The beauty industry is full of trends, techniques, and unfortunately, a lot of myths. With TikTok tutorials, old-school advice, and viral “rules,” it’s easy for misinformation to stick around. As professional makeup artists, we hear many of the same misconceptions from clients again and again. Let’s clear a few of them up.

Myth 1: “Professional Makeup Will Make Me Look Overdone”

Truth: Professional makeup is customized for you.

Many clients worry that booking a professional artist automatically means full glam. We’ve all heard “don’t make me look like a clown”... In reality, a trained makeup artist should tailor every look to your features, preferences, comfort level, and the occasion. Natural, soft, and “no-makeup makeup” are just as much a professional skill as bold glam.

Myth 2: “My Foundation Has to Match My Hand”

Truth: Your foundation should match your neck and chest, not your hands.

Hands are often darker due to sun exposure and daily activity. Matching your face to your neck and chest creates the most seamless, natural look.

Myth 3: “More Product Means Better Coverage”

Truth: Better technique = better coverage.

Layering too much product often causes cakiness, creasing, and poor wear time. Professionals focus on thin, controlled layers and proper blending to achieve flawless coverage that still looks like skin.

Myth 4: “Anyone Can Do Professional Makeup with the Right Products”

Truth: Products help - but training and technique are what create professional results.

Two people can use the exact same product and get completely different outcomes. Professional makeup relies on understanding:

• Facial anatomy

• Skin types

• Color theory

• Light theory

Tools don’t replace education.

Myth 5: “Airbrush Makeup Is Always Better”

Truth: Airbrush is just one technique - not automatically the best one.

Airbrush works beautifully for some skin types and events, but traditional brush and sponge application can deliver equal or even better results depending on the client’s skin texture, coverage needs, and event conditions.

Myth 6: “If It Looks Good in Person, It’ll Look Good in Photos”

Truth: Photography requires different makeup than real life.

Lighting, flash, and camera lenses can wash out features. This is why professional makeup often looks a little “stronger” in person - it’s designed to translate beautifully on camera.

Myth 7: “Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer”

Truth: All skin types need hydration.

Skipping moisturizer can actually cause oily skin to produce more oil. Balanced, hydrated skin is the foundation of long-lasting makeup—no matter your skin type.

Myth 8: “One Contour Technique Works for Every Face”

Truth: Makeup is not one-size-fits-all.

Face shape, eye shape, and bone structure all matter. A true professional analyzes each clients bone structure before choosing contour and highlight placements for each look instead of copying trends exactly as seen online.

The Bottom Line

Great makeup isn’t about following rigid rules or viral “hacks.” It’s about training, customization, technique, and communication. Whether you love minimal, soft glam or full bold glamour, the best makeup is the makeup that makes you feel confident.

If you’ve ever believed one of these myths, you’re not alone. And now you know the truth.

As Thanksgiving is a reminder of all there is to be thankful for, we can’t help but feel overwhelmingly grateful for the community that surrounds Make Up First. Our students, grads, instructors, and supporters are truly the heart of everything we do. This school has always been more than a place to learn, it’s a place to grow, connect, and belong.

Every message of support, every shared success, and every moment of collaboration reminds us how special this community is. We’ve watched students become artists, artists become leaders, and friendships form that last far beyond the classroom.

Thank you for trusting us with your education, for showing up with passion, and for keeping this community vibrant and strong. We are so thankful for each and every one of you and wish you all a wonderful holiday season.

If there’s one thing the beauty world never does, it’s stand still. Trends cycle, evolve, collide, and repeat. After what seems like an eternity of the “clean girl” makeup era, I have to say, I got a little excited when I saw a few nods to full glam makeup really making a comeback. I fell in love with the “rock star girlfriend" trend. When I experimented with that trend on myself, I realized when I looked in the mirror that I was staring at the 2016 version of myself again. Following that, I kept seeing more full glam looks on my FYP which leads me to a bold prediction: is 2016 makeup is coming back in 2026? I’m a little apprehensive to see block brows back in style if this were to be true, but bringing back all the drama that defined the beauty scene nearly a decade ago sounds kind of thrilling, right?

As someone who started my career as a makeup artist in 2016, I can’t help but smile at this full-circle moment. That era shaped so many of us - it was the time when artistry became mainstream, tutorials exploded, and bold, maximalist expression became the norm. So, seeing creators hinting at its comeback feels like revisiting my roots.

But the conversation around 2016 makeup also highlights something bigger: the ongoing tension and harmony between minimal and maximalist makeup.

The Rise of Minimal Makeup

Minimal makeup has dominated the beauty world over the last few years. Think about it…

• Skin-first, barely-there base

• Cream products that melt into the skin

• Fluffy brows

• Soft, diffused powdery liner

• Glossy lips

• Neutral everything

This look reflects a cultural shift toward ease, authenticity, and embracing natural features. It’s fresh, quick, flattering on everyone, and perfect for everyday wear or clients who want their makeup to enhance and not transform their features.

Minimal makeup isn't simple makeup; it’s strategic makeup. It’s about letting technique and skin prep do the talking.

Maximalist Makeup

On the flip side, maximalist makeup never truly goes out of style, does it? It just waits for its moment.

Maximalist glam is about:

• Full-coverage complexion

• Structured brows

• Contouring and dramatic highlight

• Bold lips

• Clean lines and defined features

• Pops of color

It’s the kind of artistry that made 2016 makeup iconic. This style is unapologetic.

Why not both?

Minimal vs. maximalist makeup isn’t a debate, it’s a spectrum.

Your mood, the occasion, your features, and your personal style can all influence where you land on that spectrum on any given day. Some clients love the softness of minimal glam while others feel their best with full drama. And most float somewhere in between, depending on the moment.

Is 2016 Makeup Really Coming Back?

While I hope the block brows and severely over-lined lips stay retired, if my predictions are right, 2026 may be the year that bold, structured glam re-enters the spotlight. And honestly? I welcome it.

Having started my career in 2016, seeing those trends resurface feels nostalgic and exciting. It’s a reminder of how far the industry has come and I think mixing what we’ve learned during the “clean girl” era with the bold styles of 2016 might just be the perfect combo.

Whether you love a minimal look, live for maximal glam, or switch between both, there’s room for every style in the beauty world. And if 2016 really is making a comeback… get your liquid lipsticks ready!

Natural talent isn’t always enough.

If you want to be a pro MUA, you need skill, dedication, and knowledge of how to run a business.

Why business knowledge is just as important as makeup skills for aspiring makeup artists

Becoming a successful makeup artist requires far more than mastering makeup techniques. In today’s competitive beauty industry, business knowledge is just as essential as artistic talent. Understanding how to manage, market, and grow your business can make all the difference when building your career.

Makeup artistry IS a business

Many new makeup artists enter the makeup industry driven by creativity and the desire to spend days working on set or at glamorous wedding venues - but soon discover that also means being your own business manager. From marketing and managing finances, to handling contracts and scheduling, a solid grasp of business fundamentals is essential to operate efficiently and professionally.

Here’s what it takes…

Marketing

In the age of social media, visibility is everything. Knowing how to market yourself online through consistent branding and smart use of platforms like Instagram or TikTok is necessary to stand out in a crowded market. Understanding your target audience and learning how to promote your services effectively turns followers into paying clients.

Financial management

Artistry may be your passion, but without smart financial management, it’s difficult to turn that passion into a lasting career. Business-savvy MUAs need to know how to budget for supplies, and set prices that reflect both skill and time. Tracking expenses, saving for taxes, and investing in continuing education ensure that your business remains sustainable year after year.

Building client relationships

Customer service is at the heart of any successful business. Learning how to communicate clearly with clients and provide an easy booking process can elevate your reputation and lead to referrals. A good artist delivers a great makeup look; a great artist delivers a smooth, unforgettable experience along with it.

Thinking long-term

Makeup artistry can open doors to countless paths from working in TV and film, to brand collaborations, education, or even owning your own studio. Business knowledge empowers you to think strategically, identify opportunities, and make decisions that align with your long-term goals.

Talent will open doors, but business skills keep them open. At Make Up First®, we teach both.

For professional makeup artists, Halloween isn’t just another holiday, it’s one of the busiest work days of the year. From early morning bookings to late-night touch-ups, our Make Up First® graduates were in high demand this season, transforming clients into everything from killer clowns to glamorous villains and fantasy creatures.

Each October, we’re reminded of how versatile and talented our graduates are. With that said, of course we have to humbly brag about how talented our grads are by showing you a few of our favorites…

@kyranoelbeauty

@jasminebahenamakeup

@thechicagobroadartistry

@ksnickss

@ksnickss

@kyranoelbeauty

@karlaaasworld

@karlaaasworld

@ejdeckersmakeupera

@ksnickss

@face.by.laylacabrera

@amsmakeupartistry

In today’s social media-driven world, makeup artistry has never been more accessible…or competitive. Between YouTube tutorials, TikTok hacks, and Instagram reels, it’s easy to fall into the belief that becoming a makeup artist is simply about having talent and a good eye. And while there are many incredible self-taught artists out there, there’s a big difference between being good at makeup and being professionally trained.

Here’s the truth: while certification isn’t required to become a makeup artist, investing in a formal education can set you apart in ways that self-teaching simply can’t.

1. Foundational Skills & Techniques

Professional training offers more than just “how-to” makeup looks. It teaches artists about skin preparation, hygiene, facial anatomy, color theory, corrective techniques, working on all skin tones and types, adapting for lighting and photography, and SO much more. These fundamentals are the backbone of a sustainable career and often missed in self-guided learning.

2. Industry Standards & Sanitation

One of the most crucial components of professional training is learning proper sanitation practices. While attending Make Up First®, you’re taught how to keep your kit sanitary, prevent cross-contamination, and follow protocols that protect your clients. This isn’t just important, it’s non-negotiable when working as a makeup artist.

3. Credibility & Client Trust

While talent is important, professionalism builds trust. When clients are choosing between a certified artist and someone with no formal training, that certification often speaks volumes. It tells them: I take this career seriously. I’ve invested in myself, and I understand what’s required to work at a professional level.

4. Hands-On Experience & Real-World Practice

In a makeup program, you’re working on multiple faces, skin tones, and facial structures—not just your own or your friends’. You get real-time feedback from seasoned instructors who’ve worked in the field. That kind of critique is invaluable and helps you develop much faster than trial and error alone.

5. Networking & Career Opportunities

Make Up First® provides access to job leads, events, photoshoots, and mentorship. You become part of a community of artists, which opens doors to work you might not find on your own. These opportunities can launch careers, and they’re often only available to those with formal training.

6. Confidence in every scenario

Sometimes we run into clients who have certain needs that we wouldn’t necessarily know how to troubleshoot if we haven’t been professionally trained. During our program, we provide hands-on training with all sorts of clinical skin conditions. By the time you graduate, our students are ready and confident to take on whatever unexpected challenges come their way.

So… Is It Wrong to Be Self-Taught?

Absolutely not! Many successful artists started out self-taught. But if you’re serious about making makeup artistry your profession - not just a hobby, then professional training can accelerate your growth, give you a competitive edge, and build the confidence you need to thrive in any part of the industry.

At the end of the day, certification isn’t a requirement. But being prepared, polished, and professional always is!

Valentine’s Day Makeup Looks to Make Hearts Skip a Beat

Love is in the air, and so is the perfect excuse to experiment with makeup looks! Whether you’re headed out for a romantic date, planning a Galentine’s bash, or treating yourself to some self-love (as you should), Valentine’s Day makeup is all about dialing up the romance with a touch of drama.

Here are some swoon-worthy looks and tips to help you look and feel your best—whether it’s at dinner with your love, a party with your friends, or from your couch with a pint of ice cream.

We’ve even included some of our favorite products that you can purchase for 14% off throughout February with code XOXO14 (stackable with PRO discount)

1. The Classic Romantic: Soft Glam

You can never go wrong with soft, dreamy vibes on Valentine’s Day. Think glowing skin, fluttery lashes, and kissable lips.

• Skin: Start with our FIRST Skin Smoothing Primer and a dewy foundation like Face Atelier. Add a soft pink or peach blush to the apples of your cheeks for that naturally flushed look.

• Eyes: Use neutral/soft metallic shades like champagne or rose gold and blend out to perfection for a defused shimmery look. Pop on a pair of wispy lashes for extra romance. We recommend using the Inglot Soft Sparkler Face Eyes Body Highlighter as your eyeshadow to achieve that soft romantic glowy look.

• Lips: A rosy pink gloss or a velvet-finish nude lipstick completes the look. Bonus points if it’s transfer-proof (because, you know, kisses). Check out these velvety Elle Artistry Liquid Lipsticks.

2. Bold & Beautiful: The Red Lip Moment

Valentine’s Day is practically begging for a statement red lip. Keep the focus on your pout while keeping the rest of your makeup polished but simple.

• Skin: Opt for flawless matte or satin-finish skin. Keep contouring minimal but defined.

• Eyes: Go for a soft neutral base on your lids and a precise winged liner. Add mascara to make your lashes pop.

• Lips: Choose a bold red that flatters your skin tone and top off with a juicy gloss. Bonus points if your gloss tastes/smells like sweet candy (FYI—the FIRST by MAKE UP FIRST® Lip Gloss does!)

Pro Tip: Exfoliate and hydrate your lips beforehand for a smooth application. Lip liner is your BFF here!

3. Pretty in Pink: Monochromatic

Pink is the ultimate Valentine’s Day color, and a monochromatic pink look is trendy, playful, and oh-so-chic.

• Skin: Keep your base light and luminous with Prism FX Hydrating Lotion. A touch of Dew Wet Balm on the cheekbones will make you glow like Cupid kissed you.

• Eyes: Use soft pink hues on your lids and blend a slightly deeper pink into the crease for dimension. Add a little sparkle if you’re feeling festive.

• Lips & Cheeks: Match your blush and lipstick in complementary pink shades. A creamy, slightly glossy pink lip is perfection.

But wait, we can make this super easy for you… Want the exact shade of pink for all eyes, lips and cheeks? Use Colorfix Mattes in shade Valentine and blend/sheer out on the skin for the perfect easy monochromatic look.

4. Smoky & Sultry: For the Drama Queens

If your idea of Valentine’s makeup involves a little edge, a smoky eye will have all eyes on you.

• Eyes: Start with a creamy black base and blend it out with rich chocolate or plum tones. Add shimmer to the center of the lid for a smoldering effect. Don’t forget to smoke out your lower lash line! A crease-proof product we recommend for the perfect black smoky eye is the Colorfix Mattes in shade Blackout.

• Skin suggestion: A matte, sculpted look.

• Lips: A soft nude or mauve lip balances the drama of the eyes perfectly.

5. Glitter & Glow: The Fun-Loving Flirt

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to add a little sparkle to your look! Glitter accents are playful, fun, and guaranteed to catch the light.

• Eyes: Apply Colorfix Foils as a glitter liner along your lash line or add a pop of glitter on your lids for extra glam.

• Skin: Keep the rest of your makeup glowing with a luminous foundation and a cream blush that makes your cheekbones shine like Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder in shade Rose N Brunch.

• Lips: Pair with a gloss or a subtle shimmer lipstick for that extra sparkle.

This Valentine’s Day, whether you’re celebrating love, friendship, or yourself, your makeup should make you feel confident and unstoppable. So grab your brushes, turn up the romance, and remember—you’re the main character. Go break some hearts (in the best way possible).

Let’s face it: the beauty industry is fierce. With new trends popping up every second and countless artists showcasing jaw-dropping work, sometimes standing out as a makeup artist can feel as tricky as creating the perfect winged liner on a squirmy client. But don’t worry—if you’re ready to set yourself apart, we’ve got the tea.

Here’s how to make sure clients and colleagues remember you for all the right reasons.

1. Never Stop Learning (Seriously)

Sure, we are a makeup school, so of course we will always push for more education, but hear us out. Makeup trends are like exes—they come and go, and sometimes they circle back unexpectedly whether we want them to or not. One minute everyone’s obsessed with dewy skin, and the next it’s all about matte finishes and bold eye looks. If you’re still stuck on techniques and trends you learned more than 6 months ago, it’s time to freshen up your skills.

Not only are trends constantly fluctuating, but products, techniques, and the latest business strategies are constantly being introduced and its crucial to keep up if you want to stay inline with the industry pros.

Continuing education isn’t just a buzzword; it’s your ticket to staying relevant. Whether you’re refreshing the basics, taking advanced courses, attending workshops, or even practicing new techniques at home, investing in your education is KEY to a successful career.

2. Master the Art of Professionalism

No matter how stunning your makeup skills are, if you roll into a gig late, unprepared, or with a messy kit, clients won’t book you again. Here’s how to get it right:

• Be on time. Fashionably late is cute for parties, not for work—and yes that includes those unpaid gigs as well!

• Keep your kit clean. No one wants last week’s lipstick germs on their face. Ew. Enough said.

• Communicate like a pro. Texting “u good w 2pm?” isn’t going to get you your dream career. Be professional, easy to reach, respectful, and THOROUGH in your communication. Your clients/colleagues should never feel like they have to work for your attention!

When you carry yourself like a polished pro, you not only attract clients, but you also build respect among peers in the industry.

3. Be your client’s hype person

Here’s the thing: being a makeup artist isn’t just about what you do with brushes. It’s about how you make people feel. Every client wants to leave your chair feeling like a super model—confident, glowing, and ready to take on the day.

So, compliment them! Gas them up! Tell them how amazing they look. Your energy is contagious, and when clients feel great about themselves, they’ll rave about you to everyone they know. And yes, word-of-mouth marketing still reigns supreme.

4. Brand Yourself and NETWORK. We can’t stress this enough.

You can be the best artist in the world, but if no one knows who you are, it doesn’t matter. Get your name out there by:

• Posting your work consistently on your website and social media—hello, Instagram and TikTok. Trust me, after those rough few hours of no TikTok, everyone will be graciously spending time on the app—take advantage of it!

• Engaging with your followers by replying to comments and DMs.

• Collaborating and supporting other creatives. Let’s help each other out and hype each other up! Not only other MUAs, but expand your network with photographers, stylists, and models as well!

Your vibe attracts your tribe, so make sure your branding reflects who you are as an artist.

5. Stay Humble, Hustle Hard

Even if you’ve mastered the art, there’s always room to grow. Stay humble, ask for feedback, and never stop pushing yourself.

The key to standing out as a makeup artist is to be more than just good—you have to be someone clients WANT to be around. Keep learning, stay professional, and always bring your best self to the table (or vanity). Before you know it, you’ll be the artist everyone’s talking about—and not just because of your killer skills.

kick off the holiday season with not just one, but two black friday deals at The Make Up First® Pro Shop!🛍️

• All Thanksgiving week: Take 10% off all products at checkout. (Stackable with your PRO discount!)

• Black Friday through Cyber Monday: Stack 10% off all products and take $20 off all orders of $100 or more!

This deal is available online at shop.makeupfirst.com or in-store from 10am-5pm only on Black Friday!

Need help with stocking stuffer ideas? Click here to view our Holiday Gift Guide.🎁

And while you’re there, sign up for the Make Up First Pro discount program to receive everyday discounts on hundreds of pro products!

*10% off sale 11/24 - 12/02

*$20 off $100 order 11/28 7pm - 12/02

*In-store Black Friday hours 10am - 5pm

MAKE UP FIRST PRO SHOP • SUMMER SUPER SALE! 🛍

Shop our two day limited-time-only Summer Super Sale and save big!
Book your exclusive, in-store shopping appointment with us on July 22nd or 23rd from 10am-2pm today!

We are giving away free products with all purchases, as well as offering bundle deals, deep discounts, and more!
PLUS—Pro Members receive an additional 10% off all non-blowout items!

Use the button below to email with your desired day/time. We hope to see you there! Thanks for shopping small.

Face Chart Workshop | September 16, 2019

Sale Price ends September 6th!
$125.00 150.00

Face charts are used, among other things, to plan a makeup application, to communicate a look to the client, and/or provide continuity for a makeup artistry team.  Once a makeup artist learns the basic techniques for creating a face chart, they will not only add to their skill set, but will also find it gratifying to turn a one-dimensional piece of paper into a three-dimensional work of art!

All materials during the workshop will be provided.
 Attendees will leave with a full pad (25 pages) of Make Up First ® School custom charts, valued at $20.00!

SUITABLE FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS!

Before you kick back for your cookout, head over to the Make Up First Pro Shop for DISCOUNTS ON EVERYTHING IN THE STORE

Get 10% off all products using the code ‘FIREWORKS’ at checkout, or click here to apply the link automatically! Browse our new arrivals, including the Danessa Myricks collection, Lashes in a Box, and our Summer Favorites:

And while you’re there, see if you qualify for the Make Up First Pro discount program to receive everyday discounts on hundreds of products in the store!

*Sale ends July 7th at 11:59pm (CST); Online orders only*