From Brushes to Red Carpets: Your Guide to Becoming a Celebrity Makeup Artist

When you envision your future as a makeup artist, are you always dreaming of bigger things?

For some, the aim of becoming skilled in their art is just the beginning, with dreams of becoming a makeup artist to the rich and the famous as the end goal.

But how much do celebrity makeup artists make?

How do you get your foot in the door?

And which qualification gives you the best chance of success?

Demi International can help you shoot for the stars. Our guide on how to become a celebrity makeup artist answers all your questions about this exciting career path, so let’s jump in.

What does a celebrity makeup artist do?

As a qualified celebrity makeup artist, you’ll be on call to your clients to deliver looks for events, photoshoots, awards ceremonies and anything else they need. Armed with all your celebrity makeup tricks, you can find work with clients on screen, on the stage, and in all areas of media and entertainment. And it’s one of the most exciting potential career paths makeup artists can follow.

One of the most common ways of getting your brush in the door is through a celebrity makeup artist agency. Acting as a connection between your skills and the celebrities who need them, they help you find work and give you a platform to show off your talents. But first, you’ll need the qualifications and experience to become a makeup artist.

Have big dreams and want to follow in the footsteps of Huda Kattan? The famous makeup artist, blogger, entrepreneur, and founder of Huda Beauty got her start working for Revlon and writing a makeup blog. As she gained a faithful following, she launched her wildly successful cosmetics business. Today, she’s considered one of the most prevalent makeup artists in the world, beginning with a simple course in makeup artistry.

How much do celebrity makeup artists make?

We know money isn’t everything, especially when doing something you love. But you’re probably wondering how much do celebrity makeup artists charge. Seek.com.au says the base salary for a makeup artist in Australia is between $50,000 and $60,000. Of course, as your client base and skills grow, this amount can also increase.

For the skilled makeup artists working on Hollywood films and TV series or doing makeup for their clients attending awards shows, you’ll be able to get an even higher salary. Renowned celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine, who works with clients on stage and screen, is said to earn thousands of dollars a day for his celebrity makeup artist salary.

But before you can start imagining your life as the on-call MUA to the stars, you need the right qualifications.

Qualifications and study pathways to take you there.

Building a solid foundation of practical skills and expertise is essential for a makeup artist. Our Diploma of Screen and Media is a comprehensive course that will help you build the skills you need to thrive in this industry.

The nationally recognised diploma covers everything from makeup fundamentals to high-fashion photography and prosthetics. Whether you’re already in the industry or carving out a new career, you’ll be equipped with the skills to pursue a career as a successful makeup artist working in film, TV, theatre, and fashion. Most importantly, you’ll build a professional portfolio with regular photo shoots as you learn with Queensland’s Small Training Provider of the Year.

At Demi International, we make study flexible and accessible for all our students. Our payment options — including Money3 and VET loans — mean there are no barriers to studying. Plus, you can complete the course over 12 months with four terms of flexible, teacher-guided independent study. Once complete, you can pursue your passion and begin showcasing your skills to the world.

Tips for launching your career as a celebrity MUA.

Wondering how to become a celebrity makeup artist sooner? Armed with the right qualifications from Demi International and these quick tips, you’ll be well on your way to your dream career.

Volunteer your time

Even the most outstanding makeup artists started somewhere. And assisting other more established artists can help you get your name out there and build on your expertise.

Network on social media

Instagram and TikTok are a makeup artist’s stage and the perfect platform for newcomers to show their stuff. Reach out to celebrity makeup artists or up-and-coming ones and start networking.

Create your own beauty blog

Use the power of words and start a beauty business blog. It’s a great way to promote your brand, share your work, and keep in touch with others in the industry.

Start a (modest) makeup kit

You don’t need to get the most expensive brands to build a quality makeup kit. But if you plan on making it big, you should at least begin with a combination of mid to high-end supplies ready for action.

Want to reach for the stars as a celeb makeup artist?

Your dream career as a celebrity makeup artist is inspiring. And with the right qualifications and experience, it’s closer than you think. Demi International’s course advisors can help you find the makeup course to reach your goals, so get in touch today.