Makeup Artistry Schools in Tennessee

Browse our directory of makeup artistry schools in Tennessee, or skip ahead to learn about the state's makeup artistry licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Makeup Artist in Tennessee

Cream, powder, liquid—makeup today comes in all shapes and forms, allowing makeup artists to have even more freedom in their careers and tailor their skills to each and every individual client.

If you like spending your days experimenting with makeup and trying to find the next great look, learn more about makeup artist training programs in Tennessee by contacting the schools below.

State License Requirements

If you want to work as a makeup artist in Tennessee you will need to earn your esthetician or cosmetology license. Both of these can prepare you for makeup work, while giving you additional skills you can market to clients. Esthetician programs are more focused on makeup type courses than cosmetology program. But cosmetology can be a good choice if you are going to open your own business one day.

Education Details

When you begin your training, you may start by studying color theory. Your instructors may show you how to choose color palettes based on the season, trends, and a client's coloring. A strong grasp of color allows you to change your skills with new styles and trends. As you develop your understanding of color and tools, you should spend a lot of time practicing your skills. From peers and mannequin heads to real clients, it's crucial for you to get lots of experience with makeup.

License Renewal

To renew these licenses, you will have to renew them every two years for a $50 fee.

Tennessee Makeup Artistry Careers

The work setting you choose may affect how much money you can earn as a makeup artist. As a freelance makeup artist, you may set your own rates and schedule. If you work for a salon or beauty store, you may earn a base salary plus tips or commissions. In Tennessee, the average salary for a makeup artist is $48,270 per year (ZipRecruiter, 2020). Job openings in the cosmetology field are growing rapidly in Tennessee, outstripping the national growth rate. By the year 2022, CareerOneStop predicts a 25% jump in cosmetology jobs in Tennessee.

Your skills as a makeup artist may take you into many different situations. Those who aren't good at makeup may come to you to learn how to do a simple everyday cosmetics look. Others may want you to do their makeup for special occasions, like weddings or dances. You may have your own studio or makeup chair, or you may travel to clients' locations for appointments. Being able to take criticism and adapt your work accordingly is an essential skill in makeup artistry. Clients won't always like what you've done, and you must be able to wipe off and start fresh without taking it personally.

Contact the Tennessee State Board of Cosmetology