- Salary statistics
- Makeup
Makeup
28 600 - 29 100 kr / month
Kropps- & skönhetsvård
Salary progression Makeup
What does a makeup artist do? – Tasks and work environment
A makeup artist works with applying and customizing makeup for various purposes and environments, such as theater, film, TV, fashion, events, or salons. Tasks often include analyzing the client's or model’s skin type, selecting colors and techniques based on desired results, and sometimes creating special effects or masks. Makeup artists work both independently and in teams, with work environments ranging from studios and stages to private assignments and salons. Flexibility and the ability to work under pressure are common aspects of the profession.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, salary development for makeup artists has shown some variation. In 2022, the average salary was 28,700 SEK per month, which increased to 30 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, however, the average salary has decreased to 29 100 SEK, representing a decline of approximately 4.6% from the previous year. This variation can partly be explained by changes in demand for services within the industry, as many makeup artists work project-based, which can influence salary trends from year to year. Despite fluctuations, the salary remains at a stable level, and long-term development is influenced by factors such as education level, experience, and labor market needs.
Makeup artist salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 29 100 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Varies depending on experience and workplace, but exact figures are not available
- Hourly wage: 175 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 29 100 SEK (information about men is not available)
- Regional differences: Limited data, but variations may occur depending on city and demand
Education and qualifications
To work as a makeup artist, a vocational education in makeup and beauty is usually required, often supplemented with internships or industry experience. There are several pathways to the profession, from private courses to longer upper secondary programs focusing on styling or makeup artistry. Many also choose to deepen their knowledge through specialized courses or certifications within specific techniques.
- Vocational training: Makeup artist/stylist training (6–18 months)
- Certifications: Possible within specific techniques or brands
- Internships: Common for gaining industry experience
- Prerequisites: Usually no formal requirements, but interest and a sense of color and form are important
- Self-study: Common via online courses and tutorials
Makeup artists often have the opportunity to work on creative projects such as film, theater, and fashion shows, which provides variety and the chance to build a broad network within the entertainment and beauty industries.
Common benefits and compensations
Makeup artists may be offered benefits such as overtime pay for work during evenings and weekends, discounts on products, travel related to assignments, and opportunities for further training. Some employers also offer wellness allowances or access to internal courses for skill development.
Competition and challenges
The profession as a makeup artist is characterized by high competition, especially in larger cities and within popular industry sectors such as fashion and media. Many job opportunities are project-based or freelance, requiring strong networking and marketing skills. The development of new techniques and trends means continuous skill development is crucial to stay relevant. Uncertainty around assignments and seasonal variations can make it difficult to achieve stable income over time.
Tips for those who want to become a makeup artist
To succeed as a makeup artist, it is good to combine creativity with precision and service-mindedness. Continuously practicing different techniques and staying updated on trends strengthens confidence and competitiveness. Social skills facilitate collaboration with clients and colleagues, while flexibility makes it easier to take on varied assignments. A makeup artist who is attentive to clients’ wishes and also dares to suggest their own ideas quickly builds a good reputation. Patience and stress resistance are also important, especially when working on larger events or productions. Finally, being proactive and seeking new opportunities within different parts of the industry can broaden experience.
Key facts about makeup artists
- Educational level: Vocational training or upper secondary education with a focus on styling
- Work environment: Varied – studio, salon, events, or on-site
- Employment type: Often freelance, project-based, or temporary positions
- Demand: 36 available jobs in Sweden (2024)
- Special skills: Makeup techniques, color theory, skin care
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a makeup artist can move on to more specialized roles, such as head of makeup teams, educators, or product developers within cosmetic companies. Some choose to start their own business or focus on specific areas like film, fashion, or weddings. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the labor market is competitive, but demand exists especially for those who build a strong network and a broad portfolio. With digitalization, there are also opportunities to work with digital productions or create content on social media, which can further broaden career options.
Common questions about makeup artists
- What is the average salary of a makeup artist?
- The average salary for a makeup artist is 29 100 SEK per month. - How does one become a makeup artist?
- The most common path is vocational training in makeup or styling, often with an internship. - Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Women earn 29 100 SEK; information about men is not available. - What is the job market like for makeup artists?
- There are 36 available jobs (2024), but competition is high. - What is the hourly wage for a makeup artist?
- The hourly wage is 175 SEK according to current data. - What work environments are common for makeup artists?
- Studio, salon, events, or productions within TV, film, and theater. - Can you work as a makeup artist without formal education?
- Yes, but education and internships provide better opportunities and competitiveness.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28600 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28600 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28600 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28700 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28700 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28700 kr | 29100 kr |
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 has the SSYK code 5149, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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