Makeup Artist CV Example & Writing Guide

Faces are your canvas and mascara is your magic wand – as a makeup artist, you’re able to transform a person’s appearance and brighten their day. But what if it’s your makeup artist resume that’s in need of a makeover?

That’s where Resume.io can help. With dozens of CV examples and writing guides, we’re an expert resource for job seekers across fields and experience levels. Here’s what we’ll cover in this makeup artist CV example and writing guide:

• What does a makeup artist do?
• How to write a makeup artist CV (tips and tricks)
• The best format for a makeup artist CV
• Advice on each section of your CV (summary, work history, education, skills)
• Professional CV layout and design hints.

What does a makeup artist do?

Makeup artists are cosmetology professionals who use various types of makeup and cosmetics to enhance a person’s appearance. Although makeup artists generally work with the face, this job can also include body paint, tattoo cover ups or other types of makeup applications. Make up artists are often self-employed and take on various gigs. Some common types of employment for makeup artists includes:

• Television and movies
• Weddings
• Special events
• Funeral homes
• Photography studios
• Retail makeup counters

How to write a makeup artist CV

A makeup artist will need to have many of the same sections found on traditional CVs. Here’s what your CV should include: 

• The CV header
• The CV summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The CV skills section
• The education section

Before you write these sections, however, you’ll want to create a great header that conveys your personal style and convinces a hiring manager to check out what you have to say. Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio or professional social media accounts.

Choosing the best CV format for a makeup artist

A makeup artist has a few options when it comes to choosing the best CV format. For candidates with traditional employment to show (i.e. those who have worked in retail beauty counters or as funeral home employees), the reverse chronological format is likely the best bet. This format is preferred by hiring managers and automated CV scanners because it includes an employment history section where a candidate can detail their relevant work experience.

If you’ve spent much of your career as an independent worker or are just starting out, you may want to consider a hybrid CV format. This structure starts with a skills section where you’re able to highlight areas of expertise before moving on to a shorter employment history section to show who’s hired you in the past.

CV summary example

The CV summary is the 3-5 sentences at the start of the page that allow you to describe your personality, work style and biggest achievements. Since employers may be looking at many makeup artists with similar skills, the summary is the place to differentiate yourself and speak to the employer directly about why you’re the right candidate for the job. Check out the summary from our adaptable CV sample below.

Employment history sample

The employment history section allows you to list your previous positions. Include the employer’s name, the job title, location and dates worked. Under each job title, create 3-5 bullet points that explain your duties, achievements and skills while focusing on the needs of your prospective employer. Below you’ll find the employment history section from our makeup artist CV sample.

CV skills example

Although your skills as a makeup artist are exactly what you’re being hired for, this CV section can be trickier than it seems. Because of the bullet point format, you’ll want to focus on areas of expertise and specific job description information that can’t be highlighted elsewhere on your CV. Make sure to include a mix of technical abilities and personality traits that show you are a pleasure to work with. See our CV example for the skills section below.

Makeup artist CV education example

Makeup artists may not be required to hold advanced degrees, but they do need to complete training and pass exams in cosmetology. The CV education section is the perfect place to include this information along with any licensure you hold. This is also a good section to mention any awards you’ve won or professional memberships you hold. See the education section from our CV example below.

CV layout and design

As a professional in the beauty industry, you know that appearance counts for a lot. The same is true when it comes to creating the layout and design of your CV. A makeup artist with an outdated layout won’t inspire confidence – but a creative and attractive design could quickly put you ahead of more experienced candidates.

To accomplish this, make sure to create an eye-catching header, ideally with a pop of colour. Keep a balance of white space to text and stay consistent when it comes to font styles and sizes. You may even want to update the look of your CV depending on the role you are applying for. A CV template can make this quick and easy to accomplish.

Key takeaways for a makeup artist CV

1. Your summary is a key place to stand out from other makeup artists with the same skills by showing off your personality and achievements.
2. Choose the CV format that works best for your employment history – a hybrid CV format may be the right choice for independent workers.
3. Check out our adaptable makeup artist CV example for more ideas on creating a stellar header.