With a wide variety of makeup artist schools available, pursuing an education in cosmetic application and design can be an easy endeavor. From the simple to the complex, makeup education programs offer a wide variety of exposure to the concepts necessary to become a professional makeup artist. With so many options and expenses, take the time to research and examine the program's opportunities and classes. Be discerning before you hand over any of your hard-earned cash or take out a student loan. Here are some of the most well-known schools that provide training programs specific to makeup artistry.
Seven Well-Known U.S. Makeup Schools
1. Joe Blasco Makeup School
Joe Blasco is a name that is highly respected in the makeup industry and the schools that bear his name are among most well-known makeup artistry training programs in the United States. The programs offered at the Joe Blasco Makeup School are designed to meet the training needs of individuals who want to prepare to work as makeup artists in the entertainment industry. Techniques that made Joe Blasco famous are taught, along with the basics. The school has locations in Hollywood, California and Orlando, Florida. Plans are in the works for a New York location as well. For further information visit JoeBlasco.com.
2. Westmore Academy at Empire
Located in Burbank, California, this academy is owned by Marvin Westmore, a third generation makeup artist. This academy is geared more toward the creative side of makeup artistry and offers programs for individuals with a variety of career goals. Program tracks include options for those who want to work in the entertainment industry as well as those who are interested in salon or bridal makeup careers. Basic programs and short-term workshops are also available.
3. Elegance International
Located in Hollywood, California, Elegance International (EI) School of Professional Makeup was the first accredited professional school of makeup in the United States. Since the beginning in 1966 the school has offered highly-respected training programs designed to teach students the skills and techniques necessary to succeed in the highly competitive makeup industry. In addition to the basic-level programs, EI also offers continuing education courses and master classes. See EI.edu to learn more.
4. The Art of Beauty Makeup School
World renowned for her innovative and unique use of color, makeup artist Linda Mason shares her skills in small group classes as well as private lessons. Each lesson begins with demonstrations followed by hands-on applications with Linda offering plenty of personal attention. Taught in her sunny, Soho, New York Studio, students of all levels will gain valuable knowledge and experience with these exciting classes. For further information, visit LindaMason.com.
5. Douglas Education Center
If your interest is in special effects and movie makeup, the Douglas Education Center in Monessen, Pennsylvania is home to the Tom Savini Special Makeup Effects Program. It is a 16-month Associate degree program designed especially for those who want to work in special effects makeup for performances and movies, well as in show and exhibit design. It includes training on makeup application and a variety of topics specific to special effects, including mold making, animation fabrication, and exhibit and display design. You can learn more about the program at DEC.edu.
6. Cinema Makeup School
The Cinema Makeup School in Los Angeles, California offers training programs in many different aspects of the makeup field. Programs include options that provide training specific to working in beauty, high fashion, special effects, digital effects, prosthetics and more. Each training program emphasizes providing students with the skills needed to work in the entertainment industry. See CinemaMakeup.com to learn more.
7. Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry
Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry offers programs in Production Makeup Artistry, Fashion Makeup Artistry and Freelance Makeup Artistry, as well as a Skin Care Program. Individual workshops are also available. See CosmixInc.com to learn more.
Three International Options
1. Blanche MacDonald Centre (Canada)
Located in Vancouver, Canada, the Blanche MacDonald Centre is one of the leading makeup artistry schools in Canada. The school has been offering training in the field of makeup artistry since 1960 and also also offers degrees in fashion design, merchandising, hair, nails, esthetics and more. BlancheMacdonald.com to learn more.
2. Delmar Academy (UK)
Located in the United Kingdom, this school attracts students from all over the globe. Known for its high educational standards, small class sizes and interactive experience with professional makeup artists, Delmar is validated through the Middlesex University. With specialty programs in film, theatre and fashion it also provides an integrated registered Agency to help graduates find employment. For further information, see DelmarAcademy.co.uk.
3. SOMA (Canada)
Founded in 1978, the School of Makeup Art (SOMA) is registered and approved by Ontario's Ministry of Education and Training. The school offers two diploma programs: (1) Extensive Makeup Design and (2) Makeup and Fashion Image. Both programs focus on providing the training and skills needed for students to pursue careers that involved working with costume, theatrical and special effects makeup. Visit SchoolOfMakeupart.com for additional information.
Other Educational Options
While there are schools that focus specifically on makeup artistry, such as those described here, there are other avenues to develop your career in this field. Many cosmetic and skin care organizations offer training programs. A great example is Aveda who provides classes and schooling for potential makeup artists. Smaller local beauty schools and community colleges may also provide a more convenient route to gaining the skills necessary to pursue a career in this field. Contact the Board of Cosmetology in your state to locate licensed schools in your area. You can also search for schools and training programs on BeautySchoolsDirectory.com.
