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Retail

Makeup Artist, Theatrical and Performance

Apply makeup to performers to reflect period, setting, and situation of their role.

Annual openings

24

Median wage

n/a

Typical education

Education not reported

Growth 2026–2032

+7%

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

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Typical education

Education not reported

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Work experience

This is an entry-level role so no experience is required.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

Moderate exposure

Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.

A typical day

  1. Apply makeup to enhance or alter the appearance of people appearing in productions such as movies.
  2. Analyze a script, noting events that affect each character's appearance, so that plans can be made for each scene.
  3. Alter or maintain makeup during productions as necessary to compensate for lighting changes or to achieve continuity of effect.
  4. Confer with stage or motion picture officials and performers to determine desired effects.
  5. Requisition or acquire needed materials for special effects, including wigs, beards, and special cosmetics.
  6. Study production information, such as character descriptions, period settings, and situations, to determine makeup requirements.
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