How to Become a Renowned Makeup Artist in Nigeria
By Leah Nickaf
As we all know, a degree from a tertiary institution is no longer enough to guarantee a steady income in Nigeria, as a result, many Nigerian youths have taken up various skills, one of which is the makeup business, to earn a living. Many Nigerians, both men, and women are now encouraged to pursue careers as make-up artists.
Being a make-up artist entails more than just applying makeup products. What distinguishes the best from the rest is their passion and drive for the job. Makeup artistry is an independent business that puts creative people on the edge, with big profits, interesting jobs and flexible work schedules.
Starting as a makeup artist can be difficult, as it is with everything else in life. But your love for the arts will keep you going in the difficult times ahead.
The first step in learning how to become a makeup artist in Nigeria is to obtain the necessary training.
Some makeup schools charge about N80,000-N100,000 or less for professional makeup training depending on the location.
To get started as a makeup artist, you’ll need the right tools and products.These tools are the very things that make you appear professional and will make people take you seriously. This will also determine the quality of your work because making use of the wrong tools makes your work unimpressive.
There are inexpensive makeup products and tools available, so you don’t have to spend a fortune. Nevertheless, it is important to invest in quality equipment as they will last longer than substandard tools. As a makeup artist, you must keep up with new trends and latest fashion.
The fashion industry evolves daily, and experts must keep up with developments. Constant practice helps build you. This will help you perfect your craft and fine-tune your looks. Consistency brings about growth and this in turn creates more opportunities for you in the future.
The makeup artist business in Nigeria is booming with the right customers and referrals, so you are certain to make it big in the business. Makeup artists in the country today can charge between N50,000-N500,000 for bridal makeup.
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This is determined by the artist’s reputation and packaging. Regular makeup costs between N5,000-N10,000. Finance is one of the biggest challenges for most upcoming makeup artists out there. The struggle to raise funds to attend a decent training institute and eventually, to get all the products you will need is draining. The best advice will be to start small. Every business needs capital and so does your makeup business. If you are starting small, you need a capital of N100,000.
This may be more or less depending on the makeup kits and as you grow your business you can add more items. Most makeup artists start as freelancers before going on to own their makeup studios or beauty salons over time. However, if you want to start by renting a space you need a capital of at least N500,000, you can buy more items like tables and chairs.
Do not forget to make sure your products are NAFDAC registered to avoid buying fake products which could cause reactions on your customer’s skin. This will make you lose your customers and may land you in jail.
Here is a list of full makeup artist kits and their retail prices to assist with your business budget:
1. Professional makeup brushes- N6000.
2. Moisturizer – Depends on your choice.
3. Face Primer – About N3000 (depends on product).
4. Foundation – About N5000 (depends on product).
Concealers – N1200
5. Eye shadows – N3500 – N6000
6. Cotton wool/sticks – N300
7. Cosmetic spatula/steel -N1500
8.Mirror – 1500 naira (depends on size).
9. Hair clips – N200 naira/N500.
10. Tweezer- 500.
11. Ring light – N15,000.
12. Sponges – N200 naira (per one).
13. Eyebrow pencil- 100naira (per one).
14.Lipsticks – 1500 naira (depends on product).
15. Lip liner – N400 ( per one).
16. Eyelashes extension – N500 (per one).
17. Disposable mascara wand – N1000 (pack).
18. Wipes – N600.
19. Lipgloss – N1000.
20. Setting spray- N2500.
21. Powder – N2500.
22. Makeup box – N20,000.
23. Eyeliner – N1500.
24. Lash glue – N1000
25. Blade for brows – N1000 (pack)
Don’t forget to advertise your makeup business, take advantage of social media. Post excellent and professional pictures of your work to your audience on Instagram, Facebook, Whatsapp, TikTok and other social media platforms.