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Job Responsibilities |
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The responsibilities as a makeup artist vary by the type of
field you are in. For retail make-up artists, responsibilities
and schedules also vary by company. For example, some cosmetic
companies hire make-up artists as sales associates, in which
case you may have a full-time schedule. Duties would be the same
as any other retail position plus consultations- doing make-up
on customers to make a sale. High-end cosmetic companies will
also hire freelance makeup artists. Those positions are almost
always part-time, weekends with the occasional special event.
Most freelance positions do not include sales respondibilities
and general allow for more creativity in your work.
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Job Requirements |
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You do not need a license to be a makeup artist. However, a
cosmetology or esthetics license will give you the edge over
another artist at times. If you are interested in working for a
cosmetic company, a good way to start is to work as a sales
associate for the type of line you are interested in. Another
way into the business is to do freelance work like weddings and
special occasions. Keep a portfolio of before and after pictures
to show potential employers.
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| Uppers |
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Being a make-up artist can be alot of fun. Some perks include free make-up, high
pay, and flexible schedules.
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| Downers |
| Once in a while clients can be difficult to deal with. Someone
might not ne happy with your work. It can be a high-stress
position. There are a few companies I've come across that don't
respect their freelance artists, treating them more like
glorifies sales associates. You may be asked to do tasks that
are not in your job description.
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| Lifestyle |
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To be a retail make-up artist you have to reflect the image that the company is
trying to portray. Funky companies like MAC and Urban Decay allow for tattoos and
peircings, conservatives like Estee Lauder like a polished look. All companies
expect you to wear their products on the job. Most jobs require traveling to job
sites, so a car is almost a neccessity. You must be available to work weekends.
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| Compensation |
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As a freelance artist, you can make anywhere from $12 to $20
per hour. Sometimes more or less, depending on the company.
Freelance artists are usually not eligible for benefits or
bonuses and generally don't recieve commission. As a sales
associate however, most companies have a base pay of $9 or $10
per hour plus commission and include benefits.
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Advice to Jobseekers |
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If you love to do make-up, freelance artistry in the retail
field is a good way to make a living at it. If you can find a
company that meets your needs and fits your personality it's a
great career! Be careful in positions that pay commission- it
can get very competitive and just plain mean. A high hourly wage
is always better than commission.
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