Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance

Apply makeup to performers to reflect period, setting, and situation of their role.

SOC: 39-5091.00

Common Job Titles

  • Hair and Makeup Designer
  • Makeup Artist
  • Special Effects Makeup Artist
  • Special Makeup Effects Artist

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

3,320

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $22,010. 25th percentile: U.S. $28,850. 50th percentile: U.S. $50,280. 75th percentile: U.S. $132,530. 90th percentile: U.S. $157,090. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$22,010
10% of workers earn the following or more$157,090
Workers on average earn$75,410

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
  • English Language3.6/5
  • Administration and Management3.5/5
  • Fine Arts3.3/5
  • Design3.2/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Facebook
  • Intuit QuickBooks
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook

Technology Skills

  • Appointment scheduling software
  • Autodesk Maya
  • Autodesk Mudbox
  • Blogging software
  • Bookitlive
  • Clear Books
  • Client databases
  • Customer relationship management CRM software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Airbrushing tools
  • Angle brushes
  • Angle liners
  • Brow brushes
  • Chisel brushes
  • Colored contact lenses
  • Contour brushes
  • Digital still cameras
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment