Some Make Up Artists also rent a chair in a hair and beauty salon or health spa.

Key areas of work include bridal and special occasion make-up, fashion/editorial make-up for magazine photo shoots and runway events, theatrical make-up for stage productions, camouflage skincare to conceal scars and skin conditions, and special effects (FX) make-up, such as trauma make-up and the application of prosthetics. Some make-up artists also give lessons to clients in how to apply make-up more professionally.

Make-up artists are not subject to statutory regulation in the UK. However, some local authorities across the UK impose licensing requirements on make-up artists who carry out semi-permanent make-up application or provide micropigmentation services, both in relation to their premises and the make-up artists themselves.

This profile provides information about starting up and trading as a make-up artist. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.