Launching a Career in Special Effects Makeup

Beautiful woman with long dark hair posing on beige background.

Written by the Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry.

Students attend make up artistry schools in order to launch their careers in the world of professional makeup. One of the benefits of attending a makeup school is that you get the chance to explore many different elements of the makeup industry — including those that can help you break into the world of film and television. Many schools of makeup artistry offer degree programs geared toward special effects makeup.

If you have ever seen a scary movie with realistic aliens or bizarre monsters, chances are you are looking at special effects makeup in action. While CGI is sometimes used to create creatures, in many cases even Hollywood blockbusters rely on “practical” effects including special effects makeup. With the right makeup training, skilled artists can apply their craft to developing and creating some of the most unique and memorable characters in movie and TV history.

Working as a special effects makeup artist is rewarding on a variety of levels. It’s a chance to use your creativity to come up with monsters, aliens and other creatures that will amaze audiences. You really are only limited by your imagination when you have the right skills. It also allows you to be part of a collaborative process where you can work closely with other passionate artists. The pay can also be great, with top special effects artists easily earning six figures annually.

If you love movies and creating scary monsters, a career as a special effects makeup artist might be for you. Check out the programs at leading schools such as Cosmix Inc. to learn more about the training you can receive to help you start your career.


The Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry helps prepare students for the fast-paced world of professional makeup. Courses get students ready for jobs in salons, as freelance makeup artists or as special effects artists.