Makeup Artistry Certification- How important is it?

Some information on certification that most don’t know:

It’s great to have a certificate. But how important is it? Do I really need a certificate to work as a makeup artist?

 

Most people confuse certification with a license. The only way to get a license is to become a cosmetologist. This means that you are going to school for about two years and you will learn not only makeup but skin care, hair care, nail care…

If you’re focused goal is to work as a freelance makeup artist, a license is not necessary (depending on the state you may need a license to apply makeup in spas or salons). But, if you want to work on film sets, photo shoots, makeup counters, or work privately finding your own clients you DO NOT need to be licensed.

So what is Certification?

The certification is only proof that you took and passed a course. It is not proof of your ability or knowledge, since some courses will issue you a certificate simply based on attendance. Most schools or courses will have you pass a test to receive certification, the questions are mainly comprised of basic information covered in the course and usually it is pass/fail. You don’t legally need a certificate to practice makeup artistry.

A certificate is good to have as an addition but it’s not that important as it won’t secure you clients. A great portfolio will ensure you’re never out of work.

Imagine you are a bride looking for a makeup artist. If one artist had a certificate from an amazing school but an ok portfolio and another artist didn’t have a certificate at all but had a breath taking portfolio who would you choose? Of course you would pick the one with the portfolio because it’s proof that she knows what she’s doing and will make you look beautiful. The artist with the certificate can prove she’s been tested and may know the technicalities but you wouldn’t hire because she’s just not as good an artist.

With that said, the best scenario is to have both a great portfolio and certification. When choosing a course to teach you makeup artistry make sure that you choose wisely. Look at what they offer students as far as real life help. Most courses will say they give you certification, but you want to look at what they offer beyond that. How is the course taught? Does the teacher know his/her stuff? What other resources do they offer? Will they give you insights into working? Will they show you how to put together a memorable portfolio? Or do they just certify you and send you on your way?

Stay beautiful,

Gillian Calmus

 

P.S. For more help on your way to becoming a makeup artist check out The Event Makeup Artist