Makeup Artist Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary, Top Recruiters

Updated on Oct 31, 2023 03:45 IST

A Makeup Artist career in India can be rewarding and diverse, catering to various fields like fashion, film, television, bridal, special effects, and more. The Makeup Artist career offers various job opportunities including Bridal Makeup Artist, Fashion Makeup Artist, Theater and Stage Makeup Artist, Freelance Makeup Artist, Special Effects Makeup Artist, Celebrity Makeup Artist, etc. 

The Makeup Artist salary offered at entry-level positions ranges between INR 60,000 - 2 LPA, for mid-level profiles INR 2 - 4 LPA and for senior-level profiles INR 4 - 12 LPA. After pursuing a Makeup Artist degree, candidates can either go for jobs or choose some further course options such as Advanced Makeup Artistry, Cosmetology, Esthetician, Hairstyling course, Massage and Spa Therapy course, Fashion Styling, Diet and Nutrition, etc.

The popular institutes where candidates can pursue Makeup Artist courses are Lakme Academy, Pearl Academy, Asian Academy of Film & Television, ISAS International Beauty School, etc. Usually, Makeup Artists do freelancing but there are many top makeup and cosmetics companies which employ Makeup Artist graduates such as L'Oréal, Fabindia, MAC, etc.

Also Read: Lakme Certification Courses 2023-24: Duration, Desired Skills & Benefits

Top Makeup Artist Careers

Makeup artistry is a versatile field with various career opportunities in India. Here are some of the top makeup artist careers in the country:

Job Profiles

Description

Average Salary (in INR)

Bridal Makeup Artist

Bridal makeup is a highly sought-after service in India. Bridal makeup artists specialize in creating stunning looks for brides on their wedding day. 

3.5 LPA

Fashion Makeup Artist

Fashion makeup artists work in the fashion industry, collaborating with models, designers, and photographers.

3.5 LPA

Film and Television Makeup Artist

Makeup artists in the film and television industry are responsible for creating looks for actors and actresses. 

5 LPA

Theatre and Stage Makeup Artist

Theatre makeup artists work on stage productions, including plays, musicals, and operas. 

4 LPA

Celebrity Makeup Artist

Some makeup artists in India have built careers by working with celebrities. 

9 LPA

Special Effects Makeup Artist

Use prosthetics, moulds, and makeup techniques to create special effects for movies, TV shows, theatre productions, and haunted attractions.

3.5 LPA

Editorial/Print Makeup Artist

Work on photo shoots for magazines, advertisements, and catalogues, creating makeup looks that fit the specific aesthetic of the shoot.

3.5 LPA

Makeup Tutorial Content Creator/Influencer

Utilize social media platforms to create makeup tutorials, reviews, and beauty-related content, potentially partnering with brands for sponsored content.

3.6 LPA

Note: The salary data has been sourced from Ambitionbox.com.

Also Read: Diploma Courses in Beauty after 10th, 12th: Colleges, Eligibility, Required Skills & Jobs

Specialisation-Wise Makeup Artist Salary in India

In India, makeup artist courses often offer various specializations to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of aspiring makeup artists. These specializations allow students to focus on specific areas of makeup artistry and develop expertise in those fields. 

Here's a general overview of specialization-wise annual salary ranges for Makeup artist professionals in India:

Specialisations

Average Package (in INR)

Bridal Makeup

3.5 LPA

Fashion Makeup

3.5 LPA

Film and Television Makeup

5 LPA

Theatre and Stage Makeup

4 LPA

Special Effects Makeup

12LPA

Airbrush Makeup

3 LPA

High Fashion and Editorial Makeup

6 LPA

SFX and Horror Makeup

8.9 LPA

Also Read: 

10 Career Options in the Beauty Industry

List of Courses offered by Loreal Academy

Top Makeup Artist Recruiters

In India, the makeup industry has been growing rapidly, and there are various recruiters who hire makeup artists for a wide range of opportunities. 

Here are some top makeup artist recruiters in India:

Top Recruiters

Lakmé Lever Pvt. Ltd.

VLCC Health Care Ltd.

Television Channels

Bollywood Film Industry

Fashion Industry

E-commerce Companies

Celebrity Management Agencies

Beauty Pageants

MAC

Bobbi Brown

Smashbox

Gucci

Also Read: Beautician Salary in India 2023: Monthly Salary, Annual Income, Career Options

Top Makeup Artist Colleges: Jobs and Salary

There are several reputable Makeup Artist colleges and institutions in India where one can receive formal training in makeup artistry

Here are some of the top makeup artist colleges in India along with their average packages:

College Name

Average Package (in INR)

JD Institute of Fashion Technology- Corporate Center

3 LPA

Pro International Beauty and Skill School

2.4 LPA

ISAS International Beauty School, Pune

-

ISAS International Beauty School, Ahmedabad

-

Orane International School of Beauty and Wellness

-

Pearl Academy

-

Lakme Academy

-

Jawed Habib Hair and Beauty Academy

-

Also Read: Top Makeup Artist Courses in India: Duration, Eligibility, Colleges and Career

How to Get a Job After Pursuing a Makeup Artist Course?

Getting a job as a Makeup Artist in India after completing a Makeup Artist course requires a combination of practical skills, networking, and job search strategies. 

Here are steps to help you secure a job in the makeup industry:

 

  • Step 1. Build a Strong Portfolio

 

Create a portfolio that showcases your best work. Include photographs of different makeup styles, such as bridal, fashion, editorial, special effects, and more. 

 

  • Step 2. Complete Internships or Apprenticeships

 

Look for internships or apprenticeship opportunities with experienced makeup artists, salons, or production companies. 

 

  • Step 3. Network and Connect

 

Attend beauty and fashion events, industry workshops, and makeup artist meetups. 

 

  • Step 4. Job Search Online

 

Use online job portals and platforms to search for makeup artist job openings in your preferred location.

 

  • Step 5. Apply to Salons and Beauty Establishments

 

Reach out to salons in your area and submit your resume and portfolio. 

 

  • Step 6. Approach Makeup Brands

 

Some makeup brands hire makeup artists as brand ambassadors, product demonstrators, or trainers. 

You might want to know:

Types of Beautician and Makeup Courses in India

Best Bridal Makeup Artists in India

Top 10 Indian Makeup Artists

Top Indian Cities to Get Lucrative Jobs After Makeup Artist Degree

After completing a Makeup Artist degree in India, candidates may find lucrative job opportunities in various cities across the country. 

Here are some top Indian cities known for offering lucrative Makeup Artist jobs in India:

Major Cities

Average Salary (in INR)

Hyderabad

4 LPA

Bengaluru

6 LPA

Pune

3 LPA

Mumbai

6 LPA

Vadodara

3 LPA

Delhi/Delhi-NCR

3.6 LPA

Kolkata

3.3 LPA

Know more: Top 5 Beauty & Cosmetology Schools in India

Makeup Artist Salary Abroad

Makeup Artist salary abroad can vary significantly based on factors such as the country, speciality, level of experience, and the local beauty industry. Here's a general overview of the median Makeup Artist salary in a few countries:

Country

Salary Offered

Canada

  • Entry-Level: CAD 20,000 - CAD 40,000 per year
  • Mid-Level: CAD 30,000 - CAD 60,000 per year
  • Senior-Level: CAD 40,000 - CAD 80,000 per year

Germany

  • Entry-Level: €30,000 - €60,000 per year
  • Mid-Level: €60,000 - €700,000 per year
  • Senior-Level: €75,000 and above per year

Australia

  • Entry-Level: AUD 20,000 - AUD 35,000 per year
  • Mid-Level: AUD 30,000 - AUD 50,000 per year
  • Senior-Level: AUD 40,000 - AUD 70,000 per year

United States

  • Entry-Level: $20,000 - $40,000 per year
  • Mid-Level: $30,000 - $60,000 per year
  • Senior-Level: $40,000 - $80,000 per year

United Kingdom

  • Entry-Level: £15,000 - £25,000 per year
  • Mid-Level: £25,000 - £40,000 per year
  • Senior-Level: £30,000 - £60,000 per year

Note: The above salary data has been obtained from external sites

Read More:

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Is Cosmetology a Good Career?

Which academy is best VLCC or Lakme?

Makeup artist Careers FAQs

Q. Is a Makeup Artist a good career option?

A. Yes, a Makeup Artist career can be a viable and fulfilling option in India for individuals who have a passion for beauty, creativity, and aesthetics. However, whether it's a good career option depends on various factors, including your interests, skills, and the specific market conditions in India. 

Here are some points to consider when evaluating a Makeup Artist career choice in India:

  • Creativity and Artistry: Makeup artistry allows you to express your creativity and artistic skills. You can transform individuals, enhance their natural beauty, and create unique looks for different occasions and settings.
  • High Demand: There is a growing demand for makeup artists in India, particularly in the bridal and fashion sectors. 
  • Flexible Work Options: Makeup artists often have flexibility in their work schedules. 
  • Skill Development: The makeup industry is dynamic, and there's always something new to learn. 
  • High Earning Potential: As an experienced makeup artist, you can earn a substantial income, especially in metropolitan areas and for specialized services like bridal makeup or special effects.

Q. What is the highest salary of a makeup artist?

A. Makeup Artist salary in India ranges between INR 0.3 Lakh to INR 6.0 Lakh with an average annual salary of INR 3.5 Lakh.

The highest salary of a makeup artist in India can vary significantly based on various factors, including experience, expertise, specialization, location, and clientele. Some makeup artists who have gained exceptional recognition, especially in the film and fashion industries, can earn substantial incomes. 

However, it's challenging to pinpoint the exact highest salary, as it can be variable and influenced by individual circumstances.

Q. Is makeup a skill or talent?

A. Makeup can be both a skill and a talent. 

Makeup as a skill refers to the ability to apply makeup effectively, using techniques, tools, and products to create various looks. 

Talent, in the context of makeup, often refers to a natural ability or aptitude for the art. Some individuals have an innate sense of aesthetics, an eye for colour, and an intuitive understanding of facial features that make them exceptionally skilled makeup artists.

In many cases, both skill and talent can work together to make a successful makeup artist. Makeup artists with a talent for creativity and aesthetics can enhance their abilities through formal training and experience. Meanwhile, those who initially lack a natural talent for makeup can still become highly skilled through dedication and practice.

Q. What is the highest qualification in makeup?

A. The Advanced Diploma in Pro Makeup Artistry is the highest qualification one can pursue. 

An Advanced Diploma in Pro Makeup Artistry is an advanced-level makeup artistry program that provides comprehensive training in professional makeup techniques and skills. This diploma course is typically designed for individuals who have completed basic makeup courses or have some prior experience in makeup artistry and want to further enhance their expertise in the field.

Q. What is the salary of a makeup artist in India?

A. The annual salary of a makeup artist in India can vary significantly based on several factors, including experience, location, specialization, and clientele. Here's a general overview of the annual salaries for makeup artists in India at different experience levels:

  • Entry-Level: INR 1.5 - 3 LPA
  • Mid-Level: INR 3 - 6 LPA
  • Senior-Level: INR 4 - 8 LPA

Popular Makeup Artist Course Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Makeup Artist Course Colleges in India. Learn more about these Makeup Artist Course colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.

Popular Private Makeup Artist Course Colleges in India

1 Course
60 K
1 Course
2.32 L

Makeup & Beautician Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
3.58 L

Makeup & Beautician Applications open. Apply Now

Popular Makeup Artist Course UG Courses

Following are the most popular Makeup Artist Course UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Makeup Artist Course PG Courses

Following are the most popular Makeup Artist Course PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Makeup Artist Course. Students interested in pursuing a career on Makeup Artist Course, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

Feb '25 - Apr '25

CUET 2025 Application Process

TENTATIVE

Apr '25

CUET UG 2025 Application Form Correction

TENTATIVE

1 Feb ' 25 - 31 Mar ' 25

IPU CET 2025 Application Form Availability

Mar '25

IPU CET 2025 Release of Admit Card

TENTATIVE
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