Nebraska Makeup Artist School and Requirements

To become a makeup artist in Nebraska, you don't need a specialist license. As long as you stick to just makeup artistry, there are no specific training requirements put in place by the state. However, to branch out into related areas such as skincare or hair styling, you'll need to earn the relevant licenses first.

Many Nebraska makeup artists voluntarily complete esthetics training, as it offers a great foundation for a career in beauty and can open up job opportunities later down the line. Cosmetology programs also provide a good knowledge base, though they take longer to complete as they're more in-depth.

Makeup artists can take independent classes in cosmetic artistry, which — though they aren't licensed — are a great way to expand your knowledge and keep on top of the latest trends and techniques. Browse our directory of makeup artistry schools in Nebraska, or skip ahead to learn about the state's makeup artistry licensing requirements and job outlook.

What Can Nebraska Makeup Artists Do?

Makeup artists use cosmetics to create looks for different types of clients. They work in a variety of settings, from clients' homes, retail stores, and salons to movie sets, theaters, and any other professional environment where makeup artistry is needed.

Since Nebraska makeup artists don't need licenses, there are specific procedures and treatments they must never perform. For example, a makeup artist should never carry out facials, many other skincare services, or injectable or laser treatments.

Esthetician or Cosmetology School for Nebraska Makeup Artists

Many makeup artists in Nebraska sometimes voluntarily complete licensing programs in esthetics or cosmetology despite there being no legal requirement. While doing this takes more time and money than just diving into your new career, it could be an excellent investment in your future.

Esthetics School in Nebraska

Of the two subjects, esthetics is the more popular choice among makeup artists as it takes less time to complete, and the course content is more relevant.

Esthetics students must complete 600 hours of training at a state-recognized school, then take (and pass) the NIC written exam. Unlike some other states, Nebraska has no hands-on practical exam requirement.

The exact topics studied differ from school to school, but the curriculum will focus on all things skincare. It should also cover other essential areas such as sanitation, disease control, and business skills. Many of these are relevant to makeup artistry and could prove helpful throughout your career.

READ MORE: Learn More About Esthetics School in Nebraska

Cosmetology School in Nebraska

In Nebraska, cosmetology students must complete at least 1,800 hours of training at a state-approved school. Then, just as in the esthetics program, they'll take the NIC written exam.

Cosmetology programs cover a wider range of hair and beauty topics, including hair cutting, styling, waving, and dyeing, skincare and esthetics, manicuring, and the use of electrical equipment in beauty treatments.

READ MORE: Learn More About Cosmetology School in Nebraska

Nebraska Makeup Artist Salary

Makeup artists in Nebraska may find their salaries affected by years of service, type of work done (e.g., retail sales vs. bridal makeup), specialties, and more.

In January 2024, ZipRecruiter reported the average freelance makeup artist in the state made about $43,000 per year ($20 per hour). However, ZipRecruiter largely gets its data from job listings, and the estimates change frequently.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), meanwhile, states that the average Nebraska esthetician made $47,430 ($22.80 per hour), and cosmetologists averaged $41,360 ($19.89 hourly). These only account for licensed professionals working in salons or other locations that answered a survey from the BLS.

In short, there isn't a perfect way to estimate how much you could earn as a Nebraska makeup artist. You may have the best luck by speaking to other makeup artists in your area and chosen field.

Contact the Nebraska State Board of Cosmetology