As we watch the beauty industry evolve with self-proclamation, I find it super easy to get confused by appearances when it comes to beauty professionals. “Celebrity” makeup artists, hair stylists and manicurists are absolutely EVERYWHERE! As a 10-year experienced, credentialed, industry professional, it’s annoying to compete with hustlers (I know one when I see one).
One time I had a “celebrity”, who shall rename nameless, reach out to me for booking. However, I was a little taken back when they asked me for my Instagram page to view my work. I knew at that point, this “celebrity” had no clue what they where looking for. I’ve also experienced services myself that simply were not up to my professional standards, even though an individual may be “InstaFamous”.
Tip: Industry pro’s who really work in the business rarely have time to post photos and play in their own makeup all day.
Now you have my motivation for this post, I want to share with you a few tips for selecting your next beauty pro. As usual, just thank me later!
1. Licensing
First and foremost, this is important and may be the only sure way to ensure the level of sanitation and education the person providing your service has. Makeup artistry does not tend to require licensing, like the hair and nail industry. However, if they have a license in Esthetics or Cosmetology, you can be sure this person went the extra mile to be knowledgeable about all conditions and diseases of the skin.
Imagine someone who’s using the same brushes on you that they used on someone with a contagious condition. They may be über talented, but may not know what to look for when it comes to health and proper sanitation. You don’t want a bump on your lip before you take that seriously.
2. A Professional Website
Now don’t get me wrong, Instagram and Youtube are amazing platforms, but they don’t replace a professional website. A professional website represents an individual’s best work and provides more insight into what they offer and who they are. Websites speak volumes about what that person has invested into their career. We’ve all seen great sites and we’ve seen crappy ones… ummm, you know the difference {Side smirk}. If the person providing the service doesn’t have one…well, you be the judge. It’s not everything, but it definitely widens the gap.
3. Price Point
You get what you pay for. We’ve all heard it before and it often rings true. Looking for a deal? Then be ready to “deal” with something! Lol Something will lack in the experience, whether you are aware or not. If you are looking for an experienced, professional person who uses the best products, then you can expect to incur some of that cost. Think less of cost and more of the value of your service.
4. Recommendations
Word of mouth is hands down, the best way! At least you have someone you know who has actually been there and can vouch for the professionalism of this person. You have a direct connection and first account experience. And 9 times out of 10, you’re going to ask someone who has similar tastes or needs as you do. It’s common sense, but sometimes we forget. Even if you want to try someone new, ask around, look for reviews, and take more than one opinion to compare.
5. Tools, Products, & Location
One question I often get annoyed with is “What product line do you use?” It’s annoying because it has no real bearing on my skills as an artist. Even if the person uses a line you love, it doesn’t mean they’re skilled at applying it or that it is what’s best for you. Don’t get limited by products! You can better gauge by their website, resume and recommendations. If all of those are good, does it really matter what brand they use?
Dirty environment? Bad parts of town? The location of the artist is a good indication of the person you’re dealing with and level of service you’ll receive. Now that’s just common sense.
So the next time you are browsing online through hashtags and posting “Who’s the best blah blah in East”, who cares?! Remember these points because anyone can stage cute pictures! Just remember the things you don’t see still matter.
Until next time…keep it cute and classy. 😉
Joy N. Randall is an award-winning, professional makeup artist, and cosmetologist. Her resume includes NASCAR Productions, The Color Purple Broadway, DNC.com 2012 , and The David Letterman Show. She is a full time freelance artist under her own brand, Flawless Makeup Art in Charlotte, NC.
