How much will your wedding and event makeup cost?

Columbus, OH 43215

Makeup artists cost$156 - $178

National average fixed price

Most common low price:$156
Most common high price:$178

How much does it cost to hire a makeup artist?

By Thumbtack Staff

Last updated Tue, Sep 09

The national average ranges from around $156-$178 per person, and most people pay around $167 per person, according to Thumbtack data. Group makeup artists will charge more, and services like false lashes, glitter, and touch-ups can add to the cost.

Makeup artist costs

National average cost	$167
Average cost range	$156-$178
Low-end cost range	$97-$108
High-end cost range	$257-$284

For certain special events, you want to go above and beyond your go-to looks. A professional makeup artist knows all the makeup tricks and has access to the best makeup to give you a flawless finish. From avant-garde makeup to covering under eye circles, makeup artists can do it all.

Makeup artists are most commonly hired to apply makeup for weddings, birthday parties, Hollywood red carpet events, Halloween and costume parties, video production, photo shoots, fashion shows and other special occasions. They can also create special effects makeup or theatrical makeup look.

The most requested makeup looks are glamorous and bold, romantic and soft, or natural and clean. Some people also make special requests for tattoo or scar covering. Rates vary widely by geographic location.

Makeup artist costs
Makeup artist prices by event type:
What affects the cost of a makeup artist?
How to hire a makeup artist
How to save money on a makeup artist
Benefits of a makeup artist
Should I tip a makeup artist?

Makeup artist prices by event type:

Event	National average cost range
Birthday party	$116-$225
Photoshoot	$117-$228
Special occasion	$120-$232
Fashion show	$124-$242
Theatrical production	$132-$256
Video production	$136-$264
Wedding	$218-$424

What affects the cost of a makeup artist?

For different event styles, makeup application can require more or less products, time and expertise, and therefore, costs vary significantly. Bridal makeup generally demands the highest rates. Red carpet makeup often features a similar package to bridal makeup but may cost $25–$50 less because clients generally require less engagement from the makeup artist prior to the event.

Add-ons and special effects

A more standard makeup package includes full eyes, lips, cheeks and skin. False lashes, airbrushing, and highlighting and contouring bring additional charges. Special makeup touches or false eyelashes affect the total cost of a professional makeup artist’s services because they require additional product and time.

Lashes: $10–$25
Highlight and contour: $20–$25
Airbrushing: $25 and up

Fantasy makeup (for Halloween, costume parties or added glamour) can include various add-ons or special effects.

Hair styling

Many hair and makeup artists offer packages that combine hair styling and makeup services. Bundling the services with one provider may reduce overall costs.

Number of people

Wedding parties and other large events often require makeup services for more than one person. Negotiating a group rate can lower overall costs.

Travel

Travel time, car mileage and gas all affect the cost of makeup artist services. Many makeup artists offer a set rate within their immediate area, then charge an additional fee based on distance.

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Reputation

Makeup artists who have trained with high-profile teachers or can boast celebrity clientele often have higher rates than those just starting out or with less visibility.

Hours

The number of hours a makeup artist is needed on location affects the cost of services. Events such as photo shoots, weddings and video production often require all-day presence. For events such as weddings, makeup artists will often negotiate a per-hour rate after the initial wedding party makeup application.

How to hire a makeup artist

Read reviews: Look for reviews from people who used a similar makeup style to the one you have in mind. If you’re looking for special effects makeup or a red carpet look, seek out reviews that cover those service.
Look at their portfolio: Makeup artists typically have a portfolio where they can show you looks they’ve created for other events.
Ask about products: Especially for those with sensitive skin types, make sure the beauty expert is using quality products.

How to save money on a makeup artist

Skip additional services: Add-ons like lashes or airbrush makeup can add up. Keep the price low by sticking to a more streamlined beauty package.
Bring your own lashes: If you are interested in adding on lashes, some makeup artists are open to using false eyelashes provided by the client. They will then reduce the false lash add-on rate to just include lash application.
Bundle salon and makeup services: If your makeup artist offers salon services, find out if they do package deals if you hire them for hair and makeup.
Travel to the makeup artist: If it’s convenient, get your makeup done at the makeup artist’s studio instead of having them travel to your location. This will cut travel fees from the overall price.

Benefits of a makeup artist

Better photographs: Professional makeup guarantees that you look fresh and fabulous in your red carpet or special event photos.
Products and skills: Makeup artists bring skills that go above and beyond day to day makeup application, and they have the products and tools to help you create any look. From airbrushing to eyelash application, they can bring your beauty to the next level.
Peace of mind: Who wants to worry about tracking down the right foundation or covering up a blemish before a special event? A makeup artist will make sure you look picture-perfect, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your event.

Should I tip a makeup artist?

Most customers tip their makeup pros 15% or 20% of the total cost.

How do we know these prices?

Millions of people ask Thumbtack for help with their projects every year. We track the estimates they get from local professionals, conduct our own research and then we share those prices with you. The prices reflected in the article above are for informational purposes only and are subject to change at any time. Contact a professional near you to receive a personalized cost estimate for your project.

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