Career Advice Archives

Dec 29

Makeup artist applying makeup to a client after completing course from the best cosmetology school in the US

15 Bad Business Habits to Leave in 2022 as a Professional Makeup Artist

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Hey, makeup artists! Are you looking to start the new year off on the right foot? If so, then you’ll want to break some bad habits that’ve been holding you back professionally. Luckily, we’ve put together a list of 15 bad business habits to leave in 2022.

So, let’s take a look together and see what they are!

What are Some Bad Business Habits?

Before we reveal our list of 15 bad business habits to leave in 2022, let’s first take a more general look at what constitutes a “bad” business habit…

Essentially, any habit that prevents you from growing your business or achieving your goals is a bad one. This could mean:

Overspending on unnecessary items;
Not taking time to network and build relationships;
Or even procrastinating important tasks like bookkeeping.

In any case, these habits get in the way of success and should be left behind as soon as possible!

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15 Bad Business Habits to Leave in 2022 as a Professional MUA

In a nutshell, these are the 15 bad business habits that you should leave behind in 2022 as a professional makeup artist:

Not keeping up with the latest trends;
Not staying organized and timely;
Relying solely on word-of-mouth marketing;
Not setting goals and objectives;
Not taking advantage of online resources and tools;
Poor communication with clients and other MUAs;
Not diversifying your makeup portfolio;
Spending too much time on social media;
Being overly competitive against other MUAs;
Not delegating tasks to free up time for important work;
Ignoring customer feedback, not listening to what they want, and being unreceptive to constructive criticism;
Failing to take risks;
Not asking for help when you need it;
Letting negative thoughts derail your goals;
Not investing in yourself and your business.

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

While we’re on the topic of bad habits to break, here are 5 bad makeup habits (not business-related) that ALL MUAs need to stop doing ASAP!

Bad Habit #1: Not keeping up with the latest trends.

The beauty industry is always changing and evolving. So, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends! In turn, this will help you create looks that are fresh and on-trend for your clients.

Consequently, if you choose not to keep up with the latest trends, your makeup looks can quickly become outdated.

FUN FACT: Here are 15 makeup trends that EVERY professional MUA needs to know!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

In the New Year, make sure to allocate time each month (or even week) to research the latest trends.

Also, try reading beauty magazines for inspiration or industry-related books. Another excellent idea is to enroll in a makeup course (such as the self-paced, online programs offered at QC Makeup Academy) to learn the latest techniques – and add a reputable certification to your resume at the same time.

Finally, attending makeup workshops or conferences can also be a great way to stay informed on the latest looks and techniques!

Bad Habit #2: Not staying organized and timely.

When it comes to running a successful business, organization and timeliness are key. That is, if you don’t have a solid plan for how to run your business efficiently, then chaos can quickly ensue. For example, not responding to inquiries in a timely manner, not having a proper filing system for paperwork, or forgetting about important appointments are all mistakes that will cost you clients AND profits.

Furthermore, being organized and timely also extends to each and every makeup application, too. Meaning, you’ll need to be prepared in advance (having all the necessary tools on-hand), ensure your clients don’t have to wait too long for their service, and hone your makeup skills so that the application process is fast and efficient – without losing quality!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this habit in the New Year, start by creating detailed plans ahead of time. For example, prepare a list of all the supplies you’ll need for each client ahead of time, and try to arrive at least 10 minutes earlier than your appointment time.

Additionally, create a filing system to store all of your paperwork in one place. This way, it’s easy to find when needed. Moreover, make sure to set reminders on your phone or calendar app for any upcoming appointments.

Finally, invest in good quality makeup brushes and other tools that will make the application process smoother and faster. You can (and should) also work on improving your application time by challenging yourself to time trials in the New Year. If you’ve never heard of time trials, this is basically a process where you time yourself while doing a makeup look, and then try to beat your time in every time trial afterwards.

As a result, you can compare and measure your progress over time. And of course, the ultimate goal here is to be able to shorten the amount of time it takes for you to do makeup looks, without sacrificing any of its quality.

Bad Habit #3: Relying solely on word-of-mouth marketing.

Yes, word-of-mouth marketing can be a powerful tool for any MUA… However, it’s important to diversify your marketing methods! After all, relying solely on word-of-mouth will only get you so far – and it won’t help you reach clients outside of your current network.

Consequently, investing in other types of digital or traditional marketing (such as social media or print advertising) will help you reach a much larger pool of potential clients.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this habit in the New Year, start by creating an online presence for your business. This can include setting up a website, social media accounts, and even a blog. The more places potential customers can find you, the better!

Additionally, make sure to create quality content for your social media accounts. Think behind-the-scenes videos/photos of you doing makeup looks, helpful tips and tricks videos for beginners, or even reviews from happy clients. Doing so will not only help people get to know you better, but it can also act as free advertising for your business.

On top of that, consider investing in paid advertising campaigns on social media, as well as other methods to improve your SEO (search engine optimization). For this, just remember to set a budget before launching any ads and keep track of its progress over time. Also, don’t forget about traditional marketing methods such as print or radio ads! They can still be effective in reaching potential clients.

Finally, don’t forget to ask your satisfied customers for referrals. After all, word-of-mouth marketing is still a great way to attract new people to your business. And while it shouldn’t be your ONLY marketing strategy, it should still be ONE of them!

PRO TIP: Here are 15 of the BEST ways to successfully market your professional makeup business!

Makeup artist applies eye shadow . Beautiful woman face. Hand of visagiste, painting cosmetics of young beauty model girl . Make up in process. Bad business habits article.

Bad Habit #4: Not setting goals and objectives for your business.

It can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day operations of your business and forget about taking time to set goals. But without them, it’s hard to measure success and growth. And as a result, it can be difficult to know what areas you should invest more time and energy in.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this bad habit and leave it behind in 2022, start by setting both short-term and long-term goals for your business.

Short-term goals are usually things that you’d like to accomplish within a year, such as increasing your client base or launching a new product. Meanwhile, long-term goals are those that you’d like to achieve over the next 5 years or more, such as opening your own brick-and-mortar makeup store.

Once you have your goals in place, create action steps for each of them so that you know how to get there. From there, make sure to create a timeline for each action step so that you can measure and track your progress throughout the year.

Finally, don’t forget that all of your business goals should be SMART goals. Meaning, goals that are:

Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
And Time-Based.

Doing so will ensure that your goals are clear and achievable – which is essential for business success!

Bad Habit #5: Not taking advantage of online resources and tools.

With everything going digital these days, it can be easy to miss out on useful online resources and tools. For instance, there are countless programs out there that can help with invoicing, client management, marketing, and even social media scheduling.

By failing to maximize these resources to your benefit, you could be missing out on a LOT of opportunities for growth, marketing success, and more.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this habit in 2022, start by doing some research on the various online tools and resources that are available to you. From there, create a list of those that could potentially help your business – whether it’s an invoicing program or website hosting service.

Once you have this list in place, take the time to read reviews and do your own testing if necessary. Then, decide which online tools and resources you’d like to invest in for your makeup business.

Finally, make sure to set up a timeline for when you’d like to use these tools. Doing so will help ensure that you have the budget for them, that you’re making the most of them throughout the year, and that you’re getting the best possible results for your business!

Bad Habit #6: Poor communication with clients and other MUAs.

Poor communication can be a MAJOR issue for makeup artists. Whether it’s not responding to client inquiries in a timely manner or failing to follow through on commitments, bad communication can quickly lead to unhappy customers and lost business.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To make sure you’re communicating effectively with your clients and other MUAs in 2022, start by setting clear expectations from the very beginning. Make sure that you’re upfront about your scheduling and availability so that clients know what to expect when they book an appointment with you.

Also, make sure to set up a reliable system for responding to messages and inquiries – whether it’s via email or through a messaging app. Doing so will ensure that no messages slip through the cracks and that you’re always responding in a timely manner.

Finally, make sure to follow through on your commitments – no matter how big or small they may be. This could mean anything from turning up on time for an appointment to sending out invoices promptly after a job is completed. By following through, you’ll be able to build trust with your clients and other MUAs – which is essential for long-term success.

Bad Habit #7: Not diversifying your makeup portfolio.

It’s easy to get into a creative rut when you’re doing the same kind of makeup looks for every client. But if you want to stand out from the competition and attract new clients, it’s essential that you diversify your portfolio!

After all, if your makeup portfolio isn’t diverse enough, it could lead to:

Clients not wanting to book you because they’re not impressed with your range
You getting bored with the same types of makeup looks
More difficultly promoting yourself and your services, etc.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

So, how can you leave this bad business habit in 2022 and make sure you have a diverse makeup portfolio in the New Year (and beyond)?

Start by setting aside some time each month to practice different styles of makeup – whether it’s bridal, glamor, special effects makeup, or something completely unique. Also, make sure to take high-quality pictures of your work and upload them to your portfolio on a regular basis. This will help potential clients get an idea of your range and could potentially lead to more bookings.

Finally, consider taking a makeup course or attending a makeup workshop so that you can refine your skills and learn new techniques. Furthermore, you can enroll in a course that’s specifically about building a solid makeup portfolio – such as QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online Portfolio Development Workshop!

Doing so will help ensure that you have all the tools you need to create unique and stunning makeup looks for every client!

PRO TIP: Never put together a professional makeup portfolio before? These 10 steps will walk you through the process from start to finish!

Bad Habit #8: Spending too much time on social media.

Spending too much time on social media can be a huge productivity killer. After all, if you’re not careful, it’s easy to get sucked into an endless cycle of scrolling and liking – which can lead to lost hours (and dollars) in the long run.

What’s more, if you’re not using social media strategically, it can also be a huge waste of time for you and your makeup business!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To make sure you’re using social media efficiently in 2023 and beyond, start by setting aside a specific amount of time each day to dedicate to your business’s presence on the various platforms. Make sure to stick to this allotted time and use it strategically. As in, think about what content you should be posting and how often.

Also, consider investing in tools and software that can help you further streamline and optimize your social media management. This could include anything from scheduling apps to analytics tools that give you insights into your performance, etc.

Finally, make sure to take regular breaks from social media! Too much time on the platforms can not only be bad for productivity but also for your mental health. So, be mindful of how much time you’re spending scrolling, and strive to find a healthy balance.

Bad Habit #9: Being overly competitive against other MUAs.

Although it’s natural to be competitive in business, being overly competitive against other MUAs can really hurt your own success – and the makeup community as a whole.

Why?

Because it can lead to a negative environment and create unnecessary drama. Plus, it’s important to remember that everyone is at different stages in their career. Making comparisons won’t do you any good.

So, instead of competing with one another, you should focus on collaborating and supporting each other!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this bad business habit in 2022, start by taking the time to reach out to other MUAs and build relationships. You never know when someone may have a job opportunity that they need extra help with!

Also, don’t be afraid to ask for advice – especially if you’re just starting out in your career. Chances are, fellow MUAs will be more than happy to help you out. Finally, try to focus on your own business rather than worrying about what other MUAs are doing.

That way, you can strive for success without letting negative feelings of comparison get in the way!

PRO TIP: Learn more about why other professional makeup artists are your FRIENDS – not enemies!

Bad Habit #10: Not delegating tasks to free up time for more important work.

If you’re not delegating tasks, it can be really easy to become overworked and overwhelmed. After all, there’s only so many hours in the day – and if you’re trying to do everything yourself, your progress is likely to suffer. Not to mention, you’ll probably wind up burning yourself out… and forgetting why you love makeup in the first place!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To successfully break this habit, start by figuring out which tasks you should be delegating – and who you should delegate them to! Then, make sure to set up clear expectations and deadlines for each task that’s being delegated.

Also, set aside a specific amount of time each week for planning and strategizing. That way, you’ll have enough time to think about the tasks that need to get done – and how best to delegate them.

Finally, don’t be afraid to take things off your plate if they’re not essential! Learning when it’s okay to say no will help you to create more space for yourself and focus on the tasks that you actually enjoy doing.

Now, what if your makeup business is a one-person-operation and you don’t have anyone to delegate things to? In this case, you should look into outsourcing! Hiring freelancers or independent contractors can be a great way to help free up your time and delegate certain tasks.

Lastly, make sure to outsource the right tasks for you – such as administrative work or marketing – so that you can focus on the creative side of things. That way, you can still be productive without getting overwhelmed.

Bad Habit #11: Ignoring customer feedback, not listening to what they want, and being unreceptive to constructive criticism.

As a makeup artist, it’s essential to make sure that you’re listening to your customers and taking their feedback into consideration. After all, they’re the ones who are going to be using your services. So, it only makes sense to take their opinion into account.

Furthermore, the beauty industry is one where being able to take constructive criticism is VITAL for your success. If you’re not able to accept and learn from it, then you’ll never be able to grow and improve as an artist. Not to mention, you’ll likely gain a poor reputation for being unprofessional.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this bad business habit, start by creating a feedback system that allows customers to share their thoughts and opinions. Then, make sure to take the time to actually listen and respond to what they have to say. Even if it’s not necessarily something you agree with or want to hear, try your best to remain open-minded and be receptive.

Finally, be sure to thank customers for their feedback – even if it’s negative – and show that you’re taking it seriously. This will help to build trust and ensure they know their opinion matters.

PRO TIP: Check out this helpful article to learn the difference between constructive criticism vs. insults – as well as tips for receiving and giving constructive feedback!

Bad Habit #12: Failing to take risks.

When it comes to makeup artistry, being able to take risks and experiment can be incredibly helpful for your career. After all, stepping outside of your comfort zone can help you to grow and develop new skills that will set you apart from the competition. However, if you’re not taking any bold steps or trying something new – then chances are your work will remain stagnant and you’ll miss out on opportunities.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this bad habit, start by committing to taking at least one risk every month. This could be anything from trying out a new technique to taking on a daring project. Just make sure it’s something that pushes you out of your comfort zone!

Additionally, make an effort to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and news in the makeup industry. That way, you’ll be more informed about what types of risks might pay off. Finally, remember that taking risks doesn’t guarantee success – but it does give you a better chance of achieving something amazing.

So, stay positive and keep pushing yourself!

Bad Habit #13: Not asking for help when you need it.

One common downfall of an entrepreneur is the misconception that you need to be able to do it all – from marketing to accounting and everything in-between. However, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to be superhuman – and it’s totally okay to ask for help!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To kick this bad habit, start by reaching out to your network and letting people know that you’re looking for assistance. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to lend a helping hand! Additionally, think about hiring an assistant or virtual assistant to help with tasks like scheduling and customer service. That way, you can focus on the creative side of your business without getting overwhelmed.

Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of all the amazing online resources available, such as tutorials and online courses. In turn, you’ll be able to develop the skills you need – without needing anyone else’s help!

Are you currently a QC Makeup Academy student? Our Student Support Team is always available to help with any questions or concerns you have! Simply contact them by phone, email, and/or live chat!

Professional makeup artist working with young bride at home, closeup. Bad business habits article.

Bad Habit #14: Letting negative thoughts derail your goals.

As an artist, it’s normal to experience a bit of self-doubt now and then. However, letting negative thoughts go unchecked can quickly lead to a spiral of despair that derails your progress and make it difficult to move forward.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

The first step is being aware of your thoughts and the words you use when talking about yourself. Whenever you catch yourself in a negative thought cycle, take a step back and reframe it into something more positive and empowering.

Remind yourself of all the things you’ve accomplished so far, as well as any successes that have come from taking risks or stepping outside your comfort zone. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends and mentors. Having a support system can make it much easier to stay focused on your goals and keep the negative thoughts at bay.

By breaking this bad habit in the New Year, you’ll be able to focus more of your energy on what’s important – creating amazing makeup looks!

Bad Habit #15: Not investing in yourself and your business.

Finally, our last bad business habit to leave in 2022 is not investing in yourself and your business. Whether it’s not taking the time to attend workshops and seminars or neglecting to upgrade your equipment, failing to invest in yourself can quickly lead to burnout and stagnation.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

In the New Year, start by setting aside a budget (no matter how small) for investing in yourself and your business.

Put aside money for workshops, online courses, or even a new piece of equipment to help you uplevel your artistry. Additionally, consider volunteering or interning with other makeup artists. Not only will you learn valuable skills, but you’ll also be able to expand your network!

Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Invest in self-care activities like getting a massage, going for a walk, or even just taking some time to relax and recharge.

By breaking this bad habit in the New Year, you’ll be able to stay motivated and work towards creating amazing looks with confidence!

Frequently Asked Questions

Before we wrap things up, let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions related to breaking bad business habits in the New Year.

Q: What 3 habits of an entrepreneur can most negatively impact entrepreneurial growth?

A: Three of the biggest habits that can most negatively impact entrepreneurial growth include:

Procrastination;
Spending too much time on unproductive tasks;
And not investing in yourself and your business.

Q: What are the top 5 bad habits that will negatively affect your makeup career?

A: The top 5 bad habits that can negatively affect your makeup career include:

Not setting clear and achievable goals;
Failing to market yourself and promote your work;
Staying stuck in the same style instead of trying new things;
Letting negative thoughts derail you;
And not investing in yourself and your business.

Q: How can you identify “bad” career habits?

A: To identify “bad” career habits, it’s important to take a step back and look at your current workflow. Ask yourself if any of the following applies to you:

Do you procrastinate or lack motivation?
Are you stuck in your comfort zone instead of taking risks?
Do you struggle with time management or setting clear goals?
Are you neglecting to invest in yourself and your work?

If the answer is yes to any of these questions, it’s likely that you have developed some bad career habits. Fortunately, by identifying them and taking steps to break them in the New Year, you can reignite your passion for makeup artistry!

Q: How can you track your progress so that you know if you’re actually improving your bad career habits?

A: One of the best ways to track your progress is to keep a journal and write down your thoughts, feelings, and successes. Additionally, you can create a vision board or set measurable goals for yourself that you can work toward each week.

Moreover, there are also ways that you can gather stats and data to measure your progress. For instance, you can track the number of followers you have on social media or analyze how many bookings you’re getting each month. By tracking these metrics, you can easily see where your bad business habits are hindering your success and adjust accordingly!

PRO TIP: Here are 12 business metrics that EVERY business owner should know and keep track of, courtesy of Scoro!

So, What Would YOU Improve in 2023 and Beyond?

Now that you know how to break your bad habits, the only thing left is for you to start taking action! Set yourself up for success by investing in yourself and your business, expanding your network, and taking time for self-care. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create amazing artwork and reach new heights of success in no time.

Good luck and Happy New Year, beauties!

Start the New Year on the best foot possible by getting professionally trained and internationally-certified as a makeup artist! Enroll with QC Makeup Academy and earn globally-recognized certification in as little as 8 short weeks!

Nov 23

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Skin conditions you'll see as a skincare consultant Feature Image

14 Skin Conditions You’ll See as a Skincare Consultant

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Education, Skincare No Comments

As a skincare consultant, you’ll be faced with a variety of skin conditions. It’s important to be familiar with each condition and know how to best help your clients deal with them. In this article, we’ll discuss 14 common skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant. Plus, we’ll also provide information on what each condition is, and how you can help your clients manage it.

So, let’s get started, shall we?

What Is a Skincare Consultant?

You obviously know the answer to this question if you’re already a working professional. But if you’re considering a career in skincare consulting, you should first understand what the job entails.

A skincare consultant provides advice and guidance to clients on how to best care for their skin. Providing information on ingredients, treatments, and products that may be beneficial for a given skin type or condition are all examples of this.

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Skincare Consultant vs. Dermatologist

You must also understand where your job description ends and where a dermatologist‘s begins – because they are very different professions.

A skincare consultant is not a medical professional, whereas a dermatologist is. As a result, there are certain services you won’t be qualified to provide. For instance, you can’t:

Prescribe drugs, medicated ointments, and medicated creams
Diagnose skin diseases
Perform skin biopsies or other medical procedures

Rather, as a skincare consultant, you’ll provide guidance and advice on how to best care for one’s skin. Should you ever come across skin conditions that require medical treatments or prescriptions, advise your client to seek out a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.

As a skincare consultant, part of your job description will be knowing when your client’s concern can be handled by you… And when a referral to a dermatologist is in order!

Not yet a certified skincare consultant, but want to be? Become a skincare consultant in 5 easy steps!

What Are Skin Conditions?

Alright, you understand the roles and responsibilities of a skincare consultant. Now let’s talk about skin conditions! Skin conditions are diseases and disorders that affect the appearance or function of one’s skin. They can range from mild to severe in nature, with some being more easily treated than others.

What Can Cause Skin Conditions?

Skin conditions can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:

Genetics
Allergies
Environmental exposure
Poor skincare habits

Skin conditions can also develop due to underlying issues like hormonal imbalances or autoimmune diseases.

What Are The Most Common Skin Conditions?

There are a multitude of skin conditions out there, and here we’ll discuss 14 of the most common ones you’ll see as a skincare consultant. They include:

Acne
Sensitized Skin
Rosacea
Eczema
Psoriasis
Skin Cancer
Vitiligo
Cold Sores
Hives
Warts
Shingles
Perioral Dermatitis
Folliculitis
Keratosis Pilaris

14 Skin Conditions You’ll See as a Skincare Consultant

Let’s take a look at each one individually…

Skin Condition #1: Acne

Teen girl with acne problem squeezing pimple indoors. Skincare consultant skin conditions article.

What is Acne?

Acne (a.k.a. acne vulgaris) is a skin condition that is characterized by clogged pores and small, raised bumps on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. It’s most common among adolescents. That said, it can occur in people of all ages, such as babies and the elderly.

What Causes Acne?

Acne can be caused by a variety of factors such as hormonal imbalances, stress, poor diet, genetics, and certain skincare products.

How To Spot Acne as a Skincare Consultant

Luckily, acne is relatively easy to spot as a skincare consultant. Look for small, raised bumps on the face and other areas of the body like the neck, back, chest, or shoulders. However, keep in mind that these may be painful to the touch and can even cause scarring if not treated properly. So, use a gentle (gloved) hand if touching your client’s skin!

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Acne?

You can help your client manage their acne by first determining the underlying cause. From there, create a treatment plan that targets it. This could include recommending lifestyle changes (i.e. improving diet).

Topical treatments and/or medications may need to be implemented, should the acne be severe enough. Again, though, anything medicated should only be suggested to the client by a dermatologist.

Once you’ve identified the underlying cause, provide your clients with a skin care routine tailored to their needs. This should include using gentle cleansers, non-comedogenic moisturizers (if needed), and products that are specifically formulated for acne management.

Finally, don’t forget to remind your clients of the importance of not picking or popping their zits. This can lead to infection and further inflammation, so it’s best to leave it alone!

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

For mild cases of acne, you should be able to help your client manage the condition with lifestyle changes, topical treatments, and skincare products. However, if the acne is severe or doesn’t seem to be responding to treatment, you may need to refer your client to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Skin Condition #2: Sensitized Skin

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What is Sensitized Skin?

Sensitized skin – also known as irritant contact dermatitis – is a condition in which the skin becomes over-reactive to certain stimuli. In turn, this can lead to redness, inflammation, and discomfort.

What Causes Sensitized Skin?

This skin condition can be caused by a variety of factors such as:

Environmental stressors (i.e. pollution, wind)
Skincare products that irritate the skin
Underlying conditions like eczema or rosacea

How To Spot Sensitized Skin as a Skincare Consultant

Unfortunately, sensitized skin can be quite tricky to spot. Many people may not realize they have it until it’s triggered.

With that in mind, you can look for signs of redness or inflammation on your client’s face. This could indicate sensitized skin. Other symptoms may include stinging, burning, or tightness of the skin, too.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Sensitized Skin?

If your client has sensitized skin, then the goal is to identify and avoid the triggers that cause it. For example, you might discover after some investigating that they have an underlying condition, such as eczema or rosacea.

To combat sensitized skin, you might suggest that they avoid certain skincare products. Alternately, maybe you advise that they avoid environmental stressors (like pollution or wind).

When it comes to their skincare routine, your clients should look for gentle cleansers and moisturizers that are free of fragrance and other potential irritants. Also, opting for a more natural-based line of products may help reduce irritation as well!

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

In most cases, you should be able to help your clients manage sensitized skin with lifestyle changes and the right skincare routine. However, you may should refer them to a dermatologist if their symptoms seem severe or don’t respond to treatment. From there, a dermatologist can then assess any underlying conditions that could be causing the sensitization and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Skin Condition #3: Rosacea

Portrait of a young pretty Caucasian woman who frowns and shows reddened and inflamed cheeks. Beige background. Copy space. The concept of rosacea, healthcare and couperose. Skincare consultant skin conditions article.

What is Rosacea?

osacea (known simply as rosacea) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It’s often characterized by facial redness, bumps, and/or visible blood vessels. Rosacea can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual case.

What Causes Rosacea?

The exact cause of rosacea is unknown. However, it’s believed to be related to a combination of factors such as:

Genetics
Environmental triggers (like stress)
Certain lifestyle choices (like drinking alcohol)

How To Spot Rosacea as a Skincare Consultant

As with any skin condition, proper diagnosis should only come from a dermatologist. However, as a skincare consultant, you may want to look out for signs of persistent facial flushing or redness in your clients. Other signs may include visible blood vessels or bumps on the skin.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Rosacea?

When it comes to rosacea, the goal is to identify and avoid potential triggers. Moreover, you want to help your client maintain a gentle skincare routine that won’t aggravate their sensitive skin. As such, avoiding products that are fragranced, alcohol-based, or otherwise irritating is a must!

You should also suggest non-irritating moisturizers and cleansers that are specifically designed for sensitive skin. What’s more, remind your clients of the importance of wearing sunscreen every day. After all, UV exposure can worsen their condition!

PRO TIP: Not sure which ingredients your client’s skincare products NEED to have? Watch this webinar about the 5 best ingredients all skincare products should have!

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

Typically, you can help your clients manage rosacea with lifestyle changes and the right skincare routine. However, you may need to refer them to a dermatologist if their symptoms seem severe or don’t respond to treatment. A dermatologist can then assess any underlying conditions that could be causing the rosacea and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Skin Condition #4: Eczema

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What is Eczema?

Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. This skin condition is characterized by itchy and dry patches of skin. It can range from mild to severe. Typically, eczema appears in areas where the body bends such as the elbows, knees, or wrists.

What Causes Eczema?

The exact cause of eczema is unknown. However, it’s believed to be related to:

Genetics
Environmental factors (like allergens)
Certain lifestyle choices (such as wearing tight clothing)

How To Spot Eczema as a Skincare Consultant

If your client suspects they have eczema, look out for signs of dry and itchy patches of skin. The appearance of cracked, scaly, or red skin can also be an indicator of this condition as well.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Eczema?

You want to help your client identify and avoid potential triggers, as well as maintain a gentle skincare routine that won’t aggravate their sensitive skin. Thus, you may suggest that they avoid products that are fragranced, alcohol-based, or otherwise irritating.

Furthermore, advise your client to look for non-irritating moisturizers and cleansers that are specifically designed for sensitive skin. They should also focus on calming their inflamed skin using products made with soothing ingredients. Colloidal oatmeal or aloe vera are two awesome examples!

Finally, make sure your client is keeping their skin properly hydrated and wearing sunscreen every day to protect against further irritation.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

Usually, you should be able to help your clients manage eczema with lifestyle changes and the right skincare routine. But if their symptoms seem severe or don’t respond to treatment, refer them to a dermatologist. They’ll be able to thoroughly assess any underlying conditions that could be causing the eczema and develop an appropriate treatment plan for your client.

Skin Condition #5: Psoriasis

CLOSE UP: Unrecognizable young woman suffering from autoimmune incurable dermatological skin disease called psoriasis. Large red, inflamed, flaky rash on elbows. Joints affected by psoriatic arthritis. Skincare consultant skin conditions article.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that also goes by psoriasis vulgaris, chronic stationary psoriasis, and/or plaque-like psoriasis. This condition is characterized by thick, patchy, red or silvery scales on the skin. Typically, psoriasis appears on the elbows, knees, scalp, hands and feet – but it can occur anywhere on the body.

What Causes Psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown. However, it’s believed to be related to genetics and certain triggers such as stress and injury to the skin (like sunburns).

How To Spot Psoriasis as a Skincare Consultant

You should look for signs of thick patches of inflamed skin that are covered with silvery-white scales. One thing to remember, though, is that psoriasis can be itchy and/or painful. So, if you need to touch your client’s skin for any reason, be sure to do so gently and sanitarily.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Psoriasis?

As we’ve mentioned previously, your goal is to identify and avoid potential triggers for your client. You also want to help your client maintain a gentle skincare routine that won’t aggravate their sensitive skin. Furthermore, remind your clients to keep their skin properly hydrated and wear sunscreen every day to protect against further irritation.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

For the most part, psoriasis can be managed with the right lifestyle changes and skincare routine. Meaning, you should be able to get the job done. Of course, if your client’s symptoms seem severe and/or they don’t respond to treatment, then you may need to refer them to a dermatologist.

Skin Condition #6: Skin Cancer

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What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells. It can also form on areas of the body that haven’t been exposed to the sun, like the palms and underneath fingernails. Skin cancer can take several forms, including:

What Causes Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is usually caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. That said, it can also be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as a family history of skin cancer.

How To Spot Skin Cancer as a Skincare Consultant

Skin cancer can present itself in a variety of ways. So, it’s important to know what you’re looking for when examining your client’s skin.

You’ll notice a bump or patch of abnormal skin (that’s typically discolored) if your client is dealing with basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. Pay special attention if your client says that these areas are itchy and tender. On the other hand, with melanoma, you should look for a mole that appears asymmetrical. It’ll likely also have irregular borders and changes in color.

Of course, if you’re unsure about anything on your client’s skin, don’t hesitate to refer them to a dermatologist!

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Skin Cancer?

Most importantly, your client should avoid overexposure to the sun. This includes:

Avoiding the sun during peak hours (from 10 am – 4 pm)
Wearing protective clothing
Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher

You should also advise them to check their skin regularly for any unusual changes, as well as to get regular skin exams from a dermatologist.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

Yes, your client will need to see a dermatologist right away if they suspect they have any type of skin cancer. In terms of the many skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant, this one is arguably the most serious and dangerous. As such, it will require immediate medical attention.

Skin Problem #7: Vitiligo

Portrait of a smiling young african casual woman with vitiligo condition standing over green background looking at camera close up. Skin consultant skin conditions article.

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a skin disorder that causes depigmentation. This means that affected areas of the skin lose their color. Typically, vitiligo presents itself in patches of pale or white skin on various parts of the body, including the face, hands, arms and legs.

What Causes Vitiligo?

The exact cause of vitiligo is not known for certain. However, it’s thought to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks its melanocytes. These are the cells responsible for producing pigment. Vitiligo can also potentially be caused by genetic factors or environmental triggers (like extreme sun exposure).

How To Spot Vitiligo as a Skincare Consultant

In terms of the different types of skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant, vitiligo is usually quite easy to spot. It typically presents itself as patches of pale or white skin on various parts of the body, such as the face, hands, arms and legs.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Vitiligo?

At this time, there is no known cure for vitiligo. That said, there are a few things you can do to help your clients manage their symptoms. This includes helping them adapt their skincare routine with products that contain ingredients like copper peptides, vitamin C and niacinamide. Moreover, they may also benefit from light therapy treatments like laser therapy or phototherapy.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

Yes, you should refer your client to a dermatologist if they suspect they have vitiligo. This is because the only way to definitively diagnose it is through a physical exam by a medical professional. Furthermore, they may be able to provide additional treatments like steroids or topical immunomodulators that can help manage symptoms.

Skin Problem #8: Cold Sores

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What is a Cold Sore?

A cold sore, also known as a fever blister, is a contagious viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Usually, it presents itself as an itchy or painful blister on the lips or around the mouth.

What Causes Cold Sores?

As we just mentioned, cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This virus can be spread through direct contact with an affected person, including kissing or sharing utensils and drinking glasses. Stress, hormone changes, and certain medical conditions can also trigger outbreaks of cold sores.

How To Spot Cold Sores as a Skincare Consultant

When examining your client’s skin for any potential skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant, look out for any small fluid-filled blisters on their lips or around the mouth. These usually start as an itchy or painful spot before forming into visible blisters.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Cold Sores?

First, advise them to keep their affected area clean and dry. Second, they may benefit from using topical medications like antiviral creams or ointments. If your client experiences frequent outbreaks of cold sores, they may need to take oral antiviral medications prescribed by their doctor.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

If your client is experiencing significant pain or discomfort from their cold sores or if they suspect they have a serious underlying condition, you should absolutely refer them to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Skin Problem #9: Hives

Close up image of skin texture suffering severe urticaria or hives or kaligata on back. Allergy symptoms. Skin consultant skin conditions article.

What are Hives?

Hives, also known as urticaria, are itchy and raised welts on the skin that can range in size and shape. They usually appear suddenly and can last for a few minutes up to several weeks.

What Causes Hives?

The exact cause of hives is often unknown, but they’re thought to be triggered by an allergic reaction or irritation from certain substances like pollen or food. Also, physical factors like extreme temperatures or stress can sometimes cause hives to flare up.

How To Spot Hives as a Skincare Consultant

When examining your client’s skin for any potential skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant, look out for red, raised welts on the skin that are itchy or painful. These may range in size, shape and duration.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Hives?

You should first recommend that they use topical medications (like hydrocortisone cream) to reduce itching and swelling. Furthermore, your client should avoid any potential triggers, such as certain foods or extreme temperatures, if possible.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

Yes, if your client’s hives are severe and do not respond to over-the-counter treatments, you should refer them to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. The doctor may prescribe stronger medications to help control their symptoms.

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Skin Problem #10: Warts

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What are Warts?

Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Common types of warts include:

Flat warts
Plantar warts
Genital warts

They can appear anywhere on the body, but they’re most common on the hands, feet and face.

What Causes Warts?

As previously mentioned, warts are caused by the HPV virus. The HPV virus can be caught in a number of ways, such as (but not limited to):

Direct contact with an affected person
Sharing items like towels, clothing, or razors
Coming into contact with surfaces that have been touched by an affected person

When it comes to skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant, you should approach this particular condition with caution. The reason being, this virus is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or from contaminated surfaces.

How To Spot Warts as a Skincare Consultant

When examining your client’s skin, keep an eye out for small bumps that may have a rough texture and slightly raised surface. These usually develop on the fingers, toes, face, neck and hands.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Warts?

To help your clients manage their warts, you should advise them to keep the affected area clean and dry. They may benefit from topical medications like salicylic acid or cryotherapy. You should also let them know that they should avoid touching the wart, as this can spread it to other parts of their body or to other people.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

Yes, if your client’s warts do not respond to self-care measures or over-the-counter treatments, you should refer them to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. The doctor may prescribe stronger medications to help control their symptoms.

Skin Problem #11: Shingles

Shingles on men herpes zoster. Skincare consultant skin conditions article.

What are Shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is an infection caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It can cause a painful rash on one side of the body, which typically appears in a band-like or belt-shaped pattern.

What Causes Shingles?

The exact cause of shingles is unknown, but it’s thought to be triggered by a weakened immune system or stress. It’s also worth noting that anyone who has had chickenpox in their lifetime may experience shingles, since the virus remains dormant in their body after they have recovered from chickenpox.

How To Spot Shingles as a Skincare Consultant

When examining your client’s skin for any skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant, look out for a red rash or blisters on one side of the body. It may be accompanied by itching, tingling or burning pain before the rash appears.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Shingles?

To help your clients manage their shingles, you should advise them to keep the affected area clean and dry and use over-the-counter topical medications like calamine lotion to reduce itching. On top of this, they should get plenty of rest and eat nutrient-rich foods to help boost their immune system.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

Yes, if your client’s shingles do not respond to self-care measures or over-the-counter treatments, you should refer them to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. The doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to help control their symptoms.

Skin Problem #12: Perioral Dermatitis

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What is Perioral Dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis is a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches to appear around the mouth. It’s usually seen in women and can be triggered by using topical corticosteroids or other cosmetic products.

What Causes Perioral Dermatitis?

The exact cause of perioral dermatitis is unknown, but it’s thought to be caused by an imbalance of bacteria on the skin. Additionally, certain triggers like harsh skincare products or topical medications, may cause it as well.

How To Spot Perioral Dermatitis as a Skincare Consultant

When examining your client’s skin, look out for red patches or bumps around their mouth that may be accompanied by itching or burning sensation. It’s usually seen in combination with whiteheads and blackheads.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Perioral Dermatitis?

To help your clients manage their perioral dermatitis, you should advise them to avoid using harsh skincare products and topical medications. They can also benefit from switching to a milder cleanser and fragrance-free moisturizer. In addition, they should make sure they keep their skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

Yes, if your client’s perioral dermatitis does not respond to self-care measures or over-the-counter treatments, you should refer them to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. The doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics or steroid creams to help control their symptoms.

Skin Problem #13: Folliculitis

Folliculitis Inflammatory glands or inflammatory follicles. Skincare consultant skin conditions article.

What is Folliculitis?

Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles that can present as red bumps and pus-filled blisters. It’s typically seen on the face, scalp, chest and back.

What Causes Folliculitis?

While the exact cause of folliculitis is unknown, it’s believed to be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. It can also be triggered by tight clothing that rubs against your skin or shaving with a blunt razor.

How To Spot Folliculitis as a Skincare Consultant

When examining your client’s skin for any skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant, look out for clusters of red bumps or blisters that may be accompanied by itching, burning sensation or pus.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Folliculitis?

To help your clients manage their folliculitis, you should advise them to keep the affected area clean and dry and avoid hot showers or baths. They can also benefit from applying an over-the-counter cortisone cream to reduce inflammation. You should also advise them to try wearing loose fitting clothing, as well as opting for electric shavers when shaving.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

If your client’s folliculitis does not respond to self-care measures or over-the-counter treatments, then yes, you should refer them to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. The doctor may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics or antifungal medications to help control their symptoms.

PRO TIP: Be your own boss and do what you love for a living by starting your very own skincare consulting business!

Skin Problem #14: Keratosis Pilaris

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What is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris (sometimes called “chicken skin”) is a common skin condition that causes rough, bumpy patches on the upper arms, thighs and cheeks. The bumps are caused by excess build-up of keratin, which is a protein found in the skin.

What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?

The exact cause of keratosis pilaris is unknown, but it’s thought to be hereditary or due to a deficiency in certain vitamins or minerals. It can also be triggered by dry skin or excessive exposure to the sun.

How To Spot Keratosis Pilaris as a Skincare Consultant

When examining your client’s skin for any skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant, look out for small, rough bumps on the upper arms, thighs and cheeks. They may be accompanied by itching or dryness.

How Can You Help Your Clients Manage Keratosis Pilaris?

To help your clients manage their keratosis pilaris, you should advise them to keep the affected areas moisturized with thick emollient creams. In addition, they should use gentle cleansers and avoid scrubbing or exfoliating the area too aggressively. Finally, they can benefit from taking daily supplements of vitamins A and C to boost skin health from within.

Will You Need To Refer Your Client To a Dermatologist?

If your client’s keratosis pilaris does not respond to self-care measures or over-the-counter treatments, then yes, you should refer them to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. The doctor may prescribe topical retinoids or moisturizers to help control their symptoms.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it – 14 skin conditions you’ll see as a skincare consultant and how to handle each one. It’s important to be able to accurately identify and advise your clients on how best to manage their particular condition. If the case is more severe, then don’t hesitate to refer them to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Got any questions or comments for us? We’re all ears, so leave them for us down below!

Thanks for reading!

Become a certified skincare consultant in as little as 8 short weeks by training online with QC Makeup Academy. Start your journey by enrolling today!

Nov 17

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Running a Makeup Business: Expectation vs. Reality

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this myth come from?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reality #2: Starting ANY Business Requires an Investment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Expectation #3: You Can Work Anywhere, Anytime

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

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

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

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

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

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

Expectation #4: You Can Quit Your Day Job Immediately

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WRONG.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Expectation #7: Running a Makeup Business is Expensive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips For Creating a Realistic Budget for Your Business

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reality #8: You Should NEVER Undercharge Your Makeup Services

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

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

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

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

So, What’s The Solution?

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

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

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

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

Reality #9: This Will Probably Lead To Burnout

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

Got any questions or comments for us? We’d love to hear from you! Leave us a comment down below or send us an email at [email protected].

Thanks for reading! 💕

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

Jul 29

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Tips to market your makeup business Feature Image

15 Best Tips To Market Your Makeup Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career 3 Comments

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

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

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

10 Tips To Market Your Makeup Business Successfully

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tip #2: Get on social media!

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

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

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

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

Tips to market your makeup business in-post image 1

Tip #3: Prioritize SEO!

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

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

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

Tip #4: Have a killer makeup portfolio!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tip #6: Get involved in your local community!

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

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

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

Tip #7: Get creative with your marketing campaigns!

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

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

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

Tip #8: Invest in paid advertising!

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

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

Google Ads
Facebook Ads
Instagram Ads
TikTok Ads
YouTube Ads

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

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

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

Tip #10: Know who your target market is!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tip #12: Network literally ALL of the time!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How To Market a Makeup Business: Frequently Asked Questions

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

“How Do I Get More Makeup Clients?”

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

“How Do Makeup Artists Get Noticed?”

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

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

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

“How Do Makeup Artists Expand?”

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

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

“What Are Some Makeup Artist Content Ideas?”

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

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

“What Are Some Successful Makeup Artist Business Ideas?”

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

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

Marketing a Makeup Business: Final Thoughts

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

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

Happy marketing, beauties! 💕

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

Jul 18

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How To Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

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

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

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

How Do Makeup Artists Get Noticed?

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

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

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

How Do Makeup Artists Expand?

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

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

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

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

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How Do I Get More Makeup Clients?

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

Client Management 101

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are a few different ways to go about this…

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

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

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

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

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

How To Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business: Marketing Suggestions

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

1. Social Media Marketing

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

Some of the benefits of social media marketing include:

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

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

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

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

How Do Makeup Artists Get More Followers?

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

#1 Host a giveaway or contest

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

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

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

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

#2 Collaborate with other industry experts

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

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

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

#3 Use relevant, popular hashtags

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

Here are some examples of relevant hashtags for makeup artists:

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

Check out more trending beauty hashtags here.

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

#4 Post high-quality images and videos

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

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

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

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

#5 Engage with other users regularly

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

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

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

How Can I Promote My Makeup on Instagram?

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

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

#1 Make use of Instagram Stories

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

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

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

#2 Use hashtags strategically

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

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

#3 Run an Instagram marketing campaign

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

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

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

#4 Partner with micro-influencers

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

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

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

#5 Use relevant, high-quality visuals

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

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

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

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2. Email Marketing

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

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

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

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

3. Build a Website For Your Makeup Business

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why SEO Will Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Invest in Business Cards

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

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

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

Cosmetic, fashion, beauty, makeup business.

How To Boost Makeup Revenue Through Service Pricing and Client Incentives

Setting Your Makeup Business Rates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discounts and Client Incentives

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

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

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

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

Increase Makeup Sales By Selling Cosmetic Products

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

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

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

Starting Your Own Makeup Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

Becoming a Brand Ambassador

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

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

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

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Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business By Getting Professionally Certified

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 Extra Ways To Boost Revenue For Your Makeup Business

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

Get involved with bridal shows!

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

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

Offer group discounts!

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

Offer virtual makeup artistry services!

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

By providing virtual services, you can:

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

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

Get involved with charity work!

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

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

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

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

How so?

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

Thanks for reading! 💕

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

Jun 27

Love6

Makeup theory learning about different face shapes.

28 Of The Best Tools To Grow Your Skincare Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Skincare No Comments

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Is Skincare Business Profitable?

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

What does this mean for you?

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

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What Is a Skincare Consultant?

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

What Are a Skincare Consultant’s Job Duties?

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

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

What Can’t a Skincare Consultant Do?

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

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

What Is The Average Salary for a Skincare Consultant?

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

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

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

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

Ways To Increase Your Salary

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

1. Get Certified

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

2. Gain Experience

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

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

3. Relocate

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

4. Offer Virtual Skincare Services

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

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

5. Offer Other Relevant Services

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

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

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

6. Start Your Own Skincare Consulting Business

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

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What Are The Benefits of Being a Skincare Consultant?

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

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

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

Do You Need a Certification To Be a Skincare Consultant?

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

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

About QC Makeup Academy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course

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

Unit A

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

Unit B

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

Unit C

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

Unit D

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

Unit E

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

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

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

Essential Tools To Start a Skincare Business

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

1. A Skincare Business Plan

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

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

Never written a business plan before?

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

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

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

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2. Insurance for Your Skincare Business

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

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

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

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

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

Tips For Finding The Right Coverage For YOUR Skincare Business

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

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

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

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

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

3. A Registered Business Name

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

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

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

4. A Laptop and/or Smart Phone

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

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

5. A Business Website

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

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

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

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

Client being recommended a product by skincare consultant

6. Your Professional Skincare Portfolio

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

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

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

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

7. Business Cards

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

Your business card should include your:

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

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

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

8. Social Media Accounts

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

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

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

Software To Grow Your Skincare Business

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

1. Asana

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

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

2. Mailchimp

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

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

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3. QuickBooks

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

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

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

4. Zoom Events

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

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

5. Wix

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

I mean, what’s not to love?

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

6. Booker by Mindbody

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

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

7. Timely

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

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

9. Think Dirty

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

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

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

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

10. Hubspot’s Free CRM Software

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

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

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

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

Must-Have Supplies and Tools To Grow Your Skincare Business

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

1. Proper Knowledge of Skin Types

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

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

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

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

2. A Client Consultation Form

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

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

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

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

3. A Client Assessment Form

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Skincare Product Samples

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

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

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

5. Disposable Applicators

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

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

Cotton balls
Cotton swabs
Sponges
Brushes
Pads

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

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5. Sanitization Products

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

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

You can find sanitization products at most drugstores or online.

6. A First Aid Kit

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

A basic first aid kit should include:

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

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

7. Client Surveys

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

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

8. A Positive Attitude

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

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

9. Solid Communication (and Listening) Skills

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

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

10. Patience

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

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

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

Jun 13

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The best tools to grow your makeup business Feature Image

34 Of The Best Tools To Grow Your Makeup Business!

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

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

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

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

The 34 Best Tools To Grow Your Makeup Business

Software To Grow Your Makeup Business

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

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

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

Well, here are some of our top recommendations:

1. Wish

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

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

2. AliExpress

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

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

3. Sephora

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

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

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4. MakeUp Sketchbook

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

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

5. Social Media Apps

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

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

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

Business Software To Invest In

1. PocketSuite

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

2. Acuity Scheduling

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

3. Makeup Artist Directories

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

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

4. Asana

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

5. Daysmart Salon

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

6. QuickBooks

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

7. Mailchimp

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

8. Wave

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

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

1. Makeup Business Plan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Business Insurance

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

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

4. A Registered Business Name

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

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

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

5. A Strong Brand Identity

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

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

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

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

6. Your Professional Makeup Portfolio

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

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

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

7. A Professional Business Website

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

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

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

Products, Supplies, and Tools To Start a Makeup Business

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

1. A Good Quality Makeup Brush Set

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

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

2. A Wide Variety of Foundation Shades

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

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

3. Eyeshadows in Different Colors and Finishes

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

Some essential eyeshadow shades to include are:

Nudes
Shimmers
Metallics
Smoky shades
Bright colors

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

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4. A Good Quality Eyeliner

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

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

5. False Eyelashes

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

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

6. Mascara

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

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

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

Some essential shades to include are:

Nudes
Pinks
Reds
Berries

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

8. Color Correctives

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

Some essential color correctors to include in your kit are:

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

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

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

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

9. Disposable Applicators

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

Some essential disposable applicators to include in your kit are:

Sponges
Brushes
Q-tips
Cotton pads
Makeup wipes

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

10. Sanitization Products

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

Some essential sanitization products to include in your kit are:

Hand sanitizer
Disinfectant wipes
Makeup brush cleaner
Spray disinfectant

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

11. A Travel Makeup Bag/Kit

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

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

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

12. An Emergency Kit

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

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

Some essential items to include in your emergency kit are:

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

Again, it’s always better to be prepared for anything – you never know when an emergency might strike!

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13. A Business Planner/Organizer

Next, you’ll need a business planner or organizer. This is essential for keeping track of your appointments, clients, bookings, and more! There are many different types of planners/organizers on the market – from simple to-do lists to comprehensive appointment books.

The type you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. That said, no matter what type of planner/organizer you choose, be sure to use it regularly. This will help you stay on top of your business and ensure that you’re meeting your goals!

14. The Right Attitude

Last but not least, the most important thing you need in order to succeed as a makeup artist is the right attitude! This industry is competitive, and it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to make it to the top.

But if you’re passionate about makeup and willing to put in the time and effort, then there’s no reason why you can’t succeed! Just remember to stay positive, always keep learning, and be open to constructive feedback.

The more you know, the better your chances of success will be!

How To Start a Successful Makeup Business 101

Now that you know what the best tools are to grow your makeup business, it’s time to put them into action! But first, let’s go over 5 basic rules for starting a successful makeup business.

These days, starting a business is easier than ever before – but that doesn’t mean it’s easy! In order to be successful, you’ll need to put in the hard work and dedication. But with these 5 tips, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving business:

Tip #1: Choose Your Niche

When starting any business, it’s important to choose a niche. The makeup industry is huge, so it’s important to narrow down your focus and find your target market. For instance, are you going to specialize in bridal makeup? Or are you going to focus on special effects makeup?

Knowing your niche will help you determine what products and services you’re going to offer. It will also help you target your marketing efforts, which we’ll discuss more in-depth shortly.

Tip #2: Do Your Research

Before starting any business, it’s important to do your research. This includes everything from studying the competition to learning about the latest trends in the industry. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to start and grow your business!

When it comes to research, there are a few key things you should look into:

The competition: Who are they? What do they offer? How can you differentiate yourself from them?
The industry: What are the latest trends? Which products and services are in demand? What’s the outlook for the future?
Your target market: Who are they? What do they want/need? How can you reach them?

By taking the time to research your industry, competition, and target market, you’ll be in a much better position to start and grow your makeup business. Trust us – it’s worth the effort!

Tip #3: Know Your Target Market

As we mentioned above, it’s important to know your target market. This includes everything from their age and gender to their location and interests. The more you know about your target market, the better equipped you’ll be to reach them with your marketing efforts.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself when trying to identify your target market:

Who are they?
What do they want/need?
How can you reach them?
What’s the best way to communicate with them?

By taking the time to answer these questions, you’ll be well on your way to identifying your target market. And once you’ve done that, you can start working on reaching them with your marketing efforts!

Tip #4: Come Up With a Marketing Strategy

Now that you know your target market, it’s time to start working on your marketing strategy. The goal of your marketing efforts should be to reach your target market and persuade them to use your products or services.

There are a number of ways to go about this, but some of the most effective include:

Social media: Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram to reach your target market. Be sure to post engaging content that will capture their attention!
Email marketing: This is a great way to stay in touch with your customers and prospects. Be sure to send out regular newsletters with helpful information and exclusive offers.
Paid ads: Paid ads are a great way to reach a wider audience. You can use platforms like Google AdWords and Facebook Ads to reach your target market.
Word-of-mouth: Never underestimate the power of word of mouth! Make sure you’re providing quality products and services that will keep your customers coming back for more.

By taking the time to develop a strong marketing strategy, you’ll be in a much better position to reach your target market and grow your business.

Hand pointing at abstract digital text on circuit background. Advertising, media and web concept

Tip #5: Stay Organized

Last but not least, it’s important to stay organized when running a business. This includes everything from keeping track of your finances to staying on top of your inventory. The more organized you are, the easier it will be to run your business smoothly and efficiently.

There are a number of ways to stay organized, but some of the most effective include:

Use software: As we looked at earlier, there are tons of great software programs out there designed specifically for businesses. By using one of these programs, you can keep track of your finances, inventory, customers, and more.
Hire an assistant: If you’re finding it difficult to keep up with everything, consider hiring an assistant. This can be a great way to take some of the pressure off yourself and free up your time to focus on other aspects of your business.
Stay on top of your schedule: Make sure you’re keeping track of your appointments, deadlines, and to-do lists. The more organized you are, the easier it will be to stay on top of everything.

By taking the time to stay organized, you’ll be in a much better position to run your business effectively. And believe us, your customers will appreciate it, too!

Conclusion

There you have it! These are just some the best tips for growing your makeup business. By following all of this invaluable advice, you’ll be well on your way to success.

So, what are you waiting for? Get started today! 💕

We hope you found this article helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share your thoughts down below. And as always, thanks again for reading!

Stay glam, beauties! 😘

Become an internationally-certified makeup artist in as little as 12 short weeks by training online with QC Makeup Academy!

Jun 06

Love5

How to Brand Your Makeup Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Starting a makeup business can be an extremely rewarding experience! However, it’s important to take the time to brand your business in a way that will set you apart from the competition. Not sure how to brand your makeup business?

Don’t worry, we’re here to help!

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about successfully branding your makeup business from start to finish. We’ll cover topics such as creating a logo and tagline, developing a marketing strategy, and building a website that will help promote your brand.

With the right tools and knowledge, YOU can create a successful makeup artist brand that will attract new customers and help your business grow!

Dream of being a professional MUA? Then this Ultimate Guide to becoming a makeup artist (even with no prior experience) is a MUST-READ!

What Is a “Brand”?

A brand is much more than just a logo or name. It’s the overall look, feel, and personality of your business. When done correctly, branding can make your business appear more credible, trustworthy, and likeable. As you can imagine, these are all qualities that are essential for attracting new customers!

Why Branding Is Important for Makeup Artists

As an MUA, it’s important to stand out from the competition. After all, there are thousands of other makeup artists out there vying for the attention of potential clients. So, it’s important to create a brand that will make you memorable!

Branding can also help build trust with potential clients. When you have a strong brand identity, potential clients will be more likely to book you for their next event knowing that you’re a credible and trustworthy makeup artist.

Another reason why branding is essential to your makeup business has to do with marketing. A well-branded business will have an easier time promoting itself and attracting new customers. This is because people are more likely to remember and purchase products from businesses that they recognize!

What Makes a Brand Successful?

There are a few key elements that all successful brands have in common…

First, all great brands have a strong visual identity. This means having a well-designed logo and cohesive branding colors that are used consistently across all marketing materials.

Second, another important element of successful brands is a clear and concise message. Your brand’s message should be easy to understand and should accurately reflect the overall feel of your business.

Finally, all successful brands have a target audience that they focus their marketing efforts on. By clearly defining who your target market is, you’ll be able to create branding and marketing materials that resonates with them and attract new customers!

How To Brand Your Business Name

Your business name is one of the first things that potential customers will see. So, it’s important to choose something that accurately reflects the feel of your brand!

If you’re having trouble coming up with a name for your business, try brainstorming a list of words that describe the overall look and feel of your brand. Once you have a list of keywords, try combining them to create unique and memorable names for your business!

Did you know that there are 5 KEY RULES to keep in mind when naming your makeup business? Discover what they are here!

How To Brand Your Makeup Business: What Are The 4 Steps of Branding?

Now that we’ve covered the importance of branding and what makes a brand successful, let’s discuss the steps you need to take to create a strong brand for your makeup business!

Step 1: Creating a Logo and Tagline

Once you’ve settled on a name for your business, the first real step in branding your makeup business is to create a logo and tagline that accurately represents your brand. Your logo should be simple and easy to remember, while your tagline should be reflective of the overall feel of your business.

For example, if you’re aiming to create a luxury brand, then your logo and tagline should reflect that. Think about using luxurious fonts and colors in your branding materials. Alternatively, if you’re going for a more natural look, then your branding should reflect that as well.

Designing Your Logo

As we’ve just mentioned, your logo is an important part of your visual identity and should be used consistently across all marketing materials. When designing a logo, keep in mind the overall look and feel of your brand. Try to use colors and fonts that reflect the personality of your business!

If you’re not a designer, don’t worry! There are plenty of logo design templates available online that you can use to create a professional-looking logo for your business.

Deciding On Your Tagline

In addition to a strong visual identity, all great brands have a clear and concise message that accurately reflects the overall feel of their business. This is where your tagline comes in!

Your tagline should be reflective of the type of makeup artist you are and the services you offer. For example, if you specialize in natural makeup looks, then your tagline could be something like: “The perfect blend of natural beauty and artistry.”

If you need some help coming up with the optimal tagline for your business, try out this free slogan generator on Shopify!

Step 2: Developing a Marketing Strategy

The next step in branding your makeup business is to develop a marketing strategy. This will involve creating marketing materials such as business cards, flyers, and social media posts that accurately represent your brand.

When developing your marketing strategy, it’s important to keep your target audience in mind. This will ensure that your marketing materials are focused on attracting the right type of customer!

Step 3: Creating a Brand Voice

The third step in branding your makeup business is to create a brand voice. This is the overall tone and personality of your business that should be reflected in all marketing materials.

For example, if you’re aiming for a luxury brand, then your brand voice should be sophisticated and upscale. Alternatively, if you’re going for a more natural look, then your brand voice should be earthy and down-to-earth.

Step 4: Consistency is Key

The final step in branding your makeup business is to be consistent! This means using the same logo, colors, fonts, and messaging across all marketing materials. By being consistent with your branding, you’ll make it easier for potential customers to remember and recognize your business.

Creating a Makeup Artist Brand: Why Proper Training is Essential

Next, let’s discuss why proper training is essential for any successful MUA.

As a makeup artist, it’s important to have extensive knowledge of the products you’re using – as well as how to apply them correctly. This not only ensures that your clients are happy with their makeup; it also helps to build trust in your brand!

In addition, by receiving proper training, you’ll be able to develop your own unique style and voice as a makeup artist. In turn, it’ll then be easier for you to stand out from other artists in your field and attract new clients!

Receiving proper training is essential for any makeup artist who wants to build a successful career. Not only will it help you to provide excellent service to your clients… It will also allow you to develop your own unique style and voice.

Why You Should Train with QC Makeup Academy

If you’re ready to start training as a makeup artist, then your best bet is to enroll with QC Makeup Academy! QC Makeup Academy is a faculty of QC Career School – a pioneer of distance learning since 1984. We proudly hold an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau, and have over 200 raving reviews on Facebook alone.

The beauty of all of our courses is that they’re 100% self-paced and online. Thus, you get to complete your makeup certification training whenever and wherever YOU want! Starting from the date you first enroll, you’ll have a full 2 years to finish your program. However, many of our graduates have found that by devoting a mere 1-2 hours per week to their studies, they were able to graduate in as little as 2-6 months… Sometimes sooner!

QC Makeup Academy offers a 21-Day Money Back Guarantee, and all of the certifications provided through our school are internationally-recognized. Currently, we offer the following courses for makeup artists of all experience and skill levels:

Foundation Courses

Makeup Artistry
Master Makeup Artistry
Skincare

Advanced Courses

Pro Makeup
Global Beauty Workshop
Portfolio Development Workshop

Specialty Courses

Airbrush Makeup Workshop
Special FX Makeup
Fashion Styling
Hair Styling Essentials
Virtual Makeup Training

Interested in learning more about these online makeup courses? Check out all of our individual programs in FULL detail here!

Branding a Makeup Artist Business Online: Your Website, Social Media, and Marketing Strategies

Now that you know all about branding your makeup business, let’s talk about how to put your brand online!

Your Business Website

One of the most important aspects of creating a successful makeup artist brand is having an excellent website. Your website should be beautiful, user-friendly, and informative. It should also be fully optimized for search engines so that potential clients can easily find you online!

Here are some examples of how you can use your website to reflect your brand:

Use your brand colors, fonts, and logo throughout your website design!
Write compelling content that accurately reflects your tone of voice and style as a makeup artist!
Include high-quality images (preferably professional photos) of your work!
Use social media widgets to link to your accounts on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc.!
Make sure your contact information is prominently displayed and easy to find!

Pro Tip: Your professional makeup portfolio can also be used to help reflect your brand! If you don’t have a portfolio yet, make sure to check out our Portfolio Development Workshop!

Your Social Media Accounts

In addition to having a website, you should also make sure to create social media accounts for your business. These days, potential clients are often more likely to find you through Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok than they are through a Google search.

That’s why it’s so important to make sure that your social media accounts are active, well-curated, and informative!

Here are some tips for creating a strong social media presence:

Consistently post high-quality content that accurately reflects your brand!
Engage with other users regularly – like, comment, and share other people’s posts!
Use relevant hashtags to help potential clients find your content!
Run regular social media promotions and giveaways to help grow your following!

Furthermore, here are some BONUS tips to help properly incorporate your brand into your social media channels:

Use your brand colors, fonts, and logo in your social media profile images and bios!
Write compelling descriptions of your business that accurately reflect your brand!
When writing post descriptions, replying to comments, and responding to DMs, speak in a way that’s consistent with your brand voice!
Include links to your website and contact information in your social media bios!

Pro Tip: Not sure how to get started with branding your makeup business online? All of QC Makeup Academy’s certification courses come with a FULL unit devoted entirely to business training… And this is just one of the many topics that will be covered for you!

Your Marketing Strategies

Now that you have a website and social media accounts for your makeup business, it’s time to start marketing yourself online! There are many different ways to market your business online, but some of the most effective methods include search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, ad marketing, and email marketing.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing

One of the best ways to market your makeup business online is through SEO marketing. Essentially, this involves optimizing your website and social media accounts so that they rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). As a result, this will help potential clients find you more easily online!

Here are some tips for improving your SEO:

Use relevant keywords throughout your website and social media content!
Make sure your website is fully optimized for search engines!
Link to your website and social media accounts from other websites and online directories!

Content Marketing

Another great way to market your makeup business online is through content marketing. This involves creating high-quality blog posts, videos, infographics, etc. that are relevant to your business. Not only will this help improve your SEO, but it will also give potential clients a better idea of what you do and how you can help them!

Here are some tips for successful online marketing:

Make sure your website is fully optimized for search engines! This includes using relevant keywords throughout your website’s content, as well as in your titles, tags, and descriptions.
Use social media to drive traffic to your website! You can do this by sharing links to your website on your social media accounts, or by running social media ads that direct users to your site.
Create high-quality content that accurately reflects your brand! This could include blog posts, videos, infographics, etc. Once you’ve created this content, make sure to share it on your social media channels and through email newsletters.

Ad Marketing

Another effective way to market your makeup business online is through ad marketing. This involves creating and running online ads that promote your business. Ad marketing can be a great way to reach potential clients who might not otherwise find you online!

Here are some tips for successful ad campaigns:

Choose the right platforms for your ads! Make sure to research where your target audience is most active, and then place your ads accordingly.
Create compelling ad content that accurately reflects your brand! Your headlines and descriptions should be clear, concise, and attention-grabbing.
Include relevant keywords in your ad content! This will help improve your SEO and ensure that potential clients see your ad when they search for related terms online.

Email Marketing

Finally, email marketing is another great way to market your makeup business online. This involves sending newsletters, promotional offers, and other updates to your email list. Moreover, email marketing can be a great way to keep potential clients up-to-date on what you’re doing, as well as promote special offers and discounts!

Here are some tips for successful email marketing:

Build up your email list by offering something of value in exchange for sign-ups! This could be a free eBook, discount code, or access to exclusive content.
Segment your email list so that you can send targeted messages to specific groups of people! For example, you might segment your list by location, age group, or interests.
Make sure your emails are clear, concise, and attention-grabbing! Include compelling subject lines and eye-catching images to encourage people to open and read your messages.

Sending out regular email newsletters is a great way to keep potential clients up-to-date on what you’re doing, as well as promote special offers and discounts!

3 Small Makeup Business Branding Examples That Do It Right

Now that we’ve gone over some general tips for branding your makeup business, let’s take a look at 3 small businesses whose branding game is on POINT!

(Fun Fact: All of the MUAs we’re about to spotlight are either QC Makeup Academy students or alumni!)

1. Savannah Rose Cosmetics

Everything about Savannah Rose’s makeup style screams, “GLAM!” And the aesthetic – as well as content shared – on both her website and Instagram pages reflect that! Notice how the choice of a soft, baby pink for her business’s primary color – as well as the fonts for her name itself – lend to the overall feel of her brand.

Furthermore, Savannah actually has TWO Instagram accounts for her business. The first focuses more on her makeup work, while the other is meant to showcase her own cosmetic line. Importantly, the branding remains consistent across both accounts.

A few other smart marketing moves that Savannah has made include:

Her makeup Instagram (@savannahrosemakeupstudio) links to her secondary Instagram account (@savannahrosecosmetics) right in her bio – making it one of the very first things you see when viewing her channel.
Moreover, Savannah’s makeup IG’s bio uses hashtags that are on-brand for her business, highlights her level of experience and most notable accomplishments, and provides a direct email address to contact her.
Her cosmetics Instagram account links to her business website in the bio, thus making it easy for followers to access it.
This business IG account also lists notable information about her services and accessibility in the bio as well.
Savannah’s official website maintains the colors and overall aesthetic of her brand, while also providing all of the must-know information in a visually appealing, easy-to-navigate way.

2. Makeup By Caitlin Jane

A Los Angeles/Orange County-based makeup artist, Caitlin specializes in celebrity makeup and editorial work. As such, her brand is very poised, polished, and refined. Every photo of her work is of remarkable quality – down to the selfies she occasionally posts, too!

The vibe we get straight away – both when viewing Caitlin’s Instagram and her website – is “professional, stylish, and high-end”. This is especially reflected on Caitlin’s website through her minimalist layout, as well as the information she chooses to highlight (notably, the “Work”, “Published”, and “Clients” sections).

Some of the smart business choices Caitlin has made on her Instagram account and website include:

In her Instagram bio, Caitlin immediately states her professional qualifications as an MUA, as well as where she’s based.
Furthermore, she includes where she has trained (QC Makeup Academy) and provides a direct link to her website.
Caitlin’s default page on her website is her portfolio. This is a smart move, as it means her impressive work will be the very first thing clients will see when checking out her site!
Her website also includes all of the essential info clients need to know, such as: contact info, background info about Caitlin, where her work has been published, etc.
Importantly, Caitlin’s website also ensures to link viewers back to her Instagram through a clickable icon located at both the top right and bottom center of her webpages.

3. Natalie Walcott Makeup

International Skincare Consulting Professional (ISCP), Natalie Walcott, is a graduate of QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course. She’s also currently a student of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course and Special FX Makeup Course, too!

Now, Natalie actually runs TWO different businesses: Natalie Walcott Makeup and Natalie Walcott Skin. Both businesses have their own website, as well as their own individual Instagram accounts. In terms of makeup, Natalie specializes in the following areas:

TV, commercial, and film
Beauty and editorial
Special effects

With regard to her skincare business, Natalie offers skincare consulting, waxing, facials, microdermabrasion, and more. Brand-wise, her makeup business more strongly reflects a consistent image and aesthetic, so we’ll focus primarily on that as our example.

When viewing Natalie’s makeup Instagram page, the first thing we see is that all of her content gives us a crystal-clear understanding of the types of makeup Natalie excels at. Immediately, we know that if we’re in need of an editorial and/or SFX makeup artist, we’ve come to the right place!

Furthermore, this impression is further solidified when visiting Natalie’s website. The crisp black and white color contrast – as well as the chosen fonts – give off a professional, earnest energy. Even the layout of Natalie’s site adds to this vibe, with the overall feeling being that she is an MUA who takes her work seriously and holds herself to a high standard.

Important things to note about Natalie’s social media accounts and websites include:

All of her platforms link to one another! For example, her skincare website links to her makeup website (and makeup Instagram page) – whereas her makeup Instagram page links to her makeup website, as well as her skincare Instagram account, right in the bio.
Natalie also has industry-related blogs, which she links to on both of her respective websites.
On her makeup website, Natalie offers viewers 2 portfolios that can be viewed separately (“Beauty” and “Effects”). This is an excellent option for prospective clients who may want to see specific types of Natalie’s work!
Moreover, her makeup website also contains pertinent information that’s very easy to find – such as an About Me page, contact info, her resume, full portfolios from past client projects, and more!

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How To Start Your Own Makeup Business

Now that we’ve taken a look at some examples of established makeup businesses, let’s discuss how YOU can start your own!

First and foremost, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what type of makeup artist you want to be. As we saw with Savannah, Caitlin, and Natalie, each one has their own unique specialty within the industry. So, ask yourself:

Which type(s) of makeup are you most passionate about?
Who is your target audience/clientele?
Do you want to have a niche and be known for specific styles of makeup?
Or, alternately, would you like to be seen as a Jack-of-all-trades?

Answering these questions will help give you a better idea of what direction to take your business in. From there, we strongly recommend giving these articles a read, as they will help further your understanding of launching (and running) a successful makeup business:

So, How Do You Turn Your Business Into a Brand?

As we’ve seen, there are a multitude of ways to successfully brand your makeup business. Some key things to remember are:

Be clear about what type of makeup artist you want to be, and make sure this is reflected in both your social media presence and website.
Think about the overall image/aesthetic you want your business to have, and be consistent with this across all platforms.
Make sure your website is informative and easy to navigate – especially if you’re targeting potential clients!
Offer potential clients something unique that they can’t find elsewhere.
And last but not least, don’t forget the power of SEO! Utilizing keywords throughout your website and social media accounts is essential for helping people discover your business.

We hope this article was helpful, and we wish you the best of luck as you start (or continue) your journey in the makeup industry!

Do you have any questions or suggestions? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to stay tuned for future articles by Beauty Buzz for more tips and tricks on all things beauty-related!

Until next time – stay glam, beauties! 😘

Become an internationally-certified makeup artist in as little as 12 short weeks by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

May 13

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How to Find a Niche for Your Makeup Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

One of the most important decisions you will make when starting your makeup business is deciding on a niche. Picking the right niche can help you focus your efforts and attract customers who are interested in what you have to offer. In this article, we’ll discuss the value of specialization and how to find a niche for your makeup business.

Plus, we’ll also reveal some popular niche ideas you can use to get started. So, let’s jump into it, shall we?

Wait! Before we go any further, do you first know how to become a professional makeup artist – even without any prior experience? If not, you should check out our step-by-step guide first!

Beauty Niche Meaning – What Is a Niche?

A niche is a defined target market that you focus your business on. When it comes to makeup, there are endless possibilities for niches! You can focus on providing services for weddings, movie sets, or fashion shoots. Or, you could specialize in working with clients who have skin conditions like acne or rosacea.

The benefits of specializing in a niche are twofold. First, it allows you to become an expert in your field and attract customers who are looking for that expertise. Second, it helps you stand out from the competition by offering something unique that other businesses don’t.

What Makes a Strong Niche?

When you’re trying to decide on a niche for your makeup business, there are a few factors to consider. First, you’ll want to make sure that the niche is something you’re actually passionate about. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time working in this area!

Second, you’ll want to ensure that there’s a demand for the services you plan to offer. For example, if you love doing special effects makeup but there aren’t many clients in your area looking for that type of service, it may not be the best niche for your business.

Third, you’ll want to make sure that the niche is something you can realistically achieve. For instance, if your goal is to become the go-to MUA for fashion shows but you live in a small town, it may be tough to make that happen.

How to find a niche for your makeup business in-post image 1

Is The Beauty Industry a Niche Market?

The beauty industry is a great example of a niche market! This is because there are endless possibilities for niches within the industry, from hair stylists to skincare consultant to makeup artists. And, because the industry is so vast, there’s always room for new businesses to find their niche and succeed.

What Sells The Most in The Beauty Industry?

Some of the most popular items in the beauty industry include makeup, skincare products, hair care products, and fragrance. Of course, this varies depending on the niche you’re in and your professional qualifications. For example, if you specialize in natural cosmetics, your best-selling services might be different than those of a MUA who focuses on special effects makeup.

Niche Makeup Business Trends: What is The Target Market for Makeup?

Now that we’ve discussed what a niche is and why it’s important for your makeup business, let’s talk about how to find the perfect niche for you. To do this, you’ll need to first start by identifying your target market.

Your target market is the group of people who are most likely to use your products or services. When it comes to makeup, your target market could be anyone from teenage girls to working moms to brides-to-be. Once you’ve identified your target market, you can start narrowing down possible niches.

For example, if your target market is teenage girls, you could specialize in providing natural makeup looks or teaching them how to do their own makeup. If your target market is working moms, you could focus on providing quick and easy makeup routines that fit into busy schedules. And, if your target market is brides-to-be, you could specialize in doing wedding makeup or creating custom makeup looks for each bride.

fashion portrait with pink and green. a beautiful glamor model with stylish make-up on the face a shimmer on the cheekbones and shiny pink lipstick on the lips. sexy girl with copy space

How to Find a Niche for Your Makeup Business

There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re trying to find the perfect niche for your makeup business…

As we mentioned earlier, the first thing you’ll want to do is make sure that the niche you pick is something you’ll legitimately enjoy doing. Secondly, you’ll want to ensure that there’s actually a demand for that particular service in your area. Lastly, you’ll want to make sure that the niche is something you can realistically achieve.

Once you’ve considered these factors, it’s time to start brainstorming possible niches for your business. To get started, here are a few specialized makeup business ideas:

Makeup artist for brides
Makeup artist for special occasions
Personalized makeup consultant
Virtual makeup consultant
Natural cosmetics specialist
Airbrush makeup artist
Skincare consultant
Hair stylist
Fashion stylist
Special effects makeup artist
Global beauty makeup artist

Let’s take a closer look at each of these specializations…

Our Top 11 Specialized Makeup Business Ideas

Niche #1: Makeup Artist for Brides

As a makeup artist for brides, you would be responsible for creating custom looks for each bride on her big day. This could include doing a trial run before the wedding, as well as the actual wedding day itself. Additionally, you may also be hired to do the makeup for the bridesmaids, mother of the bride, etc.

Target Market

Brides
Wedding parties

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

Ability to create custom looks for each bride
Knowledge of different skin types and tones
Ability to work with a variety of makeup products
Time-management skills/efficiency

Woman in bridal makeup and attire. Photo representing best bridal makeup schools in Canada.

Pros and Cons of Being a Bridal Makeup Artist

Pros:

You get to be a part of someone’s special day
There is potential for repeat clients
Can be very lucrative
Provides excellent networking opportunities with vendors, suppliers, and venues
Very in-demand service that shows no signs of slowing down
Potential for a great salary (especially during peak wedding season)

Cons:

May require working on weekends, evenings, and holidays
Can be very demanding and stressful, especially during peak wedding season
Requires a high level of skill and experience

Interested in a career as a wedding/bridal MUA? QC Makeup Academy‘s self-paced, online Master Makeup Artistry Course can get you trained, internationally certified, and ready to book your first bride in as little as 2-6 months!

Niche #2: Makeup Artist for Special Occasions

As a makeup artist for special occasions, you would be responsible for creating looks for clients who have important events to attend. This could include anything from birthday parties and graduations to red carpet events and galas. You would need to be able to create a variety of looks, as well as have the ability to work with last-minute requests.

Target Market

Clients with special occasions (birthdays, graduations, red carpet events, galas, etc.)

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

Ability to create custom looks for each client, based on the type of event being attended
Flexibility/adaptability
The ability to work with a variety of makeup products
Time-management skills/efficiency

Pros and Cons of Being a Special Occasion Makeup Artist

Pros:

You get to help clients look their best for their big day
There is potential for repeat clients
Can be very lucrative
Provides excellent networking opportunities with vendors, suppliers, and venues
The various types of events will give you ample experience doing different kinds of makeup for a variety of situations

Cons:

May require working on weekends, evenings, and holidays
Requires a high level of skill and experience
Can be very demanding and stressful, especially during peak season (graduations, proms, etc.)

Funny girl in birthday hat on blue background

Niche #3: Personalized Makeup Consultant

As a personalized makeup consultant, you would be responsible for helping clients choose the right makeup products for their individual needs. This could include anything from finding the perfect foundation shade to selecting the right skincare routine. You would need to have in-depth knowledge of a variety of different makeup products and brands, as well as be able to help clients find the products that fit their budget.

Target Market

Clients who need help finding the right makeup products

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different makeup products, brands, and ingredients
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget
Knowledge of the different skin types
Excellent customer service skills

Pros and Cons of Being a Personalized Makeup Consultant

Pros:

You get to help clients find the products that are right for them
Can be very lucrative
Ample opportunity for positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different makeup products, brands, and ingredients
May require working with clients who are not familiar with makeup or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the products you recommend

Niche #4: Virtual Makeup Consultant

As a virtual makeup consultant, you would be responsible for helping clients choose the right makeup products for their individual needs via video chat or phone call. This could include anything from finding the perfect foundation shade to selecting the right skincare routine. You would need to have in-depth knowledge of a variety of different makeup products and brands, as well as be able to help clients find the products that fit their budget.

Furthermore, you would need to be able to properly communicate this knowledge, all through virtual correspondence (rather than via face-to-face interactions).

Target Market

Clients who need help finding the right makeup products but cannot meet in person due to physical, mental, or emotional limitations
Long distance clients

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different makeup products, brands, and ingredients
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget
Knowledge of the different skin types
Excellent customer service skills
Proper virtual communication skills
Basic technological skills (needed to use video chat apps/software, etc.)

Pros and Cons of Being a Virtual Makeup Consultant

Pros:

You get to help clients find the products that are right for them
Can be very lucrative
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
No need to commute or travel to meet with clients, which means a larger client pool for you to book with

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different makeup products, brands, and ingredients
May require working with clients who are not familiar with makeup or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the products you recommend
You will need to invest in some basic technology (video chat software, a smart phone if you don’t already have one, etc.)

Fun Fact: YOU can learn how to take your makeup business online in as little as one month by completing QC Makeup Academy’s online Virtual Makeup Training mini course!

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Niche #5: Natural Cosmetics Specialist

As a natural cosmetics specialist, you would be responsible for helping clients find the right makeup and skincare products that are made with all-natural ingredients. This could include anything from finding the perfect foundation shade to selecting the right organic skincare routine. You’d need to have in-depth knowledge of a variety of natural makeup and skincare products and brands, as well as be able to help clients find the products that fit their budget.

Target Market

Clients who want to use makeup and skincare products made with natural ingredients

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different all-natural makeup and skincare products, brands, and ingredients
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget
Excellent customer service skills
Knowledge of different skin types, so you can make informed recommendations that will best suit their skin, goals, and needs

Pros and Cons of Being a Natural Cosmetics Specialist

Pros:

You get to help clients find the safest, healthiest products that are right for them
Can be very lucrative
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
You get to help clients improve their makeup and/or skincare routines while also ensuring their skin stays safe
Moral benefit of using all-natural, free-from-harm, organic products

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different makeup/skincare products, brands, and ingredients
May require working with clients who are not familiar with makeup or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the products you recommend

Niche #6: Airbrush Makeup Artist

An airbrush makeup artist is responsible for providing clients with a flawless complexion using an airbrush machine. As an airbrush MUA, you’d need to have in-depth knowledge of how to use the machine, as well as a variety of different foundation shades and formulas. You would also need to be able to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget.

Never seen airbrush makeup artistry in action before? Watch this fun, informative webinar with QC executive instructor, Nathan Johnson, and airbrush MUA extraordinaire, Marc Harvey!

Target Market

Clients who want perfect, flawless skin for their wedding day or other special event
Models for photoshoots
Actors for film and television
Special effects makeup clients

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of how to safely and properly use an airbrush machine
Attention to detail, precision, and finesse
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual needs and budget
Excellent customer service skills

Pros and Cons of Being an Airbrush Makeup Artist

Pros:

Can be very lucrative
Potential to earn a killer income
Endless job opportunities in various makeup fields
You get to help clients improve their makeup routine while also providing them with perfect, flawless skin

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different airbrush machines and how to properly use them
May require working with clients who are not familiar with makeup or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the end result

Add an Airbrush Makeup Workshop certificate to your resume in as little as 8 weeks by enrolling in QC Makeup Academy’s Airbrush Makeup Workshop today! Oh, and did we mention you’ll receive a FREE airbrush machine as part of your course tools? As a result, you’ll be able to master airbrush makeup right from the get-go!

Beauty Fashion Model Woman , portrait, hairstyle with . Concept Girl face with perfect skin and dark lips in bright Background with hand holding aerograph.

Niche #7: Skincare Consultant

A skincare consultant is responsible for providing clients with customized skincare routines and products that fit their individual needs. As a skincare consultant, you’d need to have in-depth knowledge of different skincare ingredients, formulas, and brands. You would also need to be able to find products that fit each client’s individual budget.

Target Market

Clients who want help finding the best skincare routine and products for their skin type
People with specific skincare concerns (e.g., acne, aging, dryness)

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different skincare ingredients, formulas, and brands
Subject-matter expertise about skin types, skincare concerns, etc.
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual budget
Excellent customer service skills
Tact and empathy

Pros and Cons of Being a Skincare Consultant

Pros:

You get to help clients find the best skincare routine and products for their skin type
Can be very lucrative, with the potential to earn a high income
Pairs perfectly with a makeup business
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
You get to help clients improve their skincare routines while also ensuring their skin stays healthy
Creates the best possible canvas on which to also apply makeup

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different skincare ingredients, formulas, and brands
Failure to properly understand skin types and/or skincare products can have potentially damaging consequences
May require working with clients who are not familiar with skincare or have specific needs/requests
Some clients may be unhappy with the products you recommend

Pro Tip: In as little as 2 short months, you can become an International Skincare Consulting Professional (ISCP), thanks to QC’s online Skincare Course!

Niche #8: Hair Stylist

A hair stylist is responsible for styling their clients’ hair for everyday wear and/or special occasions. As a hair stylist, you’d need to have in-depth knowledge of different hair types, textures, and styles. You would also need to be up-to-date on the latest hair trends.

Target Market

Clients who need help styling their hair for upcoming events (e.g., weddings, proms, graduations, parties, etc.)
Clients who wish to have both their hair and makeup taken care of under one roof (as opposed to sourcing two different vendors)

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different hair types, textures, and styles
Ability to find products that fit each client’s individual budget
Excellent customer service skills
Knowledge of current, popular hair styling trends, braiding trends, up-dos, etc.
Bonus: knowing how to perfectly pair a given hairstyle to a particular makeup look, in order to meet the client’s expectations and properly reflect the event they’ll be attending

Pros and Cons of Being a Hair Stylist

Pros:

Can be very lucrative
Pairs perfectly with a makeup business, which will provide additional streams of income
Opens you up to a wider clientele
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
You get to help clients find the best hairstyle for their face shape and hair type, while also ensuring their hair stays healthy
Lots of possible job opportunities (i.e., weddings, photoshoots, theater, film and television, etc.)

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different hair types, textures, and styles
Failure to properly understand hair types and/or hairstyling products can have potentially damaging consequences
May require working with clients who are not familiar with hair styling or have specific needs/requests (e.g., those with thinning hair, alopecia, etc.)
Some clients may be unhappy with the hairstyle you create for them

If you’re interested in adding hairstyling services to your makeup business, we strongly recommend checking out QC’s Hairstyling Essentials Course! In turn, we’ll help prepare you to book your first client within just a couple short months!

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Niche #9: Fashion Stylist

A fashion stylist is responsible for helping their clients put together the perfect outfit for any occasion. As a fashion stylist, you need to have an eye for detail and be up-to-date on the latest fashion trends. You would also need to be able to find clothing that fits each client’s individual budget.

Target Market

Clients who need help selecting the perfect outfit for an upcoming event (e.g., wedding, graduation, prom, party, photoshoot, work event, red carpet event, etc.)
Clients who are looking to refine their everyday attire for personal purposes

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of current fashion trends
Ability to find clothing that fits each client’s individual budget
Excellent customer service skills
Creativity and an eye for detail
Ability to match clothing to hairstyles, makeup, etc.
Ability to find clothing that will help the client achieve their goals (i.e., looking good for an event, fitting better with their everyday lifestyle, etc.)

Pros and Cons of Being a Fashion Stylist

Pros:

Can be very lucrative, with the potential for a high income
Pairs perfectly with a makeup business, hairstyling business, etc.
Opens you up to a wider clientele
Flexible hours/work-from-home opportunities
You get to help clients find the best clothes for their body type, while also staying within their budget
Lots of possible job opportunities (i.e., weddings, photoshoots, theater, film and television, high-profile events, etc.)

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of current fashion trends
Failure to properly understand fashion trends can result in outdated or unflattering clothing selections for clients
May require working with clients who are not familiar with fashion or have specific needs/requests (e.g., those with a limited budget but have luxurious taste, etc.)
Some clients may be unhappy with the clothing you select for them

Have we piqued your interest? Do you want to become a Certified International Styling Professional (CISP™)? If so, learn more about QC’s online Fashion Styling Course!

Niche #10: Special Effects Makeup Artist

A special effects makeup artist is responsible for creating custom and realistic-looking makeup designs for their clients. As a special effects makeup artist, you need to have an eye for detail and be able to create a wide range of looks, from the simplest to the most complex.

Target Market

Clients who need help finding the perfect makeup look for an upcoming event (e.g., Halloween, cosplay convention, masquerade ball, etc.)
Clients who are looking for a unique and customized makeup look
Film, television, and/or theater productions in need of an SFX makeup artist
Clients looking to create character makeup

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of different SFX makeup products and techniques
Ability to create a wide range of horror, fantasy, and special effects looks, from the simplest to the most complex
Ability to create realistic gore and/or wounds
Excellent customer service skills
Creativity and an eye for detail
Ability to find the perfect makeup look for each client’s individual needs
Ability to create character makeup based on a script

Pros and Cons of Being a Special Effects Makeup Artist

Pros:

Can be very lucrative
Has the potential to be one of the highest paying makeup jobs
Is considered to be an advanced skill, thus making it extremely attractive to prospective clients
Opens you up to a wider clientele
Ample opportunity to get creative
Lots of possible high-end job opportunities (i.e., working in film, television, and theater, etc.)

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of different SFX makeup products and techniques
Failure to properly understand these makeup products and techniques can result in poor quality work
Clients may not be familiar with the special effects process, which can lead to unrealistic expectations
The work can be physically demanding (e.g., having to apply prosthetics for long periods of time, etc.)
Not the best fit for someone who’s squeamish, as you may need to work with fake blood, create realistic wounds/gore, etc.

Does special effects makeup sound like the PERFECT niche for your makeup business? Then you need to enroll in QC’s online Special FX Makeup Course today and become an International Special FX Makeup Professional (ISMP)!

close up portrait of young beautiful girl with colorful face painting. Halloween professional makeup. hair in paint. beauty portrait. blue and pink hair

Niche #11: Global Beauty Makeup Artist

A global beauty expert is capable of working with clients from all around the world; creating makeup looks on any and all skin tones. Furthermore, their knowledge of global beauty practices makes them the leading expert to hire for religious and/or cultural events, such as international weddings. Thus, if one is looking for a prosperous niche for their makeup business, becoming a global beauty expert is the way to go!

Target Market

Clients who are looking for a makeup artist who is knowledgeable in global beauty practices
Clients who are getting married and want their wedding to reflect their culture/religion
Religious and/or cultural events that require a makeup artist (e.g., Chinese New Year, Diwali, etc.)

Special Skills Needed for This Niche

In-depth knowledge of global beauty trends and makeup techniques
Ability to work with clients from all around the world, on any and all skin tones
Flexibility to be able to create a wide range of looks, from natural to dramatic
Excellent customer service skills
Creativity and an eye for detail
An understanding of various cultural and/or religious traditions, in order to properly reflect them and meet cultural/religious standards

Pros and Cons of Being a Global Beauty Makeup Artist

Pros:

Can be extremely lucrative
Drastically opens up your potential client reach
Is considered to be an advanced skill, thus making it extremely attractive to prospective clients
Expands your client reach to people from all around the world
Flexibility to work in other countries
Ample opportunity to get creative and experiment with different global beauty techniques and looks

Cons:

Requires in-depth knowledge of global beauty trends and practices
Failure to properly understand these trends and practices can result in poor quality work or even cultural appropriation
The work can be physically demanding (e.g., having to apply makeup, henna tattoos, etc. for long periods of time)
Not the best fit for someone who doesn’t like to travel, as you may need to work in other countries

Do you have what it takes to be a global beauty makeup artist? If so, you’ll learn everything you need to know to succeed in QC’s Global Beauty Workshop! Enroll today and earn your certificate of completion in as little as 8 weeks!

Conclusion

There you have it! These are just a few of the many makeup business niches out there that you can specialize in.

Remember: it’s important to pick a niche that you’re passionate about and that you have the skillset to excel in. With hard work and dedication, you can make your dreams of being a successful makeup artist come true!

Which of these niches interests YOU the most? Let us know in the comments below! And while you’re at it, be sure to check out our other blog post on 15 Tips to Grow Your Makeup Business for even more advice on getting your company off the ground.

Good luck… And thanks for reading! 💕

Start your dream career as a makeup artist by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

Apr 29

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Tips to grow a skincare business Feature Image

25 Top Tips to Grow a Skincare Business

By Sarah Cavanagh Career Advice, Skincare, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Let’s cut to the chase: today, we’re here to break down 25 tips to grow a skincare business and find success in the industry! And why is this an important topic of discussion, you may be wondering?

Because the skincare industry is BOOMING, that’s why! In fact, according to this study, it’s expected to reach a value of $177 billion by 2025. This makes it one of the most lucrative industries in the world.

So, if you’re thinking about starting your own skincare business, now is the time to do it!

Wait! Before we get started, did you know that we’ve written the ULTIMATE guide on becoming a certified Skincare Consultant – even with zero experience? We definitely recommend giving it a read!

What Is a Skincare Consultant?

First thing’s first…

A skincare consultant is a professional who helps individuals select and use the right products for their skin type, as well as provides advice on how to properly take care of their skin.

Some skincare consultants work in spas, salons, or skincare boutiques. Others operate their own business. Either way, with the rise of social media, more and more consultants are working remotely.

This, of course, is obviously GREAT news if you’re looking to start your own business! (And we assume you are – because why else would you be reading this article, right?)

Did you know that in as little as 2-6 months, you can become a certified International Skincare Consulting Professional (ISCP) by completing QC Makeup Academy‘s self-paced, online Skincare Course? It’s true – and it’s pretty amazing!

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What Does a Skincare Consultant Do?

The day-to-day duties of a skincare consultant vary depending on where they work. For instance, those who work in spas may be responsible for providing facials, while those who work in salons may focus on giving makeup consultations.

Those who run their own skincare business, on the other hand, typically provide one-on-one consultations via video call or phone. During these consultations, they help their clients select the right products and create a skincare routine that fits their needs.

In addition to providing consultations, many skincare consultants also give talks or workshops on topics like skincare tips, makeup application techniques, and more. Furthermore, you may wish to offer both skincare and makeup services, all under one roof. This would be a great way to appeal to a wider clientele and increase your business earnings!

Interested in combining skincare AND makeup services? Enroll in QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course and become a globally-certified Master International Makeup Professional (MIMP) in as little as 2 months!

How Profitable is The Skincare Industry?

As we mentioned earlier, the skincare industry is expected to be worth $177 billion by 2025. This means that there’s a lot of money to be made as a certified skincare consultant! According to Deals On Health, skincare is “the most profitable segment in the global cosmetic industry”, accounting for a whopping “42% of the worldwide cosmetic industry”.

Basically, if you’re looking to start your own business and earn a good income, this is definitely an industry worth considering!

How Big Is The Skincare Industry?

The skincare industry is absolutely HUGE! Like, we cannot stress enough how massive it is. Without any exaggeration, it’s one of the biggest industries in the world.

Here are some quick facts, to illustrate our point:

Between 2015 and 2019, the skincare industry produced generated $1.7 billion in sales, just in Canada alone!
The global skin care industry is worth approx. $148.3 billion!
In 2020, at the height of the global pandemic, the skincare industry accounted for approx. 42% of the global beauty market!
In 2021, men spent approx. $6.9 billion (in the United States alone) on skincare products!
Back in 2019, skincare made up approx. 27% of the entire European cosmetics market!
The market for skincare products in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is expected to hit as high as $105.6 billion by the year 2030!

As you can see, there’s definitely a lot of opportunity in this industry! This means that if you’re looking to start your own skincare business, now is most certainly the time to do it.

Attractive woman, showing her lips and face, sitting in cosmetology office an talking with qualified beautician. Professional woman cosmetologist talking about problems of skin of female client

What Age Group Buys The Most Skincare Products?

If you’re looking to start a skincare business, it’s important to know who your target market is. According to Statistica, in 2021, the most skincare products in the United States were bought by Gen Z shoppers! Out of all the beauty products this age range (18-24 years old) purchased that year, 41% of these items were skin products.

This blog post by L’Officiel further corroborates the above findings. And in case you were wondering, Millennials, came at a close second in Statistica’s study. 40% of their beauty purchases in 2021 were also on skincare products.

So, if you’re wondering whether or not starting a skincare business is a good idea, the answer is a resounding YES! Not only is this industry extremely profitable – it also has a large and growing customer base.

Who Is The Target Market for Skincare?

With the above in mind, it’s important to remember that your personal target market will likely include people from many different age ranges. This is because, as we all know, skincare is important for people of ALL ages! Not to mention, where you live and its unique demographic will play a big factor into the type of customers you book.

Here’s another thing to keep in mind, to… Although much of your client base may be women, there’s a growing market for men’s skincare as well. So, don’t make them feel left out of your marketing efforts!

The more inclusive your skincare business is, in terms of the services you provide and the people you’re able to work with, the more successful it’ll be.

What Brand of Skincare Product is The Best?

As a skincare consultant, you’ll likely be asked this question a lot. And unfortunately, there’s no easy answer. The best skincare brand for one person might not be the best for another. This is because everyone’s skin type is different – meaning that what works for someone with dry skin might not work as well for someone with oily skin.

Skincare products to improve overall health and to include in skincare routine

The good news is that there are plenty of great options out there to choose from! So, if you’re looking for some recommendations, we’ve got you covered. Here are 15 skincare brands that come highly recommended on the market today:

Ultimately, what will work best for each client will come down to trial and error. It’ll also be dependent on your client’s skin type, needs, and goals. But, as a skincare consultant, it’s important to be familiar with all of the best options out there.

This way, you can make tailored recommendations to each and every one of your happy customers!

25 Tips to Grow a Skincare Business

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some specific business tips that will help you succeed as a skincare consultant!

Tip #1: Get Certified Before You Build a Skincare Business

One of the best ways to set yourself apart from the competition is by becoming certified. Not only will a proper education give you more credibility with potential clients – it’ll also help you better understand skincare products and services. This, in turn, will allow you to provide your clients with even better results!

Beautiful asian woman blogger is showing how to make up and use cosmetics. In front of the mirror and recording vlog video live streaming at home.Skincare for healthy face concept.

Tip #2: Figure Out What Type of Skincare Business You Want to Have

You can’t run a successful business if you don’t know what exactly your business is in the first place. So, this is the next place to start. Sit down, grab a pen, and jot down whatever ideas come to mind regarding the type of company you’d like to have in 1, 5, and even 10 years.

For instance, do you want to work in a salon? Be a mobile skincare consultant? Or would you rather open up your own brick-and-mortar store?

Do you want to solely offer skincare consulting services? Or would you like to pair that with complementary beauty services, such as professional makeup artistry or hair styling?

There are many different paths you can take when starting a skincare business. Ultimately, the route YOU choose will likely depend on your personal preferences, goals, and budget.

Tip #3: Pick The Right Name for Your Skincare Business

Your business name is important for two reasons: branding and marketing. A good name will help you build a strong brand that clients can easily remember. Plus, it’ll make marketing your skincare business a whole lot easier, too!

When brainstorming names, try to come up with something that’s catchy, unique, and relevant to the type of services you offer. You might also want to consider using keyword-rich phrases in your business name. This way, when people do an online search for skincare businesses in their area, yours is more likely to pop up!

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, do a quick Google search to see if any other businesses are using the same or similar ones. If so, scratch those off your list and move on to the next best option. If not, get your business name registered right away so no one else can take it!

Tip #4: Determine Your Brand

Your brand identity is how you want your business to be perceived by the public. In other words, it’s what makes you unique. And, as a skincare consultant, it’s important to have a strong brand identity that sets you apart from the competition!

Think about what type of image you want your business to portray. Do you want to be seen as luxurious and high-end? Relaxing and spa-like? Fun and vibrant? Natural and organic?

Once you’ve got a good understanding of the image you want to portray, start working on creating a cohesive brand identity for your skincare business. This includes everything from your logo design and color scheme to your company slogan and social media posts.

Tip #5: Purchase a Business License (and Make Sure to Renew It)

Before you can start operating your skincare business, you’ll need to purchase a business license.

A business license is a document that allows you to operate your business legally. It’s typically issued by the government, and it usually needs to be renewed on an annual basis.

In most cases, you can apply for a business license online – but it’s always a good idea to check with your local government office to see what the specific requirements are in your area.

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Tip #6: Get Insurance for Your Skincare Business

Another important step in setting up your skincare business is getting insurance.

As a skincare professional, you’ll be working with clients’ faces – which means there’s always a risk of something going wrong. Whether it’s a bad reaction to a product you used/recommended or a physical accident of any kind, it’s important to have insurance in case something does happen.

Firstly, having insurance will protect you financially. Secondly, it’ll also give your clients peace of mind knowing that they’re in good hands.

There are a few different types of insurance you might want to consider for your skincare business, such as general liability, product liability, and professional liability insurance.

Tip #7: Create a Business Plan

A business plan is a document that outlines your business goals and how you plan on achieving them. It’s an essential tool for any new business – especially one in the skincare industry!

When creating your business plan, be sure to include:

An executive summary of your skincare business as a whole
A description of your business
A summary of who your target market is
Your marketing and advertising plans
Your financial projections

If you need help getting started, there are plenty of business plan templates and resources available online. You can easily find them via a quick Google search! That said, if you want someone to walk you through the process step by step, consider hiring a business coach or consultant.

Tip #8: Start Getting Experience as a Skincare Consultant

If you’re serious about starting a skincare business, then you need to start getting some experience under your belt – stat!

One of the best ways to do this is by working as a skincare consultant in a salon or spa. This will give you the opportunity to learn the ropes, test out products, and get comfortable with consulting clients. Plus, it’s a great way to build up your professional portfolio!

Another option is to offer your services for free (or at a discounted rate) to family and friends. This can be a great way to get some practice and perfect your consultation process. Just be sure that everyone involved knows it’s just for fun and not an actual paid gig!

Professional cosmetologist woman in beauty salon consulting young beautiful, client.Cosmetology and professional skin care. Skin Care. High Resolution

Tip #9: Build Your Skincare Portfolio

As a skincare consultant, your portfolio is everything. It’s what you’ll use to showcase your skills and experience to potential clients. And, it’s what will help you land consulting gigs in the first place!

So, what exactly should you include in your portfolio?

Before and after photos of clients you’ve worked with
A list of the services you offer
Testimonials from past clients
Any relevant certifications and/or licenses you have

If you don’t have any before and after photos yet, don’t worry! You can always start by taking pictures of friends and family members before and after using the products/services you recommend. Just be sure to get their permission first – and make sure the photos you do take are of high quality!

Need help putting together a pristine, professional portfolio? QC Makeup Academy’s Portfolio Development Course will teach you everything you need to know in just a couple short months!

Tip #10: Make a Business Website

In today’s day and age, it’s absolutely essential to have a website for your business – no matter what type of business it is. And, as a skincare consultant, yours is no different!

Your website should be clean, organized, and easy to navigate. It should also include all the relevant information potential clients might be looking for:

Your name
Information about who you are
Your contact information
A list of the services you offer
Service rates, should you wish to publicly disclose these details
Before and after photos
Client testimonials
Your portfolio of any other services you offer (e.g., makeup artistry)
Links to your social media pages
An option for online booking

Building a website from scratch can seem daunting – especially if you’re not particularly tech-savvy. But luckily, there are plenty of user-friendly website builder tools out there that make the process relatively painless! This article, for instance, lists 10 FREE website builders at your disposal.

Tip #11: Learn About SEO – and Use It To Your Advantage

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the process of optimizing your website and its content to rank higher in search engine results pages (like Google). As a skincare consultant with an online presence, it’s important that you learn about SEO and how to use it to your advantage!

There are 2 main types of SEO: on-page and off-page. On-page SEO refers to all the optimization strategies you can employ ON your website. Things like using keyword-rich titles and descriptions, formatting your text properly, and adding alt tags to images would all be excellent examples.

Off-page SEO, on the other hand, refers to all the optimization strategies you can employ OFF your website – such as link-building and social media engagement.

Both are important, but on-page SEO is generally more within your control. So, that’s a good place to start! And if you’re brand-new to SEO in general, we strongly encourage you to check out this Beginner’s Guide by Moz.

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Tip #12: Get on Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool that can be used to promote just about anything – including your skincare business!

Not only does social media give you a platform to share your work with potential clients, but it also allows you to connect with other industry professionals, collaborate on projects, and stay up-to-date on the latest skincare news and trends.

There are tons of different social media platforms out there, but not all of them will be relevant for promoting your business. When choosing which platforms to be active on, make sure to consider:

The age group of your target market
The type of content you’ll be sharing
How much time you’re willing to commit to maintaining your presence

Pro Tip: Some of the most popular social media platforms for skincare businesses include Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!

Tip #13: Try Out Different Marketing Strategies

There are endless marketing strategies you can use to promote your skincare business and get your name out there. The best part is, you don’t have to spend a fortune to see results!

Here are a few low-cost marketing ideas to get you started:

Start a blog and write about topics related to skincare (e.g., skincare tips, product reviews, etc.)
Reach out to local publications and offer to write articles or give interviews on skincare topics
Create social media accounts for your business and post engaging content regularly
Participate in online forums and discussions related to skincare
Collaborate with other businesses in the beauty industry (e.g., hair salons, makeup artists, etc.)
Start a podcast and discuss skincare topics with industry professionals
Invest in paid advertisements (this doesn’t have to be costly if you tailor your ad(s) properly)

The sky’s the limit when it comes to marketing your skincare business. So, get creative and have fun with it!

Tip #14: Network, Network, Network

As with any other business, networking is essential for the success of your skincare company. By building relationships with other industry professionals, you’ll not only gain valuable insights and advice – you’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate on projects, promote each other’s work, and much more.

One great way to get started is by attending skincare trade shows and conventions. These events are a goldmine for networking opportunities! Not to mention, they’re also a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest skincare trends and products.

Another option is to join relevant online communities and forums related to skincare. This will give you access to a wealth of information and resources – as well as allow you to connect with other skincare enthusiasts from all over the world.

No matter how you choose to network, just make sure you’re putting yourself out there and taking advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.

Start networking while completing your certification training by joining QC’s free Virtual Classroom on Facebook! Even if you’re not a student, you can still be a temporary member for 2 whole weeks!

Young businesswoman using smart phone ,Social, media, Marketing concept

Tip #15: Know Your Target Audience

One of the most important aspects of running a successful skincare business is knowing who your target audience is. After all, how can you market your products and services effectively if you don’t know who you’re marketing to?

When determining your target audience, there are a few key factors to consider:

Age
Gender
Location
Occupation
Interests/Hobbies
Skincare Needs/Concerns

Once you have a good understanding of who your target audience is, you’ll be able to create targeted marketing campaigns that are much more likely to result in conversions. And that brings us to our next tip…

Tip #16: Create an Irresistible Offer

Now that you know who your target audience is, it’s time to create an offer they can’t refuse!

Your offer should be something that speaks directly to the needs and concerns of your target audience. For example, if you’re targeting busy moms who are concerned about wrinkles and fine lines, you might want to offer a free skincare consultation or mini-facial.

On the other hand, if you’re targeting young adults with acne-prone skin, you might want to offer a discount on your signature acne-fighting facial. No matter what your offer is, just make sure it’s something that will appeal to your target audience and encourage them to take action.

(The action, of course, being to book with you!)

Tip #17: Focus on Client Acquisition

Speaking of getting clients, that’s exactly what our next tip is all about: client acquisition!

In the early stages of your skincare business, it’s important to focus on acquiring new clients. Once you have a solid base of loyal clients, you can start thinking about ways to increase retention rates (i.e., getting them to book more often).

There are a number of different strategies you can use to acquire new clients, but some of the most effective include online advertising, word-of-mouth marketing, and content marketing.

Skincare Business Ideas: Online Advertising

Online advertising is a great way to reach your target audience where they’re already spending time – which is online! You can use platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, Instagram Ads, and even TikTok Ads to create targeted campaigns that will reach your ideal customers.

Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Word-of-mouth marketing is another great way to grow your skincare business. After all, people are more likely to book with a business that comes highly recommended by someone they trust.

Content Marketing

Finally, content marketing is a fantastic way to attract new clients and build trust with your target audience. By creating helpful and informative blog posts, infographics, videos, etc., you can position yourself as an expert in the skincare industry – which will make people much more likely to do business with you.

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Tip #18: But Don’t Forget About Client Retention, Too

Once you’ve acquired some loyal clients, it’s time to start focusing on retention.

Client retention is important for any business – but it’s especially important in the skincare industry. Since the skincare industry is so competitive, it’s vital to keep your existing clients happy and coming back for more.

There are a number of different strategies you can use to increase client retention rates, but some of the most effective include loyalty programs, referral programs, and VIP memberships.

Loyalty Programs

One way to encourage your clients to come back for more is to offer them a loyalty program. With a loyalty program, they can earn points every time they book with you – which they can then redeem for discounts on future services.

Referral Programs

Another great way to increase client retention is to offer a referral program. With a referral program, your clients can earn rewards (like discounts or free products) for referring their friends and family to your business.

VIP Memberships

Finally, you might also want to consider offering VIP memberships to your loyal clients. With a VIP membership, they’ll enjoy exclusive benefits like early access to new products and services, special discounts, and even free shipping on orders.

Tip #19: Consider Picking a Niche

When it comes to growing a successful skincare business, it’s important to stand out from the competition. And one of the best ways to do that is by picking a niche.

Picking a niche allows you to focus your marketing efforts and position yourself as an expert in a specific area. For example, if you’re targeting mature women, you could position yourself as a skincare expert for mature women. Similarly, you could market yourself as a skincare consultant that specializes in acne-prone skin, or even one that specializes in specific skin types (i.e. oily skin).

Not only will this help you attract more clients; it’ll also help you build trust and credibility with your target audience!

Tip #20: Pair Your Skincare Services with Makeup Artistry

Makeup artistry is another great way to grow your skincare business.

While you might not think of makeup artistry and skincare as being related, they actually go hand-in-hand! After all, what’s the point of having flawless skin if you don’t have the makeup to match? Not to mention, a person’s skin is quite literally the canvas on which they’ll apply any makeup look.

Pairing your skincare services with makeup artistry is a great way to attract new clients and increase revenue. Plus, it can be a lot of fun!

Need more convincing? Learn all about how QC’s Skincare Course helped professional MUA, Nadia Calabro, become an even better makeup artist!

Close up of makeup artist applying light layer of matting powder while using professional brush for lady

Tip #21: Price Your Skincare Services Properly

When it comes to pricing your skincare services, it’s important to strike a balance between what your clients are willing to pay and what you need to make a profit.

If you price your services too low, you’ll likely find yourself struggling to make ends meet. On the other hand, if you price them too high, you might have trouble attracting new clients.

The best way to determine how much to charge for your skincare services is by doing some market research. Look at what other businesses in your area are charging for similar services. From there, come up with a rate that’s competitive yet still allows you to make a profit.

Tip #22: Offer Skincare Packages

If you really want to grow your skincare business, then you need to start offering skincare packages. Skincare packages are pre-paid bundles of services that offer a discount to the client.

Not only do skincare packages encourage clients to book more services at once (which is great for your bottom line), but they also offer a sense of convenience and value that individual services just can’t match.

When it comes to designing your skincare packages, be sure to consider what your target market would be interested in. For example, if you’re targeting brides-to-be, you might want to offer a wedding day package that includes everything from makeup to hair to skincare.

Tip #23: Join Online Communities and Forums

Another great way to grow your skincare business is by joining online communities and forums related to your industry! One major perk is that it’ll help you network with other professionals. Moreover, you’ll also get a chance to share your expert knowledge with people who might be interested in your services.

For example, if you’re a member of a skincare-related Facebook group, you could answer questions about skincare routine or product recommendations. Similarly, if you’re a member of an online forum for beauty professionals, you could offer advice on starting and growing a skincare business.

Psst! This is yet another reason to join that QC Makeup Academy Virtual Classroom on Facebook that we were telling you about earlier!

Tip #24: Gather Client Testimonials (and Showcase Them)

If you want people to take your skincare business seriously, then you need to start gathering client testimonials. Client testimonials are powerful because they offer a first-hand account of what it’s like to work with you.

When potential clients see that others have had positive experiences with your business, they’ll be more likely to book services with you as well!

There are a few different ways that you can gather client testimonials. One is by simply asking your clients to write a review after their appointment. Another is by conducting surveys or sending out questionnaires.

Once you have some testimonials, be sure to showcase them on your website and/or social media platforms. You could even create a dedicated page on your website for them!

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Tip #25: Stay Up-to-Date with the Latest Skincare Trends

Last but not least, one of the best ways to grow your skincare business is by staying up-to-date with the latest skincare trends. As we all know, the world of beauty is constantly changing and evolving. And if you want to stay ahead of the curve, you need to be on top of the latest trends.

Ways to Stay Up-To-Date

One great way to do this is by following skincare bloggers and influencers on social media. This way, you’ll always be in the know about what’s new and exciting in the world of skincare!

Another idea is to sign up for newsletters from beauty industry leaders. This way, you’ll receive updates directly to your inbox about all the latest skincare trends and news. Similarly, reading skincare publications is also a great way to stay informed.

And finally, in our humble opinion, the single best way to remain current as a skincare consultant is to continue your professional education. For example, you can start with QC’s Skincare Course – and then build upon your knowledge after that by taking additional programs. A makeup course, or even a hair styling course, will help take not only your skill-set to the next level… But your resume, too!

Final Thoughts

And there you have it – our top 25 tips to help you grow your skincare business!

We hope that this article has given you some valuable insights and information. But more importantly, we hope it’s inspired you to take your skincare career to the next level.

If you’re interested in learning even more about launching your very own company, you should also check out our comprehensive guide on starting a skincare business in 6 easy steps!

Got any questions for us? Feel free to leave them in the comments below. And, as always, thanks for reading! 💕