Makeup is an art. And like any art, it can be learned.
But then, how and in how much time can you learn makeup?
It depends on several factors that we explain in detail in this article.
1 – Why learn to apply makeup?
Makeup is a practice that involves using different products to enhance/change one’s appearance and/or to express oneself.
There are different types and levels of makeup:
– casual makeup looks:
light makeup that can be worn on a daily basis.
Their main purpose will be to highlight the features that we like, with relatively simple techniques.
– event makeup:
which will be more accentuated and detailed than the “daily look” and which requires a more skillful hand.
– artistic makeup:
which does not necessarily align with the usual beauty standards but is mainly used to express a specific message (bodypainting, special effects makeup, etc.)
Developing this skill can bring you many benefits.
- On a daily basis, knowing how to show yourself off will significantly increase your self-confidence.
- It will also help you save money for special occasions, as you won’t have to pay a professional.
- If this field fascinates you, the makeup industry is also rich in opportunities: requests from individuals increase every year (from independents or institutes), and makeup has its unbeatable place in the entertainment field (cinema, shows of all kinds, etc.)
2 – How long can it take?
The learning time needed will depend on your goals. Why do you want to learn makeup?
To boost your everyday look?
To be able to pull out all the stops for big events?
To become a makeup artist?
While a few weeks of practice will be enough for you to be able to perfectly achieve a light daytime makeup, it will take more time (perhaps a few months) to master more complex techniques.
And several years to become a professional capable of adapting to the different faces that will be entrusted to you.
In addition, since makeup is a practice based on aesthetics and creativity, some people may have a natural appetite for this area, and thus learn more quickly.
Previous experiences in similar activities can also greatly help in learning. People who draw or paint, for example, will find it easier to develop this skill.
Those who have worked in the field of Beauty (hairdressing, cosmetics, etc.) may also have gained practical knowledge for makeup from these experiences.
3 – How can we learn?
If you want to learn for personal use, it is possible to be self-taught thanks to the various tutorials and articles that you find on the subject (our Instagram is full of them, in case of need …). On the other hand, the journey will be longer if you decide to do it alone. You will have to experiment a lot to find the techniques and looks that are most suitable for you, because not everything you can find on the Internet will necessarily be adequate for your unique features.
Workshops and private classes are also an excellent way to discover the basics of this art. They generally last between 2 hours and a day, depending on the program you choose; and can be done alone or in a group. These are sessions where you are accompanied by professionals, who will give you personalized advice, which will reduce the time spent researching and experimenting.
Want to learn on your own ?
Our online course will help you to achieve amazing looks.
In both cases, the key to mastering makeup is practice. You can find a lot of theoretical information, but it is necessary to get your hand used to it for the best results.
If you want to become a professional, there are academic paths that are more suitable and that provide you with the necessary certifications to work in institutes. Major brands also offer training for professionals.
We advise you to find out about the necessary certificates depending on the country in which you are or want to work, and to choose your training institute accordingly.
Find more specific tips for professionnal makeup artists in our special section.
