Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance

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

SOC: 39-5091.00

Common Job Titles

Hair and Makeup DesignerMakeup ArtistSpecial Effects Makeup ArtistSpecial Makeup Effects Artist
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

3,320

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$22,010
10% of workers earn the following or more$157,090
Workers on average earn$75,410

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
  • English Language3.6/5
  • Administration and Management3.5/5
  • Fine Arts3.3/5
  • Design3.2/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Adobe PhotoshopFacebookIntuit QuickBooksMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft Outlook

Technology Skills

Appointment scheduling softwareAutodesk MayaAutodesk MudboxBlogging softwareBookitliveClear BooksClient databasesCustomer relationship management CRM software

Tools & Equipment

Airbrushing toolsAngle brushesAngle linersBrow brushesChisel brushesColored contact lensesContour brushesDigital still cameras