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A Day in the Life of a Makeup Artist

By Education, Makeup Careers, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Dream of working in the beauty industry? Sounds like you’re destined to become a makeup artist! But what does a day in the life of a makeup artist actually look like?

We’re here to tell you!

All you need to do is sit back and relax. By the end of this article, you’ll have a pretty clear idea of what the day-to-day responsibilities of your dream career will look like. As a result, you can decide once and for all if this profession is truly the right one for YOU!

How Do You Train to Be a Makeup Artist?

First thing’s first: we have to talk about proper makeup training. After all, you can’t successfully start life as a makeup artist if you don’t properly know what you’re doing!

Now, the thing is, professional makeup is an unregulated industry – unless you aim to be a cosmetologist. This means that technically, you don’t need a certification or official designation in order to call yourself an MUA and work with clients.

But don’t get it twisted! If you don’t have a legitimate education under your belt, it’s going to be very hard to become successful. Here are just some of the biggest reasons why:

  • The right certification – such as those provided to graduates of QC Makeup Academy – will be internationally-recognized. Meaning, you’ll be able to work anywhere!
  • Proper training is the only true way to get the knowledge and subject-matter expertise needed to perform to the best of your abilities. Once you’ve graduated from your program, you can then elevate your skill-set through hands-on, real-world experience.
  • You’ll have a stronger grasp on the ways you can distinguish yourself from your local competition, which will better your booking ability and land you more clients.
  • Moreover, you’ll acquire an understanding of how to build your brand, hone your niche, set accurate service rates, and launch a functional business.
  • Clients won’t want to hire a makeup artist who isn’t certified (and therefore, credible). At the end of the day, it’s that simple!
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Picking The Right Makeup Course for YOU

Nowadays, you have COUNTLESS options at your disposal, both online and in-person. That said, in light of the ongoing pandemic, many have steered away from brick-and-mortar schools due to the potential health concerns they pose. One of the biggest lessons learned over the past 2 years is that distance learning offers more than a few perks for those wanting to pursue their education in a safe, convenient environment.

Because online schooling is the new normal these days, that’s what we’ll focus on in this article. However, if you’re someone who prefers learning in a physical environment, surrounded by your peers and instructor, that’s okay, too. In that case, we recommend that you do as much research as possible into the brick-and-mortar options available in your area.

Perks of an Online Makeup Course

In general, online schools cater to a wider range of people than in-person schools. For example, you’re granted the flexibility to access the same high-quality education – except you get to be in the comfort of your own home. Furthermore, distance learning is almost always cheaper than brick-and-mortar schools, since there are no physical campuses or buildings to maintain.

Another benefit is that many online schools offer self-paced training. QC Makeup Academy, for instance, gives you 2 full years to complete your makeup artistry program, starting on the date you enroll. That said, during that 2-year timeframe, you can dedicate as much or as little time to your studies as you’d like.

Let me put this into perspective… Many of QC’s graduates have been able to earn their certification and start their life as a makeup artist in as little as 2-6 months – simply be devoting a mere 1-2 hour per week to their studies!

Want to learn more about QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online courses? Here’s the full list!

Various makeup products on table, life as a makeup artist

How Many Hours Does a Makeup Artist Work Each Day?

What makeup artists do on a daily basis can vary, based on a number of different factors. For this reason, there’s no “clear cut” standard number of hours you’ll work every single day. One day, you could be swamped from morning to night; another day, you could be super busy just for an afternoon.

The Type of Job Will Affect Your Hours

The job you’ve booked, as well as how many clients you have on the go at a given time, will influence the number of hours that’ll have to go into the work. For instance, if you’ve been hired on as an MUA for a wedding, doing just the bride’s application will take a lot less time than if you were also expected to do the bridal party’s makeup, too.

Moreover, logically, the more clients you book in a day, the longer your workday will be. If you have one booking for just one person, you’ll probably be looking at anywhere from 2-4 hours that day (factoring in travel time, and based on how complex the application is). But if you have several customers booked throughout a single day, you’ll likely be starting early and finishing late.

Other Examples

Working on set can also make for a lengthy day, especially if it’s for a TV show or film production. This is because, in addition to the initial application itself, you’ll likely be expected to remain on set throughout the shoot. That way, you can jump in whenever touch-ups are required.

Now, let’s say that you dream of being an MUA, but would prefer a more predictable, routine schedule. In that case, your best bet will be to join an existing team (e.g. at MAC, Sephora, etc.) and/or work at a beauty bar/counter. In this type of environment, your schedule will be decided by your employer, and you’ll get it in advance.

As such, you’ll know exactly what days you’ll be working, and for how long you’ll be working each day. This can make it much easier for you to plan everything else in your life around your work hours. Of course, for those who wish to have a more proactive role in their makeup career, this route won’t always be ideal. But if this would fit best with your goals and interests, then all the power to you!

A day in the life of a makeup artist image 3, MUA working on client

What Specific Skills Does a Makeup Artist Need?

Obviously, to thrive as a professional makeup artist, you need to have a grasp of proper makeup techniques. Moreover, you need to know how to execute them successfully during an application, in order to deliver the high-quality results your client is expecting.

More to the point: it’s also critical that you have a genuine passion for your craft. Otherwise, this career won’t be the one for you. And, let’s be real, you probably wouldn’t enjoy it at all.

On top of this, though, you’ll also need to possess a handful of other key traits as well. For example, you’ll need to be:

  • A people person (at least, to some degree);
  • Good at both communicating and listening;
  • Creative;
  • Up-to-date on makeup and beauty current trends;
  • Business-savvy;
  • Capable of keeping calm under pressure, while on strict time restraints, etc.;
  • Smart with money and budgeting;
  • Knowledgeable in many different makeup techniques, so you can apply them to many different makeup styles;
  • Approachable and friendly;
  • Flexible;
  • Willing to put the effort into networking;
  • A wizard with emailing, returning phone calls, replying to people on social media, etc.;
  • And so much more!

What Does a Makeup Artist Do On a Daily Basis?

Okay, let’s get to the real reason why you found this article in the first place – you want to know what a day in the life of a makeup artist looks like. Here’s the bad news: much like when we were discussing how many hours you’ll work in a day, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer to this question. What makeup artists do on a daily basis is determined by:

  • The client they’re working for/with;
  • The parameters of the job;
  • Whether the MUA in question works for an established company or runs their own business;
  • And more!

But here’s the GOOD news: I can break down enough information so that you can still walk away with a thorough understanding of what to expect out of this career path. So, let’s delve into that…

Makeup artist holding brush and eyeshadow palette. makeup artist making gorgeous make-up for bride in the morning. beauty and fashion image. set of brushes, powder, eyeshadows on table

What Every Job Has in Common

Regardless of the type of MUA you are, the client you’ve booked, or the length of your day, every makeup job will require you to:

  • Work with people (whether that’s a single person, multiple, or a whole group).
  • Listen to what the client wants, and determine how best to achieve those results in a time-efficient manner.
  • Draw on your professional makeup certification training.
  • Use sanitized, single-use products.
  • Work in a clean environment, and properly clean your work station after each makeup job.
  • Apply your expert knowledge during the application(s).
  • Deliver top-notch customer service.
  • Make the best possible impression for you – and either the business you’re representing, or your personal business itself.

Working for an Existing Makeup Business

Let’s say you wish to land a cosmetic retail job of some sort. This could be in the form of working at a beauty bar, or in a makeup store such as MAC, Sephora, etc. A typical day would first involve you showing up to work at the designated time your employer has set for you. From there, your job will be to man the counter or walk the floor.

You’ll greet everyone who enters the business, and see if you can help answer any questions they may have or assist with their purchasing needs. It won’t be uncommon to have walk-in customers ask for your help testing out a product, do a basic consultation and/or application with them, etc. You’ll also have just as many customers book an application appointment ahead of time, too. So, that can also sometimes be a part of your workday.

One perk of working for an existing company is that 9 times out of 10, your job responsibilities will start and end within each individual shift. There won’t be work you’ll need to do outside of your scheduled shifts, such as social media focus, client acquisition/retention, or marketing efforts. Rather, these companies will already have experts taking care of this.

Thus, once you clock out at the end of your shift, you’re completely done for the day!

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Running Your OWN Makeup Business

Running your very own makeup business will admittedly result in longer days and a lot more job responsibilities. This makes complete sense, since you’ll be responsible for your business’s success! That said, this is the ideal path for many aspiring MUAs, because they find it to be the most rewarding.

There’s a lot more that goes into running a makeup business than simply doing makeup for/on a client. In reality, other tasks you’ll regularly have to complete on a given day can include (but aren’t limited to):

  • Developing and putting into practice client acquisition and retention efforts/strategies;
  • Scheduling and conducting client consultations;
  • Conducting follow-up appointments, if requested/required;
  • Developing air-tight client contracts;
  • Answering emails, returning phone calls, etc.;
  • Doing trial runs, such as for bridal makeup, film makeup, etc.;
  • Running active social media accounts for your business;
  • Maintaining your business website and overall SEO;
  • Marketing your business using a variety of methods (i.e. paid ads, social media advertising, email campaigns, etc.);
  • Collecting payment by the agreed-upon due date;
  • Providing invoices once payment have been received;
  • And more!

There can easily be additional responsibilities, depending on the scope of your career goals. If, for instance, part of your business plan is to develop your own line of products, then you’ll also need to factor in the necessary research and legwork that goes into this endeavor as part of your day-to-day responsibilities.

Another key aspect to consider is where you’re conducting your business from. Say you’re primarily working from home and clients are coming to you. For every application, you’ll also need to factor in time to set up your work station before the job, as well as time to sanitize/clean it after the job is over.

If you travel directly to clients, or own your own business location or salon, you’ll need to factor the time it’ll take to travel to and from work each day. Moreover, if you fall into the latter category, your daily tasks may sometimes involve the overhead work and maintenance that goes into owning or renting a commercial space.

Makeup Artist Applying Corrector On Flawless Fresh Skin Doing Make Up. Female Eye with Long False Eyelashes. Cosmetics, Beauty. Close up. Real People. Perfect Glamorous Evening Makeup

What makeup artists do on a daily basis is a subjective topic. Ultimately, it’ll depend on YOU – your work ethic, your diligence, your drive, and your career goals. The harder you work, and the more effort you put into your craft, the busier your day will be… and the more successful your journey will become!

So, now that you have an idea of what a day in the life of a makeup artist can look like, do you still wish to pursue this career path?

If so, enroll with QC Makeup Academy today and earn your internationally-recognized certification in just 2-6 short months!

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How to Get Clients as a Makeup Artist

By Career Advice, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

Updated 2024

So, you’ve decided to pursue your dreams of becoming a professional MUA. Awesome! To work in this field, you will need to learn how to get clients as a makeup artist.

Luckily, you’ve come to the right place!

Today, we’re going to break down 6 efficient ways you can market yourself. In turn, this will help you find makeup clients and get your business off the ground.

So, let’s get started!

How Do Makeup Artists Get Noticed?

If you’re serious about pursuing this as a legitimate career, you’re likely researching how to grow as a makeup artist. You want to learn how to stand out, build client relationships, and maintain them. Here’s the good news: in today’s day and age, there are all sorts of ways for you to get your name out there and gain exposure!

For starters, there’s the tried-and-true method of word-of-mouth. Referrals have been a staple networking strategy for as far back as we can remember… and with good reason! If a trusted person recommends your services to their friends, family, colleagues, etc., others may be more inclined to look into your business and give you a try.

Plus, there’s also the online world to consider, too. We all live online nowadays. Thus, a large portion of your marketing efforts will need to be tailored to the digital platform. Between business websites, paid advertisements, and social media platforms, there’s a lot of competition out there. As with word of mouth, getting strong client testimonials is everything.

This means that if you want to stand out as a makeup artist and get noticed, you’ll  NEED to maximize your presence online, build relationships, and plan out your strategy wisely.

The Stats Don’t Lie

HubSpot’sUltimate List of Marketing Statistics for 2024” provides the following data which supports the efficacy of online marketing:

  • “39% of marketers list optimizing on-page content based on keywords as their top SEO strategy (Hubspot State of Marketing Report, 2023)”
  • “80% of Gen Z, 62% of millennials, 66% of Gen X, 35% of Boomers, and 52% of the general population primarily use mobile search (Hubspot State of Marketing Report, 2023)”
  • “About 90% of people think voice search is easier and faster than traditional search (TechReport, 2023)”
  • “Facebook is the most popular social media platform marketers used in 2023, and marketers report that it has a better ROI than every other platform”
  • “Instagram Live has the highest ROI of any Instagram content format and is the most effective for gaining followers and shares (Hubspot State of Marketing Report, 2023)”
  • “Instagram posts generate 23% more engagement than Facebook, even though Facebook has twice as many monthly users (Hubspot State of Marketing Report, 2023)”
  • “Social media is the most preferred product discovery platform for consumers aged 18 to 44 (Hubspot State of Marketing Report, 2023)”
  • “66% of social media marketers report that funny content is the most effective for their brand, followed by relatable content (63%) and trendy content (59%) (HubSpot State of Marketing Report, 2023).”
  • “Infographics are 30 times more likely to be read than a written article, and they can increase website traffic by up to 12% (DemandSage, 2023)”
  • “71% of videos created by companies are made for use on social media (HubSpot State of Marketing Report, 2023).”
  • “22% of marketers have incorporated YouTube Stories into their video marketing strategy (Social Media Examiner, 2023)”
  • “Businesses that prioritize social selling are 51% more likely to reach their sales quotas (LinkedIn, 2023)”

How Do You Brand Yourself as a Makeup Artist?

Think of your “brand” as your unique fingerprint in the makeup industry. It’s the thing that’ll set you apart from other MUAs. Your brand is your business’s identity and personality. Moreover, it’ll will make you memorable in the minds of prospective clients and online followers.

A makeup artist who’s developed a solid brand will be much more likely to secure customers than a makeup artist without one.

Consider the following companies, for example:

  • Nike
  • McDonalds
  • MAC Cosmetics
  • Coca-Cola
  • Netflix

Each name alone probably sparks something in your mind, be it a color, a logo, an emotion, a purpose, a belief, etc. This is the case because these companies strategically worked hard to associate those specific things to their brand. That way, whenever someone – such as yourself – sees their company name, their mind will naturally go to the exact place that business wants it to go.

This is proper branding.

So, how can YOU achieve this for your own business? Our recommendation is to first sit down, grab a pen and paper, and answer the following questions:

  • Are there any particular colors you’d like to be associated with your makeup business?
  • What mood(s) or emotion(s) do you want people to automatic think of when they think of your business?
  • What makeup (and other beauty services, if applicable) would you like to offer?
  • Who is your target clientele?
  • Do you intend to strictly work locally, or would you also like to offer virtual makeup services as well?
  • Do you have a unique niche/would you like to have a unique niche?
  • Would you like your beauty business to embody a particular message and/or belief that’s near and dear to you?
  • Do you want your business to have a unique logo?

Coming up with clear, concise answers to all of these questions will help you brand yourself as a makeup artist. In turn, this will make it even easier to get clients!

Did you know that QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online certification training can help you identify your brand and apply it to your business model successfully? It’s true! Check out our full list of courses here!

6 Ways to Get Clients as a Makeup Artist

1. Build Up a Creative Portfolio

Your portfolio will show off high-quality images of makeup applications you’ve done on past clients and/or models. Basically, it’ll be physical proof of the quality of work you can do.

If you don’t have a professional makeup portfolio, you’ll have a hard time getting clients.

This is because, especially these days, prospective customers want to know that you can give them what they want, before they invest any money into your business. Asking potential clients to book you on a leap of faith alone is unrealistic – and frankly, a bad business move.

If it’s between you (without a portfolio) and another MUA (with an impressive portfolio), guess who the person is going to pick?

Not you. 

If you need help getting started, here’s a small handful of our past blog articles that can guide you in the right direction:

Want to develop the ULTIMATE makeup portfolio? Enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry course and learn everything you need to know in as little as 3-6 months!

2. Start Your Own Website

If you want to get clients as a makeup artist, a professional business website will be a MUST! Without your own site, you’ll be missing out on so many booking opportunities. Plus, and I cannot stress this enough, it’ll make you look unprofessional.

If your budget allows for it, you can always hire a professional website developer to create one for you. But if you don’t have the money for this, that’s okay! Luckily, there are all sorts of free website builders and hosts out there with simple, user-friendly templates that you can work off of.

Either way, it’s important to make sure that your business website contains the following key information:

  • An “About Me” page where people can better get to know you and your makeup experience, qualifications, certification(s), etc.;
  • A full list of all makeup/beauty services you currently offer, as well as rates (should you wish to disclose this information upfront);
  • Your credentials
  • Client reviews/testimonials;
  • Working links to your social media profiles;
  • Accurate contact information;
  • Your professional makeup/beauty portfolio;
  • An option for online booking.

You can up your credentials and improve client trust by taking accredited online makeup courses. These courses are flexible, so you can take them while working and look great to potential clients!

3. Show Off Your Skills on Social Media

As we already established earlier, social media marketing will be one of your BEST friends! After all, literally everyone uses social media these days. It’s undoubtedly one of the single best ways to meet others in the industry and attract clients as a makeup artist.

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Pinterest are all examples of extremely popular platforms on which you can establish a solid presence.

When the time comes that you’re ready to set up your social media accounts, keep these useful tips in mind:

  • Your social media handles should be the same as your registered business name.
  • Always link viewers back to your website (e.g. through your bio links, written content, etc.).
  • The aesthetic of your social media platforms (such as what you post, the colors you use, how you speak, etc.) should always reflect your brand.
  • Post original content – and post on a regular basis.
    • Pro Tip: If you’re busy, you can utilize scheduling apps (e.g. Later or Hootsuite) to post ahead of time and/or in bulk.
  • Always be fresh and innovative in your posts. You don’t want to be the same as all the other MUAs out there. Otherwise, your channel(s) might be easily forgettable!
  • Follow others in the makeup/beauty industry that you’d like to connect with, and regularly leave encouraging comments on their posts. Chances will be better that they’ll then do the same with you!
  • Whenever someone takes the time to engage with your posts and/or send you a private message, make sure YOU take the time to acknowledge and reply to them.
  • Use your social media channels as yet another way to showcase your makeup portfolio and promote your business!

4. Start a YouTube Channel

Makeup enthusiasts love watching MUAs; be it tutorials, product reviews, makeup challenges, etc. While other popular social media platforms – such as TikTok and Instagram Reels – are great for posting condensed, shortened videos, their time constraints can be limiting.

For that reason, we also recommend launching your very own YouTube channel!

YouTube is a wonderful platform to share your content on, especially for videos exceeding 3 minutes in length. Furthermore, it’s so easy to tie your YouTube content to what you post on other platforms. For instance, you could easily tease at a new video by posting enticing clips on TikTok or Instagram, and then encourage your following to watch the FULL video on your YouTube channel.

With the rise of YouTube shorts, you can easily up your content game by posting both the full video and clips turned into YouTube shorts.

Not to mention, if you happen to amass a large following, you could also earn some side coin from the money you’d get paid from YouTube! Either way, more platforms for your business = more opportunities for prospective clients to find your business and book you.

It’s a win-win!

What are some of the most important DO’S and DON’TS of beauty vlogging? Find out here!

5. Network, Network, Network

The beauty industry is quite unique, in that everyone seems to know each other. Indeed, if you establish a positive reputation for both yourself and your business, it’ll get around and other MUAs will know all about you.

(Of course, the same can be said if you develop a bad reputation, too…)

One important thing to understand early on in your career is that other makeup artists are your FRIENDS – and not your enemies. Yes, they’re considered your “competition”. But at the end of the day, you all have the same goal: to transform clients’ lives for the better.

So, get to know the other beauty experts in your town or city! In addition to other makeup artists, connect with photographers, hair stylists, fashion stylists, etc. The benefits of proper networking are endless, and here are just some of the reasons why:

  • If another makeup artist’s schedule is completely booked, they could wind up referring a prospective client to YOUR business!
  • Similarly, if you’re the one totally booked up, you can help out people in need by referring them to talented MUAs that you recommend!
  • You can potentially collaborate with other beauty experts in your area!
  • If you get to know some local photographers, you could work with them on stylized photoshoots – which will help you build your professional makeup portfolio!
  • Others in the general beauty industry (i.e. hair stylists, skin consultants, etc.) could refer clients to you and/or request your help for a client they’re already working with!

6. Ask for Referrals

Nothing ventured, nothing gained, right? There’s NO harm in straight-up asking for referrals, so long as it’s done tactfully!

Thanking Your Clients

Before asking for a referral, you want to ensure your client has the best experience possible from start to finish. A way to set you apart, show appreciation, and have your client remember you is a simple thank you note. Thanking your clients will help build a genuine and strong relationship, making your work more fulfilling and putting you in a stronger position to ask them to recommend you to others.

Asking Clients

Once you’re done working with a satisfied customer, you can casually let them know that if they know anyone in need of professional makeup services, you’d be happy to work with them.

You can also provide a customer survey for them to fill out and include that request somewhere on the form. Using a survey is a great tactic because it also gives you client feedback which you can use to help improve the client experience and retain your makeup clients.

(But also, don’t forget to ask for a testimonial from that particular client. Remember: you can use this for your website and social media channels!)

Asking Friends and Family

Another option is to ask for referrals from the people you know personally. For instance, do you have a friend who’s getting married in the near future? What about a family member about to celebrate their birthday?

YOU can assist them by helping them look and feel their best on their big day!

By maximizing your personal connections, you’ll be able to acquire the materials needed (such as photos and success stories) to develop your professional portfolio and further elevate your website. Plus, your friends and family can also give you positive feedback that can then be added to the testimonials page on your site and social media posts.

And just as importantly, they can help spread word about your makeup business by recommending you to people they know!

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with drawing from your inner circle and getting some help, especially when you’re first getting your makeup career started. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to the people you trust and see if there’s any way you can lend your services to them!

Can you think of other ways to get clients as a makeup artist? Drop them in the comments below!

Attract even more clients by adding a professional, internationally-recognized makeup certification to your resume! Enroll with QC Makeup Academy today and graduate in as little as 2-6 months!

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17 Makeup Trends in 2022 You’ll Want to Try!

By Makeup Tips and Tricks, Makeup Trends No Comments

Do you love all things makeup? Dream of a career as a professional MUA? Then here are 17 upcoming makeup trends in 2022 that need to be on your radar!

17 of the Hottest Makeup Trends in 2022

#1. Natural Skin

Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the world’s hottest makeup trends saw a shift back towards more simplistic, natural looks. Embracing one’s fresh-faced, authentic inner glow quickly became the new norm… and this won’t be going anywhere in 2022!

So, embrace the skin that you’re in and show it off with pride!

Want your skin to look its best? Get properly trained and certified in skincare by enrolling in QC Makeup Academy‘s online Skincare certification course! In as little as 2-6 months, you’ll become a master of your own skincare game – and be able to get paid to help others with theirs, too!

Makeup trends using makeup theory to understand skin types

#2. A Bold Lip

In terms of hot makeup trends in 2022, we’d be making a HUGE mistake by not including a stunning, bold lip. After all, this is one of those beauty trends that’s been around forever – and rightfully so.

A nice, bold lip can pair effortlessly with almost any look. It can accentuate a dramatic, smoky eye, or give some POP to an otherwise soft, natural glam application. Either way, a bold lip has been popular for as long as we can remember.

So, it’s absolutely no surprise that it’ll continue being just as popular for countless years to come!

#3. Embracing “Imperfections”

This makeup trend ties back to the first one on our list, in that it’s all about accepting who you are and what you look like in all of its forms. Imperfections are beautiful. At their core, they’re what make us who we are as individuals.

So, as we welcome 2022, don’t try so hard to cover up your “flaws”. Rather, be proud of all the little quirks that make you, YOU! Remember: confidence and self-love are the sexiest qualities a person can have.

(And, hey, if you struggle with that, we totally get it. All we’re saying is, give it a try. We have no problem showering you with all the love and support you need until you feel within yourself!)

#4. Colorful Eye Makeup

Playing around with boldly colored eye looks has been a thing throughout all of history. Back in the 80s, for example, eyeliner was worn in all sorts of crazy hues, as was eye shadow. Since then, this long-standing makeup trend has had its up and downs, in terms of popularity.

But in recent years, it’s made quite the comeback!

A striking, colorful eyeliner can elevate nearly any look and give it a unique edge. Moreover, this trend can also be a great go-to if you don’t feel like wearing much on a given day, but still want to add a little va-va-voom to your appearance. (I’m thinking a bright, colorful liquid eyeliner to create a sleek cat-eye on an otherwise au natural face!)

Beautiful Asian woman with bold, dramatic eye makeup, makeup trends

#5. Natural, Fluffy Brows

Since we’re reminiscing, remember in the early 2000s when pencil-thin eyebrows were all the rage? Yeah… That time was a lawless wasteland… 😅

In the years since then, the trend has shifted in the opposite direction. These days, and as we’ll continue to see in 2022, it’s all about those natural, full brows. After all, our eyebrows help frame our faces and give us a healthy-looking glow.

If you’d like some tips on achieving this gorgeous look with your own eyebrows, this article by Greatist will teach you everything you need to get started!

#6. Neon Shadow

Hey, remember that time back in the 90s when blue eyeshadow was a thing? Okay, this makeup trends is basically like that – but better.

In recent years, bold, colorful eye looks have started trending again. If done improperly, with a lack of fundamental makeup technique, the results can be a little… well… scary. However, when done right, you’ll create something truly stunning.

It’s not just us who predicts this makeup trends in 2022 either! In fact, the Spring/Summer 2022 Fashion Week runways had a lot of models and celebs alike sporting dramatic, colorful eye looks. And if it’s Fashion Week-approved, you know this is a trend train to hop onto ASAP!

#7. Embellishments

According to Vogue, embellishments “catapult otherwise bare complexions to a different dimension”. For this reason, it’s one of the hottest makeup trends we can expect to see in 2022.

But what exactly are embellishments? This trend first started back in the disco era, and is all about adding a little (or a lot of) pizzazz to any given makeup look. Embellishments can be added to eyes, lips, brows, cheekbones, and so much more through the use of gems, jewels, sequins, crystals, etc.

You can even take things one step further by using any of the above items to create the illusion of 3D embellishments. So long as you’re feeling creative, you can get as funky as your heart desires!

Makeup trends in 2022 in-post image 3, eye makeup embellishments

#8. Dyed Brows

Note: Let me preface this by saying that when dyeing any hair on your body, it’s always safest to seek out the expertise of a certified professional (namely, a trained hair dresser). Therefore, when we discuss dyeing your brows here in this article, we do NOT recommend doing this yourself. Rather, consult an expert and have the dye job done properly, in a professional environment.

As I mentioned earlier, eyebrows are one of the single best ways to frame the face. Because they’re a natural focal point, there’s also a LOT of room to get playful, make your brows stand out, and use them as a statement-maker.

For this reason, getting creative with our brows is a trend that’s gotten pretty hot over the past few years – and is something we’ll keep seeing in 2022. While many are choosing to dye their brows one solid, vibrant color (often, in contrast to the color of hair on their heads), you can also do partial dye jobs, if you’d prefer.

That said, if you’re not comfortable with the commitment that comes with permanently dyeing your brows, never fear! You can use your professional makeup training and knowledge of core techniques to instead use makeup to create a similar effect.

#9. Russet-Flushed Eyes

Another makeup trend worth knowing about in 2022 is russet-flushed eyes. Other popular hues in-line with this trend would also be pink and/or peach. One way to maximize this trend would be to use these colors as an eyeliner. Another would be to go full-out and use them as eyeshadow, both on top of and below your eyelids.

Pro Tip: You can achieve a pretty whimsical look if paired with an otherwise natural application. Take it one step further by finishing off your look with a bold lip!

#10. Purple Blush

If you’ve ever found yourself on the beauty side of TikTok, you’ve likely seen this makeup trend already. More and more makeup connoisseurs are now sporting purple blush, which is why countless beauty sources are predicting this trend to continue with full force in the New Year.

If you like this particular trend and want to give it a try, we recommend either cream or powder blushes in violet, lavender, or plum colors. These seem to work best on a wide array of skin tones (and undertones) while delivering the most aesthetically-pleasing results!

Purple blush colors, makeup trends

#11. Face Paint (But for Adults)

As kids, didn’t we all love to have our faces painted at one point or another?

This awesome makeup trend of 2022 will allow us to tap back into our childhood – except with a mature, grown-up twist! Spotted at shows like Rodarte and Paul & Joe, the beauty industry can expect to see an increase of whimsical, artistic expression being incorporated into makeup applications.

For example, rainbows, clouds, flowers, and galactic imagery have become quite popular staples of this trend. Really, though, you can get as imaginative as you want. Let your creativity guide you and see what you can come up with!

#12. Lower Waterline Eyeliner

Yes, winged eyeliner and cat eyes will always be a popular makeup trend. However, the beauty industry has seen a bit of a shift down south as of late – wherein the focus of eyeliner is now more below the eye than above it.

Of course, this particular trend won’t necessarily work for every makeup look. It’ll be up to you to apply it at your discretion, based on what you’re trying to achieve and what the makeup is being worn for. For example, bold eyeliner on the lower waterline might not be the most appropriate choice for a bride on her wedding day.

But it most definitely can be the right choice for a high fashion editorial look, runway look, or for performance art!

#13. Eyebrow-High Shadow

I won’t lie – whenever I think of eyeshadow going all the way up to the brows, I can’t help but picture Mimi from The Drew Carrey Show. Rest assured, this is NOT what we’re referring to when we discuss this makeup trend.

Instead, what we’re talking about is eyeshadow properly blended up to the eyebrow (and, of course, with hues that compliment the overall look and skin complexion). When executed using proper, professional technique, this look is absolutely perfect for editorial looks and/or high fashion photography.

If you’re someone who likes going out of the box, taking risks, and getting experimental, this is definitely one trend you’ll want to try in 2022!

Makeup trends in 2022 in-post image 5, eyeshadow up to eyebrows

#14. Creamy, Warm Bronzer

This makeup trend in 2022 will be especially useful for you if you offer bridal makeup services as part of your business. Indeed, the demand for soft, brown tones is here – and moreover, it’s here to stay.

The beauty of brown hues is that it naturally warms up any complexion. While it’s forever a popular go-to for brides’ eye makeup, we also recommend incorporating it into their bronzer application. This will add a subtle, sun-kissed touch to their already glowing skin (which is always perfect for wedding photos, regardless of the season).

#15. Pastels

The pastel craze has been at its pique for quite some time now, and it shows no signs of ebbing or slowing down next year. These soft yet bright pops of color can turn an otherwise natural look into something funky and distinctive. On the other hand, it can be added to an already dramatic application in order to enhance it that much further.

When playing with pastels, you can incorporate them into your makeup look via:

  • Liquid eyeliner
  • Graphic eyeliner designs
  • Eyeshadow(s)
  • Lipstick or lip stains
  • Embellishments
  • Brow colors
  • Blush
  • And more!

#16. Juicy Textures

According to M.A.C Cosmetics’ senior national artist, Keri Blair, “juicy textures are going to be huge for 2022”. Now, you might be looking at this and wondering, “What are ‘juice textures’?”

Think of it this way: you know what it looks like when you apply a fresh coat of shiny lip gloss?

That’s basically it in a nutshell – except for this trend, it can be applied in other areas of the face as well.

Dewy, shiny lip and/or eye products will be your best bet if you want to to jump on this trend. Use these as finishes on lip and/or eye applications. Blair also recommends taking it one step further by focusing on “fun, berry shades”.

Makeup trends in 2022, in-post image 6, shiny lip gloss on lips

#17. Clean, Safe Beauty Products

This trend isn’t so much a makeup look as it is a makeup lifestyle. These days, consumers want the peace of mind in knowing that the products they’re buying are ethically-sourced, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly. What’s more, you want to ensure that they’re actually good for your skin and won’t cause any unwanted damage.

So, we recommend doing your research before purchasing any new items, regardless of how well-known the brand may be. For instance, this article by Eco Friendly Habits, lists their Top 15 organic and toxic-free makeup brand suggestions. In contrast, this article by Her Agenda provides a list of brands to avoid.

It’s also just as important that your skincare products contain only the most trustworthy ingredients. Not sure which ingredients to look for and which to steer clear of? Watch this informative webinar, hosted by QC Makeup Academy executive instructor and celebrity MUA, Nathan John!

Which of these makeup trends in 2022 are YOU most excited to try out? Can you think of any others to add to this list?

Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! 💕

Dream of a career as a professional makeup artist? Earn your internationally-recognized certification in as little as 2-6 months by training online with QC Makeup Academy today!

How to become a fashion stylist Feature Image

How to Become a Fashion Stylist

By Career Advice, Fashion Styling No Comments

Dream of a successful career in the beauty industry? Learn how to become a fashion stylist!

Today, we’re here to answer all of the need-to-know questions you have about this exciting new career path. So, sit back and get comfy. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll know EXACTLY where to begin and how to find success in professional fashion styling!

What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Fashion Stylist?

Okay, first thing’s first: do you need professional training to start a career as a fashion stylist?

Technically, no, you don’t. But that said, your chances of success will drastically decrease if you choose to forego a proper education. The fact is, the majority of employers and clients alike will be looking for some kind of reputable qualification on your end.

Think of it this way: if YOU wanted to hire a fashion stylist, would you prefer booking someone who could prove that they know what they’re doing… or someone who can only claim to know what they’re doing?

I think we both know the answer, right?

For this reason, the most successful of fashion stylists will have either a certification or a degree in their field. If you want a fruitful career, it’s in your best interest to do the same. We’ll take a closer look at the sort of fashion styling course you can take shortly!

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How Much Does a Fashion Stylist Earn?

Next, if you want to know how to be a fashion stylist, it’s worth having an idea of the type of money you can make. When looking at this, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” salary for this profession. Two fashion stylists living in the same city can make two completely different incomes.

Impacting Factors

Some of the key factors that can directly impact the amount of money you make include (but aren’t limited to):

  • Your location (i.e. big city vs. small town);
  • The demand for fashion stylist services in your area;
  • The quality of your professional portfolio;
  • How much hands-on, in-field experience you have;
  • Your local competition;
  • The amount of effort you put into networking;
  • Whether you’re working as a fashion stylist part-time vs. full-time;
  • Whether you’re employed by a business or run one of your own;
  • If your business also offers other beauty services, such as professional makeup, for example;
  • How you’ve priced your service rates;
  • How you market your business/services;
  • And more!

Average Salary Ranges for Fashion Stylists by Location

Of course, I can provide some annual salary ranges for full-time fashion stylists, based on country. Here’s what’s typically being made throughout the world:

  • United States: Between $44,000 USD to $61,000 USD per year (Source: Salary.com)
  • Canada: Between $39,000 CAD to $46,000 CAD per year (Source: PayScale)
  • United Kingdom: Between £15,000 GBP to £35,000 GBP per year (Source: PayScale)
  • New Zealand: Between $36,000 NZD to $51,000 NZD per year (Source: PayScale)
  • Australia: Between $76,000 AUD to $133,000 AUD per year (Source: Salary Expert)

The Added Value of an Accredited Certification

When you get proper fashion styling training, you’re investing time, money, and effort into your skill-set. As a result, once you graduate from your course, you earn the right to price your services in a way that properly reflects that.

Plus, if your business offers any additional beauty services, as I mentioned above, then you can raise those rates, too!

Moreover, having a credible fashion styling certification will do wonders in terms of helping you stand out from your competitors. Setting yourself apart from the crowd will not only elevate your career – it’ll definitely help you earn a higher income!

Did you know that ALL of QC Makeup Academy‘s self-paced, online certification courses are accredited and internationally-recognized? Check out our full list of programs here!

Best suit. Young fashionable stylist helping his client to get dressed while standing in his workshop

Is Fashion Stylist a Good Career?

Here’s the thing: even the best-paying job in the world won’t be worth it if you aren’t actually enjoying yourself. So, this begs the question: is it worth your time and effort to actually become a fashion stylist?

Is it truly a good career to pursue?

That depends on you, your goals, and your personal preferences.

Here are a few questions to help you get a better idea of whether or not fashion styling is the perfect fit (heh) for you:

  • Do you love getting creative?
  • Are you a “people person”?
  • Do you have a natural eye for fashion?
  • Are you passionate about helping others look and feel their very best?
  • Are you eager to learn everything you can about the industry?
  • Do you already have a beauty career and want to expand your services?
  • Would you love the chance to be your own boss and start your very own business?

If you answered “yes” to these questions, then guess what? You should DEFINITELY get started as a fashion stylist, because it sounds like you were born to do this job!

Furthermore, another awesome perk to this profession is that there are so many possible career opportunities at your feet. For instance, you could strictly offer in-person consultations – but you could also offer virtual consultations, too. This would open up your client reach and allow you to book with people from anywhere in the world!

Additionally, there are countless different areas of the beauty industry that you could specialize in and branch out into. These are just some of the industries you could lend your expertise to:

  • Everyday clients (i.e. fashion styling for day-to-day needs);
  • Editorial and photoshoots
  • Fashion and runway
  • Film, television, and live theater
  • Bridal fashion
  • Maternity fashion
  • Fashion styling for mature clients
  • Fashion styling on a budget
  • Boutique and/or fashion display styling
  • And SO much more!

As you can see, the possibilities are endless!

Alright, now that you know what it takes to be a fashion stylist, how can you actually become a fashion stylist?

These 4 steps will walk you through the process!

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Step One: Learn The Career – What IS a Fashion Stylist?

If I were to ask you, “What does a fashion stylist actually do?”, would you know how to answer this question?

If not, don’t worry, because you’re about to find out!

As a fashion stylist, you’ll be responsible for any/all of the following tasks:

  • Conduct initial client consultations and follow-up appointments;
  • Help your client determine (and then work within) their allotted budget;
  • Collaborate with other professionals in the beauty industry (e.g. makeup artists, hair stylists, photographers, etc.);
  • Get to know your clients on a more personal level, so you can best determine the style(s) that suit them and their lifestyle;
  • Being a subject-matter expert on style basics (i.e. fit, weight, drape, appropriate sizing, fabrics, textures, colors, patterns, prints, body types, balance, etc.);
  • Accessorizing clothing;
  • Creating efficient wardrobes with versatile pieces for clients of any age, gender, body type, etc.;
  • Owning and successfully operating your own business (should you choose to go this route), etc.

To get an even better idea of what a fashion stylist does on a day-to-day basis, I’d recommend doing a bit of detective work on your end. Read publications and check out successful fashion stylists on social media. Their channels could provide some eye-opening, inspiring insights into what their lives (and careers) truly look like!

Step Two: Take Courses on How to Become a Fashion Stylist

At this stage of the game, it’s time to decide where – and how – you’d like to obtain your professional fashion styling education. As such, the first step is to determine whether you’d like your schooling to be done in-person or online.

Brick-and-Mortar Training

This is the obvious choice if you’re the kind of learner who best thrives when physically surrounded by your peers and instructor. However, one downside to keep in mind is that in-person courses can get ridiculously expensive!

Not to mention, you’ll be forced to go at the same pace as everyone else. Meaning, if your fashion styling program is, say, 6 months long, then you won’t be able to graduate any sooner than that.

Online Training

Online schooling, on the other hand, is a LOT cheaper because there’s no physical campus to maintain. Plus, it can often be done at the student’s preferred pace, which is definitely another bonus.

QC Makeup Academy’s online training, for example, is 100% self-paced! Once you enroll in your program, you get a full 2 years to finish it. That said, during that 2-year timeframe, YOU get full control over when and how often you want to work on your studies.

To put this into perspective, if you were to devote a mere 1-2 hours per week on your studies, you could graduate and earn your internationally-recognized certification in as little as 2-6 months!

You woman lying on couch with laptop. Home shoot.

QC Makeup Academy’s Fashion Styling Course

For aspiring fashion stylists, QC Makeup Academy’s Fashion Styling Course will teach you everything you need to know! In this 8-unit online program, you’ll discover:

  • Historical and modern fashion trends;
  • Fashion icons from both the past and present;
  • The role a fashion stylist plays for clients;
  • Various different career opportunities at your disposal;
  • How to conduct a successful consultation;
  • How to master basic fashion elements;
  • Styling for men and women alike;
  • Layering and creating a balanced silhouette;
  • Fashion styling for specific purposes (i.e. everyday wear, business attire, etc.);
  • Accessorizing;
  • Styling on a budget;
  • How to work with all body types, ages, genders, etc.;
  • What goes into building your professional brand;
  • How to start your very own business and/or add fashion styling services to an existing business;
  • How to maximize social media and other online platforms to market your business;
  • And more!

Within 1-2 business days after you’ve enrolled in this course, you’ll receive your login details for QC Makeup Academy’s Online Student Center. From here, you’ll have direct, online access to your digital textbooks, assignments, instructional videos, etc. That said, we’ll also mail you a physical copy of your course materials, too, which you should receive within 1-2 weeks after you enroll.

The best part of this entire experience?

Once you graduate, you’ll receive your internationally-recognized Certified International Styling Professional (CISP™) certification! You can then proudly add this qualification to your resume and wow all prospective clients and employers alike.

Read the full Fashion Styling Course breakdown and curriculum here!

Step Three: Get Hands-On Industry Experience

Once you graduate and enter the industry, you’re going to need two very important things in order to book legitimate, paying clients:

  1. Real-world experience and
  2. A stunning portfolio of your fashion styling work.

After all, potential clients (as well as possible employers) will want to see that you know what you’re doing before they choose to hire you. Plus, you’ll be a lot more confident in your skill-set if you’ve taken the time to truly hone it first. This can only really be done through hands-on experience.

Here are a few ways you can gain this crucial experience, while also developing your professional portfolio at the same time:

  • Practice your fashion styling skills on friends and family
  • Offer complimentary services to people you know
  • Demonstrate the techniques and skills you’ve acquired from your training using your own wardrobe
  • Get involved in a stylized photoshoot
  • Lend your fashion styling expertise to a good cause (i.e. not-for-profit and/or charitable events), etc.

It’s worth noting that you probably won’t get paid for any of the practice acquired above. However, at the beginning of your career, this is okay. What you won’t be gaining in financial profit, you will be gaining in hands-on experience! Not to mention, these opportunities will allow you to grow your portfolio and stock it with high-quality images. That on its own is 100% invaluable!

Remember: you won’t be giving away freebies forever. Just think of it as a necessary step to get to where you want to be!

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Step Four: Stay on Top of Fashion Trends

If this is truly the path you’re passionate about pursuing, then taking one course at the beginning of your career won’t be enough. Rather, you’ll be motivated to absorb as much new information as possible and advance your skill-set at every opportunity!

After all, this is one of the single smartest ways to keep your craft current – and that’s EXTREMELY important in every single job field.

So, stay in the loop about popular fashion styling and beauty trends! Follow other industry experts on social media, read fashion publications, and further your education by taking more courses. Plus, you can also join online communities and attend networking events, which is always a smart idea.

All of these are things that will help you remain up-to-date on what’s going on in the fashion/beauty industry. Obviously, what “keeping up-to-date” means is different – and subjective – to everyone. Either way, it’ll be in your best interest to do so.

In the end, committing to and embracing lifelong learning will only ever help you. It’ll be the very thing that, ultimately, allows you to leave a long-term mark as a fashion stylist and beauty professional. And really, isn’t that the goal?

How Do I Start as a Freelance Fashion Stylist?

Lastly, if you know in your heart that the dream is to run a business of your own, then here are some tips and brainstorming questions to help you get the ball rolling:

  • Decide what you’d like to name your business, confirm that this name isn’t already taken, and then register your business name who no one else can take it in the future.
  • Sit down and really think about what you want your brand to be. How can your business’s imagery and aesthetic convey your brand? What message(s) do you want to associate with your business?
  • Who is your target clientele and how can you reach them?
  • Start researching what goes into building a professional business website and brainstorm all of the key information you want to include on your site (e.g. About Me page, contact info, client testimonials, your portfolio, etc.).
  • How can you start developing your portfolio?
  • Do you want to travel to your clients, invest in a physical business location, etc.?
  • Do you want to offer virtual fashion styling services in addition to in-person ones?
  • What’s the industry standard in your area, in terms of service rates?
  • Do you have an idea of what you’d like to charge for your styling services?
  • Would you like your business to offer any other types of beauty services? If so, what sort of training should you get, in order to be best qualified?
  • Which social media platforms would you like to establish a presence on, and what will your strategy be on these platforms?
  • How else can you market your business efficiently?
  • How can you start growing your professional network?

Do you have any additional tips to add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

Now that you know how to become a fashion stylist, it’s time to get started. Enroll with QC Makeup Academy today and book your first client in as little as 2-6 months!

How to Become a Professional Hair Stylist: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Career Advice, Hair Styling No Comments

Dream of a lucrative career in the beauty industry? Today, we’re going to break down how to become a professional hair stylist and find success!

Now, you probably have a ton of questions about this new, exciting journey. But don’t worry – we’ve answered ALL of them for you, right here in this article.

All you need to do is find somewhere comfy to sit and put your feet up. In less time than it’d take you to watch an episode of your favorite Netflix show, you’ll learn everything needed to start your dream career!

Are Hair Stylists the Same as Hair Dressers?

This feels like a solid place to start – namely because these two titles are sometimes used interchangeably. But this isn’t exactly correct. In reality, hair styling and hair dressing are two entirely different careers.

For starters, the training and qualifications required aren’t the same. Hair dressers often need to go to cosmetology school and obtain a cosmetology license in order to work. Hair stylists, on the other hand, don’t technically need professional training (although we’ll touch very shortly on why you should definitely still pursue certification training).

Furthermore, there are certain things hair dressers do that hair stylists can’t. Basically, if it’s a service that actually changes the hair in any way beyond styling (i.e. cutting hair, dye jobs, perms, semi-permanent and/or permanent hair extensions, chemical treatments, etc.), this falls under a hair dresser’s capabilities – but not a hair stylist’s.

Want to learn even more about the similarities vs. differences between hair stylists and hair dressers? Keep reading here!

Is Being a Hair Stylist a Good Career?

Do you love getting creative? Would you be happiest working full-time in the professional beauty industry? Do you have a natural knack for making hair look beautiful? Furthermore, would you get joy from helping clients look their best for important events, weddings, and special celebrations?

If you’ve answered “yes” to any or all of these questions, then guess what?

You should totally start a career as a hair stylist!

Not only will you be challenged both creatively and intellectually, you’ll be fulfilled emotionally as well. As a result, you’ll truly get to say that you’re doing what you love for a living. And really, isn’t that the dream?

How Much Do Professional Hair Stylists Make?

Next, if you want to know how to be a hair stylist, it’s worth knowing how much you can expect to make from this job. Here are some average salary ranges for hair stylists, based on location:

  • United States: Between $20,000 USD to $52,500 USD per year (Source: ZipRecruiter)
  • Canada: Between $27,300 CAD to $44,850 CAD per year (Source: Talent.com)
  • United Kingdom: Between £16,000 GBP to £32,000 per year (Source: Glassdoor)
  • New Zealand: Between $41,599 NZD to $52,920 NZD per year (Source: Salary Expert)
  • Australia: Between $53,625 AUD to $60,000 AUD per year (Source: Talent.com)

Additional Factors to Consider

Keep in mind that your salary will be affected by other factors as well. For instance, a full-time hair stylist will, logically, make more money than someone working part-time. Furthermore, if you live somewhere where hair styling services are in higher demand, your booking potential will be much better.

Other impacting factors can also include whether you’re hired on by an existing company vs. starting your own business. The former will most likely set you up with a set hourly income. The latter, on the other hand, will require some sort of financial investment in the beginning – but then you’ll be able to set your own rates. As a result, you could wind up making a LOT more money eventually.

Finally, it’s also worth taking in account whether you’re only offering hair styling services, or adding them to other existing beauty services, such as makeup artistry. So, as you look at the above salary ranges, don’t forget to factor in that you could also be earning even more money if your business is offering other types of services as well.

The Added Value of a Professional Certification

When you get proper hair styling training, you’re investing time, effort, and money into your skill-set and expertise. Thus, you earn the right to price your services in a way that properly reflects that.

Plus, if your business offers other types of beauty services, as we discussed above, then you can raise those rates as well!

Moreover, having a credible hair styling certification will do wonders in terms of helping you stand out from the local competition. I guarantee you that setting yourself apart from the crowd will not only elevate your career – it’ll definitely help you earn even more money!

Did you know that ALL of QC Makeup Academy’s courses, certifications, and designations are internationally-recognized and accredited? Check out the full list of self-paced, online programs we currently offer here!

What are The Different Types of Hair Stylists?

In my opinion, another reason why starting a career as a hair stylist is such a great idea is because this is one of those awesome jobs that provides a LOT of opportunity. There are countless industries that need hair styling services. As such, you’ll never have a difficult time finding clients, while at the same time, getting to target the areas of the beauty industry that interest you most!

For example, here are just some of the different types of hair stylists out there (that YOU could be, too):

  • Bridal hair stylists
  • Editorial hair stylists
  • Fashion and/or runway hair stylists
  • Film, television, and live theater hair stylists
  • Special events hair stylists
  • Virtual hair stylists (providing services online, either in addition to in-person services, or strictly remotely), etc.

Psst! Here’s a little insider secret…

If you pair these specialized hair styling services with these same specialized makeup services (e.g. providing clients with BOTH bridal hair and makeup for a wedding), you can quickly become a total powerhouse and book more clients than you’ll know what to do with!

After all, you’ll be eliminating the client’s need to seek these additional services elsewhere. Instead, they’ll have the option to book everything they need, all from under one roof, so to say. Talk about a sure-fire way to secure more bookings and make an even higher income!

Okay, so now that you know what it takes to be a professional hair stylist, what should you do to actually become one for real?

Here are 5 tips to walk you through the process!

Step One: Research the Hair Styling Industry

It’s important to begin your journey with a clear game plan. Part of this game plan includes knowing as much as you possibly can about the career you intend to make for yourself.

Here are just some of the things we encourage you to research and learn more about:

  • The job description and typical responsibilities of a professional hair stylist;
  • Past and current popular hair trends;
  • The demand in your local area;
  • Who your local competitors are, what their businesses offer, and how they run these businesses;
  • Who your target clientele will be;
  • Efficient marketing strategies for your own business;
  • What you’ll need to do to launch your own business (i.e. naming your business and getting it registered, building an official website, etc.);
  • Which social media platforms you’d like to establish a presence on;
  • Different areas of the industry you can work in;
  • Which areas of hair styling you’re most passionate about, etc.

If you start your career as a professional hair stylist unprepared, it’ll be really hard for you to make a real name for yourself. But if you do the right research, and walk into the industry with a solid understanding of your role as a stylist, you’ll quickly become a force to be reckoned with!

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Step Two: Take a Course on How to Become a Professional Hair Stylist

First thing’s first: do you want to get your training in-person or online? Let’s take a quick look at these two options.

In-Person Schooling

Brick-and-mortar training is the obvious choice for anyone who thrives most when physically surrounded by their peers and instructor. However, one downside to keep in mind is that in-person courses can get ridiculously expensive!

Another con is the fact that you’ll be forced to go at the same pace as everyone else. Thus, if your hair styling program is, for example, 6 months long, you won’t be able to graduate any sooner than that.

Online Schooling

Online courses, on the other hand, are exceptionally cheaper because there’s no physical campus to maintain. Furthermore, distance learning can often be done at the student’s preferred pace.

QC Makeup Academy, for example, offers online training that’s 100% self-paced! Starting on the date you enroll, you get a full 2 years to finish your program. However, during that time, YOU get to decide when and how often you want to work on your course.

As a student of QC, you could graduate and earn your internationally-recognized certification in as little as 2-6 months, simply by devoting a mere 1-2 hours per week on your studies!

QC Makeup Academy’s Hair Styling Essentials Course

For aspiring hair stylists, QC Makeup Academy’s Hair Styling Essentials Course will teach you everything you need to know! In this 5-unit online course, you’ll discover:

  • How to conduct a successful client consultation;
  • Hair styling etiquette and important hygiene protocols;
  • Proper anatomy of the head and hair;
  • Face shapes and structures;
  • Tools and products used for hair styling;
  • How to build and stock your own styling kit;
  • Blow-drying techniques;
  • How to work with heat/heating tools;
  • Creating a wide variety of flawless curls and hair styles;
  • Popular hair styles from the past and present;
  • How to start your very own business;
  • Client acquisition and retention;
  • Marketing efforts you can make to get your business seen;
  • How to plan a styled photoshoot to help build your professional portfolio;
  • And SO much more!

Once enrolled in this course, you’ll receive your login details for QC’s Online Student Center within 1-2 business days. Within the OSC, you’ll have direct, online access to your digital course materials, assignments, instructional videos, etc.

However, we’ll also mail you a physical copy of your course materials, too (and at no added cost)! Included within your physical materials will be your FREE starter kit. This starter kit contains a curling wand with 5 interchangeable barrels of varying widths. Plus, you’ll also get a heat-proof silicon mat for resting your wand on between curls.

The best part of this course?

Once you graduate, you’ll receive your internationally-recognized Hair Styling Essentials certification. You can proudly add this qualification to your resume – and we PROMISE it’ll wow all of your clients!

Find the full Hair Styling Essentials Course breakdown and curriculum here!

Beautiful woman getting haircut by hairdresser in the beauty salon.

Step Three: Decide on Your Career Path

Once you’ve completed your professional training, it’ll be time to sit down and really think about what you want your career to look like. What kind of hair stylist do you want to be? What are your goals? How will you go about achieving them?

I recommend sitting down, grabbing a pen and paper, and trying to answer the following brainstorming questions:

  • Do you want to start your own business, or join an existing salon?
  • If you wish to start your own beauty business, what do you want it to look like?
    • E.g. What will its name be? How do you want your brand to be? Do you want to travel to the jobs or open a salon of your own? Etc.
  • Would you like your business and/or skill-set to have any particular niches? (I.e. bridal hair styling, virtual services, etc.)
  • Who will be your target demographic?
  • How will you market your services to these potential customers?
  • What are some of the best ways can you get your name out there and network?
  • Do you plan to offer any additional beauty design services (i.e. professional makeup), or strictly stick to hair styling?

Step Four: Dive In and Work on Real Clients!

Throughout the course of your training, you’ll learn all about different hair types, styles, techniques, products, etc. But once you graduate, you’re going to need two very important things if you want to book legitimate, paying clients:

  1. Real-world experience and
  2. A beautiful portfolio of your hair styling work.

After all, prospective customers will want to see that you know what you’re doing before they hire you. Moreover, you’ll be a lot more confident in your skills if you’ve taken the time to truly hone them first. And obviously, this can only really be done through hands-on experience.

Here are a few ways you can gain this crucial experience and develop your portfolio at the same time:

  • Practice your skills on friends and family
  • Offer complimentary hair styling services to people you know
  • Practice the techniques and skills you acquired from your education on your own hair
  • Take part in a stylized photoshoot
  • Lend your hair styling expertise to a good cause, such as not-for-profit or charitable events, etc.

No, you likely won’t be getting paid for any of the above “jobs”. However, at the beginning of your career, this is okay – because what you won’t be gaining in financial profit, you will be gaining in in-field experience. Not to mention, you’ll also have the opportunity to grow your portfolio… and this on its own is invaluable!

Just remember that you won’t be giving away freebies forever. It’s just a necessary step in order to get to where you want to be!

How to become a professional hair stylist in-post image 6

Step Five: Stay on Top of Hair Styling and Beauty Trends

If this is really the career path you’re most passionate about pursuing, then taking one course at the very beginning of your journey won’t be enough. Instead, you’ll be motivated to absorb as much new information as possible and advance your craft at every turn.

After all, this is one of the single smartest ways to keep your skill-set current – and that’s SUPER important in every job field.

So, stay in the loop about popular hair styling and beauty trends! Follow other industry experts on social media, read beauty publications, and further your education through advanced and/or specialization courses. You can also join online communities and attend networking events.

All of these things will help you remain up-to-date on what’s going on in the industry at all times.

Obviously, what “keeping up-to-date” means to everyone is different and subjective. Regardless, though, it’ll be in your best interest to do so. In the end, committing to and embracing lifelong learning will only ever help you; ultimately, allowing you to continue leaving your mark on the world as a hair stylist and beauty professional.

And really, isn’t that the goal?

Now that you know how to become a professional hair stylist, it’s time to get started! Enroll with QC Makeup Academy today and book your first client in as little as 2-6 months!

Global Beauty Course Materials

Get 2 QC Makeup Academy Courses for The Price of 1!

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

Do you dream of working as a professional makeup artist? QC Makeup Academy can help you turn this dream into a reality in as little as 2-6 months!

Look, I’ll level with you: going back to school always feels like a daunting decision for some of us. This is why we’re committed to making the decision to enroll with QC the easiest one you’ll ever have to make!

But before I get into all the reasons why QC Makeup Academy is the makeup school to train with, let me first start by letting you in on some seriously exciting, juicy tea…

Have You Heard About QC Makeup Academy’s Brand-New Promo?

Okay, get ready for some seriously awesome news… Are you ready? Here it is:

Until September 17th, 2021, you can get TWO courses with QC Makeup Academy for the price of ONE!

As a result, you’ll be able to launch your career as a professional makeup artist with a DOUBLE certification. What’s more – both of these qualifications/designations will be internationally recognized! This means you’ll have the freedom to potentially service clients from all over the world if you so choose!

Alright, so now that you’re as excited as I am, let’s take a closer look at this exclusive promotional offer.

Free Global Beauty Promotion Graphic

What You Need to Know

Here’s the promotion in a nutshell: until September 17th, 2021, when you enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s wildly popular Master Makeup Artistry Course, we’ll give you our Global Beauty Workshop at NO additional cost!

To put this into context, the Global Beauty Workshop normally costs $1046.00 USD… But you’ll be able to enroll absolutely FREE. Not only is this the perfect option for someone needing to get their education on a budget; it’s quite literally a steal.

So, now you might be thinking, “Okay, but why these courses? Why will these certification programs help me become a professional makeup artist and have a successful career?”

Don’t worry, I’ve got you! Let’s take a look at this next…

QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course

The first thing you need to know is that this is, hands-down, our most popular program. Thousands upon thousands of aspiring and working MUAs alike have graduated from this course and gone on to cultivate thriving, fruitful careers in the beauty industry.

The beauty of the Master Makeup Artistry Course is that it’s craftily tailored towards ANY and ALL skill levels. Yes, this means that even if you’ve never even picked up a makeup brush before, this course will turn you into a makeup expert by the time you’re finished. On the flip side, if you already have some experience under your belt, this course will refine all of those core, fundamental techniques you already know and bring them to the next level!

The Course Breakdown

QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course is 7 units long. The first 3 units focus on teaching you the foundation to makeup artistry. Specifically, you’ll learn all about:

  • Career opportunities as a makeup artist;
  • Taking proper photos for your portfolio;
  • Working as a makeup artist and vital tools of the trade;
  • Safe and sanitary makeup practices, as well as brush types and how to clean your tools;
  • How to stock your professional makeup kit;
  • Skin types and conditions;
  • Prepping the skin for a makeup application;
  • How to properly do makeup on your own skin;
  • Color theory;
  • Blending like a pro;
  • Corrective makeup;
  • Blush, highlight, and contour application;
  • Proper makeup removal techniques;
  • Applying false eyelashes;
  • Day and evening looks, as well as how to perfect the smoky eye;
  • How to apply makeup on ALL types of clients, regardless of sex, age, skin type, etc.;
  • Makeup for mature skin;
  • And MUCH more!

From there, you’ll move onto the next 3 units, which delve into the more advanced stuff you’ve been dying to master! Here are the sort of skills you’ll acquire during this section of the course:

  • How to do bridal and celebrity-inspired makeup;
  • Advanced makeup artistry techniques – such as fantasy makeup, runway makeup, Avant-Garde makeup, editorial, and photoshoot makeup, etc.;
  • Makeup for film, television, theater, and other live performances;
  • And more!
QC Makeup Academy Sept promo article in-post image 2

Business Training

You’ll discover how to work at a makeup counter or get your own business off the ground if that’s the career path you’d prefer to take. Moreover, you’ll learn how to market and promote yourself, find your target clientele, conduct competitor research, develop your brand, provide top-notch customer service, and so much more.

After all, in order to have a successful business, you need to know how to actually run one. This final unit will ensure to teach you everything you need to know in order to do just that!

Finally, you’ll arrive at the last unit of the Master Makeup Artistry Course, which is all about business training. Though this unit is optional, we STRONGLY recommend taking full advantage of it. In fact, the countless graduates who’ve come out of QC Makeup Academy have attributed their career success to the business knowledge they obtained in this very unit.

Essentially, the Master Makeup Artistry Course – as a full, all-encompassing course – goes full circle. It not only teaches you how to do makeup like a true expert; it also teaches you how to conquer the business side of things, thus making you a total powerhouse!

QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Certification

Once you graduate from this course, you’ll be mailed a physical copy of QC Makeup Academy’s exclusive Master International Makeup Professional (MIMP) certification. This certification, as I mentioned earlier, is internationally recognized and will be sure to impress all your future clients!

And don’t forget: this title also serves as your official designation, too. Your resume will look mighty impressive with this reputable qualification added to it!

Want to hear what past QC Makeup Academy graduates have had to say about the Master Makeup Artistry Course? Check out their course reviews here!

QC’s Global Beauty Workshop

QC Makeup Academy’s Global Beauty Workshop is an Advanced Course, meant to complement your foundational training. While you can enroll in this program without any prior training, we highly recommend taking a Foundation Course and laying down the groundwork of your skill-set first.

So, why will taking QC’s Global Beauty Workshop set your career up for even greater success?

Because this 4-unit course will diversify your makeup knowledge and open you up to clients from ALL around the world! 

The Course Breakdown

If I tried to list all of the valuable lessons you’ll learn in this program, we’d be here all day. However, these are just some of the amazing skills you’ll gain from this training:

  • A solid understanding of various skin tones and undertones;
  • Knowing how to work with these different skin tones;
  • Corrective makeup for deeper skin tones, fairer skin tones, golden skin tones, etc.
  • How to specialize in everyday makeup, evening looks, and bridal applications for East Asian clients;
  • Media makeup and editorial looks for global skin tones;
  • How to build your global makeup kit;
  • Makeup for South Asian and Indian clients;
  • Bollywood glamor;
  • Middle Eastern makeup techniques and applications;
  • How to work with Henna;
  • And more!

QC Makeup Academy’s Global Beauty Workshop Certificate

Upon graduation, QC Makeup Academy will send you your internationally recognized Global Beauty Workshop certificate, which you can proudly add to your portfolio and resume. This certification shows top industry clientele that you’ve received professional training in working with clients from all sorts of diverse backgrounds.

Pro Tip: Setting yourself apart from the competition is HUGE in the beauty industry, as well as a key factor in your success. This level of diverse training will be sure to make yours a memorable name!

Want to see living proof of how QC Makeup Academy’s Global Beauty Workshop can get you more bookings?

What to Expect as a Student of QC Makeup Academy

Okay, so now you have a better idea of these two courses and why our current promotional offer is so amazing. But what can you actually expect as a student, once you’ve enrolled with QC Makeup Academy?

Self-Paced, Online Learning Environment

This is probably the best place to start since it’s easily the top reason why students and alumni completely love QC Makeup Academy’s training.

All of our courses are done 100% online and at your preferred pace. We don’t impose any deadlines on you, nor do you need to follow any rigid, set schedules. Starting on the date you enroll, you get a full 2 years to complete your program. That said, the course itself is less than 40 years long.

As such – and since you have full control over when and how much you focus on your studies – you can use as much or as little of that 2-year timeframe as you need. To put this into perspective: many of our grads found that by working on their course for a mere 1-2 hours per week, they were able to graduate in as little as 2-6 months!

Tons of Hands-On Training

Yes, while our courses are done online (rather than a brick-and-mortar class), we still understand the need for real-world experience. This is why all of QC Makeup Academy’s courses provide an abundance of practical assignments that’ll give you all sorts of eye-opening, hands-on training.

Furthermore, these assignments will push you to find models of different ages and sexes, as well as with different skin tones and types. As a result, you’ll hone your skill-set and be completely prepared to book legit, paying clients as soon as you graduate!

Real Industry Expert Tutors

At QC Makeup Academy, we firmly believe that you can only become the best by learning from the best! This is why all of our tutors and instructors are real-world makeup artists and beauty experts with years of experience under their belts.

Once you enroll in your courses, you’ll be assigned your personal tutor. Since our learning environment is one-on-one style, we guarantee that your training experience will be 100% tailored to you, your work, and your goals. Furthermore, after every unit, your tutor will go over your work with a fine-toothed comb and then provide thorough audio feedback to help you identify your current strengths and weaknesses.

Physical AND Digital Course Materials

Once enrolled, you’ll receive your login details for QC Makeup Academy’s Online Student Center within 1-2 business days. As soon as you can access the OSC, you’ll have access to the digital copy of all of your textbooks, instructional videos, quizzes, work sheets, and assignments. Thus, you’ll be able to begin your course as soon as you want!

However, we’ll also be mailing you a physical copy of your course materials as well – right to your front door at no extra charge. Plus, since the Master Makeup Artistry also comes with a complimentary starter makeup kit, you’ll also receive that from us, too!

Competitive Tuition Rates

But it’s not enough for us to simply be more affordable than brick-and-mortar schools… After all, we want to make your decision to pursue your dream career as easy as possible! And this is exactly why we pride ourselves on our low monthly payments plans.

In general, QC Makeup Academy – like all other online schools – will offer cheaper tuition than what you’d find in an in-person makeup school. This is because we don’t have a physical campus to maintain or any of the additional overhead costs that would come with that.

Now, you absolutely can pay the full amount at the time of enrollment (which will get you a pretty nice Pay-in-Full discount). But you also have the option to pay a small deposit at the time of enrollment, followed by easily affordable payments for a set number of months afterward.

This way, ANY person with ANY budget can get QC’s top-quality education!

Read over 200 5-star reviews on QC Makeup Academy’s Facebook page!

BONUS: Join QC Makeup Academy’s Free Virtual Classroom on Facebook!

So, what are you waiting for? Come join us in the Virtual Classroom today! We look forward to seeing you there!

And just as importantly, you’ll get the best possible idea of whether QC Makeup Academy is the best fit for YOU!

This is why we offer a no-strings-attached 2-week trial for prospective students in our Virtual Classroom on Facebook. In this private group, you can connect with real QC students, graduates, and tutors. You’ll get to see the sort of things students are currently learning in their courses, gain access to top industry tips and insights, and begin networking with other beauty professionals.

There are very few schools out there (especially online ones) that’ll give you a chance to get a proper feel of the school before committing. But we understand that this is a big decision for you – and we certainly want you to get your money’s worth!

Oh, and did I mention that QC Makeup Academy also offers a 21-Day Money-Back Guarantee? Learn more about this here!

Ready to become a professional makeup artist? Take advantage of QC Makeup Academy’s exciting, limited-time promotional offer today and book your first client in as little as 2-6 months!

QC Makeup Academy Grad Feature Feature Image

QC Makeup Academy Graduate Feature: Gabbie-anne Worthington

By About the School, Featured, Graduate Feature, Student Features No Comments

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

Hi, my name is Gabbie-Anne and I’m a graduate (and current student) of QC Makeup Academy. I’m from a rural town in Queensland, Australia. I have a huge passion for anything involving makeup. I’ve also recently started my own small business, Gab’s Nails & Beauty!

Where did your love of makeup come from?

My love of makeup comes from a deep-rooted passion and love for art. I have always been able to pick up a pencil/pen and draw what I was feeling. So, being able to do the same – but with makeup – excited me.

I grew up loving all things girly! At a young age, I found a love for the local dance house. When it came time for the performances, they would give us dramatic hairstyles and makeup, which I loved! Growing up in this environment, I enjoyed the feeling of getting dressed up and performing, as well as having people comment on the outfits and makeup I was wearing.

All of this made me fall in love with the beauty industry right away!

Prior to your enrollment with QC Makeup Academy, when was the moment you decided to become a professional makeup artist?

In my final years of schooling, I created a makeup page on social media. Having people I knew comment and encourage me was a huge confidence boost!

After leaving school, I would have people approach me to do their makeup for events like race days, balls, formals, and debutants. As more and more people approached me, I decided that I wanted to become a professional makeup artist. This way, I’d be able to give my customers confidence that I could give them a high-quality service of professionalism.

QC Makeup Academy grad feature in-post image 2

Why did you choose to pursue your certification training online, rather than in-person?

As I’m from a very rural town, it’s hard to travel back and forth to the city. Completing a makeup course online is a lot easier for me, as it gives me the flexibility to work on my schooling in my own home and at my own pace.

How did you discover QC Makeup Academy and what was it about QC that made you decide to enroll?

I did a lot of research into many online makeup schools, as well as the courses they could provide me. After reading about QC Makeup Academy, I immediately knew that this would be the perfect fit for me!

I had an idea of the type of courses I wanted to complete. For this reason, QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course intrigued me – especially with all the types of assignments I’d be completing. Moreover, I knew that learning the various makeup subjects taught in this program would give me more qualifications for when I graduated.

Now that you have graduated from QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, how was your experience with this certification program?

I loved it! I enjoyed progressing through the course and learning more about the professional side of the beauty industry.

Progressing through the course, I had to push myself to be creative. It was hard at first, but once I received my tutor’s feedback, I was more confident in my ability to be better. After completing my training, I’ve come to understand that my much-loved hobby is something that I will definitely turn into a full-time profession!

All my feedback for this course is positive.

It’s the BEST makeup course for someone who wants to become a professional makeup artist! 

Gabbie-anne Worthington portfolio image 3

How beneficial were the learning materials and tutor feedback QC Makeup Academy provided you for the MMA Course?

The course guide booklet was very useful in keeping me on top of my progress through the course. The textbooks themselves provided a lot of key information, as well as insight into the kind of work I’d one day be involved in after graduating from QC Makeup Academy.

Moreover, the information provided to me to help me complete my course has broadened my makeup knowledge beyond anything I could’ve learned from social media!

My tutor was Nathan Johnson. His words of encouragement and constructive criticism combined pushed me to work harder on my assignments. It helped me correct my mistakes and work on perfecting my techniques. I wouldn’t have done as well as I did if I hadn’t have gotten the feedback I did from him!

What was your favorite hands-on assignment for this course and why?

I enjoyed ALL of the assignments for this course. However, my favorites were a part of the Fashion and Editorial Unit. They were different from anything I had ever done before!

I got to learn about the process of creating makeup looks for each show. Also, I learned how a makeup artist can get to work personally with the fashion designer, and create something they love and will show with their designer outfits. This was something I never thought I would want to do – but after completing that unit, it’s now a possibility!

You’ve also enrolled in QC Makeup Academy’s Pro Makeup Workshop and Virtual Makeup Training courses, too. Why did you want to further your training with these courses, and how do you expect them to aid in your career’s success?

Furthering my knowledge on makeup was a no-brainer. Being able to add to my Master International Makeup Professional (MIMP) certification is something I look forward to!

QC Makeup Academy grad feature in-post image 4

As you mentioned earlier, you already run your own beauty business, Gab’s Nails & Beauty. Tell us a little about this business! What kinds of services do you currently offer clients? Which services do you want to add in the future?

I recently started this business as a way of progressing into the beauty industry. Having my own business gives me the flexibility I need right now. I provide beauty services, including:

  • Acrylic nails;
  • Pedicures;
  • Small waxing services;
  • Lash and brow tint;
  • And makeup for events.

In the future, I hope to add eyelash extensions, facials, and other advanced makeup/beauty services.

Currently, what are your career goals? Where would you like to see yourself – and your business – in 5 years?

My current goals are to complete my courses with QC Makeup Academy and work on building my small business into something more stable. In the future, I hope to be moved from my hometown to somewhere I can provide my services in a more professional setting.

The dream is to own a small shop with a rustic-chic theme. I want to provide a comfortable experience to customers; something different from what they are used to seeing in a salon or nail bar.

What are the top reasons why you’d recommend QC Makeup Academy to aspiring and working MUAs alike?

Firstly, QC Makeup Academy provides online certification courses, which is something a lot of people look for today. Secondly, you’re able to work at your own pace, in a place where you’re comfortable. You don’t need to worry about traveling for assignments, which takes away a lot of the stress, I think.

Thirdly, QC also provides a lot of useful course materials, as well as a full starter makeup kit – which is amazing! I found that this saves a lot of time and money since you don’t need to try and find your own makeup in order to begin your training.

QC Makeup Academy grad feature last in-post image

What advice would you give to someone who’s currently dreaming of becoming a makeup artist?

If it’s something you love and you have a huge passion for it, why not make it your career? Doing something you love for a living and giving others an experience like no other is better than anything!

GO FOR IT! Nothing is stopping you from chasing your dreams!

Finally: What’s the HOLY GRAIL product in your makeup kit and why?

Oh my god, I couldn’t pick just one thing! I think a palette with a variety of colors is something every artist needs. Something you could use for the eyes, eyebrows, cheeks, lips, etc. would always come in handy!

Inspired by Gabbie-anne’s story? Start writing your own by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today and earning your internationally-recognized certification in as little as 2-6 months!

Learn how to do makeup with Gemma article, July 22 2021, Feature Image

Learn How to Do Makeup with Certified MUA, Gemma Mannering!

By Makeup Tips and Tricks, QC Student Ambassador, Special Effects Makeup No Comments

Looking for even more ways, beyond your certification training, to learn how to do makeup? You’ve come to the right place! Join QC Makeup Academy‘s Student Ambassador, Gemma Mannering, as she reveals some awesome tips and tricks for special effects makeup!

Get to Know Gemma Mannering!

Gemma is a professional makeup artist located in the United Kingdom. She’s a certified graduate of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, Pro Makeup Workshop, Skincare Course, and Special FX Makeup Course. Additionally, she’s also currently enrolled in the:

  • Global Beauty Workshop
  • Airbrush Makeup Workshop
  • Hair Styling Essentials Course
  • Virtual Makeup Training Course
  • Portfolio Development Workshop

When she isn’t hard at work on her studies, Gemma is the proud owner of GL Makeup. She also devotes much of her time as a Student Ambassador of QC Makeup Academy. As part of this role, Gemma provides guidance and support for prospective, current, and past students.

Gemma Introduces Herself

Want to connect with Gemma directly? Join QC Makeup Academy’s free Virtual Classroom on Facebook today!

Learn How to Do Makeup with Gemma

In the following Instagram videos, join Gemma as she demonstrates core SFX makeup techniques she learned through QC’s Special FX Makeup Course! Moreover, Gemma will give you a some tips and tricks to help YOU recreate these applications yourself.

Warning: These special effects applications may depict fake blood, gore, and/or wounds. Please be advised!

Video #1: Half Glam / Half SFX

This Instagram Reel might just leave your jaw on the floor! At first glance, the left side (photo right) of Gemma’s face has been dolled up in a classic glam look. However, she then unveils the other side of her face… and we’re quickly stunned by the realistic bruising and road rash effect! (And maybe a little squeamish, too!)

How is it possible that Gemma could pull off BOTH applications with such perfection?

Because she’s been properly trained in classic makeup techniques and SFX techniques, that’s why! With a skill-set like this, Gemma can easily apply her talents to every client imaginable. From movies and TV, to brides, and everything in-between… her career opportunities are endless – and yours can be, too!

Video #2: Hand Wound Speed Tutorial

If you like to learn how to do makeup by watching speed tutorials, then you’re going to LOVE this video! Here, Gemma takes to IGTV. Watch as she demonstrates the necessary steps involved in creating a gory, bloody wound between her thumb and index finger. The final result looks like a crazed zombie just took a big bite out of her. Ouch!!!

Video #3: Learn How to Do Bruise Makeup

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to do bruise makeup with such realism and finesse that everyone you know will be asking, “What happened to you!?”

Remember: bruise effects are a lot easier said than done. You need to keep in mind the age of the bruise, the placement, and what caused it. Only by taking these 3 criteria into consideration will you be able to create truly realistic bruises each and every time!

And this is EXACTLY why a proper certification course (such as QC’s Special FX Makeup Course) will help you learn how to do special effects makeup like a true, seasoned pro!

Learn How to Do Makeup: More About QC’s Special FX Makeup Course!

QC Makeup Academy’s Special FX Makeup Course is 100% online and done at your own pace. Thus, you can complete your training and gain hands-on experience from the comfort of home, whenever your schedule allows it! The best part? Once you’ve graduated, we’ll mail you an official International Special FX Makeup Professional (ISMP) certification. As a result, you can refine your resume, attract more clients, and better your career prospects!

Interested in learning even more about this certification program?

Here are some resources we recommend checking out:

Ready to get started? Learn how to do makeup professionally and earn your certification in as little as 3-6 months by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy!

Makeup artist certification Ambassador Feature, Jessica Lee, Feature Image

Earning My Makeup Artist Certification!

By About the School, Education, Graduate Feature, QC Student Ambassador, Student Features 4 Comments
Makeup artist certification Ambassador Feature, Jessica Lee headshot

Meet Makeup Artist Certification Student, Jessica Lee!

Master Makeup Artistry Student

Pro Makeup Workshop Student

Skincare Student

Bowmanville, ON

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

My name is Jessica. Currently, my main goal is to successfully obtain my makeup artist certification through QC Makeup Academy! I’m also 33 years old, and a mother of 4 little humans and 5 fur babies.

Why did you decide to become a professional makeup artist?

I know the power that makeup has had for me. It can turn a bad day into a good day and empower you. By getting my makeup artist certification, I want to be able to help other people let their inner light and inner beauty shine bright!

Jessica Lee portfolio image 1

In your opinion, why do you feel it’s important for all MUAs to have a professional makeup artist certification?

I feel it’s very important because it shows your clients that you know what you’re doing and that they’re safe in your hands!

Why did you decide to pursue your makeup artist certification online, rather than in person?

I have 4 kids and they take up a LOT of my time! Also, I have 4 jobs, a house to run, and a million other things on my schedule. A brick-and-mortar makeup school would never be able to accommodate me like an online school can! With online makeup school, I can do my certification training at my own pace. There’s never any rush. Who wouldn’t want that?

How did you discover QC Makeup Academy? Ultimately, what was it about QC that made you decide to enroll?

I discovered QC Makeup Academy through an ad on Facebook. Once I did my research on their industry-leading tutors, their certification courses, and the school as a whole, I was sold. I signed up that very day!

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You’re over halfway done in the Master Makeup Artistry Course. How has your experience been in this certification program thus far? In what ways has your training helped you grow as an artist?

I’ve absolutely loved every minute of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course so far! Some assignments are more challenging than others, but that’s all part of growing as an artist. I’ve grown so much in the year that I’ve been enrolled with QC. I had to throw out everything I thought I knew, in order to truly learn the proper techniques I was being taught… and thank goodness for that!

You’re also currently enrolled in our Pro Makeup Workshop. Why have you decided to add this advanced makeup artist certification to your qualifications, and how do you expect this additional training to refine your skill-set?

I could NOT pass up the opportunity to enroll in QC’s Pro Makeup Workshop! After all, why stop learning at the basics? Why not take it that step further? Continuing your education and building upon your existing makeup artist certification will help you broaden your horizons. Plus, it’ll likely help you grow your client base. Personally, I can’t wait to start this program!

Skincare training is an essential benefit to all makeup artists. What are the top reasons you enrolled in QC’s Skincare Course, and what’s the most important skincare lesson you’ve learned so far?

All makeup applications start with skin. If you don’t know how to properly identify your client’s skin type, how can you possibly know which primer to use? How will you know which type of setting powder you need to apply? Furthermore, how will you know which foundation to use?

The most important thing I’ve learned so far is that a daily skincare routine is a MUST! Perfect skin doesn’t come naturally – unless you were blessed by the gods, of course. But for most of us, you have to work for it. QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course teaches you exactly how to do this!

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How useful have all the QC materials and assignments been for your makeup artist certification courses?

The materials for my courses aren’t just useful – they’re a necessity. Each assignment teaches you something new and helps you grow in ways you’ve never imagined! Plus, all these course textbooks provide you with priceless information to help you become the best makeup artist you can be!

How valuable has the feedback been from your tutor, Nathan Johnson?

I have to admit, I was scared of Nathan at first… Haha! In my mind, he was this renowned, intimidating makeup artist who was basically telling me that I had to start over from scratch. But now? I value every word of feedback he gives me, good or bad! Personally, I don’t want an instructor who sugarcoats things. Rather, I want one who will truly help me grow, both as an artist and as a person. Nathan has become one of the most important people in my life. I cherish our friendship!

What has been your FAVORITE hands-on assignment so far for your makeup artist certification training, and why?

Without a doubt, I’d have the say the celebrity-inspired assignment was my favorite! I chose Boy George and had an absolute blast going through and recreating his many outrageous and stunning looks!

You’ve recently joined QC Makeup Academy’s team of Student Ambassadors. As an Ambassador, why do you recommend QC’s online makeup artist certification training?

Most people live crazy, busy lives. This has especially been the case during the COVID-19 pandemic! After all, many adults have been stuck at home. Some still are and will be for a while yet. QC Makeup Academy offers you an amazing education, all from the comfort of your living room! Moreover, there’s no rush. You do it at your own pace, and the tutors are all so hands-on with their students. It’s very rare to find all of these perks offered from one school!

You’re located in Bowmanville, Ontario; a town has approx. 40,000 residents. However, you’re also a 20-minute drive from Oshawa – a city of approx. 402,000 people. How do you feel your location will work to your advantage throughout your makeup career?

Bowmanville is a farm town, but Oshawa is a growing, bustling city. Having a small town with a bigger city close-by provides me with a wide variety of client possibilities! Not to mention, there are many films that’ve begun filming in and around Oshawa, such as Stephen King’s IT. The possibilities are endless!

What services do you currently offer clients?

Unfortunately, I live in a province that’s been under lockdown for quite some time. So, there hasn’t been much beauty experts could do, in terms of providing in-person makeup or skincare services. During this time, I’ve taken to offering online lessons in basic makeup application techniques. Sometimes, it’s one-on-one. Other times, people host online group parties for it. Luckily, Ontario is beginning to open back up, so regular industry services should be resuming very soon!

Once you’ve earned your makeup artist certification, what are your top career goals as a professional MUA?

My goal is to make a name for MYSELF. I want to achieve this, not just through just social media, but through my work. Ultimately, I just want to help people. I’ll be happy doing this in whatever capacity I can.

Finally: in your opinion, what is the TRUE secret to success as a makeup artist?

The true secret to being a successful makeup artist is being able to take constructive criticism. Use it as a learning tool to better yourself. Beyond that, it’s important to never stop learning. This way, you will never stop growing!

Inspired by Jessica’s story? Earn YOUR makeup artist certification in as little as 2-6 months by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

QC Makeup Academy reviews article, Hayley Siebe, Feature Image

QC Makeup Academy Reviews: Hayley Siebe

By About the School, QC Student Ambassador, Student Features 3 Comments

Want to connect with Hayley directly? Join QC Makeup Academy’s free Virtual Classroom on Facebook today!

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

Hello! My name is Hayley Marie Siebe. I’m a 21-year-old makeup artist and a graduate of QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. I am also a current Student of the Hairstyling Essentials Course, Pro Makeup Workshop, and Global Beauty Workshop. Recently, I became one of QC Makeup Academy’s newest Student Ambassadors!

Why did you decide to become a professional makeup artist?

During my teenage years, you’d find me in front of the mirror, applying makeup and straightening my hair bright and early, every morning before school. Growing up, beauty and glamor have always been great passions of mine. They gave me motivation! In particular, makeup gave me the chance to express my creativity in so many ways!

I always loved to experiment with makeup and recreate all types of cute, dazzling looks. Over time, I began doing makeup on other people, as well as styling hair. Women would end up with a smile on their face every time they saw the finished results. Ever since then, I’ve known that I wanted to make other people look and feel their best! Being a professional makeup artist gives me that opportunity.

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How did you discover QC Makeup Academy? Ultimately, why did you choose to enroll with this school?

I discovered QC Makeup Academy during my Junior Year of high school. Right away, I felt that this school would be the perfect place for me to start! With their training, I’d be able to join the career field I’ve always wanted to be a part of. After I graduated high school in May of 2019, I enrolled myself into QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course and Hair Styling Essentials Course.

I chose QC Makeup Academy because their school offers so many things you can’t find anywhere else! You get a full 2 years to complete your course, while working at your own pace. This is something many schools don’t have or accept. Moreover, I’m able to access my Online Student Center whenever I want to look back at information in my textbooks and/or instructional videos.

I also loved the fact that QC’s assignments never need to be rushed. There’s also an option to redo assignments for a better grade, if needed. You also get a real, internationally-recognized certification once you graduate. It was important to me that I’d be able to work anywhere (if I wanted to) and have clients know I’ve had experience in this kind of work before.

You’ve since graduated from QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. How was your experience with this program and how would you say it helped you grow as an artist?

My experience with QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course has been amazing! I’ve never been more excited to learn anything in my life. During my time in this course, I would always set goals for myself. For example: I’d set a goal for when I wanted to turn in an assignment, or set a goal for how much time I’d practice on a particular assignment. If I was unhappy with how a makeup look turned out, I’d also challenge myself to get better and better. I’d refuse to submit my work until I felt it was truly ready, and would end up trying again.

Since graduating from the MMA course, I’ve been able to go about building my own freelance makeup artistry business. I’ve been using the knowledge and tools that my tutor, Nathan Johnson, has given to me. Furthermore, I’ve also assisted a Cincinnati-based bridal MUA for a few weddings. Through this experience, I was able to gain a few clients who wanted to book me for future weddings!

QC Makeup Academy has had a very positive impact on my career thus far. Their Master Makeup Artistry program was the first certified makeup course I’d ever completed. I can say without doubt that their training has given me the tools and confidence to grow as a makeup artist!

Why did you also choose to enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s Pro Makeup Workshop?

I enrolled myself into QC Makeup Academy’s Pro Makeup Workshop because I believe that more practice makes perfect! It’s my goal to take my makeup skills to the next level and add onto my current experience.

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As you’ve mentioned, you’re also currently enrolled in QC Makeup Academy’s Global Beauty Workshop and Hair Styling Essentials Course. Why did you enroll in these particular courses, and how do you plan to incorporate these services in your business once you’ve graduated?

The reason I enrolled in QC Makeup Academy’s Global Beauty Workshop is because I want to get more experience applying makeup on all groups of people, skin tones, etc. What’s more, I wish to learn more about different cultures. Once I graduate from this course, I want to incorporate everything I’ve learned in order to further build my freelance business. I want to be able to travel around the country, applying makeup on any and every type of client who wishes to work with me!

As for the Hair Styling Essentials Course, I chose to enroll in this program because I wanted to add on another service to my freelance business. When I was younger, I was always that friend you would go to if you needed your hair colored or styled! I always enjoyed being able to work with my hands and create. Thanks to this certification course, I am progressing my hair styling skills and will be able to put them to good use!

How useful have all the QC Makeup Academy course materials and assignments been so far?

QC Makeup Academy provides their courses with paperback and digital textbooks, as well as instructional videos and a wide array of assignments. These materials as a whole not only help you learn how to be a professional makeup artist – they also help you to succeed as one, too!

Now, I know what your thinking: “Can’t I just do a quick Google or YouTube search for free hair and/or makeup tutorials?”

Sure, but this will never be enough if you want to do makeup professionally. With QC Makeup Academy, you’re being taught by internationally-trained makeup artists and hair stylists! These are legitimate experts who have put 10-20 years of their life into the beauty industry. They’ll teach you about real-world makeup. Moreover, you’ll also learn other critical knowledge, such as Sanitary Guidelines and invaluable business training!

You’re currently building your own freelance makeup business. How has this process been so far?

After graduating from QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, I created my own professional business profile on QC’s online database. Creating this profile was the first step in establishing a web presence for my business, thus allowing potential clients to find me.

During this time, I’ve been slowly gaining more and more clients. I’ve also created a business page on Facebook and Instagram, too. This way, I can start getting my work out there. Furthermore, I can let people know that I am properly certified – especially in my community. I live in a small suburban town in Kentucky called Hebron. Hebron has a population of less than 7,000 people. The best way to gain clientele in a small town is to be the makeup artist your town needs!

In order for me to corner the market and maximize my success, I need to advertise my business in my area. After all, there are no other professional makeup artists currently operating in Hebron, KY. So, this gives me a HUGE opportunity!

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What services do you currently offer your clients?

As part of my freelance business, I currently offer a variety of services. Firstly, I cater to makeup for special events. Anyone taking part in (or attending) an event can get a full-face makeup application. This service will include airbrush makeup, foundation, and false lashes.

Secondly, I also offer bridal makeup. For this service, I charge the bride $85 for a full-face application. For the Bridal Party, as well as for the Mother of the Bride (or Groom), I charge $65. Thirdly, I offer full-face makeup applications for photoshoots, Senior portraits, Proms/Homecomings, etc. I charge between $70-$75 for this type of service. For any other kind of special event, I charge $65 for a full-face makeup application.

Lastly, I offer makeup applications that aren’t full-face as well. For instance, for concealer, airbrush, face powder, blush, and highlighter, my rate is $45. If a client just wants eyeshadow and mascara, it’ll cost $20. If a client just wants eyeliner and lashes only, my rate is $20. And if someone just wants me to do their eyebrows, I charge only $15.

What are your top career goals as a makeup artist?

One of my top career goals as a makeup artist is to be able to travel all around the country, doing other people’s makeup. In addition to bridal makeup, I also want to target more clients interested in editorial and fashion makeup applications. I love being able to apply dramatic makeup!

One day, I see my makeup business being big enough that it has a forever impact on each and every client I have – or end up gaining in the future! Thanks to the QC Makeup Academy family, I’ve given myself the best possible start to my professional beauty career!

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Inspired by Hayley’s story? Write your own by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!