Makeup Kit Must Haves
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December 30, 2025
Glam is the fun part, but systems are how you make a career. This guide breaks down the makeup artistry basics you need to know before becoming a makeup artist, from skills and safety to business setup and brand-building, so you can move from practice runs to paid clients with confidence.
Before starting, consider formal education. In Australia, many aspiring artists complete the SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up, or a Diploma-level course for screen, media, and advanced techniques. These programs teach colour theory, sanitation, skin preparation, business foundations, and give you access to trainers who know the industry inside-out.
Makeup products, tools, disposables, and sanitation supplies are expensive, and you’ll restock frequently. Most brands offer professional discounts, including through artist programs like MODELROCK’s PRO CLUB CARD. This helps you update your kit consistently without paying full price and keeps you stocked with essentials like disposable spoolies, latex-free lash adhesives, remover pads, and brush & sponge cleanser.
The products you use represent your professionalism. Using low-quality or unsafe formulas risks client reactions, poor wear time, and damage to your reputation. Do your research, test products, and invest in reliable staples. Your makeup school instructors or mentors can help guide you on what’s worth adding to your kit.
Unsure where to start? We’ve created a list of MAKEUP KIT MUST HAVES to help you build a balanced and hygienic kit.
Freelance makeup artistry doesn’t operate on a standard 9–5 schedule. Early mornings, late evenings, holidays, and weekend bookings make up the bulk of paid work.
In 2025, flexibility is still essential, especially with weddings, events, editorial shoots, and content creation days.
There will also be times where work slows down. Many MUAs keep a secondary income stream early in their careers, or diversify through lessons, online tutorials, or selling digital products. COVID-19 taught the industry that unpredictability is real. No work means no pay.
It takes time to build trust, visibility, and a consistent client base. Early on, you’ll rely heavily on:
Your portfolio is one of your strongest tools, Focus on complexion, detail shots, clean lighting, and before-and-after photos. Need help? Read our guide: HOW TO TAKE BETTER MAKEUP PHOTOS.
Research other artists in your area, compare experience levels, and calculate your real expenses, including:
Never underprice or undercut to “get more clients.” It devalues your work and harms industry standards. As your skill, speed, and demand increase, adjust your rates accordingly.
Makeup application is only part of the job. You'll also need:
Clients remember how you made them feel just as much as how they looked. A great experience encourages rebooks and referrals.
Comparison can easily steal your joy. Focus on:
Social media numbers don’t determine your worth or talent. Consistency, authenticity, and skill development matter far more. As one pro artist recently said: “Makeup is only 50% of the job. The other 50% is communication, hygiene, organisation, and kindness".
You’ll need strong fundamentals (colour theory, face anatomy, sanitation), great communication skills, and an understanding that makeup artistry includes admin, marketing, scheduling, and business management, not just the glam.
Begin with training (such as Cert III in Make-Up), build your kit, practise on diverse faces, create a portfolio, set up a Google Business Profile, start posting your work consistently, and define your services and rates.
Pros: Creative freedom, flexible schedule, fulfilling client impact, high demand for events/bridal work.
Cons: Irregular hours, inconsistent income early on, expensive kit upkeep, pressure to stay current, physically demanding days.
Not legally required in most areas, but a Cert III or similar qualification builds credibility and teaches essential sanitation and business practices.
Post weekly content (especially short-form video), collect client reviews, and fully optimise your Google Business Profile.
We hope this gives you clarity on what to expect before becoming a freelance makeup artist. Are you already working as an MUA? Share your favourite part of the job below!
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Wanting to set up a makeup station at home but don't know where to start? Or have a makeup station but feel like it is d...
