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5 Special Effects Makeup Products to Ask Santa For!

By From the Experts, Makeup Reviews, Special Effects Makeup No Comments

Gabrielle Rivera is a QC Makeup Academy graduate, professional MUA, and special effects makeup expert. To see more of her work, visit her Instagram here

Christmas is the best time of year to ask Santa for the beauty products you absolutely MUST add to your makeup kit! If you’re interested in pursuing a career in special effects makeup, I’ve got 5 products for you to add to your wish list today.

The best part? They can all be used whether you’re a beginner or experienced makeup artist, and I guarantee that they’ll help take your creations to the next level!

5 Special Effects Makeup Products You Need!

Teeth are a subtle detail that MUAs can potentially overlook when creating special effects makeup looks. But the teeth are very important!

Imagine that you’ve just spent hours creating a detailed gore look or a mythical creature. Once you’re finished and your model is ready to have their photo taken, they smile… and show off a mouth of pearly whites! While they may seem inconsequential, teeth play a major role in creating a finished look. They have a huge impact on the final product of your design.

So, ask Santa to bring you a Tooth Lacquer palette! This palette will help you achieve the most realistic special effects makeup for your characters (and their chompers). My favorite brand is the Fleet Street Tooth Lacquer palette because it comes with a variety of grossly-pigmented paints! With this palette, I have brought a Leprechaun to life. Not to mention, these lacquers are the perfect finish to any rotting zombie look.

(Hint hint, for those enrolled in QC Makeup Academy’s Special FX Makeup Course!)

special effects makeup artist, Gabrielle Rivera, holding product 1

2. Alcohol-Activated Paints

Another great gift to ask for this holiday season are alcohol-activated paints! What I love most about these types of paints is that they’re long-lasting. They’re also exceptional at creating the most life-like special effects makeup.

One of my favorite alcohol-activated paint brands is the Skin Illustrator palettes. There are over 20 unique Skin Illustrator palettes designed to help artists achieve specific looks. However, a staple in every SFX artist’s kit should be the FX palette. This palette has all of the tones needed to create bruising, cuts, veins, and the illusion of decay.

Some of my other favorite Skin Illustrator palettes are the Grunge and Necromania palettes. They both have a wide range of colors that can be used to create a variety of special effects makeup looks. Another brand of  alcohol-activated paints that you DEFINITELY need to ask Santa for are the ProAiir liquid paints used for airbrushing!

Both of the above brands are waterproof and ensure long-lasting results for you and your clients.

special effects makeup artist, Gabrielle Rivera, holding product 2

Another staple that I always have in my SFX kit are the 3rd Degree silicone modeling compounds. I’ve been using this brand for over three years now and I have never looked back!

The pros of using this compound include:

  • It’s easier to work with this product when compared to scar wax or other modeling compounds
  • It has a quick drying time
  • It allows you to create more realistic SFX textures in the skin

In the past, I’ve done a Freddy Kreuger SFX look. For it, I used 3d Degree in order to create the burn marks, cuts, gashes, and wounds that resemble flaps of skin, holes, and more! Another great advantage of using this product is that you can add liquid paints in order to create custom colors. This is because the compound cures, which helps to create the most realistic results.

special effects makeup artist, Gabrielle Rivera, holding product 3

4. Pros-Aide Adhesive and Cream

Pros-Aide Adhesive is a professional adhesive similar to liquid latex. For beginners, I highly recommend using regular liquid latex first. This way, you can become familiar with working with latex before moving onto any costlier products (as the Pros-Aide brand can get a bit expensive).

Pros-aide is a richer quality adhesive that can be used on prosthetics, or can be used in conjunction with cotton to build your own. I prefer this adhesive when working with prosthetics, as it allows for a smoother blend to the skin.

In addition to Pros-aide adhesive, a MUST-have to pair alongside it is Pros-Aide Cream. This cream adhesive is a thicker adhesive that’s meant to fill in the gaps or edges of prosthetics. The result is a truly seamless blend. That being said, this product can also be used to create scars or textures on the skin.

special effects makeup artist, Gabrielle Rivera, holding product 4

5. Airbrush Machine

The BEST gift you can ask Santa for this Christmas is an airbrush machine. Whether you specialize special effects makeup or regular makeup, trust me: an airbrush machine will elevate your game completely!

Not only do airbrush machines help deliver blended looks; they can save you time as well. Airbrush machines are a great way to lay down a base for your looks, on both small and larger-scale areas. With practice, airbrush machines can also be used to detail looks, and they’re phenomenal for painting over top of prosthetics!

The airbrush machine I use is the Master Airbrush Model TC-320. This airbrush machine is portable, compact, and gets the job done every time. With an airbrush machine, you can use water or alcohol-activated paints, as well as liquid foundation to create glamor looks.

If you ask Santa for nothing else this holiday season, I recommend asking for an airbrush machine. It’ll completely change your life!

Want to learn more about airbrush makeup? QC Makeup Academy has an awesome Airbrush Makeup Workshop that will teach you everything you need to know!

special effects makeup artist, Gabrielle Rivera, holding product 5

The BEST gift Santa can give you this year is the chance to start your dream career as an MUA! Enroll in QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course today and become a certified professional in as little as 3-6 months!

makeup jobs MUA working with client while wearing mask

How I’ve Found Makeup Jobs During a Global Pandemic

By Career Advice, From the Experts No Comments

Charlotte is the proud owner of her very own hair and makeup business, A Date With Charlotte. From bridal to editorial, to film and television, and everything in-between – Charlotte’s extensive makeup training allows her to provide a wide variety of services that cater to ALL types of clientele!

Her extensive resume includes working for Prada, L’Oreal, and even the cast of the hit show, Glee! A developer of educational programs, Charlotte has even been awarded Best Makeup Educator of the Year by the Australian Industry Makeup Awards.

Trying to find alternate ways to books makeup jobs during COVID-19? Professional MUA, Charlotte Ravet, is here to tell you how she’s been finding clients during the pandemic!

Before COVID-19, I could not have imagined a day where I wouldn’t be able to do my actual job. I think we can all agree that the beauty and makeup industry have definitely been impacted. From here on out, whenever we think about the way the beauty industry exists, there will be a “before” and “after” COVID.

I have personally lived this pandemic in two different countries: France and Australia. Both have been impacted at different levels. But all over the world, beauty professionals have all been in the same boat about one very important thing: once we understood the true extent of the pandemic, we very quickly realized that working as a makeup artist would have to be done differently.

Maximizing Social Media to Find Makeup Jobs

For the first time, even I have created makeup on myself and posted images on my social media. You see, I love doing makeup on models, but I always get a bit annoyed doing my own makeup! So, it was a new move for me. But during the lockdown, it was the only way to keep up with my creativity. I’ve also used this time to create a new website and think about my next projects.

Many makeup artists have created a strong online presence. It’s true that nowadays, it’s considered harder to get noticed as a beginner. Still, many artists have seen their followers increasing during the pandemic, due to an increase in traffic across most online platforms. For some, this has led to an opportunity to collaborate with brands.

Additionally, I’ve also participated in doing live streaming and makeup tutorials for the brand’s social media. We have quickly realized that social media was the most effective way to continue being active and expressing ourselves.

I was working as an international trainer before I quit my job to return to Australia. When the pandemic hit, I continued my services by offering my training online, rather than doing it physically. This adjustment allowed me to work from home and continue earning an income during an uncertain time.

One perk about having so much free time these days is that there are ample ways to use it productively!

The New Normal for Makeup Jobs: Virtual Services

A new service I’m also now offering for my clients is online consultations. Despite not being able to leave the house, many women are still interested in learning how to do their own makeup. A lot of people are using platforms like Zoom or Google Meet for business and personal video calls. When everyone has to be face-to-face with their own reflection so many times in a day, it’s only natural that they might want to look their best – even if they’re not actually leaving the house.

The amazing thing about online consultations is the fact that I can help clients from literally anywhere. Without any physical limitations, the doors automatically open to a LOT more potential makeup jobs. Throughout 2020, for example, I’ve worked with clients from Europe, the United States, and Australia. I have helped women learn how to create their own makeup.

As part of this virtual service, I simply offer them a way to connect with me for a special hour, using a digital platform. Together, we go through all of the steps involved in creating a day and/or evening makeup look. They follow my guidance, using their own makeup products. On my end, I have my own makeup kit ready, too. This way, I can demonstrate some of the application tips on myself, if needed.

Assisting the Stars

A friend of mine also taught TV presenters how to create their own makeup through online consultations. Most TV channels still have presenters – the only difference is that now these people are recording the news from home or in the studio, as opposed to together on set.

As a result of the lockdown, television hosts, journalists, and celebrities everywhere have had to create their own makeup… and quickly realized that TV makeup is not the same as an everyday makeup look. It actually requires a lot of professional training, techniques, and skill!

(Can we all take a moment to bask in this a little? While there’s nothing positive about COVID-19, it is kind of nice that more and more people are understanding just how much hard work and effort goes into what we do for a living!)

Becoming a Beauty Writer

Another option for possible makeup jobs is to start your own blog, or even write beauty content for other businesses. This year, I’ve started write training programs for brands and academies, and I have decided to look into writing for magazines as well.

I first create illustrations (another passion of mine). Then I write step-by-step guidelines on how to use and apply the products being discussed. I have created face charts and illustrated makeup looks. I’ve even designed new and upcoming collections for different brands. Turns out, I actually really enjoy this new way of working. It’s a cool way to be able to express myself in the makeup industry!

Another way I’m able to get writing jobs is to do translation for beauty brands, from French to English. When it comes to translating beauty tips, knowing the language is one thing. But it is also important to truly understand the subject. A translation is never literal. Sometimes, words need to be changed or put in a different way in order to have the right meaning.

I can definitely say that, for me, the biggest lesson of 2020 is this: as makeup artists, we can always diversify ourselves to be able to work in the industry – regardless of the circumstances!

Reshaping the Way We Find Makeup Jobs

Over the years, I have worked in many different industries: bridal, TV, fashion, education, etc. However, this pandemic has given me the opportunity to consider my work from a different angle.

How can we work as makeup artists if we cannot work directly with people? The answer is simple: if everyone goes online, we can go online, too!

I’ll admit, finding work as a makeup artist has never been an issue for me, even during the pandemic. It has been stressful, for sure. But once I thought about ALL of the skills I have, other types of makeup jobs and work opportunities became clearer to me.

For areas where I struggled a bit, I also used my newfound time in order to get better. For example, marketing my services is often the part where I run into difficulties. So, I have devoted the time to better understanding marketing. This has allowed me to take a step back and formulate different, potentially stronger marketing strategies for my career.

I have also enjoyed this time to watch makeup artist masterclasses and learn new tips and tricks. Building on your skills is always a smart idea. To build off of that, my next project is now to learn photography, too. This way, I can build my online presence more and take my own images of my work.

Final Thoughts

Where I’m based, cases of COVID-19 have decreased dramatically, so work is pretty much going back to normal. We can provide makeup services with high standards of hygiene. All of the weddings and private events that were postponed to 2021 are now being booked, and production work is starting to pick back up again.

2020 has been a year to learn and grow – not just personally, but professionally as well. I have learned that there are many ways to work as a makeup artist, even during a global pandemic. As artists, creativity is second nature to us. So, creating new opportunities for makeup jobs is also a part of what we do.

Personally, I reflect upon this past year and see it as an evolution of my work. Going forward, I think I’ll be able to provide even better services to my clients, thanks to all of the skills I acquired and discovered during the pandemic.

Having a professional certification is a guaranteed way to land more makeup jobs. Enroll with QC Makeup Academy today and get certified in as little as 3-6 months!

Your Makeup Artist Training: Nathan’s Tuesday Tips (Part 4)

By From the Experts, Makeup Tips and Tricks No Comments

If you want to take your makeup artist training to the next level, there are few in this industry better capable of guiding you than Nathan Johnson. While there are many amazing things that set QC Makeup Academy apart from other makeup schools (both online and in-person), Nathan’s expertise and genuine love of the craft definitely rank near the top of the list!

He is an industry professional who not only knows his stuff, but also truly cares about each and every one of QC’s students and graduates!

makeup artist training by Nathan Johnson

From the incredible instruction he provides throughout QC’s online makeup classes, to the support he gives in the Virtual Classroom and the amazing monthly webinars he hosts – Nathan is the embodiment of a true beauty expert, whose makeup knowledge is only outmatched by the size of his heart!

Another way he goes above and beyond in his mission to enhance our students’ makeup artist training is through his Tuesday Tips! Each week, Nathan films a short clip, in which he reveals useful tricks to help you better your makeup artistry skills. On Facebook especially, this segment – aptly called “Nathan’s Tuesday Tips” – had grown wildly popular!

In this monthly blog series, we gather these Tuesday Tips so we can share them with you here! Missed our previous installments? No worries! You can find them here:

Today, we’ll take a look at another 6 of Nathan’s most valuable beauty hacks. Want to add to the knowledge gained in your classes and take your makeup artist training to the next level? Then you don’t want to miss out on these gems!

Tip #1: The secret to getting a more natural blush!

“Want a more natural blush? Try cream! It gives a beautiful glow from within – and it’s also an awesome way to tint the lips.”

Tip #2: The right way to highlight!

“Use highlight only on the bones you want to accent. Putting it everywhere, or in too many places, will take dimension out of the face – not add it.”

Tip #3: Achieving crisp, clean foundation!

“Want to keep that foundation crisp and clean? Try applying eye makeup first! No fall-away means perfect, crisp complexion.”

Tip #4: What “full coverage makeup” really means!

“Full coverage does NOT mean heavy makeup. It means more pigment in the makeup. Foundation, when perfectly applied, should always be invisible. You should see the results of it – but you shouldn’t see the product! Heavy makeup is nothing more than heavy makeup.”

Tip #5: How to transform your lashes!

“Are you dealing with scrawny lashes? Try dusting the lashes with a little translucent powder between the coats of mascara! The mascara will grab the translucent powder, resulting in lush, thick, and beautiful lashes.”

Tip #6: Creating your own, custom lip gloss!

“Want to try out your own, custom lip gloss? Try mixing your favorite loose pigment with some petroleum jelly! Voila!”

Build even more on your makeup artist training with QC’s Advanced and Specialty Courses!

special fx makeup woman with skeleton face

Special Effects Makeup: Don’t Commit These 4 Sins!

By From the Experts, Makeup Tips and Tricks No Comments

Gabrielle Rivera is a QC Makeup Academy graduate and professional makeup artist. To see more of her work, visit her Instagram here. Today, Gabrielle reveals 4 mistakes you should never make with special effects makeup!

Special effects makeup is a great opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone, try new techniques, and tap into your creativity. Although special effects makeup can involve creating a look that isn’t perfectly blended or traditionally “pretty”, there are still some makeup sins you DON’T want to commit!

4 Special Effects Makeup Sins You Shouldn’t Commit

sfx character makeup

1. Don’t Overuse Special Effects Makeup Looks

Personally, I enjoy creating over-the-top special effects makeup looks as much as the next artist. However, something I learned early on in my career is the importance of researching realistic images, in order to help me bring my vision to life.

While you might think that SFX looks need to be unrealistic or exaggerated, there are still guidelines you should consider when creating these looks. The best thing you can do as an artist is to research photos of real bruises, cuts, scrapes, and any type of wound you wish to create.

Looking at realistic photos will help you to better design and color your special effects looks.

2. Don’t Overuse (and Misuse) Fake Blood

Another sin I frequently see with special effects makeup is the overuse and misuse of fake blood. Although fake blood can tie an SFX look together and bring it to life, it can also take away from the look if not used properly.

Overusing fake blood is one mistake that I find extremely common. Sometimes, even when it comes to gore-inspired looks, less is more. Time and time again, I’ve seen content where an artist spends a lot of effort adding details to their looks – only for it to be covered up with blood.

Remember: adding blood should accent your design, not overpower it!

sfx makeup demon face with horns and peeling skin

Likewise, misusing fake blood can also quickly make a realistic design appear overtly fake. When designing a look, consider the optimal color and thickness of any fake blood you intend to use. It should closely resemble the wound or effect you are trying to create.

Pro Tip: To make a special effects makeup look more realistic, consider the direction that blood would flow from a wound, or how the blood would splatter. Don’t simply spray blood in every direction. In real life, this doesn’t happen NEARLY as much as you’d think.

3. Don’t Use Sharp or Dangerous Items

In this modern age of social media, artists do not always take the proper care when creating special effects makeup looks. Sometimes, the desire to create a look that will stand out above the rest overshadows the very real need to put your safety above all else.

This is a major mistake that can prove costly, should anything go wrong. Although creativity is always welcomed, it can be dangerous to improperly use materials when creating an SFX look!

For example, artists should not use real glass, nails, or other sharp objects to bring a design to life. If creating a look that contains normally sharp objects, you should file the tips of down and ensure they are properly covered. Likewise, artists should never use real glass or metal – especially near their eyes, nose, or mouth. Instead, use items made out of plastic or other pliable materials.

This is an important step that’s often overlooked. Yes, it can be more time-consuming to create objects safely, but it’s a critical step of the process. When special effects looks are created with dangerous objects, it can be unsafe for both you and the model. So, please remember that safety always comes first!

special fx makeup woman with shards of glass sticking out of face

4. Don’t Forget to Blend Your Edges

Lastly, a small detail that can take your special effects makeup to the next level and help make it as realistic as possible is to blend your edges! It doesn’t matter if you’re using a premade prosthetic, scar wax, cotton and latex, or other compounds. Unblended edges can quickly diminish the effect of your design.

Blending the edges of your special effects makeup is such an important step in creating a realistic look! It provides a cohesive look from top to bottom. There are a few ways to help blend edges, depending on what product you’re using. Let’s take a look at a few of them…

Cotton and Latex

If you’re creating your own cotton and latex build-up, the easiest way to blend your edges into the rest of your look is to heavily saturate the cotton with latex. Once the cotton is heavily saturated, it changes the consistency. Thus, it’ll be easier to smooth and blend out.

special effects makeup burnt hand prosthetic

Prosthetics

Pre-made prosthetics will usually have thin edges. These are meant to help artists easily blend the prosthetic into the skin. However, depending on the quality of the prosthetics, this may not always be the case.

To avoid bulging edges, you can apply latex and cotton to the edges. This will help blend the prosthetic. Another option would be to use Pros-Aide cream, which is specifically designed to help fill in gaps or seams.

Scar Wax and Other Modeling Components

When using scar wax and or other modeling components, an easy way to blend the edges properly and seamlessly is to use any of the following products:

  • Vaseline
  • Lotion
  • An oil that helps “melt” the product into the skin

The best way to apply any of the above products would be to rub it onto the tips of your fingers and then carefully rub along the edges of your design.

There is a lot to learn about the art of special effects makeup – particularly if you want to create professional and realistic looks. To learn more, enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s Special FX Makeup Course today!

woman increasing makeup artist salary, putting money into piggy bank

5 Mistakes That’ll Decrease Your Makeup Artist Salary

By From the Experts, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Charlotte is the proud owner of her very own hair and makeup business, A Date With Charlotte. From bridal to editorial, to film and television, and everything in-between – Charlotte’s extensive makeup training allows her to provide a wide variety of services that cater to ALL types of clientele!

Her extensive resume includes working for Prada, L’Oreal, and even the cast of the hit show, Glee! A developer of educational programs, Charlotte has even been awarded Best Makeup Educator of the Year by the Australian Industry Makeup Awards.

Want to know 5 common mistakes that can decrease your makeup artist’s salary? Professional MUA, Charlotte Ravet, is here to tell you!

Do makeup artists make good money?

Understandably, this is one of the first questions that might come to mind when thinking about undertaking makeup training. Without ample research, pinning down the makeup artist’s salary can be a bit tricky. The good news is, it’s absolutely possible to earn a sustainable income with makeup as your primary career!

Admittedly, when I first started studying makeup, I was a bit worried about the money I could earn. Living in capital cities is very expensive, and with the cost of products and education, I was conscious that I needed to make good money quickly.

However, within two years, I was earning more than my friends who had a Master’s degree!

Let’s be realistic: earning proper money exclusively as a freelance MUA can take a bit of time. After all, you’ll need to build your network first and gain hands-on experience. But there are plenty of work opportunities which shouldn’t be ignored!

Doing a part-time job for a brand while building your freelancing business is an excellent option. Weddings and photoshoots are definitely well-paid, too. But to avoid decreasing your makeup artist salary, there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid.

Let’s take a look at 5 of them!

5 Mistakes That Can Decrease Your Makeup Artist Salary

Time is Money!

This definitely applies when it comes to makeup. If you are charging your client per face, imagine the difference you could earn by doing makeup on three clients instead of just one!

It’s okay to take your time when you just start. In fact, it’s recommended that you never rush. This way, you can provide the best service possible. But after a few years, you should be able to work faster and deliver the same high-quality results in a shorter timeframe.

The best way to achieve this? Remember to stay focused! Put a routine in place that will help you strengthen your time-management skills. Before you know it, you’ll increase your number of clients – which means a better makeup artist salary overall!

Over-Pricing or Under-Pricing

Establishing your rates can be a challenge at first. If you charge too much, you might lose some bookings. But if you don’t charge enough, you won’t get the money back on your investment (i.e. your products and time).

So, how should you set your prices? The answer is to charge what you are worth!

Doing a bit of research in your area is probably a good idea. Depending on your location and experience, the prices might vary. Don’t be afraid to ask others with more experience for the advice! There are plenty of Facebook groups where you can ask for advice on how to set up your pricing. (QC Makeup Academy’s Virtual Classroom is an excellent example!)

In the long run, it’s better to be a bit patient and get the bookings you deserve. Starting on the lower end and working your way up can prove to be a great strategy. However, setting your prices on the higher side is also not a bad thing – so long as your work is worth the price!

Personally, I’ve noticed that my regular and most easygoing clients are often the ones who are not discussing prices. The right clients will understand the cost and value of a professional makeup service.

Neglecting the Importance of Proper Training

Before you go investing money into marketing your makeup services, you should first make sure you’re providing a service that lives up to the standards you are promoting.

woman increasing makeup artist salary by getting professional training

But they’ll only benefit your makeup artist’s salary in the grand scheme of things!

If you’re just starting out in this industry, the best advice I can give would be to keep training and practicing your craft, obtain a professional certification, and then invest in marketing and business education on top of that. Yes, you’ll need to put money into these endeavors.

So, invest in makeup training to boost your skill-set to the highest level. The right courses will ensure to provide you with ample business training as well. For example, QC Makeup Academy’s courses come with an optional Business Unit that I strongly recommend taking advantage of.

Remember: while word-of-mouth is an excellent way to get booked (at no cost to you), you’ll need to be great at what you do in order for others to start recommending you. We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: the single most effective way to become a true expert is by getting professional training!

Not Investing in Your Makeup Kit

Your makeup kit and the products you use are the first things your clients will be looking at. You could be absolutely brilliant as a makeup artist – but providing services with only drugstore makeup products will drastically decrease your makeup artist salary.

While there are definitely budget-friendly items you can afford to save money on, there are also products you should be willing to invest a little more into. Makeup can be expensive, but there are reasons behind the costs!

The quality of the pigments, the ingredients, and their longevity are all things you should take into consideration when building your makeup kit. If you want to charge more for your services and boost your makeup artist’s salary, you will need to justify your prices to your clients.

Providing great service is definitely one way to do this – but this includes investing in your kit and working with professional, high-end cosmetics brands.

Only Working In Your Business, and Not On Your Business

All of this will help you better determine your service fee to clients, and add to your makeup artist salary in the long run!

Focusing one to two days per week towards this behind-the-scenes stuff is realistic. As much as we love providing makeup services, you can’t have a successful career based on this alone. Building your profile, creating a newsletter, maintaining a social media presence, and keeping records of your accounts and taxes are also things you need to factor into your business.

If your goal is to have your own business, then you’ll be required to spend time doing some administrative work. After all, it takes strategy and hard work to get noticed. From there, business smarts and marketing knowledge are also needed to keep you in contact with current clients, while also introducing your services to potential future clients.

What does that mean? Well, as all makeup artists will tell you, applying makeup is only part of the job. You’ll also need to market yourself to current and future clients, stay on top of invoicing, and constantly prepare and maintain your products.

Food for Thought: Increase Your Makeup Artist Salary By Diversifying Yourself!

With the skills you possess as a makeup artist, there are a thousand jobs you can do. Even if you dream about a career in editorial makeup, don’t ignore the opportunity to earn some money at the start of your career in other areas as well. For instance, weddings are a very lucrative industry that will give you the possibility to choose when you want to work or not.

Weddings can also be very creative. You will quickly realize that you can expand your network significantly with the clients you meet on the job. One happy bride can spread the word and share your details with lots of her friends! The need for bridal MUAs is huge, and always will be!

I have been extremely lucky in my career. In the 15 years that I’ve been doing makeup professionally, I’ve never found myself out of work. I have always made good money. I’ve worked for various industries – from fashion and TV, to education.

What’s fantastic about doing makeup is the fact that when one job is over, another opportunity always comes along! Every day is different. I remember when I chose this career, some of my friends and family were worried that I might not earn a good makeup artist salary. But they soon realized that I was actually making a decent income doing my dream job.

With the right attitude and work ethic, know that you can, too!

Boost your makeup artist salary by becoming professionally trained and certified! Click here to discover the wide variety of courses offered at QC Makeup Academy!

makeup training for deeper skin tones - beautiful black model

Makeup Training: Contouring and Color Correction for Darker Skin Tones

By From the Experts, Makeup Tips and Tricks, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Australian MUA, Charlotte Ravet, is the proud owner of her very own hair and makeup business, A Date With Charlotte. From bridal, to editorial, to film and television, and everything in-between – Charlotte’s extensive makeup training allows her to provide a wide variety of services that cater to ALL types of clientele!

Her extensive resume includes working for Prada, L’Oreal, and even the cast of the hit show, Glee! A developer of educational programs, Charlotte has even been awarded Best Makeup Educator of the Year by the Australian Industry Makeup Awards.

Today, she reveals her top tips and tricks for contouring and color correcting darker skin tones!

The most important skill all makeup artists should master is the ability to create the perfect complexion for ALL skin tones. When it comes to color matching and/or correcting, proper makeup is crucial. This is the single greatest way to understand color theory. Knowing color theory will help you to create colors and custom foundations for all of your clients.

Let’s start with a quick recap on color theory and color correction…

Makeup Training: The Basics of Color Theory

The primary colors are blue, yellow, and red. When you mix these colors together in different combinations, you can create all of the other colors on the color wheel!

Here’s an excellent exercise to train your eye to identify colors and undertones: swatch a bit of foundation on a piece of paper and then use proper paint to recreate that exact same color. For example: start by mixing red and yellow together. Afterwards, add a bit of blue and white for the lightness. Adjust your color until you obtain the perfect shade.

When I did my makeup training, we created makeup for two whole months using nothing but primary colors and white mixed together. This has definitely opened my eyes to the potential of all colors and their diversity!

Makeup Training: Cool vs. Warm Undertones

The undertone of your client’s skin will play a major role in how you should apply makeup on them – and which products to employ!

For those new to their makeup training, here are the basics:

  • Cool undertones can be identified as pink undertones;
  • Skin with warm undertones, on the other hand, will tend to look more yellow;
  • Skin with an olive undertone might look a bit more green;
  • A neutral skin tone is when the skin doesn’t have any predominant color (neither pink nor yellow).

When it comes to deeper skin tones, the same rules apply. For instance, Middle Eastern and Indian skin tones will often have an olive undertone.

Warm and neutral skin tones can be easily observed in deeper skin tones: for example, Beyoncé has a warm skin tone. As such, she will perfectly suit all golden and bronze tones. On the other hand, Halle Berry has a skin tone that’s more neutral. Their skin intensity is pretty similar.

African skin tones can present red and blue undertones, which are identified as ‘cool’ undertones.

The Colors I Recommend for Deeper Skin Tones

Middle Eastern and/or Indian Skin Tones

Here’s one of my best-kept secrets: for these types of skin tones, I tend to mix a pure orange to my existing foundation.

I often find that foundations containing too much pink wind up turning gray on these skin tones. Alternately, too much yellow increases the olive tone and can make the client look sallow. By mixing a bright pure orange to the foundation, I manage to adjust the shade and brighten complexion. I also recommend using tones of warm bronze or gold to create highlights, as well as an ashy shade for the contour.

Warm or Neutral Skin Tones

These skin tones are rather easy to work with, but I often observe that the chest of my model can be slightly lighter than the face. Remember to always check the chest of your client in order to perfectly color match!

Depending on the undertone, I highlight using gold for warm undertones, or with a deep champagne/peachy shade for neutral skin tones. Contour can be done with a middle brown shade that has a blue undertone. A peach will help to remove pigmentation and dark circles.

Red/Blue Skin Undertones

As I mentioned earlier, red and blue are considered to be cool undertones. As part of your makeup training, this is really important when it comes to color combinations, correction, and contour! You will notice that deep blue, purple, and bright pink hues look wonderful on these skin tones.

There’s a common misconception that deeper skin tones are ‘warm’. As such, many will mistakenly use gold highlights. Yes, a gold highlight is going to catch and reflect the light – but it’s not going to best enhance the features of skin tones with blue and/or red undertones.

I would recommend a cool bronze. You can also play around with the complementary pigments mentioned above for a creative effect. I sometimes use pure yellow to create stronger highlights. For the contouring, I recommend a deep, blue-based brown, as this will create a natural shadow on the skin.

These skin tones often have pigmentation around the eyes and lips. I use a pure orange to conceal these unwanted undertones. You will also notice that the middle of the cheeks and the forehead are often slightly lighter. Use these areas as natural highlights – and do NOT use thick coverage if your model has good skin!

Last But Not Least: Powders

In theory, a loose translucent powder should be suitable to set makeup on every skin tone. But in reality, you would have to select one with a very thin texture, and apply with an incredibly light hand, in order to avoid creating ashy tones on deep skin tones.

Applying powder is always the moment we fear that our makeup will change color. If you aren’t using the correct product, it can ruin all your hard work. For a light application, I sometimes use a bright, loose pink powder. This helps to soften a blue undertone – although most of the time, I like to enhance it.

When I started my makeup training 15 years ago, we barely learned about global skin tones. I had to do a lot of research and teach myself how all skin tones actually work. I was working for one of the most important African TV channels in Paris, and I discovered a lot during those few months. The TV host shared with me their favorite makeup tips, and it was definitely a great experience!

It’s important to regularly update your makeup training. As professional artists, it’s our duty to be able to work in all skin tones, all ages, and all genders. Mastering the art of making the most of everyone’s natural beauty is our everyday challenge!

Did you know that QC Makeup Academy offers a Global Beauty Workshop? Enhance your makeup training and enroll today!

makeup jobs - haunted house makeup - demon girl covered in blood

Makeup Jobs: Working for a Haunted House

By From the Experts No Comments

Gabrielle Rivera is a QC Makeup Academy graduate and professional makeup artist. To see more of her work, visit her Instagram here. Today, Gabrielle gives us a behind-the-scenes look at one of her most recent makeup jobs!

The most important advice I can give to both novice and experienced makeup artists alike is to be open to new opportunities throughout their career. Sometimes, stepping outside of your comfort zone is the best way to find makeup jobs and book new clients.

If you’re like me – an MUA whose clientele mostly consists of bridal, special occasion, and/or photography makeup – and you’re looking to gain some experience, then this article is for you!

This Halloween season, I was hired as a makeup artist for a haunted house in my hometown. If you’re interested in delving into the world of special effects makeup, or simply wish to branch out and challenge yourself, then I strongly recommend this kind of opportunity.

If you’re now playing with the idea of providing makeup services for haunted houses in your own area, you’re in luck! I’ve got 4 tips to help you get started, so let’s dive right in!

makeup jobs - makeup artist applying fake blood to male actor's face

1 – Research Haunted Houses Close to You

Firstly, you’ll want to research into the haunted houses in your hometown and surrounding areas. This is a crucial step, especially for new makeup artists coming into the field of special effects makeup for the first time!

Sometimes, artists can feel intimidated by the idea of applying for makeup jobs that are different from what they’re used to. However, you might just be exactly what your local haunted houses are looking for! Many places like these are on the hunt for fresh eyes and new talent. If you’re someone who’s willing to learn and likes to collaborate with others, you’ve already got one foot in the door.

Applying to a haunted house that is close to you can be a great learning opportunity. It’ll give you a chance to network with other professionals in this field and gain hands-on experience. Also, remember that even as a newcomer in special effects makeup, you can still very easily apply the foundational knowledge you’ve learned from your professional training!

2 – Practice the Basics

When you’re first hired as a makeup artist for a haunted house, you may do what I did and run to Instagram or YouTube for inspiration and preparation. However, what you’ll quickly learn from working at a haunted house is that the looks you create need to be speedy, yet detailed.

As such, your best friend is going to be proper training from an industry expert. This is the single greatest way to master the basics, such as…

Good Old Cotton and Latex

You might already have experience using scar wax, third degree, or other compounds to create special effects makeup looks. However, most haunted houses actually use cotton and latex to create their effects. This is because this particular combination can be the most long-wearing. One of the best things you can do is practice creating different wounds, slashes, and zombie-like effects using these 2 simple items.

Basic Effects

Alongside cotton and latex, practice creating 3-D cuts, scrapes, veins, and bruises with regular cream and grease paints. As much as larger wounds and prosthetics can create a look, it’s the small details that make a look complete.

The basics are what will make your work stand out amongst the others. Use the actor’s natural creases, wrinkles, scars, and physical features (such as their bone structure) to accentuate the look you are creating!

makeup jobs - makeup artist creating fake wound on child's arm

3 – Creating Your Looks

Likewise, most haunted houses use airbrushing, as well as cream or grease paints. These will hold up the longest under all of the environmental conditions. For example, you need the actor’s makeup to last throughout the night and not smudge or run due to heat, sweat, and possible rain.

As a makeup artist, you also now need to practice creating looks on top of a mask. After all, you and your clients will be expected to follow health protocols for COVID-19 safety. (This is the case for all makeup jobs you take on for the time being.) So, think about how you can incorporate a mask into your haunted house looks.

When creating looks for your haunt, one of the most important things to keep in mind is that the looks should have high contrast. This way, they can be seen clearly in the dark and against the fog. Instead of worrying about each detail being perfectly blended like you would in beauty makeup, some of your looks should have harsh lines. That way, they’ll be most prominent in the dark.

Your base colors are generally going to be white, yellow, red, and black. You can use these colors to build depth on the skin. If your character is to appear frozen, for example, your base colors would be white, purple, and blue, with hints of red. Practicing how to apply these base colors will be key in creating quick yet realistic looks.

female client wearing goth makeup and fake contacts

4 – Time Yourself

Lastly, keep in mind is that when working for a haunted house, you’ll be working alongside other makeup artists, too. A big team is required in order to transform over 30 actors in just a few hours. With that being said, you’ll have to create a completed look in 20 minutes – max!

Something that I found helpful was to use friends and family to practice this on. I’d give myself 20 minutes to see what I was able to create in that timeframe. This also gave me the opportunity to ask myself, “How can I create this same effect – but faster?”

These kinds of makeup jobs also teach you how to prioritize and better plan out your steps when applying makeup. For example, I’d first begin by using latex and cotton on my actor, so I could create a slash or open wound. While the actor is using a blow dryer (always on the cool setting to protect their skin) to dry the latex and cotton mixture, I would then begin applying makeup to their arms, neck, or other exposed areas. Thus, allowing me to create one uniform look without wasting any time!

Practice creating simple cuts, bruises, and small latex and cotton mixtures on your own time. This prep work will help make your looks more realistic! The end result will be that even the tiniest details stand out just as much as the bigger wounds or prosthetics you apply.

actor looking like zombie poking head out from whole in concrete wall

More certifications means a higher potential for more makeup jobs! Until October 30th, get THREE QC Makeup Academy courses for the price of ONE!

QC makeup classes instructor, Nathan Johnson, doing makeup on female model

Enhance Your Makeup Classes with Nathan’s Tuesday Tips: Part 3

By From the Experts, Makeup Tips and Tricks No Comments

If you want to learn how to do makeup, there are few in this industry better capable of tutoring your makeup classes than Nathan Johnson. While there are many incredible things that set QC Makeup Academy apart from other makeup schools (both online and in-person), Nathan’s expertise and genuine love of the craft definitely rank near the top of the list!

He is an industry professional who not only knows his stuff, but also truly cares about each and every one of QC’s students and graduates.

QC makeup classes instructor, Nathan Johnson

From the incredible instruction he provides throughout QC’s online makeup classes, to the support he gives in the Virtual Classroom and the amazing monthly webinars he hosts – Nathan is the embodiment of a true beauty expert, whose makeup knowledge is only outmatched by the size of his heart!

Another way he goes above and beyond in his mission to enhance our students’ makeup classes and overall training is through his Tuesday Tips! Each week, Nathan films a short clip, in which he reveals useful tricks to help you better your makeup artistry skills. On Facebook especially, this segment – aptly called “Nathan’s Tuesday Tips” – had grown wildly popular!

In this monthly blog series, we gather these Tuesday Tips so we can share them with you here! Missed our past installments? No worries! Check out Part 1 here, and Part 2 here.

Today, we’ll take a look at another 7 of Nathan’s most valuable beauty hacks. Want to add to the knowledge gained in your makeup classes and improve your game? Then you don’t want to miss out on these gems!

Tip #1: The importance of classic makeup techniques!

“Classic makeup techniques are the bases for everything in makeup. If you truly master them, you’ll see that they can be shaped, shifted, [and] transformed to create anything in makeup – from the simplest, cleanest look, to the most dramatic and unseen look!

It’s all in the precision of those classic techniques, and when you know them, you can do anything.”

Tip #2: Why practice makes perfect!

“Not everybody gets everything in makeup on the first try. Sometimes, you’ve got to practice things again, and again, and again, and again. So, if something’s a little stubborn for you, DO it – again, and again, and again, and again!

Because once you get it, guess what? [It] never leaves you.”

Tip #3: How to lift your client’s eyes!

“Want to keep a client’s eye lifted? Imagine an invisible line, going from the corner of the eye to the end of the eyebrow. Be very careful about when you let any product go below that line. This will always lift!”

Tip #4: The importance of practicing makeup on paper!

“Remember: not all practice needs to be on a person! If you can master perfect symmetry and precision – with all the variations of eyeliners and lip liner – on paper, you will easily [and] drastically improve what you can do on a face.”

Tip #5: Why you should use an eyelash curler!

“Open, lifted lashes are a secret that keep your client looking awake and alert. So, don’t skip that eyelash curler.”

Tip #6: The secret to perfecting even eyeliner on loose eyelid skin!

“Is loose eyelid skin causing you to have bumpy, uneven eyeliner? Here’s a trick: tilt the head back, look down (eyes open to a little crack), and that will keep the eyelid skin super tight – allowing for a crisp, even application.

Want to keep it even easier? Use a soft pencil or a liquid, because it won’t grab the skin!”

Tip #7: The quickest, easiest way to refresh your look!

“Want a super fast way to refresh your look? Try changing the lip color! It changes everything in an instant.”

The single best way to become a makeup professional is by taking proper makeup classes! Until October 16th, 2020, enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course and get our new Virtual Makeup Training absolutely FREE!

Learn How to Do Makeup with Nathan’s Tuesday Tips: Part 2

By From the Experts, Makeup Tips and Tricks No Comments

If you want to learn how to do makeup, there are few in this industry better capable of teaching you than Nathan Johnson. While there are many incredible things that set QC Makeup Academy apart from other makeup schools (both online and in-person), Nathan’s expertise and genuine love of the craft definitely rank near the top of the list!

He is an industry professional who not only knows his stuff, but also truly cares about each and every one of QC’s students and graduates.

learn how to do makeup with nathan johnson - qc tutor

From the support he gives in the Virtual Classroom, to the amazing webinars he takes part in each month, and everything in-between – Nathan is the embodiment of a true beauty expert, whose makeup knowledge is only outmatched by the size of his heart!

Another way he’s been going above and beyond in his mission to help our students learn how to do makeup is through his Tuesday Tips! Each week, Nathan films a short clip, in which he reveals useful tricks to help you better your makeup artistry skills. On Facebook especially, this segment – aptly called “Nathan’s Tuesday Tips” – had grown wildly popular!

In this monthly blog series, we gather these Tuesday Tips so we can share them with you here! Missed Part One of this series? No worries, you can check it out here!

Today, we’ll take a look at another 7 of Nathan’s most valuable beauty hacks. On a quest to learn how to makeup properly, and looking for ways to improve your game? Then you don’t want to miss out on these gems!

Tip #1: The power of a rich, brown eye shadow!

“If you’re ever in a pinch, and want to know something quick and amazing to do to your client, a rich, deep brown eye shadow can be a game-changer! The quality of the neutral depth of color… It works on every skin tone, every age, and ever single person – no matter what their eye color [is]. It’s pretty amazing! Try it out and see what happens.”

Tip #2: How to properly warm up your client’s skin!

“Never try to warm up your client’s skin by using foundation that’s deeper. You run the risk of creating that dreaded makeup mask; the face that doesn’t match the body. What you do instead is you match the client’s skin perfectly, and then add the warmth [and] add the color with blush and bronzer. They’ll look like a million bucks every time!”

Tip #3: How to tame unruly brows!

“Unruly brows? A spritz of hairspray on a spoolie brush is the perfect way to tame those beasties!”

Tip #4: How to capture the glow from within!

“Want to capture that perfect glow from within? Try putting your blush, bronzer, and highlight on before your foundation.”

Tip #5: How to achieve the perfect lip!

“For a perfect lip, try putting the lipstick on first – and then refine and add crispness to the lip line with your liner.”

Tip #6: How to achieve perfect symmetry!

“Having trouble with symmetry? Work on the side that’s harder for you first, because it’s way easier to duplicate that on the easier side!”

Tip #7: The secret to flawless, natural foundation!

“Want to know the secret to making your client’s foundation look completely flawless and natural? Apply a thin layer – a sheer, light layer – of foundation all over the face. Then apply a second, small layer, only in the areas that need a little bit of extra coverage.

If there are some stubborn spots? The lightest touches of concealer! But that little, tiny, magic, light-handed touch will give you that flawless face that looks like nothing’s there.”

Stay tuned for future installments of this series, where we’ll compile and share even more of Nathan’s educational and practical ‘Tuesday Tips’. The journey to learn how to do makeup has never been this exciting! ❤️️

Want to learn how to do makeup like a true industry professional? Take a course and earn your certification! Until September 18th, enroll in our internationally-leading, online Master Makeup Artistry Course, and get ANY Advanced Course absolutely free!

makeup artist training on model

5 Reasons Why Continued Makeup Artist Training is Critical!

By From the Experts, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Australian MUA, Charlotte Ravet, is the proud owner of her very own hair and makeup business, A Date With Charlotte. From bridal, to editorial, to film and television, and everything in-between – Charlotte’s extensive makeup artist training allows her to provide a wide variety of services that cater to ALL types of clientele!

Her extensive resume includes working for Prada, L’Oreal, and even the cast of the hit show, Glee! A developer of educational programs, Charlotte has even been awarded Best Makeup Educator of the Year by the Australian Industry Makeup Awards.

Today, she reveals 5 critical reasons why continued makeup artist training is not only strongly recommended – it’s ESSENTIAL!

If you love makeup, you probably also love watching masterclasses that explore new trends. It’s probably safe to say that you enjoy trying new styles on both yourself and on models, too!

Once you finish your makeup artist training, earn your certificate, and start booking your first clients, you might think your time for learning is over. But you’d be wrong! The fact is, those who choose not to continue training and improving their skills are often the ones who fall short in this industry.

Today, I’d like to share with you my top 5 reasons for why continuing your makeup artist training will not only make YOU a stronger professional – it’ll take your career to new, exciting heights!

Fill Your Basket

As an educator, I had the pleasure of listening to one of my dear friends – makeup artist extraordinaire and incredible trainer – introduce herself to new students. This woman had over 30 years of industry experience. Yet all the same, she explained to her class that every year, she would build upon her skills by signing up for a makeup course.

She explained that it was like filling a shopping basket at the grocery store, and cooking up amazing, new recipes. This is a fantastic way to approach your makeup artist training!

Think of it as you continually improving your skills and learning new techniques for a profession you’re truly passionate about! Because at the end of the day, makeup is not only a job; it’s your passion!

Never Be Out of Work

In these uncertain times, learning a new skill is probably the best gift you can give yourself. After all, this will help you stand out from the competition in the long run!

When I first began my makeup career over 15 years ago, the team I worked with consisted of one makeup artist and one hair professional for every shoot. These days, budgets have been slashed, and TV channels are reducing their overall spend.

TV networks have begun employing makeup artists who can do it all. Makeup, hair, fashion styling – you name it. Financially, it’s in the network’s best interest to save money by hiring one expert capable of all these things, rather than a separate artist for each one.

I distinctly recall working for one of these networks. They offered me a four-month contract for one of their blockbuster TV shows. But the catch was that I needed to do the hair styling, too, in addition to makeup. I bet you can guess the problem: I didn’t have any experience with styling hair professionally!

But I was willing to learn.

I had only two months to prepare myself. So, I gave it my all. I was determined to master the ins and outs of doing creative hair styling, and I never looked back! These days, I actually really enjoy doing hair. In my own business, offering this additional service allows me to significantly increase my client bookings!

makeup artist training - putting eyeshadow on client

I’m often considering new skills to learn, in order for me to tap into brand new areas of my makeup business. For example: if you’ve already learned beauty and fashion makeup, why not continue your makeup artist training by adding special effects makeup to your resume? Airbrushing is also in high demand for the TV, bridal, and editorial industries!

Be Inspired and Find Your Niche

Who inspires you?

90% of the time, we’re inspired by other artists! Learning from others can be an excellent way of continuing your makeup artist training. Personally, after I attending makeup masterclasses, I’m always SO inspired! By watching other artists’ tips and tricks, I find that I can’t wait to give it a try myself and put it into practice.

I feel like that sort of training adds special spice to my new, creative recipe! When I learn something new, I’ll tend to practice this technique until it becomes ‘mine’. By that, I mean blending that new skill-set with what I already know, in order to create my very own technique.

After a few years, all MUAs develop a personal style. They can take what they love from their make artist training, and leave behind what they don’t. Then, they take it one step further by adding their own tips into the mix! The final result is something informative, effective, and unique to you.

The more you learn, the more you’re going to perfect your very own technique. You might even discover your niche; what it is about your style that makes you truly unique!

Knowing the Latest Trends

As a makeup artist, it’s our role to perfectly understand what’s currently on trend and what isn’t. This is why is can be useful for you to:

  • Follow relevant accounts on social media (i.e. Brands, magazines, fellow makeup artists, etc.)
  • Watch makeup programs (i.e. Glow up, Face Off, etc.)
  • Read makeup books, etc.

Keep in mind that while all of these methods of additional learning are essential, they’re NOT enough to learn how to actually recreate the latest trends on a model.

makeup artist training on model

Makeup trends evolve very quickly. We can’t recreate all of the latest looks just by observing an image. Professional makeup artist training is crucial when it comes to taking an image in your mind and creating it on a living, breathing person.

Your technique will make all the difference between you being a true expert, versus just another makeup enthusiast. Each trend and look must be perfectly executed when you’re working with a team of professionals. A proper makeup education is the only real way to get to this level of expertise.

Working with the Latest Technology

Imagine: back when I originally did my makeup artist training, airbrushing did not exist!

Hard to believe, right? Now, could you imagine if I chose not to learn this incredibly useful skill, since it would require additional education? I would’ve been seriously selling myself short – not to mention putting my career at a major disadvantage!

As a makeup artist, you’ll often be working with photographers, videographers, and fashion designers. In order to continue finding work in this industry, it’s critical that we follow trends and master the latest techniques.

I’ll give another example. Back when high definition first became a thing, brands and experienced makeup artists alike were faced with a never-before-seen challenge. They needed to make new products, and learn new makeup application techniques. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be able to create such flawless looks anymore. The industry needed to adapt in order to progress.

When it comes to understanding a new technology, or a new method of application, professional makeup training is the ONLY way to go! Many of these things are not capable of being self-taught – at least, not if you want to perform at the level your clients will expect from you. Guidance from an actual industry expert is critical.

As such, whenever new technologies or techniques hit the market, I will always find a new course that will teach it to me. Makeup is constantly evolving – but this is what makes our job so exciting!

Imagine a chef with only one or two recipes on his menu. After the first visit to his restaurant, it wouldn’t be all that enticing anymore, would it? I feel this is how we should all consider further makeup artist training. By adding something new to your business, you can attract a larger clientele to your ‘makeup menu’!

If you’ve chosen to pursue a career in makeup artistry, you’ll find that every day brings something different. There will always something new to learn; a new challenge to face. This is what makes you work creative, challenging, and  above all else, fun!

As the old saying goes: “Do what you love, and you will NEVER work a day in your life!”