What do a person have to do to become a make-up artist?

Becoming a makeup artist...?

• I'm 18 years old and have wanted to become a makeup artist for a very long time! I was always put down and never encouraged by my family to do so. I have thought through this and researched other career opportunities but this is what I love and have passion for! I've researched many schools and like most aspiring artists would love to attend MUD in NY! Unfortunately, it's quite expensive and all though I am willing to pay the full price to achieve my goals I have a few questions. 1) I live in Canada so it says I would have to have my high school diploma (which I do) but is there an age requirement? 2) How much experience and knowledge should you already have before attending a makeup academy? (If you're a makeup artist, how much did you have?) 3) Since I live in Canada, is it a better idea to attend a school in Canada or will going to a great school in NY be worth it? (I live in Calgary and having done some research Artists Within was my first bet and all though a very detailed website I could not find many actual reviews! I will be checking out the school in person though. I also checked out Blanche MacDonald, which all though is named the #1 makeup school in Canada there were a lot of negative reviews.) 4) Last but not least...any advice, tips or just anything you'd like to say that might help?! I know this is a long question but I'm very serious about this! I want the best education for my money that will help allow me to get as far as possible in this industry. Thank you so so much!!

• Answer:

  I've had a couple MUA friends who went to MUD and loved it. It's great for someone your age who needs to learn, and you learn it all. Beauty, FX, runway, etc. The life experience of being in NYC is invaluable too...if you want to be an MUA, you will wind up in this city at some point. Since its a school, you don't need much skill, just bring an open mind and a passion to learn and challenge yourself. There shouldn't be an age restriction, as long as you have your diploma. The makeup industry is huge, so it will help to think about what you want to focus on. Are you into fashion/runway, movies, stage, salon/spa, special effects, beauty, bridal? This will help you get a better understanding of what road to take and how to get to your goal. It may help to get a job at a makeup counter too. While you may not want to work there forever, it will teach you a lot about dealing with clients and will give you exposure to working with all skin tones, ages, skin types, etc. Also, learning makeup comes from doing makeup. Grab your friends, experiment with different looks, and take photos. And don't be discouraged if your look doesn't come out perfect the first time. Mistakes are one of the best learning tools. Good luck!