Special Effects Makeup Archives

Mar 09

10 Ways Special Effects Training Makes You a Better Makeup Artist

By Sarah Cavanagh Special Effects Makeup, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Special effects makeup isn’t just a fun way to express your creativity. It’s also an invaluable tool for professional makeup artists! Special effects training can also open the door to all kinds of amazing opportunities. For example, you can produce unique and innovative looks for film and television projects, as well as create stunning visuals for photo shoots.

So, if you want to take your career as a makeup artist to the next level, read on to discover 10 reasons why special effects training is the way to go!

First Thing’s First – What is a Special FX Makeup Artist?

As a special effects MUA, you must have an in-depth understanding of the human body and anatomy so you can create incredibly lifelike creations. You’ll also need to have strong artistic skills and attention to detail.

Special effects makeup is an incredibly rewarding and challenging field. After all, it requires a great deal of knowledge and skill to create believable illusions that look realistic in any setting!

What Does a Special Effects Makeup Artist Do?

Special effects makeup is a unique and highly specialized field of makeup artistry. It involves creating dramatic and realistic illusions using prosthetics, special effects products, and other materials. Furthermore, special effects makeup artists are often hired to create a variety of looks for film, television, theater, and even photography projects.

Special Effects Makeup Artist Responsibilities

A Special Effects Makeup Artist must have the skills and knowledge to create believable illusions. They must also be able to work with a variety of materials, including prosthetics and special effects products.

Furthermore, SFX makeup artists need to be able to think outside the box and come up with creative ideas that will help bring the client’s vision to life. You’ll need to be able to look at a script, bring the story to life, and work with a variety of materials.

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10 Reasons Why Special Effects Training Make You a Better MUA

1. You’ll Gain a More Well-Rounded Skill-Set

Special effects makeup involves the use of a variety of products and techniques, from prosthetics to airbrush artistry. As such, special effects training gives you the opportunity to learn about all these different methods and apply them in your work. In turn, you can also apply all of these new techniques to the rest of your makeup artistry services as well (i.e. adding airbrush makeup to your bridal services, etc.).

Pro Tip: New to the world of special effects makeup – but interested in learning? Here are 5 easy ways any beginners can get started!

2. You’ll Learn How to Create Lifelike Prostheses and Special FX Pieces

Special effects makeup requires a deep understanding of the human body and anatomy. Special effects training teaches you how to create prostheses and special FX pieces that look incredibly lifelike – whether for film, theater, or photography projects.

3. You’ll Be Able to Take on More Challenging Projects

The more skills and knowledge you have in any given field, the more opportunities you have to take on bigger and better projects! When you learn special effects makeup, you’re opening the door to all kinds of exciting and challenging work. For instance, you could create monsters, aliens, prosthetic creatures, or even fantasy characters for television and film!

4. You’ll Be Able to Create Specialized Looks for Different Projects

Special effects training teaches you how to create specialized looks for different projects. For example, you’ll learn how to create specific looks for horror films, as well as more subtle and realistic effects for medical dramas – all with a single special FX makeup course!

And how will this benefit your career in the grand scheme of things?

Special effects makeup gives you the ability to create truly unique and innovative looks for any kind of project – which can help make your portfolio stand out from the competition!

5. You’ll Stand Out From the Crowd

Speaking of standing out from the competition… Most makeup artists don’t have any experience in special effects makeup. If you get special effects training, you’ll have a significant advantage over other MUAs in your area. Not to mention, you’ll be that much more appealing to prospective clients, employers, and makeup brands!

Special effects makeup artist applying fake wound to client's arm.

6. You’ll Be Able to Command Higher Rates

With special effects makeup training, you can position yourself as an expert in the field. As a result, this gives you the confidence to command higher rates for your services! Special FX makeup requires a lot of skill, knowledge, and experience – which are all invaluable traits that should be properly compensated for.

Pro Tip: Need help pricing your makeup services? We’ve got you covered!

7. You’ll Have Access to Specialized Product Lines

In addition to learning new techniques, special effects training also grants you access to specialized product lines that are only available through certain makeup brands or suppliers. Special FX makeup requires certain products and materials. However, you may not be able to find in your local drugstore or beauty supply store.

But your special effects training will connect you to the right resources, as well as educate you on how to properly use them for your projects!

Pro Tip: Check out the different makeup brand discounts you’ll automatically be eligible for as a QC Makeup Academy student!

8. The Special Effect Makeup Artist Salary Can Be Killer

Special effects makeup artists can make some serious money in their field, depending on the type of work they do. After all, this is a highly sought after niche and skill-set! To give you a bit of an idea of what you could potentially earn, check out what the average salary ranges are in the following countries:

United States: Between approx. $52,560 and $71,655 USD per year (Source: Salary.com)
Canada: Between approx. $42,000 and $110,000 CAD per year (Source: Glassdoor)
United Kingdom: Between approx. £40,779 and £64,961 GBP per year (Source: Salary Expert)
Australia: Between approx. $100,299 and $159,776 AUD per year (Source: Salary Expert)

9. There Are SO Many Types of Jobs in The SFX Makeup Field

Okay, we’ve already discussed the obvious career paths – which is to work in film and television. But the SFX makeup field has so much more to offer than that! For example, special effects makeup artists can also find lucrative and fulfilling work in fashion, theater, editorials, photography, and the rest of the beauty industry!

10. Special Effects Makeup is a LOT of Fun

Last but not least, special effects makeup is a seriously wicked and exciting profession! Special FX makeup opens up a whole new world of creativity and self-expression. Not to mention, it will challenge you to think outside of the box and push the boundaries of beauty standards.

And if that’s not enough, then just remember: special effects makeup is a lot of fun! So if you’re passionate about makeup and want to take your career to the next level, then special effects training is the perfect way to do so!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the benefits of being a special effects makeup artist?

A: Special effects makeup artists can stand out from the competition, command higher rates for their services, have access to specialized product lines, and even make an excellent salary! Moreover, SFX makeup is also a lot of fun! Plus, it allows you to express your creativity in new and innovative ways.

Q: Any advice on how to become a special effects makeup artist?

A: Of course! Special effects makeup is a specialized skill-set. So, it’s important to get the proper training. Although there are no mandatory educational requirements to become a special effects makeup artist, taking a course from a reputable institution like QC Makeup Academy can give you the foundation you need to start your career.

Plus, you’ll also have access to their amazing student support, business training, and additional resources that you may need in your journey!

Pro Tip: Interested in taking a special effects makeup course? Learn all about QC’s self-paced, online Special FX Makeup certification course to see if it’s the right fit for you!

Q: What can you do to promote yourself for jobs as a special effect makeup artist?

A: Special effects makeup artists should always be prepared to showcase their portfolio, complete with before and after photos. Having a strong social media presence is also essential to get your name out there and attract more clients.

Additionally, networking with other makeup artists, attending industry events, and joining professional organizations are all great ways to network and promote yourself. Finally, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the SFX makeup industry.

Q: How do you become a successful SFX makeup artist?

A: If you want to be truly successful, you’ll need to be highly knowledgeable in a variety of makeup techniques, as well as special effects materials and tools. It’s also important to be creative and have an eye for detail. You’ll need to have a strong work ethic and commitment to quality, as well as a well-developed business plan.

Finally, don’t forget to capture the right kind of attention with an online presence and portfolio that stands out!

Resources You Should Definitely Bookmark

Golden eggs. Luxurious model. Gold bodypainting. Glamorous beautiful model in gold paint. Brilliant fantasy makeup. Golden creative makeup. Fantasy image. Special effects article.

Final Thoughts

Special effects makeup is an exciting and creative way to express yourself. With the right training, you can take your career to new heights and make a name for yourself as an amazing special effects makeup artist. For some extra guidance and support, consider taking a course at QC Makeup Academy or one of their Special FX Makeup certifications – you won’t regret it!

Good luck on your special effects journey, beauties!

Become a globally-certified International Special FX Makeup Professional (ISMP) in as little as 2 short months! Enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online Special FX Makeup Course and start your dream career today!

Jul 22

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

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

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

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

Get to Know Gemma Mannering!

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

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

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

Gemma Introduces Herself

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

Learn How to Do Makeup with Gemma

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

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

Video #1: Half Glam / Half SFX

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

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

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

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Video #2: Hand Wound Speed Tutorial

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

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Video #3: Learn How to Do Bruise Makeup

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

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

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

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

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

Interested in learning even more about this certification program?

Here are some resources we recommend checking out:

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

May 12

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Special effects makeup course zombie assignment article Feature Image

QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course: Zombie Assignment

By Sarah Cavanagh Education, QC Student Ambassador, Special Effects Makeup 7 Comments

Thinking of enrolling in QC Makeup Academy‘s Special Effects Makeup Course? Veronika Kelle is here to give you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how she completed her final assignment: zombie makeup!

The Special Effects Makeup Course: Veronika Kelle’s Zombie Application

Located in Thailand, Veronika Kelle is a Student Ambassador of QC Makeup Academy. In addition to the Special Effects Makeup Course, she has also completed the Master Makeup Artistry Course and Pro Makeup Workshop.

In the following video, Veronika shares what her experience was like:

Prepping for her final course assignment;
Applying the special effects zombie makeup on her model;
And seeing her vision come to life through an on-location photoshoot.

As a reminder, this assignment was the final one in her Special Effects Makeup Course. Thus, she is using all of the fundamental techniques, makeup theory, and skills learned throughout her training. As you’ll see, the final result is truly remarkable!

Watch the full video below!

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

About QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course

This 4-unit Specialty Course teaches you everything you need to know to work as a professional SFX makeup artist! Among the many skills you’ll learn, discover how to:

Safe and sanitary special effects makeup applications;
How to identify (and work with) common skin disorders;
Bald cap application, aging makeup, and how to work with fake hair;
How to create an original character from a script;
SFX prosthetics and their many uses;
How to create realistic wounds and gore;
How to create your very own special FX makeup kit;
The fundamentals of starting a successful business;
And SO much more!

Once enrolled, all of your course textbooks and instructional videos will be accessible directly within the Online Student Center. As a result, you’ll be able to start your training immediately! But if you prefer to work with physical course materials, we’ve got you covered there, too. We mail you a physical copy – as well as a free starter makeup kit – directly to your front door!

You’ll get paired with a tutor who’s a real industry expert, with years of experience. After every unit, your tutor will review your work with a fine-tooth comb and give you extensive audio feedback. And just because this course is online doesn’t mean you won’t get any hands-on training. Quite the opposite! In fact, you’ll get TONS of real-world experience through your practical assignments.

The best part? Once you graduate, you’ll get an internationally-recognized certification/designation! Thus, you’ll have a game-changing qualification to add to your resume and impress clients with!

Photography by Janusz Ciechowski.

Other Reasons to Enroll with QC Makeup Academy

We’ll be real with you: there are far too many perks and benefits to list here! There are just so many of them! However, here’s a handful of the top reasons why QC students and grads recommend our school:

QC Makeup Academy holds an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau!
Furthermore, our school and all of its online courses are internationally-recognized!
In addition to our Special Effects Makeup Course, we offer a HUGE variety of other makeup, hair, fashion, and skincare courses. Click here to see all the courses we currently offer!
QC’s learning environment is 100% self-paced and remote. As a result, you train on your schedule and from wherever works best for YOU!
Our tuition is extremely competitive. Pay your tuition in full when you enroll (and save some money by doing so), or take advantage of our low monthly payment plan!
Moreover, all future QC courses will then be 50% – forever!
The moment you enroll with QC Makeup Academy, you get access to a long list of makeup discounts from big-name brands!

So, what are you waiting for? Enroll in QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course and earn your certification in as little as 3-6 months!

Apr 28

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Makeup Challenge: Creating a Special Effects Makeup Look Using the WRONG Hand!

By Sarah Cavanagh From the Experts, Makeup Tutorial, Special Effects Makeup, Tutorials & Tips No Comments

Want to challenge yourself this upcoming weekend? Try creating a unique special effects makeup look using ONLY your non-dominant hand!

Gabrielle Rivera Attempts This Special Effects Makeup Challenge

Gabrielle Rivera is a graduate of QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. Since one of her biggest niches is special effects makeup, she naturally jumped all over this challenge!

In the following video, Gabrielle attempts to recreate an SFX face chart originally created by Lauren Sullivan. However, she was tasked with completing this application only using her right hand. As a natural lefty, this would obviously prove to be quit the task!

So, how did Gabrielle do? You’ll have to watch the video below to find out!

Want to see more of Gabrielle’s makeup work? Check out her Instagram for some seriously awesome content!

Why Gabrielle Nailed This Makeup Challenge

As you’ll see in the video, Gabrielle does a surprisingly great job at creating a full SFX makeup application using her non-dominant hand. If you’re wondering how this is possible, there’s actually a very simple answer.

(No, it’s not because she practiced a million times beforehand. We pinky promise!)

The truth is, it’s all due to the professional training Gabrielle already has under her belt. Although she wasn’t able to use her dominant hand, Gabrielle still knew exactly what she was supposed to be doing. You see, when you learn the fundamentals of makeup artistry, you’ll know how to apply them correctly – regardless of which hand you use.

Sure, the application might have looked a bit more polished and precise had Gabrielle used her left hand. But the fact that she didn’t and it still turned out as amazing as it did is a true testament to Gabrielle’s educational background and skill!

Become a Special Effects Makeup Expert Through QC Makeup Academy

In QC’s 4-unit Special FX Makeup Course, you’ll discover:

Safe and sanitary application for special effects makeup;
How to identify and work with common skin disorders;
The art of applying aging makeup, bald caps, and working with fake hair;
How to work with prosthetics;
The steps to creating a unique SFX and/or fantasy character;
How to create realistic gore/wound effects;
The critical components of starting and marketing your own MUA business;
And so much more!

What are you waiting for? Become an internationally-certified special effects makeup artist in as little as 3-6 months by enrolling with QC today!

Mar 05

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special effects makeup tutorial rainbow clown gabrielle rivera feature image

Special Effects Makeup Tutorial: The Rainbow Clown

By Sarah Cavanagh From the Experts, Makeup Tutorial, Special Effects Makeup No Comments

Want to challenge yourself this month? We’ve got a special effects makeup tutorial that we think will do the trick! Follow along with QC Makeup Academy graduate, Gabrielle Rivera, and see if YOU can recreate her rainbow clown design!

Gabrielle Rivera Breaks Down Her Special Effects Makeup Look…

Gabrielle is a graduate of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. In addition to traditional makeup, she also specializes in special effects makeup. Check out Gabrielle’s Instagram for more incredible content!

Today, Gabrielle teaches us how to recreate her rainbow clown SFX design. Follow along by watching the full tutorial below!

Want to see how far Gabrielle’s skill-set has come, thanks to professional makeup training? Click here to watch her recreate her very first SFX look, using the skills and knowledge she has now!

QC Makeup Academy’s Special Effects Makeup Course

In this 4-unit course, you’ll learn all about:

Safe and sanitary SFX makeup application;
Identifying common skin disorders;
Building your special effects makeup kit;
Aging makeup, bald cap application, and using fake hair;
SFX makeup for trauma;
How to work with fake blood;
Creating original characters;
Client relations and starting your very own business;
And MUCH more!

What to Expect

Once enrolled, you’ll receive both a physical AND digital copy of your course materials. Plus, we’ll even send you a FREE starter SFX makeup kit! Your course curriculum will be broken down into textbook readings, instructional videos, quizzes, and tons of assignments! As a result, there’ll be plenty of different ways for you to learn!

Looking for real-world experience? Practical assignments will give you loads of hands-on experience working on models. As a result, you’ll know what to expect in the field and be ready to jump into the industry right away!

QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course is 100% online and self-paced. This means you’ll get to train from the comfort of your own home, on your own schedule. Moreover, there are NO deadlines or rigid class schedules to follow!

You’re likely going to want your mentor to be a true industry expert. After all, why wouldn’t you? We completely understand and wouldn’t have it any other way! When you enroll with QC Makeup Academy, your assigned tutor will be a working SFX makeup artist with years of experience!

After each unit, they’ll even provide you with extensive audio feedback. Importantly, this feedback will help both you and your tutor track your progress and help you to grow.

The best part? Once you graduate, you’ll become a designated (and officially certified) International Special FX Makeup Professional (ISMP)! QC Makeup Academy will even mail you a physical copy of your certification. As such, you can proudly display it in your home, your business, and in your professional resume!

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A post shared by Veronika Kelle Makeup Artist (@veronikakelle)

Ready to get started? Enroll in QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course today and graduate in as little as 3-6 months!

Feb 26

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4 SFX Airbrush Makeup Techniques to WOW Clients!

By Sarah Cavanagh Airbrush Makeup, Makeup Tips and Tricks, Special Effects Makeup, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Airbrush makeup is always an excellent service to add to your beauty business. Not only is it a hot commodity among clients – it’s considered a rarer service. This all means that you’ll definitely be able to stand out from the competition, increase your bookings, better your reputation, and boost your income!

While airbrush makeup is well-known in the bridal and editorial world, it’s also a staple in special effects makeup, too. So, how can you take your airbrush game to the next level? First, you’ll obviously need to master the basics. Once you’ve done that, you can then advance your skill-set by learning some truly awesome SFX airbrush techniques.

What are some of the techniques we’re talking about? Let’s have a look!

4 SFX Airbrush Makeup Techniques You Need to Know

1. Working with Stencils

Stencils can be used on the body, the face, or even particular areas such as the eyebrows. Typically, they’re made from sheets of plastic or thick paper. However, as you gain more experience, you can dabble in creating your very own.

When used correctly (and carefully), stencils offer a quick and easy way to add fine detail and flair to your SFX airbrush makeup design. If creating a character, eyebrow stencils are a popular way to completely reshape the arch, thickness, and overall look of the person’s brows. Just made sure you completely block out their natural eyebrows first!

Pro Tip: Not sure how to block out eyebrows? QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course will teach you everything you need to know!

2. Using Brighter Pigments and Unconventional Colors

Typical airbrush makeup applications will tend to rely on natural, traditional colors. But when you step into the world of special effects, airbrush makeup often maximizes its full potential when brighter, bolder pigments are used.

You’ll also have the freedom to work a lot with unconventional colors. You’ll quickly discover that it’s surprisingly easy to change a model’s skin tone to a deep purple, a brilliant blue, or a stunning green when using an airbrush machine (just to name a few examples).

Cady Heron really put it best when she said, “The limit does not exist.” 😉

Pro Tip: Just remember that when working with heavily pigmented makeup, it’s always easier to layer darker colors over lighter ones.

3. Creating Patterns

One of the most effective ways to make your SFX airbrush makeup POP is by creating some sort of pattern on the model’s skin. For example, with an airbrush machine, adding spots of varying sizes is an effortless process. Another idea is to apply airbrush makeup over a pair of lace tights of fishnet stockings, in order to create precise lines and detailed designs.

Pro Tip: Creating character makeup? You can also use airbrush makeup to develop signature patterns that are 100% unique to and consistent with the character!

4. Combining Airbrush Makeup with Different Techniques

If you truly want to dazzle your clients and leave them in awe, show them the full extent of your skills by combining airbrush makeup techniques with other fundamental techniques you’ve acquired throughout your training!

For example, why not use airbrush makeup to create a stunning, intricately-detailed makeup look – and then add some traditional eye makeup by hand? Alternately, how about combining airbrush makeup with prosthetics?

The point is, SFX airbrush makeup is a game-changer in-and-of itself. But once you realize that it can be combined with all the other techniques you know, too, there’s no stopping the kinds of looks and designs you can create! You gain access to an untapped level of creativity explored in very few other areas of makeup artistry.

Pro Tip: Never worked with prosthetics before? Learn this (and so much more) in QC’s Special FX Makeup Course!

Want to delve deeper into this, as well as learn even more about airbrush makeup? QC Makeup Academy’s online Airbrush Makeup Workshop will get you professionally trained and ready to work on clients in as little as 3-6 months!

Here are a few other perks to enrolling in this 3-unit program:

Get digital AND physical copies of your textbooks!
Expand your learning experience through instructional videos, quizzes, self-assessments, and more!
Practical assignments will give you hands-on training – which you’ll do with the airbrush makeup starter kit included in your course materials!
Your tutor will be a industry expert in airbrush makeup, with decades of experience!
Get a full 2 years to complete your program (but feel free to finish sooner, if your schedule permits it)!
QC’s self-paced online learning environment allows you to train from home, on your personal schedule – meaning no deadlines!
You can connect with your fellow peers and begin building your network by joining our Virtual Classroom on Facebook!
Upon graduation, we’ll mail you a physical certificate that demonstrates that you’ve been properly trained in airbrush makeup!

Ready to get started? Enroll in QC’s Airbrush Makeup Workshop today!

Feb 25

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Recreating My Very First Special Effects Makeup Look! [video]

By Sarah Cavanagh From the Experts, Special Effects Makeup, Tutorials & Tips No Comments

Want to work as a special effects makeup artist? QC Makeup Academy’s Special FX Makeup Course will teach you everything you need to know AND give you a professional certification – all within just 3-6 months!

QC Grad, Gabrielle Rivera, Recreates Her Very First Special Effects Makeup Look!

Gabrielle Rivera is a graduate of QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. She now works as a professional MUA, with a specialization in special effects makeup. Check out more of Gabrielle’s work on Instagram!

Today, she’s here to recreate her first ever SFX look, done back in 2013. Let’s see what changes she makes now that she has reputable training and years of in-field experience under her belt!

Want to learn more about Gabrielle’s credentials? Check out this blog article wherein she discusses her experience working as a special effects makeup artist for a haunted house!

QC’s Special FX Makeup Course

In this 4-Unit program, you’ll learn all about:

Safe and sanitary makeup application;
Identifying and working with common skin disorders;
Aging makeup;
Bald cap and fake hair application;
Creating trauma makeup and special effects;
How to work with fake blood;
Handling SFX prosthetics;
How to work with clients;
Marketing your services;
How to start your very own business;
And MUCH more!

Once you enroll in this course, you’ll receive direct digital access to your textbooks, instructional videos, templates, quizzes, and assignments. You’ll also receive a physical copy of your course materials in the mail. Alongside these course materials, QC will also send you a FREE starter special effects makeup kit!

You’ll have a full 2 years to complete the course – although you can easily complete it in as little as 3-6 months, if you’re able to devote 1-2 hours per week on your studies. Upon graduation, you’ll receive an International Special FX Makeup Professional (ISMP) certification.

This means you’ll be able to show off your SFX training to all of your future clients and potential employers!

Additional Perks of Training with QC

Here are just a few more reasons why you should enroll in the Special Effects Makeup Course and become a QC student:

All of QC’s courses are offered online, so you can train from wherever works best for YOU!
Our self-paced learning environment allows you to work at your own pace – meaning NO deadlines or schedules to follow!
QC has been a pioneer of online learning since 1984 and holds an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau!
We have over 270 raving reviews on our Facebook page alone!
Your assignments will provide you with tons of real-world, hands-on training!
Our certifications are internationally-recognized!
QC’s competitive tuition rates and low monthly payment plans work for practically EVERY budget!
Plus, we offer a new promotional offer for both new and existing students every month!
There’s a full community of peers and tutors to connect and network with in our free Virtual Classroom on Facebook!

Ready to get started? Enroll in QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course today!

Jan 29

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Special Effects Makeup for Film

By Sarah Cavanagh Education, Special Effects Makeup No Comments

Special effects makeup for the film is a behemoth in and of itself. It takes the right training, practice, and dedication to truly master it. After all, it’s a whole different ballgame than SFX makeup for, let’s say, the stage. Special effects makeup for the film not only needs to be subtler; it must also be realistic and consistent.

If your dream is to do makeup for Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and horror movies, we won’t mince words: you have a lot of work ahead of you. Luckily, QC Makeup Academy’s online Special FX Makeup Course will teach you everything you need to know! With the help of your expert tutor, you’ll hone every last skill needed to not only work as an SFX artist in the film industry – but truly thrive!

4 Critical Lessons You’ll Learn in QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course

Believability

The film is far less forgiving than theater. In theater, there’s a considerable distance between the actor and the audience. In order to bridge that gap, the actor’s makeup will often be exaggerated. This way, even the people in the back row can see it. A perk to this is that the actor’s makeup can also afford to have a couple of little mistakes or inconsistencies here and there. Chances are, the audience will be too far away to notice.

On camera, though, people absolutely will notice. Typically, special effects makeup for film needs to be realistic. The goal is for the audience to suspend disbelief – if even for a single second – and truly believe for a moment in time that the actor really is this character you’ve created. If it’s obvious that the wound, blood, or character design is fake, the audience will be pulled out of the experience.

Continuity

Continuity is another major detail when it comes to special effects makeup for film. A single scene will often be shot dozens of times, from multiple different angles. A 10-minute scene might take hours to get shoot. Often, you’ll be on set for long periods of time, and you’ll need to be ready at any moment to be called in for touch-ups. Sometimes, once the movie has wrapped, actors will even need to come back to re-shoot particular scenes.

One way or another, your job will be to make sure that the actor’s makeup looks EXACTLY the same from one take to the next. Take photos of the actor’s makeup for every scene, as well as after any alteration is made to the look. When waiting on set, continue to keep an eye on the action. If you need to jump in, touch up, or fix something, you’ll want to make sure it aligns exactly with how the makeup looked in the scene (prior to the director calling cut).

Movie watchers are sticklers for continuity errors, so do everything you can to prevent them from finding any.

Attention to Detail

High-definition cameras will pick up quite literally every last pore on the actor’s face. If your makeup application has flaws, this means the cameras will pick up on that, too. Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to paying attention to detail is the progression of the film’s plot.

For instance, say the actor’s character is in an altercation and gets hit in the face. This fight results in a bruise around their eye. As the story continues, the audience is meant to believe that time is passing the same way it naturally would in real life. This means that the character’s bruise can’t simply disappear, as if it never happened. It also can’t stay exactly the same either.

Instead, you’ll need to age the bruise accordingly so that it looks like it’s realistically healing and fading away.

The Production Process

You can’t just read a script, come up with a special effects makeup look, and then apply it to the actor on the day of shooting. There’s a LOT more that first needs to go into this process!

For starters, with the script breakdown and makeup charts to guide you, you’ll develop looks that accurately coincide with the story itself. Then you’ll need to test your designs on the actors and extras who have been assigned to you. Keep in mind that your makeup looks will need to work not only from the actor’s perspective but in terms of wearability and longevity as well.

After that, your makeup looks will need to undergo a camera test. This will help ensure that the makeup transfers properly on camera and looks the way it’s supposed to. Once production advances, you’ll then be able to refer back to the script, makeup charts, and test photos for each actor and each scene.

Other Reasons Why You Should Take QC’s Special Effects Makeup Course

Perhaps the course itself sounds perfect, but the idea of attending in-person doesn’t. With the pandemic, in-person school isn’t exactly the safest, most convenient, or most affordable option right now. Well, we got even better news for you: you won’t have to worry about any of this with QC Makeup Academy!

Not only is our Special Effects Makeup Course done entirely online; it’s also completed at your own pace! There’ll be no need to worry about traveling to get to school or potentially exposing yourself to COVID-19. You also won’t need to move your schedule around to meet deadlines.

With a full 2 years to complete your course, you can learn everything you need to know right at home – and take as little or as much time as you need!

In case all of this wasn’t awesome enough, here are a few more perks to enrolling with QC:

Your tutor will be a special effects makeup expert with decades of experience in the industry.
After each unit, you’ll receive extensive, personalized audio feedback from your tutor.
Assignments include plenty of hands-on training, in order to give you real-life experience with both models and SFX products.
You’ll have an entire community of fellow QC students and grads to connect with in the Virtual Classroom on Facebook.
QC’s affordable tuition rates are substantially cheaper than you’d find at a brick-and-mortar school – and you’re even offered a low monthly payment plan if you don’t want to pay everything upfront.
With an A+ ranking from the Better Business Bureau and over 35 years of pioneering the online learning experience, QC Makeup Academy is known for being the best of the best.

Ready to start your career as a special effects makeup artist? Enroll in QC’s Special FX Makeup Course today!

Dec 16

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5 Special Effects Makeup Products to Ask Santa For!

By Gabrielle Rivera 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!

1. Fleet Street Tooth Lacquer Palette

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!)

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.

3. 3rd Degree

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.

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.

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!

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!