers and discounts!

3 Small Makeup Business Branding Examples That Do It Right

Now that we’ve gone over some general tips for branding your makeup business, let’s take a look at 3 small businesses whose branding game is on POINT!

(Fun Fact: All of the MUAs we’re about to spotlight are either QC Makeup Academy students or alumni!)

1. Savannah Rose Cosmetics

Everything about Savannah Rose’s makeup style screams, “GLAM!” And the aesthetic – as well as content shared – on both her website and Instagram pages reflect that! Notice how the choice of a soft, baby pink for her business’s primary color – as well as the fonts for her name itself – lend to the overall feel of her brand.

Furthermore, Savannah actually has TWO Instagram accounts for her business. The first focuses more on her makeup work, while the other is meant to showcase her own cosmetic line. Importantly, the branding remains consistent across both accounts.

A few other smart marketing moves that Savannah has made include:

Her makeup Instagram (@savannahrosemakeupstudio) links to her secondary Instagram account (@savannahrosecosmetics) right in her bio – making it one of the very first things you see when viewing her channel.
Moreover, Savannah’s makeup IG’s bio uses hashtags that are on-brand for her business, highlights her level of experience and most notable accomplishments, and provides a direct email address to contact her.
Her cosmetics Instagram account links to her business website in the bio, thus making it easy for followers to access it.
This business IG account also lists notable information about her services and accessibility in the bio as well.
Savannah’s official website maintains the colors and overall aesthetic of her brand, while also providing all of the must-know information in a visually appealing, easy-to-navigate way.

2. Makeup By Caitlin Jane

A Los Angeles/Orange County-based makeup artist, Caitlin specializes in celebrity makeup and editorial work. As such, her brand is very poised, polished, and refined. Every photo of her work is of remarkable quality – down to the selfies she occasionally posts, too!

The vibe we get straight away – both when viewing Caitlin’s Instagram and her website – is “professional, stylish, and high-end”. This is especially reflected on Caitlin’s website through her minimalist layout, as well as the information she chooses to highlight (notably, the “Work”, “Published”, and “Clients” sections).

Some of the smart business choices Caitlin has made on her Instagram account and website include:

In her Instagram bio, Caitlin immediately states her professional qualifications as an MUA, as well as where she’s based.
Furthermore, she includes where she has trained (QC Makeup Academy) and provides a direct link to her website.
Caitlin’s default page on her website is her portfolio. This is a smart move, as it means her impressive work will be the very first thing clients will see when checking out her site!
Her website also includes all of the essential info clients need to know, such as: contact info, background info about Caitlin, where her work has been published, etc.
Importantly, Caitlin’s website also ensures to link viewers back to her Instagram through a clickable icon located at both the top right and bottom center of her webpages.

3. Natalie Walcott Makeup

International Skincare Consulting Professional (ISCP), Natalie Walcott, is a graduate of QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course. She’s also currently a student of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course and Special FX Makeup Course, too!

Now, Natalie actually runs TWO different businesses: Natalie Walcott Makeup and Natalie Walcott Skin. Both businesses have their own website, as well as their own individual Instagram accounts. In terms of makeup, Natalie specializes in the following areas:

TV, commercial, and film
Beauty and editorial
Special effects

With regard to her skincare business, Natalie offers skincare consulting, waxing, facials, microdermabrasion, and more. Brand-wise, her makeup business more strongly reflects a consistent image and aesthetic, so we’ll focus primarily on that as our example.

When viewing Natalie’s makeup Instagram page, the first thing we see is that all of her content gives us a crystal-clear understanding of the types of makeup Natalie excels at. Immediately, we know that if we’re in need of an editorial and/or SFX makeup artist, we’ve come to the right place!

Furthermore, this impression is further solidified when visiting Natalie’s website. The crisp black and white color contrast – as well as the chosen fonts – give off a professional, earnest energy. Even the layout of Natalie’s site adds to this vibe, with the overall feeling being that she is an MUA who takes her work seriously and holds herself to a high standard.

Important things to note about Natalie’s social media accounts and websites include:

All of her platforms link to one another! For example, her skincare website links to her makeup website (and makeup Instagram page) – whereas her makeup Instagram page links to her makeup website, as well as her skincare Instagram account, right in the bio.
Natalie also has industry-related blogs, which she links to on both of her respective websites.
On her makeup website, Natalie offers viewers 2 portfolios that can be viewed separately (“Beauty” and “Effects”). This is an excellent option for prospective clients who may want to see specific types of Natalie’s work!
Moreover, her makeup website also contains pertinent information that’s very easy to find – such as an About Me page, contact info, her resume, full portfolios from past client projects, and more!

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How To Start Your Own Makeup Business

Now that we’ve taken a look at some examples of established makeup businesses, let’s discuss how YOU can start your own!

First and foremost, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what type of makeup artist you want to be. As we saw with Savannah, Caitlin, and Natalie, each one has their own unique specialty within the industry. So, ask yourself:

Which type(s) of makeup are you most passionate about?
Who is your target audience/clientele?
Do you want to have a niche and be known for specific styles of makeup?
Or, alternately, would you like to be seen as a Jack-of-all-trades?

Answering these questions will help give you a better idea of what direction to take your business in. From there, we strongly recommend giving these articles a read, as they will help further your understanding of launching (and running) a successful makeup business:

So, How Do You Turn Your Business Into a Brand?

As we’ve seen, there are a multitude of ways to successfully brand your makeup business. Some key things to remember are:

Be clear about what type of makeup artist you want to be, and make sure this is reflected in both your social media presence and website.
Think about the overall image/aesthetic you want your business to have, and be consistent with this across all platforms.
Make sure your website is informative and easy to navigate – especially if you’re targeting potential clients!
Offer potential clients something unique that they can’t find elsewhere.
And last but not least, don’t forget the power of SEO! Utilizing keywords throughout your website and social media accounts is essential for helping people discover your business.

We hope this article was helpful, and we wish you the best of luck as you start (or continue) your journey in the makeup industry!

Do you have any questions or suggestions? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to stay tuned for future articles by Beauty Buzz for more tips and tricks on all things beauty-related!

Until next time – stay glam, beauties! 😘

Become an internationally-certified makeup artist in as little as 12 short weeks by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

May 13

Love7

How to Find a Niche for Your Makeup Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

One of the most important decisions you will make when starting your makeup business is deciding on a niche. Picking the right niche can help you focus your efforts and attract customers who are interested in what you have to offer. In this article, we’ll discuss the value of specialization and how to find a niche for your makeup business.

Plus, we’ll also reveal some popular niche ideas you can use to get started. So, let’s jump into it, shall we?

Wait! Before we go any further, do you first know how to become a professional makeup artist – even without any prior experience? If not, you should check out our step-by-step guide first!

Beauty Niche Meaning – What Is a Niche?

A niche is a defined target market that you focus your business on. When it comes to makeup, there are endless possibilities for niches! You can focus on providing services for weddings, movie sets, or fashion shoots. Or, you could specialize in working with clients who have skin conditions like acne or rosacea.

The benefits of specializing in a niche are twofold. First, it allows you to become an expert in your field and attract customers who are looking for that expertise. Second, it helps you stand out from the competition by offering something unique that other businesses don’t.

What Makes a Strong Niche?

When you’re trying to decide on a niche for your makeup business, there are a few factors to consider. First, you’ll want to make sure that the niche is something you’re actually passionate about. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time working in this area!

Second, you’ll want to ensure that there’s a demand for the services you plan to offer. For example, if you love doing special effects makeup but there aren’t many clients in your area looking for that type of service, it may not be the best niche for your business.

Third, you’ll want to make sure that the niche is something you can realistically achieve. For instance, if your goal is to become the go-to MUA for fashion shows but you live in a small town, it may be tough to make that happen.

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Is The Beauty Industry a Niche Market?

The beauty industry is a great example of a niche market! This is because there are endless possibilities for niches within the industry, from hair stylists to skincare consultant to makeup artists. And, because the industry is so vast, there’s always room for new businesses to find their niche and succeed.

What Sells The Most in The Beauty Industry?

Some of the most popular items in the beauty industry include makeup, skincare products, hair care products, and fragrance. Of course, this varies depending on the niche you’re in and your professional qualifications. For example, if you specialize in natural cosmetics, your best-selling services might be different than those of a MUA who focuses on special effects makeup.

Niche Makeup Business Trends: What is The Target Market for Makeup?

Now that we’ve discussed what a niche is and why it’s important for your makeup business, let’s talk about how to find the perfect niche for you. To do this, you’ll need to first start by identifying your target market.

Your target market is the group of people who are most likely to use your products or services. When it comes to makeup, your target market could be anyone from teenage girls to working moms to brides-to-be. Once you’ve identified your target market, you can start narrowing down possible niches.

For example, if your target market is teenage girls, you could specialize in providing natural makeup looks or teaching them how to do their own makeup. If your target market is working moms, you could focus on providing quick and easy makeup routines that fit into busy schedules. And, if your target market is brides-to-be, you could specialize in doing wedding makeup or creating custom makeup looks for each bride.

fashion portrait with pink and green. a beautiful glamor model with stylish make-up on the face a shimmer on the cheekbones and shiny pink lipstick on the lips. sexy girl with copy space

How to Find a Niche for Your Makeup Business

There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re trying to find the perfect niche for your makeup business…

As we mentioned earlier, the first thing you’ll want to do is make sure that the niche you pick is something you’ll legitimately enjoy doing. Secondly, you’ll want to ensure that there’s actually a demand for that particular service in your area. Lastly, you’ll want to make sure that the niche is something you can realistically achieve.

Once you’ve considered these factors, it’s time to start brainstorming possible niches for your business. To get started, here are a few specialized makeup business ideas:

Makeup artist for brides
Makeup artist for special occasions
Personalized makeup consultant
Virtual makeup consultant
Natural cosmetics specialist
Airbrush makeup artist
Skincare consultant
Hair stylist
Fashion stylist
Special effects makeup artist
Global beauty makeup artist

Let’s take a closer look at each of these specializations…

Our Top 11 Specialized Makeup Business Ideas

Niche #1: Makeup Artist for Brides

As a makeup artist for brides, you would be responsible for creating custom looks for each bride on her big day. This could include doing a trial run before the wedding, as well as the actual wedding day itself. Additionally, you may also be hired to do the makeup for the bridesmaids, mother of the bride, etc.

Target Market

Brides
Wedding parties

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

Ability to create custom looks for each bride
Knowledge of different skin types and tones
Ability to work with a variety of makeup products
Time-management skills/efficiency

Woman in bridal makeup and attire. Photo representing best bridal makeup schools in Canada.

Pros and Cons of Being a Bridal Makeup Artist

Pros:

You get to be a part of someone’s special day
There is potential for repeat clients
Can be very lucrative
Provides excellent networking opportunities with vendors, suppliers, and venues
Very in-demand service that shows no signs of slowing down
Potential for a great salary (especially during peak wedding season)

Cons:

May require working on weekends, evenings, and holidays
Can be very demanding and stressful, especially during peak wedding season
Requires a high level of skill and experience

Interested in a career as a wedding/bridal MUA? QC Makeup Academy‘s self-paced, online Master Makeup Artistry Course can get you trained, internationally certified, and ready to book your first bride in as little as 2-6 months!

Niche #2: Makeup Artist for Special Occasions

As a makeup artist for special occasions, you would be responsible for creating looks for clients who have important events to attend. This could include anything from birthday parties and graduations to red carpet events and galas. You would need to be able to create a variety of looks, as well as have the ability to work with last-minute requests.

Target Market

Clients with special occasions (birthdays, graduations, red carpet events, galas, etc.)

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

Ability to create custom looks for each client, based on the type of event being attended
Flexibility/adaptability
The ability to work with a variety of makeup products
Time-management skills/efficiency

Pros and Cons of Being a Special Occasion Makeup Artist

Pros:

You get to help clients look their best for their big day
There is potential for repeat clients
Can be very lucrative
Provides excellent networking opportunities with vendors, suppliers, and venues
The various types of events will give you ample experience doing different kinds of makeup for a variety of situations

Cons:

May require working on weekends, evenings, and holidays
Requires a high level of skill and experience
Can be very demanding and stressful, especially during peak season (graduations, proms, etc.)

Funny girl in birthday hat on blue background

Niche #3: Personalized Makeup Consultant

As a personalized makeup consultant, you would be responsible for helping clients choose the right makeup products for their individual needs. This could include anything from finding the perfect foundation shade to selecting the right skincare routine. You would need to have in-depth knowledge of a variety of different makeup products and brands, as well as be able to help clients find the products that fit their budget.

Target Market

Clients who need help finding the right makeup products

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different makeup products, brands, and ingredients
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget
Knowledge of the different skin types
Excellent customer service skills

Pros and Cons of Being a Personalized Makeup Consultant

Pros:

You get to help clients find the products that are right for them
Can be very lucrative
Ample opportunity for positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different makeup products, brands, and ingredients
May require working with clients who are not familiar with makeup or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the products you recommend

Niche #4: Virtual Makeup Consultant

As a virtual makeup consultant, you would be responsible for helping clients choose the right makeup products for their individual needs via video chat or phone call. This could include anything from finding the perfect foundation shade to selecting the right skincare routine. You would need to have in-depth knowledge of a variety of different makeup products and brands, as well as be able to help clients find the products that fit their budget.

Furthermore, you would need to be able to properly communicate this knowledge, all through virtual correspondence (rather than via face-to-face interactions).

Target Market

Clients who need help finding the right makeup products but cannot meet in person due to physical, mental, or emotional limitations
Long distance clients

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different makeup products, brands, and ingredients
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget
Knowledge of the different skin types
Excellent customer service skills
Proper virtual communication skills
Basic technological skills (needed to use video chat apps/software, etc.)

Pros and Cons of Being a Virtual Makeup Consultant

Pros:

You get to help clients find the products that are right for them
Can be very lucrative
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
No need to commute or travel to meet with clients, which means a larger client pool for you to book with

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different makeup products, brands, and ingredients
May require working with clients who are not familiar with makeup or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the products you recommend
You will need to invest in some basic technology (video chat software, a smart phone if you don’t already have one, etc.)

Fun Fact: YOU can learn how to take your makeup business online in as little as one month by completing QC Makeup Academy’s online Virtual Makeup Training mini course!

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Niche #5: Natural Cosmetics Specialist

As a natural cosmetics specialist, you would be responsible for helping clients find the right makeup and skincare products that are made with all-natural ingredients. This could include anything from finding the perfect foundation shade to selecting the right organic skincare routine. You’d need to have in-depth knowledge of a variety of natural makeup and skincare products and brands, as well as be able to help clients find the products that fit their budget.

Target Market

Clients who want to use makeup and skincare products made with natural ingredients

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different all-natural makeup and skincare products, brands, and ingredients
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget
Excellent customer service skills
Knowledge of different skin types, so you can make informed recommendations that will best suit their skin, goals, and needs

Pros and Cons of Being a Natural Cosmetics Specialist

Pros:

You get to help clients find the safest, healthiest products that are right for them
Can be very lucrative
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
You get to help clients improve their makeup and/or skincare routines while also ensuring their skin stays safe
Moral benefit of using all-natural, free-from-harm, organic products

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different makeup/skincare products, brands, and ingredients
May require working with clients who are not familiar with makeup or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the products you recommend

Niche #6: Airbrush Makeup Artist

An airbrush makeup artist is responsible for providing clients with a flawless complexion using an airbrush machine. As an airbrush MUA, you’d need to have in-depth knowledge of how to use the machine, as well as a variety of different foundation shades and formulas. You would also need to be able to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget.

Never seen airbrush makeup artistry in action before? Watch this fun, informative webinar with QC executive instructor, Nathan Johnson, and airbrush MUA extraordinaire, Marc Harvey!

Target Market

Clients who want perfect, flawless skin for their wedding day or other special event
Models for photoshoots
Actors for film and television
Special effects makeup clients

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of how to safely and properly use an airbrush machine
Attention to detail, precision, and finesse
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget
Excellent customer service skills

Pros and Cons of Being an Airbrush Makeup Artist

Pros:

Can be very lucrative
Potential to earn a killer income
Endless job opportunities in various makeup fields
You get to help clients improve their makeup routine while also providing them with perfect, flawless skin

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different airbrush machines and how to properly use them
May require working with clients who are not familiar with makeup or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the end result

Add an Airbrush Makeup Workshop certificate to your resume in as little as 8 weeks by enrolling in QC Makeup Academy’s Airbrush Makeup Workshop today! Oh, and did we mention you’ll receive a FREE airbrush machine as part of your course tools? As a result, you’ll be able to master airbrush makeup right from the get-go!

Beauty Fashion Model Woman , portrait, hairstyle with . Concept Girl face with perfect skin and dark lips in bright Background with hand holding aerograph.

Niche #7: Skincare Consultant

A skincare consultant is responsible for providing clients with customized skincare routines and products that fit their individual needs. As a skincare consultant, you’d need to have in-depth knowledge of different skincare ingredients, formulas, and brands. You would also need to be able to find products that fit each client’s individual budget.

Target Market

Clients who want help finding the best skincare routine and products for their skin type
People with specific skincare concerns (e.g., acne, aging, dryness)

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different skincare ingredients, formulas, and brands
Subject-matter expertise about skin types, skincare concerns, etc.
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual budget
Excellent customer service skills
Tact and empathy

Pros and Cons of Being a Skincare Consultant

Pros:

You get to help clients find the best skincare routine and products for their skin type
Can be very lucrative, with the potential to earn a high income
Pairs perfectly with a makeup business
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
You get to help clients improve their skincare routines while also ensuring their skin stays healthy
Creates the best possible canvas on which to also apply makeup

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different skincare ingredients, formulas, and brands
Failure to properly understand skin types and/or skincare products can have potentially damaging consequences
May require working with clients who are not familiar with skincare or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the products you recommend

Pro Tip: In as little as 2 short months, you can become an International Skincare Consulting Professional (ISCP), thanks to QC’s online Skincare Course!

Niche #8: Hair Stylist

A hair stylist is responsible for styling their clients’ hair for everyday wear and/or special occasions. As a hair stylist, you’d need to have in-depth knowledge of different hair types, textures, and styles. You would also need to be up-to-date on the latest hair trends.

Target Market

Clients who need help styling their hair for upcoming events (e.g., weddings, proms, graduations, parties, etc.)
Clients who wish to have both their hair and makeup taken care of under one roof (as opposed to sourcing two different vendors)

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different hair types, textures, and styles
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual budget
Excellent customer service skills
Knowledge of current, popular hair styling trends, braiding trends, up-dos, etc.
Bonus: knowing how to perfectly pair a given hairstyle to a particular makeup look, in order to meet the client’s expectations and properly reflect the event they’ll be attending

Pros and Cons of Being a Hair Stylist

Pros:

Can be very lucrative
Pairs perfectly with a makeup business, which will provide additional streams of income
Opens you up to a wider clientele
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
You get to help clients find the best hairstyle for their face shape and hair type, while also ensuring their hair stays healthy
Lots of possible job opportunities (i.e., weddings, photoshoots, theater, film and television, etc.)

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different hair types, textures, and styles
Failure to properly understand hair types and/or hairstyling products can have potentially damaging consequences
May require working with clients who are not familiar with hair styling or have specific needs/requests (e.g., those with thinning hair, alopecia, etc.)
Some clients may be unhappy with the hairstyle you create for them

If you’re interested in adding hairstyling services to your makeup business, we strongly recommend checking out QC’s Hairstyling Essentials Course! In turn, we’ll help prepare you to book your first client within just a couple short months!

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Niche #9: Fashion Stylist

A fashion stylist is responsible for helping their clients put together the perfect outfit for any occasion. As a fashion stylist, you need to have an eye for detail and be up-to-date on the latest fashion trends. You would also need to be able to find clothing that fits each client’s individual budget.

Target Market

Clients who need help selecting the perfect outfit for an upcoming event (e.g., wedding, graduation, prom, party, photoshoot, work event, red carpet event, etc.)
Clients who are looking to refine their everyday attire for personal purposes

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of current fashion trends
Ability to find clothing that fits each client’s individual budget
Excellent customer service skills
Creativity and an eye for detail
Ability to match clothing to hairstyles, makeup, etc.
Ability to find clothing that will help the client achieve their goals (i.e., looking good for an event, fitting better with their everyday lifestyle, etc.)

Pros and Cons of Being a Fashion Stylist

Pros:

Can be very lucrative, with the potential for a high income
Pairs perfectly with a makeup business, hairstyling business, etc.
Opens you up to a wider clientele
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
You get to help clients find the best clothes for their body type, while also staying within their budget
Lots of possible job opportunities (i.e., weddings, photoshoots, theater, film and television, high-profile events, etc.)

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of current fashion trends
Failure to properly understand fashion trends can result in outdated or unflattering clothing selections for clients
May require working with clients who are not familiar with fashion or have specific needs/requests (e.g., those with a limited budget but have luxurious taste, etc.)
Some clients may be unhappy with the clothing you select for them

Have we piqued your interest? Do you want to become a Certified International Styling Professional (CISP™)? If so, learn more about QC’s online Fashion Styling Course!

Niche #10: Special Effects Makeup Artist

A special effects makeup artist is responsible for creating custom and realistic-looking makeup designs for their clients. As a special effects makeup artist, you need to have an eye for detail and be able to create a wide range of looks, from the simplest to the most complex.

Target Market

Clients who need help finding the perfect makeup look for an upcoming event (e.g., Halloween, cosplay convention, masquerade ball, etc.)
Clients who are looking for a unique and customized makeup look
Film, television, and/or theater productions in need of an SFX makeup artist
Clients looking to create character makeup

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different SFX makeup products and techniques
Ability to create a wide range of horror, fantasy, and special effects looks, from the simplest to the most complex
Ability to create realistic gore and/or wounds
Excellent customer service skills
Creativity and an eye for detail
Ability to find the perfect makeup look for each client’s individual needs
Ability to create character makeup based on a script

Pros and Cons of Being a Special Effects Makeup Artist

Pros:

Can be very lucrative
Has the potential to be one of the highest paying makeup jobs
Is considered to be an advanced skill, thus making it extremely attractive to prospective clients
Opens you up to a wider clientele
Ample opportunity to get creative
Lots of possible high-end job opportunities (i.e., working in film, television, and theater, etc.)

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different SFX makeup products and techniques
Failure to properly understand these makeup products and techniques can result in poor quality work
Clients may not be familiar with the special effects process, which can lead to unrealistic expectations
The work can be physically demanding (e.g., having to apply prosthetics for long periods of time, etc.)
Not the best fit for someone who’s squeamish, as you may need to work with fake blood, create realistic wounds/gore, etc.

Does special effects makeup sound like the PERFECT niche for your makeup business? Then you need to enroll in QC’s online Special FX Makeup Course today and become an International Special FX Makeup Professional (ISMP)!

close up portrait of young beautiful girl with colorful face painting. Halloween professional makeup. hair in paint. beauty portrait. blue and pink hair

Niche #11: Global Beauty Makeup Artist

A global beauty expert is capable of working with clients from all around the world; creating makeup looks on any and all skin tones. Furthermore, their knowledge of global beauty practices makes them the leading expert to hire for religious and/or cultural events, such as international weddings. Thus, if one is looking for a prosperous niche for their makeup business, becoming a global beauty expert is the way to go!

Target Market

Clients who are looking for a makeup artist who is knowledgeable in global beauty practices
Clients who are getting married and want their wedding to reflect their culture/religion
Religious and/or cultural events that require a makeup artist (e.g., Chinese New Year, Diwali, etc.)

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of global beauty trends and makeup techniques
Ability to work with clients from all around the world, on any and all skin tones
Flexibility to be able to create a wide range of looks, from natural to dramatic
Excellent customer service skills
Creativity and an eye for detail
An understanding of various cultural and/or religious traditions, in order to properly reflect them and meet cultural/religious standards

Pros and Cons of Being a Global Beauty Makeup Artist

Pros:

Can be extremely lucrative
Drastically opens up your potential client reach
Is considered to be an advanced skill, thus making it extremely attractive to prospective clients
Expands your client reach to people from all around the world
Flexibility to work in other countries
Ample opportunity to get creative and experiment with different global beauty techniques and looks

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of global beauty trends and practices
Failure to properly understand these trends and practices can result in poor quality work or even cultural appropriation
The work can be physically demanding (e.g., having to apply makeup, henna tattoos, etc. for long periods of time)
Not the best fit for someone who doesn’t like to travel, as you may need to work in other countries

Do you have what it takes to be a global beauty makeup artist? If so, you’ll learn everything you need to know to succeed in QC’s Global Beauty Workshop! Enroll today and earn your certificate of completion in as little as 8 weeks!

Conclusion

There you have it! These are just a few of the many makeup business niches out there that you can specialize in.

Remember: it’s important to pick a niche that you’re passionate about and that you have the skillset to excel in. With hard work and dedication, you can make your dreams of being a successful makeup artist come true!

Which of these niches interests YOU the most? Let us know in the comments below! And while you’re at it, be sure to check out our other blog post on 15 Tips to Grow Your Makeup Business for even more advice on getting your company off the ground.

Good luck… And thanks for reading! 💕