A cosmetician is a makeup artist who specializes in applying and selling cosmetics. He or she can work door-to-door, in a department store, or over the Internet from the comfort of their own home. The amount of training required varies by location and the specific duties of the cosmetician, but it is possible to work in this field after completing only mandatory education. Being educated in cosmetology, makeup artistry, and other beauty-related or business-related skills can be beneficial. A cosmetician can work as a makeup artist on film sets or launch his or her own cosmetics line.
Demonstrating the application of makeup products is something that many cosmeticians do. They could do this in small groups, one-on-one with a potential customer, or on a volunteer, with the video later being broadcast on the Internet. The cosmetician usually informs the audience about the products he or she is using and how to replicate the results at home. He or she may also offer tips on how to best care for different skin types, conceal acne, and more. Most cosmeticians consider being able to converse and advise customers on potentially sensitive beauty issues to be a must-have skill.
After ordering samples from a makeup company to give to potential customers, some cosmeticians sell door-to-door. They don’t sell their own products; instead, they buy discounted products from a makeup company and resell them for a profit. Others work in department stores, where they sell a variety of makeup brands or a single brand. A cosmetician might one day open his or her own salon or launch a new makeup line. The options are endless, especially if the cosmetician has a business or marketing background.
In many cases, a cosmetician’s education is limited to what is required. This may be sufficient for a successful career, especially if the person is particularly adept at applying makeup and collaborating with others. Some cosmeticians choose to spend at least a year pursuing a cosmetology or makeup artistry diploma. Marketing and sales can be beneficial depending on the end goal. Marketing skills aren’t always required; for example, working as a makeup artist on a movie set necessitates little to no ability to sell products.
The precise definition of a cosmetician is somewhat subjective. While it usually refers to someone who applies or sells cosmetics, it is not always the case. Some cosmeticians, for example, specialize in hair styling, focusing on techniques that necessitate the use of specific tools. In this case, a cosmetician might sell curling irons or hair clips as well as other hair accessories.