QC Student Ambassador Archives

Apr 14

Katie’s Skincare Secrets: Dealing with Adult Acne

By Katie Stegeman QC Student Ambassador, Skincare 6 Comments

Struggling with adult acne? QC Makeup Academy’s Student Ambassador, Katie Stegeman, is here to help! As a graduate of QC’s Skincare Course, Katie is an internationally-certified Skincare Consulting Professional. This article is the first in our brand-new blog series, “Katie’s Skincare Secrets”.

Hi! My name is Katie Stegeman and I’m a graduate of QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course. Today, I’m here to talk about adult acne. This topic is near and dear to me, as I’m someone who has definitely struggled with adult acne for a while. Hopefully, the tips I offer you today will help you overcome your struggle, too.

adult acne article, Apr 14 2021, Katie Stegeman holding Skincare certification

Adult Acne 101

‘Adult acne’ is acne that occurs after the age of 25. There’s no one specific reason why an adult gets acne. The reality is, it can be caused by many different factors.

If you fall into this category, you might be wondering why this is happening to your skin. What are the specific factors affecting YOU? Furthermore, how can you deal with it properly?

Narrowing down the specific cause of your acne can sometimes feel like a struggle. The culprit might be hormonal, but it can also be caused by excess oil or bacteria on the skin, clogged pores, etc. It can also be the body’s way of telling you that there’s inflammation inside that needs to be addressed.

For some adults, acne can be a brand-new issue. If skin-related issues have never been a concern before, dealing with now can be challenging. Not to mention, it can become an ongoing issue that just never seems to get better. Personally, I fall into the second category. I’ve struggled with acne for nearly 20 years, so believe me, I get it.

However, as of late, I feel like I’ve finally gotten on top of things.

Dealing with Acne as an Adult

There are 2 parts to dealing with adult acne: finding the cause and finding the solution.

For me, finding the solution and committing to the necessary treatments has been a struggle. The cause of my acne as a teen was definitely puberty. Since then, that has changed. Currently, my acne is being triggered by pregnancy hormones, a high sugar diet, and inflammation issues.

When it comes to your situation, there are certain questions you can ask yourself to help narrow down where the problem is stemming from. For example:

Do you have oily skin?
Is your body reacting poorly to whatever diet you currently have?
Could the problem be hormonal?
Are you using the wrong products on your skin?
Could there be an inflammation you aren’t aware of?

Environmental issues, such as environment or climate, can also affect your skin issues. But here’s the GOOD news: there are many ways to deal with adult acne, depending on what you feel is causing it.

As such, I have 4 major tips that can help:

Find the cause;
Figure out your skin type;
Determine the correct products you should be using;
And be consistent with your skincare routine!

Breaking Down My 4 Tips for Dealing with Adult Acne

Tip #1: Find the Cause

My first tip to help you combat adult acne is to find the cause behind it. Analyzing your lifestyle and determining what’s causing your acne is the best first step in getting rid of it.

Here are 3 easy things you can try, to see if they help improve your skin:

Protect your skin from environmental issues. This is critical for keeping adult acne at bay.
Keep track of inflammatory foods that negatively affect you. Too much sugar is a common reason why a lot of people get acne. By keeping a food diary, you can begin cutting down on your sugar intake and reduce adult acne.
Clean your face after you work out. If you’re someone who works out constantly, your sweat and increased oil production could be causing adult acne issues as well.

Taking a look at your day-to-day life and analyzing what could possibly be your triggers will be the biggest step in fighting adult acne. And remember: if you’re completely unsure and need professional guidance, that’s okay! You can always book an appointment with a dermatologist and they can work with you to pinpoint the cause(s) of your acne.

Tip #2: Figure Out Your Skin Type

If you truly want to conquer your acne, you’re going to need to find out what skin type you have. I was always convinced my skin was oily, but dry. As it turned out, “oily but dry” isn’t actually a skin type.

Because of the harsh skincare products I used in my teens, I actually did SO much damage to my skin! Repairing that has been a continued struggle, on top of treating my acne. Chances are, if acne is a constant struggle for you, the issue is excess oil production.

Producing excess oil can be a gift and a curse at the same time. If you’re like me and have larger pores, this can be an indication that oily skin is your skin type. “But what if I also have dry patches on my skin?” you might be wondering. Well, dry patches can indicate that you need the correct hydration for your skin, too.

Finding your true skin type will change the products you need to use, which leads me to my next tip…

Tip #3: Determine the Correct Skincare Products

Adult acne can’t be fixed if you’re using the wrong products for your skin type. So, how can you go about finding the right ones? Once you know what your skin type is, you’ll be able to head in the right direction.

It can be difficult to understand skincare products and properly analyze their ingredients. So many ingredients are guised as great products – but are not actually doing your acne any favors. I know this from experience! As I mentioned earlier, as a teenager, I was using ingredients that were way too harsh for my skin. As a result, they actually did damage to the top layers of skin. Obviously, this was the exact opposite of what I was trying to achieve.

Using insanely harsh products for years and years has caused my skin to become extremely sensitized. There are so many skincare products out there that promise to cure adult acne; many of which, I have personally tried. However, the majority of them did nothing more than dry out my skin and damage the top layers. This, in turn, has caused sensitization.

Now, after 20 years of attempting different remedies, I’ve finally found a full skincare set that’s truly helped repair a lot of that damage!

Want to learn which 5 skincare ingredients are best for your skin? Check out Nathan Johnson’s webinar here!

Tip #4: Be Consistent With Your Skincare Routine

My 4th and final tip is to make sure that you’re as consistent as possible with your optimal skincare routine. That is what will truly lead to results!

If you’re using the correct products for your skin, it will really help your adult acne. Results are not always instantaneous, but long-term use of the correct products will really help. From experience, I totally understand that when you have adult acne, you just want it to be gone ASAP. Having the patience to wait for products to work their magic can be so hard sometimes.

This is something I really struggle with. I’m a stay-at-home mom of (soon to be) 6 children. They take so much of my energy. As a result, I don’t always feel like I have the time or energy to put into my skincare routine. But I know I need that extra 10-20 minutes each night to help myself – and my skin – feel better.

This is why it’s important to not let impatience get the better of you! Keep at it and don’t give up. Use your products morning and night, every single day. Doing your skincare routine twice a day will help accelerate your process. Sometimes, even the best products take 2-3 months to really dig deep into your pores and fix the issue.

Why Learning About Proper Skincare Will Help You Combat Adult Acne

For me, learning about skincare has been so amazing! Not only has it helped me and my own skin issues; it’s also taught me how to help my clients. I’ve been able to make sure that I use the correct products and makeup for their individual skin type. In turn, I can then achieve the best look possible that will last.

As a makeup artist, proper skincare knowledge has been especially important for my career. I would never want to be in a situation where my products were not suitable for the client, didn’t have longevity, or caused more issues than what it was worth.

Moreover, I’ve also been able to start my pre-teen daughter on a proper skincare routine. I know this will really help her, especially during this time of her life.

QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course

QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course was literally life-changing for me. I have struggled with my skin for nearly 20 years, but now I FINALLY feel like I’ve got it under control! (Aside from the pregnancy hormones I’m currently experience, of course.)

3 big reasons why this training has been essential for me are:

I’ve been able to adjust my skincare routine so that it actually helps my skin type and needs;
I’m now able to help my preteen daughter prevent breakouts from happening on her own skin;
My newfound expertise allows me to share these experiences and knowledge with other people.

For the sake of my own skin, I could not be more grateful for this course! I’m now confident that I’ll finally have better skin. My skin used to upset me so much, to the point of tears. Feeling that self-conscious, and being made fun of, was a regular occurrence for me. If I’m being honest, those things were still happening up until recently, too. But now that’s starting to change.

If you need help with skincare, take it from me: QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course is a MUST!

If you’ve found that perfect product or skincare routine for your own skin, comment below and share what that is! Want to ask me more questions or connect with me> Come join QC Makeup Academy’s Virtual Classroom on Facebook.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope these tips are helpful for you and your skincare needs.

Become a certified skincare expert in as little as 3-6 months by enrolling in QC’s Skincare Course today!

Apr 08

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ASMR makeup tutorial video feature image

ASMR Makeup Tutorial | Whispering, Tapping

By Sarah Cavanagh Makeup Tutorial, QC Student Ambassador, Student Ambassador No Comments

ASMR makeup tutorials have blown up in popularity over the past couple of years. If you’ve been searching for a new ASMR makeup video to scratch your itch, we’ve got good news: our awesome Student Ambassador, Jordan Garcia, is here with a brand-new video we think will be right up your alley! 💕

Watch Jordan’s ASMR Makeup Tutorial

Jordan Garcia is a student of QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, Pro Makeup Workshop, and Skincare Course. Today, he uses the skills he’s acquired so far from his QC training to walk us through what his makeup routine looks like on a typical, casual day.

Watch Jordan’s full ASMR makeup tutorial below!

Want to connect with Jordan directly? Join QC’s Virtual Classroom on Facebook!

What is ASMR?

ASMR stands for “autonomous sensory meridian response”. In a nutshell, it’s a term used to describe the sensation certain people feel when watching videos considered mentally or visually stimulating. Often times, these kinds of videos involve the person (or people) on camera taking part in an activity. The activity in question can range. This article breaks down 28 of the most common types of ASMR triggers typically found in popular videos.

Those who enjoy ASMR videos tend to have a visceral response to what they’re watching and/or hearing. For some, it can relieve stress and anxiety. With others, it brings a strong sense of satisfaction. For this reason, ASMR videos are also very popular ‘bedtime’ videos for those looking to fall asleep in a peaceful, relaxed state.

In This ASMR Makeup Tutorial…

Jordan relies primarily on the whispering and tapping ASMR triggers. That being said, there are a few other ones thrown in there as well! As he breaks down the different steps involved in putting together his everyday makeup look, Jordan also explains why he’s doing what he’s doing.

To recap: Jordan is professional makeup student currently working through the Master Makeup Artistry Course. Along the way, he’s been getting tons of invaluable feedback from his tutor, Nathan Johnson. As a direct result, Jordan’s skill-set has already improved leaps and bounds since he first enrolled!

Thus, he relies on these skills and techniques he’s been acquiring from his training to not only satisfy our ASMR desires – but educate us as well!

Become a Makeup Artist with QC Makeup Academy

QC Makeup Academy has been a proud pioneer of online learning since 1984. We hold an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau and are affiliated with the Professional Beauty Association. All of our certifications are internationally-recognized. This means that once certified, you can work practically anywhere in the world!

Plus, QC’s online training is the very definition of convenient. Firstly, everything is taught entirely online. Thus, you can train right from the comfort of your own home! Secondly, there are no deadlines for you to abide by. Complete your program entirely at your own pace – and you get 2 full years to do it! Thirdly, we offer different payment options to suit every budget. Pay in full (if you want) or take advantage of our low monthly payment plan!

Oh, and did we mention that your course(s) will guarantee that you get ample hands-on training?

If you’d like to learn even more about the perks of training with QC Makeup Academy, check out Jordan’s other video here!

Get certified as a professional makeup artist in as little as 3-6 months by enrolling with QC today!

Apr 06

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My Top 6 Makeup Artistry Tips for Mature Skin

By Cheri Stevens Career Advice, Education, Makeup Tips and Tricks, QC Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

Want to become a master of makeup artistry and skincare for mature skin? QC Makeup Academy’s Student Ambassador, Cheri Stevens, has 6 awesome tips to get you started! To learn more about Cheri, read her full Ambassador Feature here!

What is ‘mature skin‘? Why is it important that professional makeup artists have a good working knowledge of mature skin?

Well, for starters, mature skin is everywhere! You see it all the time in film and television. For example, just look at Jane Fonda, Susan Sarandon, Sigourney Weaver, Raquel Welch, etc. All of these women are gorgeous! But they still need to know good skincare. Furthermore, they need an educated makeup artist to make them look and feel fabulous.

This can be done with proper makeup artistry training and good skincare knowledge!

Makeup Artistry: Younger Vs. Mature Skin

What are some of the similarities when it comes to applying makeup on younger skin, versus applying makeup on mature skin? In short, both require a solid understanding of technique. Moreover, they can both utilize creativity through the use of color and application.

On the other hand, what are some of the most common differences? How does makeup artistry for younger skin vary when compared to makeup artistry for mature skin?

The answer is quite simple. The products you choose for a younger client’s skin will be quite different in nature than the products you’d use on mature skin. Mature skin needs a lighter hand. It will also require a more specified skincare regimen that specifically targets mature skin. One example would be cream products that do not dry out the skin. Another prime example would be products that have less shimmer to them.

6 Makeup Artistry and Skincare Tips for Mature Skin

1. Prep the skin with moisture!

Mature skin can be dry. So, using a good moisturizer is essential before applying any makeup! Apply a nice, even layer of moisturizer to the face. Preferably, opt for a moisturizer with some Hyaluronic Acid in it. This will help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When you hydrate the skin beforehand, you’re creating a prime, soft, and hydrated canvas for the makeup application.

2. Use targeted ingredients in skincare products!

You’ll need to start by determining your client’s skincare goals.

For example, are they fighting fine lines and wrinkles? Are they looking into adding some Retinol into their routine? Are they out in the sun a lot? If so, you should recommend that they add sunscreen to their regular routine, for added skin protection. Is your client’s skin dry? Look for Hyaluronic Acid in their moisturizer.

Help them turn their skin into the best possible version of itself! Using the right skincare products always comes first. As a result, applying makeup onto it will become a no brainer. And who knows…with good skincare, they might need even less makeup to look amazing!

3. Build in sheer layers!

When it comes to mature skin, you want to apply foundation with a light hand and build as needed. Foundation on mature skin can sometimes settle into fine lines and look cakey. Using sheer layers assures that the makeup is even and smooth, thus preventing it from settling into lines and looking overdone.

4. Add that POP of color!

Sometimes, mature skin can have a dull appearance. The best way to combat this is to make it glow! A nice pop of a cream blush on the cheeks will liven the skin and make the client look fresh. Creams are also great for mature skin because they don’t settle the same way that powders do.

Take it one step further by apply color with a touch of shimmer. This will bring a glow back to your client’s face. No doubt, they’ll feel youthful and fresh!

5. Line that pucker!

Always apply a lip liner to the lips. As we age, our lips can droop and lose definition. Lining the lips can strengthen the natural lip line, prevent lipstick from feathering, and make the lips look their best shape.

Just don’t overline your client’s lips too much, of course! It’s also worth nothing that you should keep the color soft, so as not to make the lips look harsh.

6. Keep it soft!

As we age, we certainly don’t want to be perceived as being older than we are. So, keep the makeup light! Avoid harsh, dark eyeliners, loud colors, or shimmers that highlight lines and wrinkles. Instead, go with soft, matte colors and well-defined lips. You’ll have your client glowing and gorgeous, no matter what age they are!

The Importance of Professional Training

Why is it so crucial for makeup artists to have sufficient training for mature skin? Like with any other area of makeup artistry, a proper education is always important. To be the very best you can be, and acquire the right knowledge needed to do the job, getting certification training is the single best way to go.

When it comes to mature skin, professional training is especially important. This type of makeup artistry requires a very specific set of refined skills. You’ll need to be able to apply products that will enhance your client’s skin and features – while at the same time, omitting ones that would detract from any discoloration, wrinkles, and fine lines.

Skincare for Mature Skin

Personally speaking, skincare training has been SO essential for me as a makeup artist! I find this knowledge paramount.

A thorough understanding of skincare helps me better assess the client’s skin prior to the application. Plus, I can properly address any skin issues that could be relevant to the makeup work I’m about to do. It’s important to be educated on which products will be needed for each client, depending on the skin issues and/or type(s) they may have (i.e. dryness, oiliness, discoloration, lines, etc.).

QC Makeup Academy’s Skincare Course

In Unit D of QC’s Skincare Course, you’ll learn all about working with mature skin. As a graduate of this course, the most important lessons I learned from this particular unit were knowing what happens to aging skin, as well as ways to take care of it with the proper ingredients.

In assignment D4 of the Skincare Unit, Anti-Aging Skincare for Mature Clients, you get to delve into the specifics of mature skin. This particular Not only do you get the chance to work with a client demographic you may not have worked with before; you also get to really examine and assess the issues of a mature client.

These lessons have been very critical for me as a professional makeup artist – and they’ll be just as critical for you, too! Knowing how to properly work with mature skin is an amazing asset to add to your skill-set. Furthermore, you’ll gain a broader sense knowledge of skin types and you’ll be able to add mature skin to your repertoire.

In my opinion, this is not an age bracket to be left out of the mix. Makeup artistry is for ALL ages, and proper skincare training just makes your portfolio that much better!

Makeup Artistry for Mature Skin

This is taught in Unit C of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. In assignment C5, The Mature Client Makeup Application, you’re tasked with doing a real-life makeup application on a model with mature skin.

The lessons taught in this unit/assignment are essential for any professional beauty expert. They’ll help you broaden your skill-set and gain the knowledge needed to enhance your client’s face with makeup, without overpowering it. Thus, you can keep their application age-appropriate and beautiful.

Become a master of makeup artistry for ALL types of skin by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

Apr 01

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Makeup artist, Veronika Kelle, with her QC Makeup Academy certifications

How to Deal with Anxiety as a Makeup Artist

By Veronika Kelle Career Advice, QC Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 6 Comments

Professional makeup artist, Veronika Kelle, is a Student Ambassador and multi-graduate of QC Makeup Academy. Connect with her on Instagram, as well as in the Virtual Classroom on Facebook!

A Little About Me

Hello, my name is Veronika! I’ve graduated from QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course and Pro Makeup Workshop. I also chose to complete the Special FX Makeup Course at the end of last year.

Before I became a makeup artist, I ran my own modeling agency for 15 years. I operated as an organizer, as well as a manager, for beauty contests and fashion shows. As a result, I worked alongside models, photographers, and makeup artists. It was during that time that I fell in love with makeup artistry and decided to learn it professionally.

Experiencing Anxiety as a Makeup Artist

Have you ever felt anxiety when booking a job, working with a client, or participating in a job interview? Don’t worry, you’re not the only one who experiences this!

In fact, it’s a very common issue. It’s completely normal if you feel afraid or nervous – especially when you’re first starting a career as a makeup artist. If anything, this feeling just reiterates how much you care about your craft.

Still, anxiety can sometimes feel debilitating. As such, in this article, I would like to share my tips for overcoming this anxiety. It might reassure you to know that all of these tips are actually based on my own personal experience!

My Top 3 Tips for Handling Anxiety Before Consultations and/or Interviews

Tip #1: Reassure yourself by breathing.

During my modeling agency work, I noticed that many of the models experienced stage fright. As such, I often had to reassure them before a beauty pageant or fashion show. Due to their nervousness, they sometimes weren’t able to concentrate. They couldn’t focus on the choreography, which negatively affected their performance on the stage. To help them feel calmer, I’d often used the following breathing technique…

First, start with an inhale. As you inhale, count to 4 in your mind. Fully saturate your lungs with air and dilate your chest. Let your shoulders rise towards your ears. Your stomach should also rise, too.

Next, you’ll need to do the same thing when exhaling. Mentally count to 4 while blowing the air out slowly. Then it’s just a matter of repeating this process. You should find that within just a couple of minutes, you’ll start to feel calmer.

A calm mind will allow you to think clearly and focus on your job.

Tip #2: Accept your nervousness by looking at it in a positive way.

During an interview or client consultation, you’ll need ALL of your intellectual capacity to answer the questions properly. But the pressure generated by anxiety can inhibit your ability to perform at your very best. The thing is, everyone gets nervous in situations like this. So, don’t try to fight it!

You must accept the fact that you will get excited, anxious, or nervous. The key is to not see this as a negative factor. It doesn’t have to be something that completely blocks your mental abilities – unless you let it. If you spin the situation by embracing your emotions in a positive way, it can make all the difference.

Just think: this is a sign that your brain is prepared for the challenge… and this is an ADVANTAGE for you!

Tip #3: Make a plan in advance.

1-2 days before the interview or consultation, map out where you need to go exactly. If you are planning to arrive to the location by car, look in advance for a parking space nearby.

On the big day, give yourself enough time to travel there and get ready. Arrive on time – but not too early. Prepare yourself for the interview or consultation by finding out as much information as possible about the company, employer, or client. Another big suggestion is to think through the possible questions they might ask and have some answers in mind!

My Tops 3 Tips for Handling Anxiety as a Makeup Artist While Working with a Client

Now that we’ve covered ways to reduce anxiety during interviews and/or consultations, let’s take a look at what you can do to lower stress while working on an actual client!

Tip #1: Calm your mind before work.

As a makeup artist, it’s very important that you calm your mind! If you’re nervous and anxious, you won’t be able to focus on your job. For example, your hands might shake, which means you won’t be able apply the makeup properly.

Remind yourself constantly that YOU CAN DO IT! You are a trained, prepared, and professional makeup artist. You know what you’re doing and can apply the makeup, as well as execute the job. Say to yourself, “I’m a properly trained, prepared professional. I can do it!”

If need be, repeat this sentence more than once to yourself. Repeat it as many times as you need. Don’t forget the breathing technique I mentioned earlier! It’ll also help you to calm your mind.

Tip #2: Be prepared.

Back when I attended University, I tended to be much more nervous if I knew I’d read the books superficially, rather than learn all the materials thoroughly. Prior to any makeup artist job, you can reduce unnecessary stress and agitation by thoroughly preparing yourself.

Know the purpose of the job and what your client’s vision is. Think 3 steps ahead and have backup plans in place for any unexpected event that may occur. Go through your makeup products and tools and decide exactly which ones you intend to use on the big day. Go one step further by organizing them accordingly the day before.

Pro Tip: It’s always a good idea to pack your makeup kit in advance. This way, you won’t have to rush before leaving for the appointment!

Tip #3: Get professionally trained as a makeup artist.

Getting professionally trained and owning a reputable makeup certification will only make your business more competitive in the market. Moreover, having this certification training under your belt will also boost your self-confidence. This, in turn, will definitely help you overcome stress and anxiety.

After all, improving your professional knowledge and learning new skills will make you an even stronger makeup artist – and you’ll know it! The right training will make you more confident, successful, and recognized. It’ll take no time at all before your past anxiety is long forgotten!

Bonus Tips for Makeup Artists

This may or may not be your thing, but I’ve found that regular meditation also helps prevent anxiety. If you’re open to it, try meditating frequently at home or outdoors. You can also do a meditation walk outside.

Other options to help reduce stress and anxiety include (but are not limited to):

Making time for YOU each day;
Getting together (safely) with friends and family;
Enrolling in a dance or yoga class;
Relaxing to a good book or movie;
Making sure you get enough sleep each night so you can be fully rested every morning;
Taking part in sports (about 3 times a week). (Sports release endorphins, which helps to reduce stress.)

Why Professional Makeup Training Will Help Curb Anxiety

As a makeup artist, here are some of the biggest reasons why getting professionally trained will benefit you and reduce anxiety:

If you have the proper training and foundations, you’ll know exactly what you’re doing and how to do it perfectly. As a result, you’ll feel calmer and more confident when approaching any makeup artist job.
Professional makeup training – such as that found in QC Makeup Academy’s online courses – includes invaluable business and marketing sections. You’ll be given useful and practical exercises, as well as marketing and promotion tips. All of this will help you learn how to manage yourself and your business. You’ll know how to successfully launch your own makeup business and develop a strong portfolio. Importantly, you’ll learn how to conduct yourself in a cool, calm, and professional manner – even when under pressure.
Your professional makeup portfolio and qualifications will impress your clients. As a result, your reputation and self-confidence will only get better and better!

Food for Thought

QC Makeup Academy provides a wide selection of makeup course in a unique, online learning system. You’ll graduate with the skills and confidence needed to have a successful professional career as a makeup artist. This WILL help you to overcome your anxiety!

I would like to encourage everyone who is considering becoming a makeup artist to start their dream career in 2021 by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy!

Now, I want to know: do YOU have a different practice? If so, please leave your own tips for dealing with anxiety as a makeup artist in the comments section below. I would love to know your thoughts!

Thank you for reading! 💕

So, what are you waiting for? Become a fully trained and certified makeup artist in just 3-6 months by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

Mar 26

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How to Become a Makeup Artist During COVID-19: 5 Ways to Get Your Name Out There!

By Nadia Calabro Career Advice, QC Student Ambassador, Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 3 Comments

Wondering how to become a makeup artist during the COVID-19 global pandemic? QC Makeup Academy’s Student Ambassador, Nadia Calabro, is here to help! Nadia is a graduate of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, Pro Makeup Workshop, and Skincare Course.

Today, she reveals her Top 5 Tips to help you get your name out there in the industry.

Competition in the Makeup Industry

It goes without saying that the professional world of makeup artistry is a competitive one. It seems like nowadays, there’s a makeup artist on every corner! Makeup has always had a big place in the world. From the beginning of time, women and men alike have been using it to enhance their beauty in some way.

But like with everything else, the world of makeup has evolved. It’s never been as big as it is now! One of the main reasons for this is social media and the thousands upon thousands of influencers who use it. As a result, people are encouraged to dig deep into their creative side and take a chance on this career. The younger generation is likewise becoming inspired, too.

It’s a lot more common these days for the love of makeup to eventually blossom into a professional career. Thus, more and more people are entering the beauty industry. This means that they’re also creating an abundance of competition!

But Competition is a GOOD Thing!

That being said, don’t be intimidated by your competition. In an industry like this, there’s room for everyone. The key is knowing how to get your name out there.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to do this! Okay, let me rephrase that… There WERE a lot of ways to get in your name out there. You know, before COVID.

I guess I don’t have to state the obvious elephant in the room. But just in case someone still needs to know, we are currently in the middle of a global pandemic. With the constant lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, it’s harder to showcase your skills without having anyone to physically work on.

But don’t fret, my friends! Yes, what I am about to say may seem like it’s meant for people living in a different world. But that’s because one day, all of the points listed below will be valid again. So, if you want to stand out from the rest, grab a pen and take notes!

How to Become a Makeup Artist: 5 Tips for Getting Your Name Out There

1. Get Properly Educated!

Don’t rely on social media videos and trends to take you places. That’s not the same as a legitimate education from a reputable makeup school. Instead, learn how to do basic and proper makeup applications. The right knowledge will allow you to take your skill-set anywhere!

2. Dig Deep and Learn About Yourself!

Find the areas where you excel and specialize in those. Having a niche that you dominate in will grab people’s attention. As a result, they WILL want to work with you!

3. Believe in Yourself and Take Chances!

No one ever got noticed by sitting on the sidelines. Right from the get-go, put yourself out there. Is it possible to fail? Of course – but no one has ever fully succeeded without failing at least a little first.

Don’t let your fear of failure get in your way. Confidence is a huge part of success. So, walk into all jobs knowing you CAN and you WILL do great!

4. Let Your Creativity Shine!

Get those creative juices flowing and be original. It doesn’t take much to be a copycat. I mean, really, we can all recreate something. But it takes TRUE skill and passion to be original. It’s easy to fly past posts on social media that all look the same. But how many people will stop and stare when there is something they’ve never seen before?

Be that something!

5. Proactively Network!

Make smart and meaningful connections that will expand your business and enhance it. Makeup artists are needed in a lot of different areas. Once you connect with the right people, they can share and promote your name to get you more business.

For example, it’s always a great idea to connect with a hair salon or hairstylist. This way, whenever they have a client who has a special event, they can recommend you to do their makeup. Another good networking opportunity is to find a photographer. They could be willing to promote your services to their brides. Maybe they’ll even be willing to collaborate with you on a stylized photo shoot, which will definitely help you get your work out there.

Build a team of like-minded people around you that will motivate you and help you to succeed!

Getting Your Name Out There During COVID-19

Listen, I’m not blind to the effect COVID-19 has been having on the beauty industry. Like you, I am right smack in the middle of the mess; pretty much just trying to pick up the pieces. I know we can fall into the trap of letting it all weigh us down.

But the truth is, this is not the end. When we push aside all the things we cannot do, we’ll discover that there are still many things we can do. One of the things the pandemic has taken away is our ability to socialize. Since there aren’t a whole lot of events, weddings, or large celebrations taking place, the need for professional makeup applications has decreased.

Turn That Frown Upside-Down!

But sitting around and feeling defeated isn’t going to do you any good! Why not use this time to create awesome looks for future weddings and special events? Why not maximize your social media presence to promote these looks, so people can get hyped for the future?

You can easily create these looks on yourself. Moreover, you can use the people who are in your immediate social circle as models (so long as they agree, of course). Without having a constant flow of clients to showcase your work, now is the time to get more comfortable with allowing people to see the face behind the name.

As for makeup artists, our clients’ faces are always the focal point of our business. But it may surprise you to know that people like to put a real person behind all the social media hype. Being able to know who the person providing the service is – before booking an appointment – adds a sense of comfort and familiarity.

So, create videos where you speak about your love and passion for what you do! Express what being a makeup artist means to you and what you hope to give back to your clients. You can also create tutorials, demonstrating how you apply makeup to your own face.

When you let your followers – or better yet, your potential clients – into your world, you establish trust even before the first encounter! Your hands-on work is what used to speak for you. Now we live in a world where you have to adapt. Allow your knowledge to show people that you are more than just a brush to a face!

How to Become a Makeup Artist in 2021

Starting a new career is always a scary thing. But once you have made the choice to become a makeup artist, there a few simple steps you can follow that will help jump-start a very successful future!

Tip #1: Make sure you’re choosing this career because you love it.

I know it sounds cliché, but the beauty industry can be pretty cutthroat. Your skin must be thick to overcome every obstacle. You’ll be faced with many “no’s”, a lot of, “Can you redo this?”, and plenty of, “I don’t like that”.

When your heart is truly in the work that you do, it’s easier to look past the negatives and focus on the positives. Personally, I had to teach myself to see every comment as constructive criticism. That way, I could use it as fuel to become better.

Tip #2: Research the average makeup artist income in your area.

How much does a makeup artist make where you’re living? This is important information to know.

In a perfect world, our careers would be based solely on what we love to do. The money would never be a factor. But the reality is, we don’t live in a world where we can work for free. So, make sure the salary is something that actually works for you!

Look online to see the different makeup artist job opportunities that are currently available in your area. For each job you find, make sure the qualifications are required. Once that’s done, research into the different makeup artists currently operating in your town/city. What sort of services do they offer? How much are they charging?

For me, seeking out my competition gave me a lot of good ideas for my own business. I was better able to determine the things I wanted to do for my own business, as well as the things I didn’t.

Tip #3: Get the proper education.

Yes, I know I said this already. But it’s so important that I’m going to say it again!

These days, in a world dominated by social media and influencers, there are many people who call themselves “trained” artists… but have never taken a legitimate makeup class in their life. Don’t become just another social media artist.

Take a reputable course and learn everything there is to be learned about our industry. Build your skills and knowledge, to the point that the sky becomes the limit. I’d received a makeup certificate through beauty school. At first, I thought that was enough. But once I was really in it, I realized that there was SO much I didn’t know.

Equip yourself for the world beyond the computer screen. Professional makeup artistry is, after all, done in 3-D. Trust me, you will thank yourself later! In fact, this ties into my next tip, which is…

Tip #4: Find the right makeup school.

Research into different makeup academies and make sure the one you choose is a reputable one. Go to their website and confirm their credentials. If they’re a trustworthy school, they will be accredited in some way.

Next, review their course outline(s). Make sure you’ll be learning everything that you need and want. After that, see if they’ve got any reviews from past and present students. This will help you get a feel for the kind of experience you can expect and what you could be able to accomplish.

In my case, the only other thing I needed to consider was how I was going to learn while still being a mom to my children. So, I had to make sure I was going with the best online school – one that could give me flexibility, without jeopardizing my education.

For me, there was no doubt that QC Makeup Academy was the one!

Tip #5: Don’t be afraid to dive right in.

Practice makes perfect. In our industry, hands-on training is key! So, build your confidence by first believing in yourself. Once you’ve done that, start putting your craft to the test!

As soon as I could, I brought in family and friends to practice on. I made sure to get exposure to different facial structures and tones. This way, I had a variety of pictures for my portfolio! Moreover, I could expand my capabilities, which I knew would allow me to work on a much larger variety of clients in the future.

Once COVID-19 lockdowns went into effect, I made sure to keep up with my practice by working on myself. I began using my own face to try a wide range of different looks and techniques!

Tip #6: Create different social media platforms.

You should also create a business website, too. These things will help you to connect with people and showcase who/what you’re all about.

Pick an aesthetic that’s uninformed, appealing to the audience, and aligns with your brand. Most people gravitate to pages that have a collective look and feel. So, pick a color scheme and stick to it! Your pages should be a reflection of who you are as a person and an artist. Moreover, it should scream out to your target audience.

You want the people that visit your page to know what you specialize in, without necessarily having to read anything. I always try to share posts through my social media and website that are both professional and personal. Even a business page can be a reflection of yourself.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to be showing your face, however. Rather, you could always share motivational quotes that inspire you, ways you honor self-care for yourself, etc. Basically, little personal touches that give your audience insight into who you are. I make sure that I am a little piece of each post so that I remember to always stay original!

Thank you for reading along! I hope I could be of some help to you. If you’d like to connect, I can always be found in the Virtual Classroom on Facebook. Please also feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear your feedback and I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have!

Become a makeup artist in as little as 3-6 months by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

Feb 12

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QC Makeup Academy Ambassador Amanda Ramey has makeup done by partner feature image

QC Makeup Academy Ambassador, Amanda Ramey: My Partner Attempts to Do My Makeup for Valentine’s Day! [Video]

By Sarah Cavanagh Education, Makeup Trends, Makeup Tutorial, QC Student Ambassador No Comments

QC Makeup Academy’s very own Student Ambassador, Amanda Ramey, is here today to show the world just how challenging makeup artistry truly is!

Join Amanda as her partner, Adam, attempts to do a Valentine’s Day-inspired makeup look on her. The thing is, Adam has NO prior makeup training! Without a proper understanding of fundamental theories, principles, and techniques, will Adam rise to the challenge… or realize that being a makeup artist is a LOT harder than it looks?

Find out for yourself by watching the video below!

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

Why YOU Should Enroll with QC Makeup Academy Today

During a global pandemic, is now really the right time to pursue a new career and gain professional makeup training?

ABSOLUTELY!

Take this opportunity to maximize your time by earning an internationally-recognized makeup certification in as little as 3-6 months. This way, when the world does return to normal, you’ll be ready to take the industry by storm!

Here are just a few quick reasons why you should enroll with QC Makeup Academy today:

QC has been a pioneer of online learning since 1984 and has an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau!
There are plenty of students and alumni who’ve raved about their experience with QC Makeup Academy. Read over 270 reviews here!
Train on your own schedule (meaning NO deadlines) and in your own environment with QC’s self-paced, distanced learning!
Get a full 2 years to complete your QC Makeup Academy course!
Get tutored by a real industry expert and receive thorough audio feedback after every unit!
Receive awesome course materials to aid in your training – such as a makeup kit, textbooks, and instructional videos – and refer back to them throughout your career!
QC Makeup Academy’s competitive payment plans and tuition are affordable for ANY budget! Plus, take advantage of our monthly promotional offers for even more wicked discounts!
Practical assignments will provide you with real-world, hands-on experience!
And so much more!

So, what are you waiting for? Start the career you’ve always wanted today!

Feb 09

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I Thought I Couldn’t Learn How to Do Makeup Online…I Was Wrong!

By Luzaan de Bruyn About the School, Education, QC Student Ambassador 2 Comments

Luzaan de Bruyn is a graduate and Student Ambassador of QC Makeup Academy. She is also the proud founder of Beauty by Luzaan and specializes in traditional, SFX, and airbrush makeup. Today, Luzaan reveals why she originally believed she could never learn how to do makeup online – and how QC Makeup Academy completely changed her mind!

There I was, sitting on Facebook like I did every day. On this fateful day, however, I happened to scroll across an advertisement from QC Makeup Academy. Their ad said that they could help me become a trained, certified makeup artist – all from the comfort of my own home.

I’m not even going to lie: I initially thought that QC was totally full of it.

“How is it even possible to learn how to do makeup online?” I thought to myself. “Not a chance. That’s completely silly. The only way to properly learn makeup would be in a real classroom.”

Maybe it was morbid curiosity. Maybe the notion of a school so confident in its ability to turn you into a professional MUA via distanced learning had me amused. Either way, I wound up saving the advertisement and sharing it with my husband later that night.

Here’s the thing: I knew absolutely nothing about makeup. I mean, I was still piling on foundation with my hands. If I was going to get on an expert’s level, the training I needed would have to be legit. After all, I’d be started from ground zero. The idea that an online school would be able to teach me everything I need to know?

It just seemed fishy to me.

But I kept returning to that ad over the next few days. I just couldn’t seem to forget about it and move on. So, I decided to do some research. I started looking into QC Makeup Academy and their online makeup courses. The more research I did, the more convinced I became that maybe – just maybe – it actually was possible to learn how to do makeup online.

Eventually, I found myself taking a few deep breaths and suddenly pressing the enroll button. The ironic part is that I wasn’t even all that interested in makeup artistry when I did this. Weird, right? But something inside me told me to try it anyways.

Was it boredom? Was it fate? I’ll let you decide!

Why I Was Skeptical About Learning How to Do Makeup Online

Like I said, before I enrolled in QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, I had absolutely no background in makeup. I used foundation that 2 shades darker than my skin tone, I didn’t even know blending was a thing, and I had one shade of eyeshadow that I pretty much worked into every look. Needless to say, I was a complete newbie and a total disaster.

A lot of my skepticism actually stemmed from my experiences with social media makeup. I follow a LOT of Instagram influencers. Many of them have posted tutorials and hacks in the past. Of course, I would try them. But each time I did, I’d look horrible. And I’m not even exaggerating – I absolutely do mean HORRIBLE.

Thus planted the seed in my head; the one that told me, “It’s impossible to truly learn how to do makeup online!” The issue – I assumed – was that without being able to learn in a real classroom, with a real tutor, it couldn’t be done. After all, if a famous makeup influencer’s tutorials couldn’t teach me correctly, how could an online makeup school?

My Journey into Makeup Artistry

Okay, I know what you’re probably thinking: If you were so skeptical about online learning, why did you enroll with QC Makeup Academy in the first place? Why take such a risk?

Here’s the honest truth: I enrolled because despite my skepticism, the idea of learning makeup online – if it was indeed possible – was attractive to me. I’m a mom of four and a private wildlife rehabilitator. I knew I’d never have a free hour to go to a brick-and-mortar class.

Initially, my goal in becoming an MUA was simply to be able to earn an extra income that I could put towards the rescue, since I run and fund it entirely on my own. (Also, if I’m being honest, being able to make some side money to fund my shopping addiction was also a definite incentive.)

In the beginning, that was enough to push me to take that leap of faith and try out online makeup school. However, I never would have guessed that this decision would lead me to my true passion: beauty.

How QC Proved Me Wrong

Within 1-2 days after enrolling, I received my login details for QC Makeup Academy’s Online Student Center. I’ll be honest: I didn’t even wait for my physical makeup kit or books to arrive by mail. I didn’t have to – all of my books were available directly to me online! So, I figured I’d jump right in.

Right away, I was surprised to see all of the tutor videos, all of the booklets and handouts, and all of the hands-on assignments! My tutor was celebrity makeup artist, Nathan Johnson. I watched all his videos within that first week of enrolling.

He was so informative, interesting, and fun! He truly is the sunshine after the rain. It was impossible not to feel inspired by him; like I actually could learn how to do makeup this way so long as I was willing to work hard, put in the time, and give it my full effort.

My course delved into the fundamentals of makeup artistry. Whenever it came time to learn an application, the videos would break it down for me step-by-step. There was so much detail and explanation! QC’s courses are so layered and gripping that it didn’t take long before I found myself developing a fiery passion for makeup!

I woke up thinking about makeup and went to bed thinking about makeup. I was excited to practice each and every single day.

After I submitted my first assignment, I got AMAZING creative criticism and advice from Nathan. He pushed me to go where I never thought I’d find myself! In fact, his guidance – combined with how much I was enjoying the course itself – was so fantastic that it wasn’t long before I wanted more.

I was still working through my Master Makeup Artistry Course, but I knew I’d want to continue my training once that was completed. So, I also enrolled in the Airbrush Makeup Workshop and the Special FX Makeup Course. QC Makeup Academy truly proved that you can easily learn how to do makeup from an online course – if you put in the hands-on work they expect from you and are willing to challenge yourself.

Honestly, after experiencing life as a QC Makeup Academy student, I can confidently say that I’ll never study through a brick-and-mortar school. QC Makeup Academy’s flexible, online learning environment provides for all my needs.

So, Can You Actually Learn How to Do Makeup Online?

Yes, yes, 1000% yes!

Through QC, I’ve gotten the expand my knowledge both through theory-based learning and real-world makeup experience. I’ve had the privilege of a one-on-0ne environment where it’s just my tutor and me. (Something I could’ve never found in a physical classroom!) To me, this kind of environment allowed me to establish a personal connection with my mentor. I always knew that Nathan focused entirely on my work, my results, and my journey.

At the same time, just because it’s an online school doesn’t mean that you’re isolated or forced to go through your journey alone. On the contrary, I could communicate and connect with other QC students and graduates in the Virtual Classroom on Facebook. I’ve lost count of how many friends I’ve made. We’re all like family to one another; providing support, constructive feedback, love, and motivation.

Now that I’ve done my professional makeup training online, I couldn’t imagine doing it any other way. It’s almost like the industry’s best-kept secret – but it deserves to be out in the open now, for all to know!

Your quality of learning will be just as good – if not better – than it would be in a brick-and-mortar school, but for a fraction of the cost. You’ll get to earn your certification on your own time, at your own pace, and in your very own home. This means that you’ll be able to push towards the career of your dreams, even during a global pandemic. Like me!

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A post shared by Luzaan (@beauty_by_luzaan)

I guess my question to you is: will YOU follow your dreams, like I did? Will YOU find your passion in makeup, like I did?

If the answer is yes… then what are you waiting for? 😜

Feel free to come join our Virtual Classroom and connect with me directly. I’d be happy to chat more about my experience and answer any questions you might have. I love to meet and help future students!

Thank you for reading my blog. I’ll be waiting for you to come say hello! Lot of love to you. xx

Learn how to do makeup professionally and get certified in just 3-6 months by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

Nov 24

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3 Must-Have Items in My Bridal Makeup Kit

By Paula Alleyne Makeup Careers, QC Student Ambassador No Comments

Paula Alleyne is back to reveal the top 3 items in her bridal makeup kit! A QC Makeup Academy Student Ambassador, Paula is also a graduate of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. Her professional makeup business, PAULA MONIQUE, specializes in bridal, editorial, and special occasions makeup. Connect with Paula in the QC Virtual Classroom on Facebook!

My Interest in Bridal Makeup

Bridal makeup artistry is a great way to serve, enhance a person’s life, and earn money. But it can also be a stressful time if you are not prepared, and do not have a calm demeanor. Despite these possible stresses, I love bridal makeup artistry. What better way to serve than to help a beaming bride look gorgeous for one of the most important days in her life?

Makeup: Paula Alleyne. Photographer: Rommel Alleyne. Bridal designer: Jaye Applewhaite. Lighting assist: Akinwole Jordan. Model: Tiye Kelly. Venue: The Crane.

I entered into bridal makeup artistry because it was a natural progression from my style of natural beauty. My love for clean, classic looks augured well with bridal.

It was actually my tutor, Nathan Johnson, who unknowingly encouraged me to pursue bridal! In his feedback for one of my assignments, he indicated that I was certainly “doing bridal by now”. But at that time, I actually wasn’t. Nathan’s comments boosted my confidence to step out and enter bridal artistry… and I’m glad I did!

One of the major impacts that bridal artistry has had in my budding career is the wonderful networking opportunities gained. Whether I’m meeting bridal designers and models for collaborations, or meeting photographers at weddings – becoming familiar with professionals within the industry is always a great way to develop your business!

The Components of Bridal Makeup Artistry

When entering into bridal artistry, there are a few main components to consider:

The initial contact;
The consultation, or trial day;
And application on the day of the wedding.

The Initial Contact

During the initial contact, it’s great to get an idea of the wedding date, as well as the time, style, and theme of the wedding. Keep in mind that at first, the bride may not always have all the details of their wedding sorted out yet. However, once she has indicated an interest to continue with you, understand that at that moment, you will be connected with her for months before the big day. You’ll be taking the journey with her!

Makeup: Paula Alleyne. Photographer: Rommel Alleyne. Bridal designer: Jaye Applewhaite. Lighting assist: Akinwole Jordan. Model: Tiye Kelly. Venue: The Crane.

The Consultation

The consultation is the next major juncture. Here, you want to create the replica of what the bride would look like for her wedding. The consultation – also known as the ‘trial’ – is the time for the bride to freely express her ideas and concerns of makeup for that day.

Invite her to bring her ideas, along with photos of the dress, hairstyle, and jewelry. You should also discuss:

Any skin issues
Schedules for facials
The length of the ceremony and reception
Possible changes in attire during the wedding, etc.

Addressing these points will allow you to begin to gain a good sense of what the big day will look like!

While it’s ideal for the bride to have the hairstyle, dress, and attire known by the time of consultation, the reality is that some brides may still be undecided. What they are certain about, though, is what they want their makeup to look like for their special day. Use that one surety, and assist them in creating that perfect look.

The Day of the Wedding

When the big day finally arrives, it’ll be time for your makeup application. It’s vital that you remain calm. The bride may be in a state of nervousness. After all, things planned for that day may have gone off-track, and there is a lot of activity happening.

Arrive on time to setup your station. Confirm times for photography arrival and transportation departure. By this point, months will have passed between you and the bride; from the initial contact to this day. When facilitating the timely execution of your services, do not use a forceful approach. Instead, a natural, encouraging tone is the way to go!

Makeup: Paula Alleyne. Photographer: Rommel Alleyne. Bridal designer: Jaye Applewhaite. Lighting assist: Akinwole Jordan. Model: Tiye Kelly. Venue: The Crane.

Learning Bridal Makeup in QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course

I was excited to get to the bridal makeup unit in QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. I knew that looks associated with bridal were ‘up my alley’, and I was looking forward to learning whatever I could.

Prior to taking the Master Makeup Artistry Course, I had no professional training in this specific area of makeup artistry. As a student, I was delighted to find that this program also offered extensive business training as part of its curriculum. I was given insight into bridal contracts and invoices. I was taught what my role with the bride would be, and the professional attitude I’d need to have to be successful.

The most valuable take-away for me was QC’s promotion of your soft skills as the makeup artist. Yes, your artistry has to be great to help the bride look beautiful. But what bride wants to be around an artist who makes them feel nervous, is disorganized, and feels burdensome on their big day?!

Bridal Makeup Kit

One of the questions I get asked is: “What are the must-haves for your bridal makeup kit?”

Well, there are several great brands of makeup products that can be used for a bride. Regardless of the brand I use, they must be broken down into 3 main categories within my makeup kit:

Skin preparation
Makeup application
Setting powder

1 – Skin Preparation

Skin preparation is essential to facilitating smooth makeup application and creating the appearance of a flawless face. For this reason, one of the key ingredients in my makeup kit is moisturizer.

Once the face has been cleansed, you must ensure the bride’s skin is moisturized. This will help it to remain supple, and reduce the appearance of lines. It’s also just as critical to ensure the moisturizer used is appropriate to the bride’s skin type.

Sweat control is another key ingredient in my makeup kit. If it’s an outside wedding, the bride can get hot. In other cases, the anxiety of the day can cause her to sweat more than usual. This product helps to keep the sweat at bay. In the end, this assists the makeup’s longevity.

Primer is another must-have in my kit. Primers serve as a great base for the smooth application of foundation. Similar to moisturizers, primers should be appropriate to the bride’s skin type.

2 – Makeup Application

Once the skin has been prepped, the makeup application covers four (4) main areas:

Eyes
Face
Cheeks
Lips

The variety of colors for eyeshadows are endless! However, for bridal makeup, I have found that most brides want natural, cool shades that are elegant and not overpowering. My makeup kit must have eyeshadows that are highly pigmented, in colors similar to champagne, browns, bronze, and taupe. Colors which have a bit of shimmer are also great for adding highlights under the brow bone.

When it comes to the eyes, my makeup kit also includes a brow powder or brow pencil. I’ll make sure to stock up on varying shades of brown, so that I can create a natural shape and definition to the eyebrow. Waterproof mascara on this emotional day is also essential!

Next up is the face! We want our brides to have a flawless, even complexion. That means that you need a foundation that’s accurate to their skin color. My makeup kit must not only have a foundation palette that offers a variety of shades; it should also have a primary color palette as well.

My foundation palette cannot cover every single skin tone out there. Therefore, to be efficient on space and finances, my primary color palette allows me to make a foundation color that’s exactly to the bride’s complexion. This eliminates the need to spend unnecessary money on several different foundation palettes!

Another must-have for face makeup is cream blush. I am in love with cream blush! This product allows the face to have a flush of color that appears to radiate from the bride’s natural skin. Cream blush is buildable, and can subsequently be enhanced with powder blush.

3 – Setting Power

After creating that gorgeous, lovely face, you’ll want it to last as long as possible. The first step is setting the foundation with no-color powder. No-color powder is critical in my bridal makeup kit! After all, once you’ve applied that perfect foundation shade, you don’t want to mess it up by putting on a powder that changes the bride’s skin complexion at the last minute.

In addition to setting powder is setting spray. Setting spray not only gives the bride a great, fresh finish – it provides staying power to ensure the bride’s makeup application lasts even longer!

Did you know that when you enroll in QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, you’ll receive a FREE makeup kit to help you train? Add to your makeup kit and get started today!

Oct 21

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6 Ways to Find Makeup Jobs as a Beginner

By Nadia Calabro QC Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Nadia Calabro is a QC Makeup Academy Student Ambassador, as well as a QC alumnus. She has graduated from the Master Makeup Artistry Course, the Pro Makeup Workshop, and the Skincare Course. She is also the proud founder of her very own makeup business, Beauty Beyond the Mirror. Today, Nadia reveals 6 ways to find makeup jobs when first entering the industry!

Becoming a professional makeup artist can be very fulfilling. But building a successful career as a makeup artist can also have its challenges. The most common challenge when starting out is finding makeup jobs.

It’s that classic (yet frustrating) double-edged sword: we need jobs to build experience, but we need experience to get jobs. This can be discouraging at first, but the truth is that there are MANY ways to overcome this challenge!

Get Professional Training

Social media is a blessing and a curse of modern society. This is especially true when it comes to makeup. People everywhere are going onto YouTube and trying to learn the latest trends and techniques. But this is impossible, because it’s simply not enough.

A lot of what’s found on social media reflects what is trending in the moment. Much of the time, it lacks proper education. These videos are not adequately teaching the viewers about how to determine your clients skin type, undertone, and ultimately, the products to use on other people. Classic makeup artistry techniques aren’t typically taught either.

When you learn nothing but ‘trendy’ makeup, that knowledge is going to go to waste. This is because those looks will inevitably die out and become irrelevant.

But when you get professional training, such as the training offered by QC Makeup Academy, you start with the very basics. You’re taught the classic techniques, makeup theory, and the foundational skills that will always remain relevant. The benefit of having this knowledge is that you can then create ANY makeup look, since these techniques can be adapted accordingly.

Proper education means that your makeup artistry will know no limits! You’ll never have to turn down a job due to a lack of knowledge. When you don’t have professional training, you’ll quickly become limited in what you can and cannot execute in your work.

Take Part in Stylized Photoshoots

If you’re not familiar with stylized photoshoots, this is when photographers partner with different vendors to create a mock photoshoot. A common example would be a staged wedding or bridal shoot. There really is no better opportunity to network yourself than by getting involved in one of these photoshoots!

You’ll meet all kinds of people within the industry, create meaningful impressions and relationships, and increase your chances of getting recommended for makeup jobs in the future.

Getting hands-on work is one of the best ways to learn and grow. Taking a chance on a mock photoshoot is a great way to practice your art in a safe environment. Stylized shoots also allow you to gain advice and expertise from other professionals.

In my opinion, one of the biggest selling points of a makeup artist is their professional portfolio. When you have a tangible collection of high-quality photos to show prospective clients, they’ll be much likelier to book with you. Stylized photoshoots can lead to excellent content for your portfolio – which means it can help steer you towards paying makeup jobs down the road.

Pro Tip: Certain styled photoshoots can open you up to even larger audiences. Mock wedding shoots, for example, will allow you to demonstrate your bridal makeup skills. In turn, you can get your foot in the door for wedding makeup services. This client base is massive and will absolutely lead to more makeup jobs than you know what to do with!

Build a Professional Website

Having a professional website is always a good idea. It’s worth noting that having a website is different from having social media accounts. This is due to one simple – yet extremely important – reason: potential clients can learn SO much more about you and your business through your website than they’ll ever be able to on Facebook or Instagram.

A business website allows you the chance to speak about your journey, what you love about your work, the steps you’ve taken to get to where you are now, and where you’re headed in the future. Just as critically, it gives you somewhere to list all of the services you offer, as well as your rates and contact information.

Being able to have a write up about yourself gives your customers a chance to see the person behind the brushes. This is important! A lot of the time, when doing makeup on people, we’re taking part in some of the biggest days of their lives. Giving them the chance to get to know us establishes trust and a meaningful relationship. This helps to ensure that people don’t see you as a one-time service – but someone that they can (and will) call on whenever your services are needed.

Establish a Presence on Social Media

You know the old saying, “Pictures speak louder than words“? There has never been anything truer when it comes to the world of makeup on social media! Everyone wants to see pictures of artists’ work.

Creating social media accounts for your makeup business allows you the opportunity to show what you can do. You’ll be able to promote yourself across so many different platforms, establish a name for yourself, and attract the attention of potential clients from all over the world.

You can also maximize your social media presence to connect with others in both your area and the industry as a whole. This can lead to you getting the chance to work with others. As your social media presence builds, the promise of makeup jobs gets closer and closer to your reach!

Work on People You Know

I’m not going to lie – in the beginning, finding makeup jobs is hard. People want to see that you have experience before they can trust you. Of course, this makes perfect sense. So, a good way to gain real-world experience, strengthen your skills, and potentially add to your makeup portfolio is to work on people who already trust you!

Start by practicing your craft on family and friends. You’ll be able to challenge yourself and possibly make mistakes, without the fear of repercussion. You’re also likely to get good feedback. Chances are, your friends and family will be completely honest with you, in order to push you to be your best.

By working on friends and family, you can also actively choose who you want to work with. This will allow you to add more variety to your makeup portfolio. Choose models in different age groups and with different facial characteristics, skin times, and skin tones. Switch up the types of looks you do, so that your portfolio can speak to as many people as possible!

Do Your Research

It’s scary to try and figure everything out on your own. It’s also, in most cases, downright impossible. The jump start of a business is the hardest, yet the most important. You want to get it right from the start!

Before making any decisions, you MUST do your research. Start by finding your niche, then create a brand and logo for yourself. You want it to be short and catchy. It should tell everyone exactly what you do. Before starting anything, register your business and make it official!

A legitimate business is always going to impress potential clients, which will result in more makeup jobs for you!

The most beneficial thing you can do is find people in your area that are specializing in that same thing as you. Make sure that you keep your pricing comparable, yet competitive.

You’ll also want to see what job opportunities may be out there for you. If there are any specialized or advanced makeup classes that you can take to make you stand out from the rest, do it. Never pass up an opportunity to shine!

How I Found Makeup Jobs

The courses I’ve taken with QC Makeup Academy really allowed me to find my strengths. Through my training, I was able to discern which areas of the industry I wanted to work in.

The last unit of the Master Makeup Artistry Course, for example, was all about researching makeup artists in my area. I had to make a business plan for myself so that when I graduated, I was confident and ready to get going. I started by doing makeup on my friends and family for fun.

Once I was really sure I could do something great, I booked a photoshoot with a local photographer. I put together an entire photoshoot concept that symbolized my business name and helped me showcase my work!

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Yesterday felt like a dream. I got the chance to work with a photographer and do the makeup for a photo shoot. I felt totally in my element, and was so happy! My vision of the nature backdrop and simple elegant makeup came together so perfectly I cant even express how I feel looking at these pictures. It has been a long time since I looked at a job and felt proud! This is a moment I will be sure not to forget! @pho.enixphotography thank you for listening and caring about this project. Thank you for capturing my work so well! You were a dream to work with, your talent is extraordinary! I cannot wait to work with you again ❤ @vanemiraglia thank you for coming to model for me you were perfect love you ❤😘 ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ #mua #makeupartist #makeup #toronto #woodbridge #vaughn #beauty #beautiful #beyondthemirror #photoshoot #highlight #contour #blush #lips #wedding #engagement #natural #elegant #evagarden #photography #professional #wedddings #weddingmua #weddingmakeup #engagmentphotoshoot #bridal #bride #wedding ♡ ♡ ♡ Makeup by @beautybeyond.the.mirror Hair by @beautybeyond.the.mirror Photography by @pho.enixphotography

A post shared by BeautyByNadia @ BlushBeautyBar (@beautybeyond.the.mirror) on Jul 10, 2020 at 8:43am PDT

I had my sister model for me and the photographer took high-quality pictures. That photoshoot grabbed SO many people’s attention. Suddenly, tons of people were contacting me and asking to work with me!

I also quickly discovered smart ways to tailor my services to specific clients. For instance, if I knew someone had a function to attend, I would offer my services at a cheaper price. While this might sound counterproductive, it was the exact opposite.

Because I knew that the client would be around a lot of people, my work would be showcased on a much larger scale. Ultimately, this would bring me more interested clients and more makeup jobs. That sort of exposure is worth shaving a few bucks off my services here and there. Sometimes, in the beginning, you have to spend a little to make more!

It’s all about putting yourself out there. So long as you have the right work ethic and positive attitude, I promise that the makeup jobs will come to you!

In the age of social distancing, you have a unique opportunity to book all sorts of virtual makeup jobs! Discover how to offer online makeup and skincare services by enrolling in QC Makeup Academy’s new Virtual Makeup Training Course!