Makeup Artist
Makeup artists apply cosmetics to enhance or alter the appearance of individuals. They work in various settings including salons, fashion shows, photo shoots, and special events.To pursue this career, a professional makeup artist qualification or a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy or Makeup Artistry from institutions like City & Guilds or VTCT is often required. Creative talent and a good understanding of skin types and tones are essential. For support and resources, the UK organisation The Makeup Artist Network offers training and networking opportunities. An interesting fact: Makeup artistry dates back to ancient Egypt, where both men and women used makeup as a symbol of wealth and status.

Special Effects Makeup Artist
Special effects (SFX) makeup artists use prosthetics, latex, and other materials to create realistic wounds, monsters, and other visual effects for film, television, and theatre. To become an SFX artist, one can study courses like a Foundation Degree in Special Effects Makeup Artistry or a Level 3 Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects, and Media Makeup Artistry.  The UK-based organisation The British Association of Skin Camouflage provides resources and support. Fun fact: The legendary makeup artist Jack Pierce created the iconic look for Boris Karloffs Frankenstein in 1931 using cotton, collodion, and gum.

Beauty Advisor

Beauty advisors work in retail environments, helping customers choose products that suit their skin type and preferences. They often need a background in beauty therapy or customer service, and a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Beauty Consultancy can be beneficial. Excellent communication and sales skills are essential. Organisations like The British Beauty Council offer industry support and networking. An interesting tidbit: Beauty advisors not only recommend products but also keep up with the latest beauty trends and innovations to provide the best advice to their clients.

Theatrical Makeup Artist
Theatrical makeup artists design and apply makeup for stage performances, creating looks that convey character and mood. They often work closely with costume and lighting departments. A background in theatre or a qualification such as a Level 3 Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects, and Media Makeup Artistry is typically needed. The National Association of Screen Make-up Artists and Hairdressers (NASMAH) offers resources and support for professionals in this field. Fun fact: Theatrical makeup has to be more exaggerated than everyday makeup due to the distance between the performers and the audience, as well as the effects of stage lighting.

Film/TV Makeup Artist
Film and TV makeup artists ensure that actors look they're best on camera, applying both standard makeup and special effects as needed. They often work long hours on set. Relevant qualifications include a Level 3 Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects, and Media Makeup Artistry, and experience in film or television production is beneficial. The ScreenSkills organisation offers training and career development opportunities in the UK. An intriguing fact: Continuity is crucial in film and TV makeup, requiring artists to meticulously document their work to ensure consistency between takes.

Fashion Makeup Artist
Fashion makeup artists create cutting-edge looks for models in photoshoots, runway shows, and advertising campaigns. They need to be up-to-date with current trends and possess a creative flair. A Level 3 Diploma in Fashion, Theatre and Media Hair and Makeup Studies or similar qualification is typically required. The 
Fashion & Textile Museum in London offers inspiration and learning opportunities. Interesting fact: Fashion makeup artists often collaborate with designers and photographers to create cohesive visual stories that enhance the overall aesthetic of a fashion line or campaign.

Bridal Makeup Artist
Bridal makeup artists specialise in creating flawless, long-lasting looks for brides on their wedding day. They often run their own business and need excellent customer service skills. Relevant qualifications include a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy or Makeup Artistry. Organisations like 
The Guild of Professional Beauty Therapists provide support and professional development. An interesting fact: Bridal makeup artists must be adept at managing stress and time efficiently, as they often work under tight schedules and high emotional stakes to ensure the bride looks perfect.

Editorial Makeup Artist
Editorial makeup artists work on photoshoots for magazines, creating diverse and often avant-garde looks to complement the vision of the publication. They usually have a background in fashion or beauty and possess strong creative and technical skills. A Level 3 Diploma in Fashion, Theatre and Media Hair and Makeup Studies is useful for this role. The British Association of Journalists offers networking opportunities that can be valuable. Fun fact: Editorial makeup artists often get to experiment with bold and unconventional styles that push the boundaries of traditional makeup artistry.

Prosthetic Makeup Artist
Prosthetic makeup artists design and create prosthetic pieces to transform actors into characters with non-human features or severe injuries. This role requires detailed knowledge of materials like silicone and latex, as well as artistic skills. A higher education qualification, such as a Foundation Degree or Bachelors Degree in Special Effects Makeup or Prosthetics, is often necessary. The British Prosthetics Society provides resources and professional support. Interesting fact: Prosthetic makeup artists often work closely with animatronics experts and costume designers to create seamless, lifelike characters.

Body Painter
Body painters use the human body as their canvas, creating intricate designs for artistic, commercial, or entertainment purposes. They need a steady hand and a creative eye, with many learning through art courses or specialised body painting workshops. Qualifications can include a Level 3 Diploma in Makeup Artistry or courses in fine arts. The World Bodypainting Association offers competitions, resources, and networking for body painters. Fascinating fact: Body painting has been practiced for thousands of years across various cultures, often used in rituals and celebrations.

Getting into media makeup can be a brilliant, rewarding and exciting area for young people to pursue here is some useful information for you to look into. 

Great educational routes

Theatrical, Special Effects and Media Make-up Artistry, Level 3 at various colleges like