What You Will Learn at a School for Makeup

What you will learn at a school for makeup depends on the type of program in which you choose to enroll. That said, there are fundamental elements to all makeup artistry programs.

Most programs begin by introducing professional and commercial tools and equipment. Along with familiarizing students with tools of the trade, sanitation and health concerns are reviewed. This is especially important in the makeup artist industry where cross-contamination is easily possible. Some programs also cover union regulations, which may be applicable in the film and entertainment industries.

Makeup products are commonly evaluated early in a program. A makeup school may provide a makeup kit that is included in tuition fees or provide a supplies list to students for their own purchase. In either event, different types of makeup that work best for particular circumstances are taught.

Students learn about skin analysis and skin types. Skin conditions are examined. The purpose of these topics is so students can learn how to conduct a complete skin assessment and choose proper makeup products based on their conclusions.

Understanding the principles of the theory of color is vital to a makeup artist. Without a solid background in color theory, coordinating color tones effectively is impossible. Seasonal shades and warm and cool tones form part of color theory. A color wheel may be used as a tool.

Makeup is commonly used for corrective reasons. Therefore, students learn about face shapes and bone structure. How a makeup artist applies makeup techniques is reliant on the initial analysis of facial shapes and structures.

Corrective makeup techniques occupy a large segment of a program. Virtually every aspect of a face can be corrected through proper techniques. For instance, eyes come in a multitude of shapes: close set; wide set; almond; droopy; deep-set; protruding; small; large; large-lidded; and Asian. For each type of eyes, there are specific techniques that emphasize strong points and draw attention away from weaknesses. Eyeliner can drastically change the appearance of eyes and permit the model to have a different look for distinct occasions. False eyelashes are popular and students are taught application procedures.

Eyebrows are another influential focal point. Makeup artists can shape eyebrows through tweezing and trimming. This, too, can make a dramatic difference in the model's appearance.

Overall facial sculpting with cream and powder by highlighting, contouring, and shading can define jaw lines, reduce the appearance of double chins, create the illusion of cheekbones, narrow noses, bring a softness to the face, or, alternatively, sharpen features.

Lips can be redefined by thinning, plumping, and reshaping techniques and students learn which colors to apply to this all important feature.

Lighting can affect makeup in a negative way. Types of lighting and its influence on the appearance of makeup applications is an important subject.

A fundamental makeup artistry program is not all theory; students are allotted hands-on time. The instructor may give demonstrations to illustrate course materials. Some programs have models, while other programs utilize fellow students as models.

A well-rounded program touches upon client relationships. Applying makeup to a model is a somewhat intimate procedure. The ability to feel comfortable touching another sometimes needs practical experience to develop. A relaxed attitude, with friendly small talk, puts the model at ease as well. These capabilities leave a good impression, which is paramount in an industry dominated by personalities and communications.

The final project in fundamental makeup programs is a portfolio development. This is a necessity for any makeup artist who hopes to enter the field. Pictures speak clearer than words and, to a prospective employer, portfolio photographs are essential.

What you will learn at a school for makeup will set you on the footpath to a successful career in makeup artistry.