Embrace the twists and turns of your learning journey: Becoming a makeup artist

Selecting the correct career is a crucial decision with far-reaching implications. It is a choice that will shape your future, underscoring the importance of making an informed decision.

Over the next few weeks, The African Reporter will engage with business people, professionals and other role players, focusing on a specific career every week.

By doing this, we aim to provide valuable guidance to our younger readers navigating their career choices.
This week, we give a platform to the makeup artist career.

Kwa-Thema resident Basetsana Moabelo has been a makeup artist for the past six years and said her creativity and passion for art led her to this industry.

“I have always loved beauty and enhancing my face until I realised I enjoyed enhancing other people’s appearances, too. That is how I became a makeup artist,” she said.

She added that she works independently and believes her hands have superpowers.

What is a makeup artist?
It is an individual who applies makeup and other cosmetics to other people’s faces to enhance their beauty.
They usually work in the beauty and health industry.

What does a makeup artist do?
They use cosmetic products (like eyeshadow, eyeliner, concealer, eyelashes, foundation, lipstick, weave installations and mascara) and techniques to enhance or alter a person’s appearance.

This does not limit the use of makeup application tools, like brushes, sponges and eyebrow shapers, to apply products to the face and/or body.  They often know what to use on different skin types and can advise which beauty products to use.

What are a makeup artist’s duties?
• Preparing individuals for photo shoots by applying makeup.

• Consulting with clients about how to apply their makeup, teaching them basic tricks on easily applying it.

• Applying makeup for actors in TV, theatre or film to prepare them for their roles/looks.

• Using creative and analytical skills to determine what products would look best on individuals

• Enhancing facial features with makeup, creating a look clients want.

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• Removing additional hair from customers’ faces.

• Preparing their face for cosmetics by using face masks.

• Shaping eyebrows before enhancing them.

• Applying makeup on people attending gatherings or themed events while determining the correct colours to use.

• Removing makeup after use.

• Using imagination and colour combination skills.

Where can I study to become a makeup artist?
These days, we have the internet. One can learn through YouTube tutorials or TikTok videos. Alternatively, some salons and NPOs offer short makeup lessons/courses.

You can also study the following at these institutions:
• Northlink FET College- cosmetology.

• Prestige Academy- certificate: film and TV makeup designer.

• Tshwane University of Technology – national diploma: performing arts technology.

• College SA – introductory course: makeup application.

What high school subjects do I need?
Formal education after matric in the beauty industry is not necessary, but to pursue a course in beauty at an institution will take about six months, a year or three years to complete.

Each institution has differing requirements, but these subjects are recommended:
• English is a must at level four.

• Visual arts.

• Drama.

How long does it take to become a makeup artist?
It depends on how fast you grasp things, but everything requires practice. Formal education takes about three years to complete.

What skills do I need to be a successful makeup artist?
• Good communication skills to execute correctly what the client wants.

• Patience.

• Much practice and fast-working hands.

• As much experience as you get in the beauty industry.

• An understanding of stylistic elements like lighting.

• Paying attention to detail.

• A creative mind.

• Exceptional listening skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills.

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• Good knowledge of brands and tools.

• An eye for trends in the beauty industry

• Know how to operate within the health and safety regulations.

• Know different colour palettes and design styles.

• Know cosmetic application processes.

• Have good customer service skills.

• Good time management.

• Reliability – your clients must trust you with their faces.

• Creativity and teamwork, especially if you work with a group of people.

• Ability to work under pressure.

Is it necessary to have a portfolio of my work?
If you want to be a reputable professional makeup artist, having a portfolio of your work is vital. Take photographs of your work.

Portfolios let makeup artists showcase their skills and experience through pictures. It is also a great way to find clients.

Sharing images of your work online is another way to get attention and clients. A solid social media presence is better for freelancing or independent artists.

Where do makeup artists work?
They work in various sectors. Some work in the entertainment industry and can help create and apply masks or other ways of changing a person’s appearance for a theatric role.

Makeup artists work in several settings within the creative industries, such as:
• Film.

• TV.

• Theatre/musical theatre.

• Fashion (photography, fashion shows).

• They also often work out of hair salons, spas and makeup salons.

• Makeup artists might work alone or as part of a team.