Navigating Licenses and Certifications
Makeup Artist: About 3-6 months of ‘training
Certification Courses, License may be required depending on the state of residency
Cosmetologist: About 1-2 years of ‘training
Completion of a cosmetology program approved by your local cosmetology board
Esthetician: About 1 full-time year
Completion of a training program approved by your state
State Regulations
Each state has its board of cosmetology that sets the guidelines for what licenses/certifications are required. Be sure to check your state's regulations (training hours, exams, renewal requirements, etc.) to ensure you are legally licensed/certified.
Search [Your state’s] Cosmetology Board online for the most updated information. Then read the definitions listed and decide whether or not makeup application is listed as a practice under cosmetology. Below this, should be a section titled Exemptions or Application of Chapter that will list any exclusions within the law. Most commonly, if you are working in the film/TV industry, you will not require a license. Be sure to read all of this information carefully, as certain services may be excluded from a certain license and may need further training.
You can also give a call to your local labor department to triple-check the details or if you get confused. They can and will help you understand the most recent laws to put yourself in the best position to service.
Sanitation Standards
All licensed professionals must follow strict sanitation guidelines in order to operate. Again, the specific regulations depend on your state of residence, but here are some basic sanitation guidelines ALL professionals should follow:
Wash your hands often
Sanitize your products (Pour 70% isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle to disinfect)
Use disposable applicators + no double-dipping
Keep your work area clean of food, drink, or clutter
Always keep in mind that your sanitation regulations can and will be randomly inspected by state boards. Keep your areas clean and sanitary at all times to avoid any mishaps with clients or fines by the state.
What If I Travel For Work?
If you are a traveling makeup artist then there are extra guidelines you might need to follow as well. Each state has different regulations regarding licensing across states, so be sure to check with the state you are traveling to. Certain states will allow you to use your existing license or even no license at all to operate, while other states will require a temporary permit for visiting artists. Freelance artists may not fall under any licensing laws as well.
What If I Don’t Follow My States Requirements?
Following your state's requirements is incredibly important in working as a makeup artist. If you do not get the required licenses/certifications per your state then you are going to be faced with fines, legal action, and cease-and-desist orders. Is it worth your business getting shut down, and your reputation being tarnished to not get licensed? Not to mention if you do decide to get licensed after being caught operating unlicensed, you will run into even more issues. Don’t risk your career over a simple license/certification. Get it done and out of the way as soon as you can.
How Can I Continue Education After I Get Licensed?
Online Courses: Purchasing online courses that help you master your artistry is one of the greatest ways to perfect your skills. Many amazing professionals take the time to create personalized courses from their knowledge and experience for other artists to learn. Also, once you purchase a course you have access to it anytime you need to reference it!
Masterclasses And Workshops: Attending in-person events like master classes and workshops allows you to network with other professionals in your industry and gives you hands-on experience. You can ask questions, and in some cases even practice the skills they are teaching right then and there.
Brand Training: Many popular brands offer training on their latest products, helping artists understand the formula and how/when to use it. This helps artists learn the science behind makeup and gives them a new skill to add! Many people use makeup products not as intended, which can take away their effectiveness, so learning how to use products from the professionals who created them is perfect.
Trade Shows And Conferences: Attend large networking events like IECSC, WIPA, or Premiere Beauty Show Group to learn from multiple professionals at once. Learn what their favorite products are, listen to them speak, and even watch live demonstrations. Eventually, you can work your way up to not just attending, but speaking or educating at them!
More Certifications: There are thousands of certifications that you can earn to boost your skills. You can get certifications in specialized areas such as airbrushing or permanent makeup, or get more broad certifications to display your artistry.