12 Makeup Artist Interview Questions and Answers

Updated on: April 13, 2022

Are you worried about an upcoming makeup artist interview?

Worry no more! 

The following common makeup artist interview questions and answers will help you understand what to expect during an interview and how to answer appropriately. 

12 Possible Interview Questions and Answers for Makeup Artist 

1. Can you tell us what makes you a good fit for the makeup artist position?

I do not consider myself run-of-the-mill. Where most makeup artists are now trying to do something “different” with every project hence compromising the simplicity of a face or a body, I believe in going back to the basics. For me, the basics are now the “new” thing. So I have the capacity to do both different and old school, and this diversity makes me a good fit.

2. Why did you choose this profession?

I love to play with colors. I found this profession suitable for myself since it allows a lot of creativity and complements my inborn knack for fashion and glamour. My eye-hand dexterity is also very good, which supports me a lot in the role.

3. What are the biggest challenges makeup artists have to face?

The biggest challenge I think, is that makeup artists are required to remain up to date with new trends and fashion. The fashion industry evolves on a daily basis, and the expertise has to be upgraded accordingly.

4. If a customer asks for a style that you are sure would not suit them, how do you convince the customer to go otherwise?

When a customer comes for makeup and hairstyling, first of all, I analyze their skin and hair. In case they are asking for an unsuitable style or makeup, I convince them why it will not suit them by sharing my analysis of their face cut, skin type, and hair texture.

5. How do you prepare dry and oily skin for foundation makeup application?

Oily skin has to be toned before makeup application so that the pores are closed and makeup stays longer while dry skin has to be moisturized before makeup application to avoid cracks in the foundation layer.

6. Do you have any experience in cosmetic retails?

I spent a year in cosmetic retails, where I was responsible for selling the company’s cosmetics products. I exceeded the annual sales target by 30% through effective promotion and product demonstrations to clients.

7. Tell me about your experience as a makeup artist?

I started my career at MAC Cosmetics in the capacity of a Makeup assistant. After completing a diploma course in makeup art with the American Association of cosmeticians, I joined CBR, where I currently apply makeup for TV shoots and special events. I also have experience in wedding makeup applications, fashion shows makeup and product promotional makeovers.

8. Do you apply makeup for special events? Name some you have covered?

Yes, I am a special events makeup artist by profession. I have covered wedding makeup, party makeup, funeral makeup, makeover makeup, theatre performance makeup, and makeup for TV shootings

9. What is the difference between applying makeup for a TV shoot and applying makeup for a live appearance party?

Makeup for TV shoots is usually thematic and has to be applied as per the preferences of the director. 
A thick base, sharper colors, and massive skin foundation are needed for TV shoot makeup. 
Live party makeup has more finesse. It is kept as light as possible, and the goal is to highlight the clients’ naturally appealing features and conceal the nonappealing ones.

10. How often do you clean your makeup tools such as brushes and combs? How does it affect the wear and tear of your tools and how do you feel about the associated expense?

I wash and disinfect them before I use them on a different client, which means I sometimes wash them several times a day. Indeed, makeup tools spoil quickly if you wash them too often, but I cannot take a risk where clients’ health is concerned. I am willing to pay for the extra cost of buying more sets of brushes and combs.

11. How do you determine a client’s undertone before you decide what makeup technique to use?

I always look at the back of clients’ wrists before I decide on an undertone. If their veins appear blue/purple, they are a cool undertone; if the veins are blue/green, they have a warm undertone.

12. What experiences do you have apart from making up characters apart from using typical makeup techniques?

I am trained in molding prosthetics, wigs, and extensions on clients to help them get into character.

See also: Makeup Artist Resume