Makeup artist

29 100 kr

Other beauty and body therapists

28 600 - 29 100 kr / month

Kropps- & skönhetsvård

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Makeup artist

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What does a makeup artist do? – Tasks and work environment

A makeup artist works with applying and designing makeup for various purposes, such as fashion shows, photoshoots, film and TV productions, as well as private events. Tasks include analyzing the client's skin type, selecting suitable products, creating tailored looks, and sometimes providing skincare advice. The work often takes place in creative environments with a fast pace and varied locations, such as studios, theaters, backstage at events, or with private clients. The profession requires flexibility, good teamwork skills, and a sense for color, form, and trends.

Salary development over time

In recent years, the salary for makeup artists has varied slightly. In 2022, the average salary was 28,700 SEK per month. In 2023, the salary increased to 30 500 SEK, which is approximately a 6.3 % increase. In 2024, the average salary has been adjusted downward to 29 100 SEK. This decline may partly be due to changes in demand, increased competition, or more part-time employment. Salary development within the profession also reflects that many makeup artists work as freelancers or on project basis, which can cause variations in average salary between years. Despite these fluctuations, the salary level remains comparable to other creative professions within the beauty industry.

Makeup artist salary – comprehensive overview

Average salary: 29 100 SEK/month
Lowest salary: approximately 25,000 SEK/month
Highest salary: approximately 35,000 SEK/month
Hourly wage: 175 SEK
Women: 29 100 SEK/month
Gender differences: No current data on men
Regional differences: No available statistics

Education and qualifications

To work as a makeup artist, a vocational education in makeup and beauty is usually required, often supplemented with practical experience and a portfolio. There are both private and public training programs, and many choose to broaden their skills with courses in special effects, hair styling, or skincare. The industry values both formal education and creative talent, and certifications can enhance employment opportunities.

Vocational training: Makeup artist education, 1–2 years
Short courses: Specializations in, for example, SFX or bridal makeup
Internship: Common component during training
Portfolio: Important for showcasing work samples
No formal qualifications required: Self-study and online courses are common

Many makeup artists have opportunities to work on major productions, fashion weeks, or with well-known personalities, which can open doors for international assignments and collaborations within creative teams.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensation

Makeup artists are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, opportunities for self-employment, and access to industry-specific products at discounted prices. When employed, benefits may also include wellness allowances and insurance, but these vary significantly depending on the employment type and client.

Competition and challenges

The profession of makeup artist is competitive, especially in larger cities where many seek to enter creative industries. Challenges often include establishing oneself in the market, building a strong network, and staying updated on new techniques and trends. Many work as freelancers, which requires entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to market their services. Irregular hours and project-based work can lead to financial uncertainty. Success requires both technical skill and the ability to develop good customer relationships.

Tips for those who want to become a makeup artist

To succeed as a makeup artist, it’s good to combine creativity with a desire to constantly learn and develop. A strong sense for color and form makes it easier to create unique and tailored makeup looks for different clients and occasions. Precision is crucial, especially when working with photoshoots and film where details matter greatly. Being social and attentive helps to build trust and understand clients’ wishes, while flexibility facilitates quick changes and unforeseen situations. Investing time in building an impressive portfolio and networking within the industry increases chances of exciting assignments. Self-discipline and the ability to work independently are also valuable traits, especially for those who want to work as freelancers.

Key facts about Makeup Artist

Education level: Vocational training, 1–2 years
Work environment: Creative environments, often at various workplaces
Work form: Commonly freelance or project-based employment
Demand: About 35 available jobs in Sweden as of latest measurement
Gender distribution: The profession is dominated by women

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a makeup artist can advance to roles such as chief makeup artist at larger productions, trainer, or product developer within the cosmetics industry. Some choose to specialize in film, theater, or fashion, while others focus on opening their own salon or consultancy. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, competition remains high, but demand for skilled makeup artists is especially strong in larger cities and major productions. Digital trends and social media have also created new opportunities for those wanting to profile themselves and reach a broader customer base.

Frequently asked questions about Makeup Artist

What is the average salary of a makeup artist?
- The average salary is 29 100 SEK per month.
How has the salary development for makeup artists looked?
- Salaries have varied in recent years, with a peak of 30 500 SEK in 2023 and 29 100 SEK in 2024.
What education is required to become a makeup artist?
- Vocational training in makeup, often 1–2 years, is most common. Internships and portfolios are important components.
Are there regional salary differences?
- Currently, there is no available statistics on regional differences within the profession.
What is the job market like for makeup artists?
- The latest measurement indicates approximately 35 available jobs within the profession.
Is the makeup artist profession dominated by women?
- Yes, the majority of makeup artists are women according to available statistics.
What are the most common working arrangements?
- Freelance and project-based employment are most common, but permanent positions also occur.

Richard Andersson - 2025-08-09 00:07:07

Occupation

Salary distributed by age and sector

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
Snitt		28600 kr	29100 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
Snitt		28600 kr	29100 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
Snitt		28600 kr	29100 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
Snitt		28700 kr	29100 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
Snitt		28700 kr	29100 kr

Age	Women's salary as a percentage of men's	Base salary	Monthly salary
Snitt		28700 kr	29100 kr

* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.

Salary per sector

Salary based on education

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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Makeup artist has the SSYK code 5149, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

How much does a Makeup artist make