Arkansas Makeup Artist School and Requirements

Browse our directory of makeup artistry schools in Arkansas, or skip ahead to learn about the state's makeup artistry licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Makeup Artist in Arkansas

Arkansas doesn't allow people to work as makeup artists without approved beauty training. You must get a cosmetology or esthetician license to be a makeup artist in Arkansas. Despite both providing makeup training, these licenses are very different.

What training should you get to become a makeup artist in Arkansas? Though the choice is yours, there are a few things to consider before picking a path. Read on for an overview of Arkansas cosmetology and esthetics options for future makeup artists.

Cosmetology vs. Esthetics School for Arkansas Makeup Artists: Which is Better?

Arkansas cosmetology and esthetics (or, as the state spells it, "aesthetics") programs have different focuses and last drastically different amounts of time. The short version is that cosmetologists train in all things beauty, including skin, hair, and makeup, while estheticians focus on skincare and treatments.

Which path is better for you comes down to two things: how much time you want to spend in makeup school and what you want to do as a makeup artist in Arkansas.

• Arkansas' cosmetology programs last for 1,200 hours, while esthetician school runs for 480 hours,
• Cosmetology school has 100 total hours of esthetics training, including makeup and lashes; most of the program is devoted to hair care,
• Esthetics devotes 50 hours to makeup and 40 hours to brows and lashes out of its 480 total hours; none of the programs focus on hair care.

If you don't mind going through a long program to learn a bit of all things beauty, go for a cosmetology license to become a makeup artist in Arkansas. This could be the route if you aim to provide on-scene makeup at special events like weddings, as you could also do hair and nails. But if you'd prefer to spend less time in school with a narrower focus but a greater number of hours in makeup, then esthetics may be the way to go. This path can also open up the opportunity to work at a spa.

READ MORE: Learn More About Arkansas Esthetician School

READ MORE: Learn More About Arkansas Cosmetology School

Makeup Artist Salary in Arkansas

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that Arkansas estheticians make $39,970 annually as of 2022. Cosmetologists average $28,510. That difference may make the licensure decision easy, but these are averages, not guarantees! Years of experience, specialties, and workplaces all affect pay.

Plus, the BLS doesn't include freelance makeup artists in its reports, so the best way to find out how to make it in that career is to ask around.

Contact the Arkansas State Board of Cosmetology