Schools aren’t generally exciting hubs of fashion, but if your passion is the beauty industry, and you’re looking to become a makeup artist, the right program can take you where you want to be. Illinois has a style and flare all it’s own. It’s a great place to learn the beauty trade, thanks to independent artists, and Chicago’s fantastic fashion events and live entertainment. If any of this sounds like the place for you, get started by getting your certification in makeup artistry in an Illinois beauty program.

Downtown Chicago: home to many beauty schools
Allen McGregor [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Do You Need To Go To School To Practice Makeup Artistry in IL?

Technically, Illinois has no requirements for license as a makeup artist. If you’re looking to expand the services you offer, you may want to study a cosmetology or esthetician course, but as a makeup artist, all you really need is a good portfolio. Study, either full or part-time at a good beauty school can get you the experience and technical knowledge you need. You can start working as a makeup artist as soon as you have clients.

Though you have no specific requirements to meet as a makeup artist, you might want to expand your repertoire to include skin care and facials. An esthetician license requires 759 hours of education, and allows you to extend to eyelash extension, body wraps and body treatments, as well as massage. If you take courses in makeup application and technique, and work on building your client base, you can even work as a makeup artist, as you work toward getting a license in esthetics, or even a full cosmetology license.

Also, if you want to work as a special effects artist, or have a career in makeup for stage or screen, you’ll need to do wither extensive apprenticeship or have some certification. Many people go to California for makeup school if they want to work in theater.

Makeup Jobs in Illinois

Chicago and the surrounding area especially are known for the indie scene. Films, music and fashion, it’s a great place to ply a trade as a makeup artist.

You’re bound to meet clients who will love having someone dedicated and personable, who they can build a real relationship with. Make sure to keep track of your portfolio, and stay up on the makeup trends with continuing education courses.

The important thing is to develop your reputation, and that begins when you book your first jobs. Check out the Illinois job search sites to find that perfect first job to send you on your way.

Some Makeup Artist Schools in Illinois

Chicago School of Makeup Backstage Academy – Geneva

International Academy of Makeup – London Eyes – Chicago

International Academy of Makeup – London Eyes – Oakbrook Terrace

International Academy of Makeup – London Eyes – North Elgin

Other Illinois schools for nail technicians, estheticians, cosmetologists and barbers.

haskanaonline.com
lastlooksmakeup.com
nailinn.com
lakelandcollege.edu
makeupfirst.com/
londoneyesschool.com

Did we miss any makeup schools in Illinois? Please contact us to let us know.