Michigan Makeup Artist School and Requirements

Michigan makeup artists must attend esthetician or cosmetology school and earn their licenses before starting work. Many opt for esthetics because it's a shorter path and focuses on all skincare aspects. Still, some go for cosmetology to provide a broader range of services. Neither option is inherently better than the other—it all comes down to your goals.

Let's dig into the options for budding Michigan makeup artists, including an overview of each license type and how much makeup artists in the state may earn. Browse our directory of makeup artistry schools in Michigan, or skip ahead to learn about the state's makeup artistry licensing requirements and job outlook.

Getting Licensed to be a Makeup Artist in Michigan

Esthetician and cosmetology programs can both lead to makeup artist careers in Michigan. However, the two options have differences to consider.

Firstly, cosmetology programs run for 1,500 program hours or two apprenticeship years, while esthetician licensure takes 400 hours or six months of an apprenticeship. You'd likely spend much more time in school for cosmetology than esthetics.

Secondly, esthetician school focuses on skincare, including makeup, while cosmetology covers hair, skin, and nails.

READ MORE: Learn More About Cosmetology School in Michigan

READ MORE: Learn About Esthetician School in Michigan

Michigan Makeup Artist Pay

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Michigan's estheticians earn more than its cosmetologists. As of 2022, the BLS reports Michigan estheticians earned an average of $58,000 per year ($27.88 per hour), while cosmetologists averaged $42,760 ($20.56).

ZipRecruiter discovered that those who hold the title of Makeup Artist in Michigan averaged $46,666 ($22.44) as of December 2023.

However, both sources focus on makeup artists employed by others, not working in a freelance or self-employed capacity. As many makeup artists choose that lifestyle, you could need to dig deeper to figure out how much you could earn. To get the best information, talk to people who work in your chosen type of workplace and town or city, and factor in that years of experience and specialties can affect how much you may earn.

Contact the Michigan State Board of Cosmetology