Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
O*NET 39-5091.00 · SOC 39-5091
Makeup Artist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $97k a year with +6.1% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 600 openings a year. AI exposure: Low.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Apply stage makeup to actors before performances.
- →Create special effects like wounds, aging, or fantasy looks.
- →Review scripts to plan character makeup designs.
- →Remove makeup from performers after shows end.
- →Mix and match cosmetics to achieve specific skin tones.
Education & How to Get In
Most Makeup Artist positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Creative, studios, agencies, or remote
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Makeup Artist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Makeup Artist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Makeup Artist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance is projected to grow 6.1% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·43% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·25% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Makeup Artist make?
The median Makeup Artist earns $97k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Makeup Artist jobs?
Our model puts Makeup Artist at 12 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is low risk, AI-resistant. The main drivers: 43% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; 25% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Makeup Artist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 6.1% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Makeup Artist?
Most Makeup Artist roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Makeup Artist?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Makeup Artist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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