Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Makeup Artist
What makeup artists actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Arrive on set and set up the makeup trailer. From there, the day usually includes consult with directors, performers or clients, design looks for characters or events, and apply makeup and prosthetics. Hours are irregular, with very early calls and long days on productions; freelance work varies.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a makeup artist working full time.
- Arrive on set and set up the makeup trailer.
- Apply makeup to the lead actor and photograph it for continuity.
- Apply an aging prosthetic to another actor.
- Touch up between takes.
- Adjust makeup for a lighting change.
- Remove prosthetics safely.
- Clean the kit and prepare for tomorrow.
Where makeup artists work
Makeup artists work on film sets, in theaters, studios, salons and at events, often on location.
Hours and schedule
Hours are irregular, with very early calls and long days on productions; freelance work varies.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Consult with directors, performers or clients
- Design looks for characters or events
- Apply makeup and prosthetics
- Maintain continuity during shoots
- Touch up between scenes
- Sanitize brushes and kits
- Build and update a portfolio
Tools you’ll use every day
- Makeup kits and brushes
- Airbrush systems
- Prosthetic adhesives and removers
- Continuity cameras
- Set chairs and lighting
- Sanitizers
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Creative, artistic work
- Exciting productions and events
- High pay in film and TV
- Freelance freedom
What’s hard
- Irregular, freelance work
- Long days and early calls
- Competitive entry
- Building a portfolio takes time
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I’m artistic
- I love transformation and character
- I can handle long, irregular days
- I like teamwork on set
- I’m comfortable networking
- I want creative freelance work
Not sure? Take the free Makeup Artist fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Sanitize brushes and avoid double-dipping
- Patch test adhesives and products
- Use ventilation with airbrush and solvents
- Remove prosthetics gently