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34 Of The Best Tools To Grow Your Makeup Business!

By Career Advice, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

If you’re looking to grow your makeup business, you’re in luck! There are a number of great tools out there that can help you do just that. In this article, we’ll discuss 34 of the best tools to grow your makeup business and find success in this exciting industry.

In particular, we’ll look at software tools, business tools, and makeup products/supplies that can help you reach your goals. So, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the business for a while, these tools will help you take your business to the next level!

Pro Tip: Is makeup artistry your DREAM job? Then make sure you check out our Ultimate Guide to becoming a makeup artist – even if you don’t have any experience!

The 34 Best Tools To Grow Your Makeup Business

Software To Grow Your Makeup Business

Okay, let’s say that your goal is to start your own cosmetics line. In this case, the best software to grow your makeup business is an eCommerce platform. If you want to sell products online, then you’ll need a platform that lets you do just that.

We recommend Shopify as the best eCommerce platform for makeup businesses that are selling actual cosmetics. With Shopify, you can create a beautiful online store, add products and descriptions, process payments, and more!

On the other hand, what if you don’t want to run your own cosmetics line, or be a Brand Ambassador for another company? What if you want to run a business that offers makeup application services? What software will work for you best in this case?

Well, here are some of our top recommendations:

1. Wish

A shopping app like Wish will be your best friend when it comes to stocking up your professional makeup kit and building your salon. The app offers a wide variety of cosmetics at incredibly low prices. As a result, you can get all the products you need – without breaking the bank!

Plus, with Wish, you can order in bulk and save even more money. This is perfect if you’re just starting out and need to build up your kit quickly.

Similarly, AliExpress is another great option for stocking up on affordable cosmetics. The website offers a wide variety of products, from makeup brushes to eyeshadow palettes, so you’re sure to find everything you need!

And like Wish, AliExpress also offers discounts when you order in bulk. Thus, if you’re looking to save some money, this is the website for you!

3. Sephora

If you’re looking for high-end makeup products, then Sephora is the place to go. The website offers a wide variety of cosmetics from top brands, so you’re sure to find what you’re looking for!

Plus, with Sephora’s loyalty program, you can earn points on every purchase that you make. These points can then be redeemed for discounts on future purchases, so you can save money in the long run!

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If you’re looking for a way to keep track of your work and progress, as well as play with ideas before testing them out on actual clients, then we recommend using MakeUp Sketchbook. With this software, you can create face charts, play with designs, and see how certain looks and products will combine with each other.

The most beneficial part of this type of software is that you can brainstorm new ideas and looks to try out. This is the perfect way to stay creative, expand your skill-set, and perfect the looks you’re going to be applying onto real customers.

5. Social Media Apps

When it comes to promoting your makeup business, social media is key! After all, what better way to reach potential customers than by using the platforms they already use every day?

Some of our favorite social media apps for makeup businesses are Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and Twitter. With these apps, you can post photos and videos of your work, share special offers and discounts, network, and reach a wide audience of potential customers!

Pro Tip: Not sure how to get started with social media? Learn how to market your business properly on social media in this article!

Business Software To Invest In

This is a great software solution for makeup artists who want to manage their business on the go. PocketSuite lets you track client appointments, send invoices, process payments, and more – all from your phone!

Acuity Scheduling is another great option for makeup artists who want to manage their business on the go. With Acuity Scheduling, you can schedule appointments, send reminders, and accept payments – again, all from your phone!

3. Makeup Artist Directories

Getting yourself listed on some sort of online directory a great way to reach potential customers who are looking for makeup artists in their area. Some of our favorite directories to list your business on include (but aren’t limited to):

Makeup artist applying bright pink lipstick to lips of young woman in curlers

4. Asana

Asana is a great project management tool that can be used by makeup artists to keep track of their to-do lists, tasks, and goals. With Asana, you can create projects, add tasks and subtasks, set deadlines, and assign team members to each task. This is a great way to stay organized and make sure that your makeup business is running smoothly!

This software is perfect for makeup artists who want to manage their business from one central location. Daysmart Salon Software lets you schedule clients with ease, track clients and appointments, handle payments, and more. Not only will this help you to keep your business organized; it’ll also help you to provide a better experience for your clients!

QuickBooks is a must-have for any business – and that includes makeup businesses! This software lets you track your income and expenses, send invoices, process payments, run reports, and so much more. QuickBooks is essential for keeping your finances in order, and in turn, keeping your business running seamlessly.

Mailchimp is a great tool for makeup artists who want to stay in touch with their clients and promote their business. With Mailchimp, you can create email newsletters, send out coupons and discounts, announce new products and services, and more. Plus, it’s easy to use and very affordable!

8. Wave

If your makeup business consists of only you, and does not house any employees, then a simpler payment solution like Wave may be better suited for your needs. With Wave, you can send simple invoices, receive payments, track your expenses, run reports, and more. Wave is a great option for makeup artists who want to keep their finances organized – without all the bells and whistles of a more complex software solution.

What Tools Do You Need To Be a Makeup Artist?: Other Business Essentials

1. Makeup Business Plan

Any good business starts with a solid plan. This will help you to define your goals, target market, and marketing strategy – all of which are essential for a successful business. Plus, if you want to get financial assistance from your bank, they’ll likely require a business plan as well.

You can find free templates and examples of business plans online, or you can hire a professional to help you write one. Either way, just make sure it contains the following information:

  • Executive Summary
  • Company Description
  • Products and Services
  • Market Analysis
  • Competition
  • Sales and Marketing Strategy
  • Financial Plan
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2. Operating Agreement (If You’re Starting an LLC)

If you’re starting a limited liability company (LLC), you’ll need to create an operating agreement. This document outlines the ownership and structure of your LLC, as well as the rules and regulations that you and your partners will need to follow.

You can find templates for operating agreements online, or you can hire an attorney to help you create one. Just make sure it covers the following topics:

  • Names and contact information of the LLC’s owners
  • Ownership percentage of each owner
  • The LLC’s management structure
  • Roles and responsibilities of each owner
  • Rules for voting on important decisions
  • Procedures for admitting new owners-
  • Dissolution procedures in the event that one of the owners wants to leave the LLC

Note: Operating agreements are not required in all states, but they’re a good idea regardless!

3. Business Insurance

Business insurance is essential for any business, and your makeup business is of no exception! Insurance will protect you financially in the event that something goes wrong, such as if someone gets injured at your salon or if you’re sued.

There are many different types of business insurance to choose from. So, make sure to do your research and find the policy that’s right forΒ your business. Some common types of business insurance include:

4. A Registered Business Name

If you want to operate your business under a name that’s different from your own, you’ll need to register it with your state or province. This is also known as “doing business as” (a.k.a. DBA). Getting your business name registered stops anyone elseΒ from being able to operate under the same name for their company… And obviously, this is super important!

To register your business name, you’ll need to file the appropriate paperwork with your secretary of state and pay the required fees. The process varies from state to state, as well as province to province. So, make sure to check with your local governing regulations for specific instructions.

Importantly, after you’ve registered your business name, be sure to use it on all of your marketing materials – such as your website, business cards, and signage!

5. A Strong Brand Identity

Your brand identity is how your business is perceived by the public. It’s what sets you apart from your competitors and makes you recognizable to your target market. As such, it’s important to take some time to develop a strong brand identity for your makeup business!

There are many different aspects to consider when creating your brand identity, such as your logo, tagline, color scheme, etc. But perhaps the most important element is your mission statement. This is a brief summary of what your company does and why it exists – and it should be reflected in everything you do!

Need help developing a strong brand identity for your makeup business? Check out our blog post on How To Brand Your Makeup Business!

Blonde Girl with Elegant and shiny Hairstyle. Beautiful Model Woman with Curly Hairstyle. Care and Beauty Hair products. Nails and Manicure

6. Your Professional Makeup Portfolio

As a makeup artist, your portfolio is essential in both getting hired for jobs and landing new clients. It’s a collection of your best work that showcases your skills and style to potential employers and customers.

If you don’t already have a portfolio, now is the time to start putting one together! Start by gathering all of the photos you have of your previous work, as well as anyΒ testimonials or letters of recommendation you may have. Then, create a website or an online gallery to showcase your portfolio – and make sure it’s easily accessible to anyone who might be interested in seeing it!

Never put together a professional makeup portfolio before? Learn everything you need to know in QC Makeup Academy‘s self-paced, online Portfolio Development Workshop!

7. A Professional Business Website

In today’s day and age, it’s critical to have a professional website for your business – no matter what industry you’re in. Your website is often the first point of contact between you and your potential customers. Because of this, it’s important to make sure that it makes the BEST impression possible!

Your website should be informative, well-designed, and easy to navigate. It should also be mobile-friendly, as more and more people are now using their smartphones to access the internet. Plus, don’t forget to showcase your portfolio on your site, as well as link visitors to your social media channels.

And of course, don’t forget to include your contact information prominently on your site! Otherwise, how can you expect anyone to be able to get a hold of you?

Products, Supplies, and Tools To Start a Makeup Business

Now that we’ve gone over some of the business basics, let’s move on to the fun stuff – makeup products! Here are a few essential items you’ll need to get started…

1. A Good Quality Makeup Brush Set

As a makeup artist, your brushes are some of your most important tools. After all, they’re what you’ll use to apply all of the products in your kit. So, it’s important to make sure you have a good set! Look for a set that includes both natural and synthetic brushes, as well as a variety of different shapes and sizes.

Fun Fact: Did you know that as part of the FREE makeup kit you’ll get in QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, you’ll receive a whopping 16 makeup brushes? It’s true!

2. A Wide Variety of Foundation Shades

When it comes to foundation, it’s important to have a wide range of shades to choose from. This way, you can match any client’s skin tone – no matter how light or dark!

We recommend stocking your kit with foundations in both liquid and powder form, as well as a BB cream or two. And don’t forget about concealer! You’ll need that, too.

3. Eyeshadows in Different Colors and Finishes

In your eyeshadow kit, you’ll want to include a variety of colors and finishes. This way, you can create any look your client desires – from natural and subtle to bold and dramatic!

Some essential eyeshadow shades to include are:

  • Nudes
  • Shimmers
  • Metallics
  • Smoky shades
  • Bright colors

Remember, it’s also important to have a good quality eyeshadow primer in your kit. This will help the shadows stay in place all day (or night!) long.

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4. A Good Quality Eyeliner

A good eyeliner is essential for creating any type of eye makeup look. Whether your client wants a simple cat eye or something more dramatic, you’ll need a liner that goes on smoothly and evenly.

We recommend stocking your kit with both pencil and liquid liners, as well as some false lashes.

5. False Eyelashes

False lashes are a great way to take any eye makeup look from ordinary to extraordinary! They come in all different shapes, sizes, and styles – so you can find the perfect ones for each of your clients.

Just make sure you have a good quality lash adhesive in your kit, too. This will ensure that the lashes stay put all day!

6. Mascara

Of course, you can’t forget about mascara! This is another essential product for creating any type of eye makeup look. When choosing a mascara, look for one that doesn’t flake or smudge. You’ll also want to make sure it has a good brush – this will help you get an even application.

7. Lipstick, Lip Gloss, and/or Lip Tint in a Variety of Shades

For the lips, you’ll want to stock your kit with a variety of shades. This way, you can create any look – from a natural lip to a bold and dramatic one.

Some essential shades to include are:

  • Nudes
  • Pinks
  • Reds
  • Berries

Remember, it’s also important to have a lip liner in your kit. This will help you create a sharp, defined look.

8. Color Correctives

Color correctors are a great way to conceal any imperfections on the skin. They come in a variety of colors, each of which cancels out a different type of imperfection.

Some essential color correctors to include in your kit are:

  • Green – for redness
  • Pink – for dark circles
  • Purple – for sallowness
  • Orange – for darkness
  • Yellow – for brightening
  • Salmon – the “Holy Grail” of color correctives

Color correcting will often need to be done on your clients – and this is yetΒ anotherΒ reason to also have a high quality concealer in your kit. The right concealer will help you cover up any imperfections that the color correctors don’t quite manage to conceal.

Pro Tip: Watch this handy webinar by QC Makeup Academy executive instructor and celebrity MUA, Nathan Johnson, to become a master of color correcting!

Beautiful woman with natural makeup and long blonde hair standing isolated over pink background, posing

9. Disposable Applicators

Disposable applicators are essential for hygienic reasons. You’ll want to have a good supply of them on hand at all times, as you’ll use them for everything from applying foundation to blending eyeshadow.

Some essential disposable applicators to include in your kit are:

  • Sponges
  • Brushes
  • Q-tips
  • Cotton pads
  • Makeup wipes

Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to hygiene. It’s better to use too many disposable applicators than not enough!

10. Sanitization Products

Speaking of hygiene, you’ll also need to have some sanitization products in your kit. This is important for both you and your clients’ safety! Not to mention, it’s downright disgusting how dirty makeup products can get if not properly kept clean.

Some essential sanitization products to include in your kit are:

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Disinfectant wipes
  • Makeup brush cleaner
  • Spray disinfectant

As a rule of thumb, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So, be sure to use these products regularly – especially if you’re working with multiple clients in one day. And don’t forget to clean your makeup products on a regular basis, regardless of whether you’re working on clients or not!

11. A Travel Makeup Bag/Kit

Another thing we strongly recommend having in your arsenal is a travel makeup bag or kit. This is essential for storing all of your makeup products and tools when you’re on the go!

There are many different types of travel makeup bags – from small cosmetic pouches to large rolling cases. The type you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.

No matter what type of travel makeup bag you choose, be sure to pack it carefully. You don’t want your products to get damaged while you’re on the road!

12. An Emergency Kit

Additionally, it’s a super smart idea to have an emergency kit on-hand. This is especially important if you’re working with clients on a regular basis. Your emergency kit should include all of the essentials – from band-aids to bobby pins.

Because the truth is, you never know when you or your client might need them!

Some essential items to include in your emergency kit are:

  • Band-aids
  • Bobby pins
  • Hair ties
  • Safety pins
  • Tissues
  • Mints
  • Aspirin
  • Female sanitary products

Again, it’s always better to be prepared for anything – you never know when an emergency might strike!

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13. A Business Planner/Organizer

Next, you’ll need a business planner or organizer. This is essential for keeping track of your appointments, clients, bookings, and more! There are many different types of planners/organizers on the market – from simple to-do lists to comprehensive appointment books.

The type you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. That said, noΒ matter what type of planner/organizer you choose, be sure to use it regularly. This will help you stay on top of your business and ensure that you’re meeting your goals!

14. The Right Attitude

Last but not least, the most important thing you need in order to succeed as a makeup artist is the right attitude! This industry is competitive, and it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to make it to the top.

But if you’re passionate about makeup and willing to put in the time and effort, then there’s no reason why you can’t succeed! Just remember to stay positive, always keep learning, and be open to constructive feedback.

The more you know, the better your chances of success will be!

How To Start a Successful Makeup Business 101

Now that you know what the best tools are to grow your makeup business, it’s time to put them into action! But first, let’s go over 5 basic rules for starting a successful makeup business.

These days, starting a business is easier than ever before – but that doesn’t mean it’s easy! In order to be successful, you’ll need to put in the hard work and dedication. But with these 5 tips, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving business:

Tip #1: Choose Your Niche

When starting any business, it’s important to choose a niche. The makeup industry is huge, so it’s important to narrow down your focus and find your target market. For instance, are you going to specialize in bridal makeup? Or are you going to focus on special effects makeup?

Knowing your niche will help you determine what products and services you’re going to offer. It will also help you target your marketing efforts, which we’ll discuss more in-depth shortly.

Tip #2: Do Your Research

Before starting any business, it’s important to do your research. This includes everything from studying the competition to learning about the latest trends in the industry. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to start and grow your business!

When it comes to research, there are a few key things you should look into:

  • The competition: Who are they? What do they offer? How can you differentiate yourself from them?
  • The industry: What are the latest trends? Which products and services are in demand? What’s the outlook for the future?
  • Your target market: Who are they? What do they want/need? How can you reach them?

By taking the time to research your industry, competition, and target market, you’ll be in a much better position to start and grow your makeup business. Trust us – it’s worth the effort!

Tip #3: Know Your Target Market

As we mentioned above, it’s important to know your target market. This includes everything from their age and gender to their location and interests. The more you know about your target market, the better equipped you’ll be to reach them with your marketing efforts.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself when trying to identify your target market:

  • Who are they?
  • What do they want/need?
  • How can you reach them?
  • What’s the best way to communicate with them?

By taking the time to answer these questions, you’ll be well on your way to identifying your target market. And once you’ve done that, you can start working on reaching them with your marketing efforts!

Tip #4: Come Up With a Marketing Strategy

Now that you know your target market, it’s time to start working on your marketing strategy. The goal of your marketing efforts should be to reach your target market and persuade them to use your products or services.

There are a number of ways to go about this, but some of the most effective include:

  • Social media: Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram to reach your target market. Be sure to post engaging content that will capture their attention!
  • Email marketing: This is a great way to stay in touch with your customers and prospects. Be sure to send out regular newsletters with helpful information and exclusive offers.
  • Paid ads: Paid ads are a great way to reach a wider audience. You can use platforms like Google AdWords and Facebook Ads to reach your target market.
  • Word-of-mouth: Never underestimate the power of word of mouth! Make sure you’re providing quality products and services that will keep your customers coming back for more.

By taking the time to develop a strong marketing strategy, you’ll be in a much better position to reach your target market and grow your business.

Hand pointing at abstract digital text on circuit background. Advertising, media and web concept

Tip #5: Stay Organized

Last but not least, it’s important to stay organized when running a business. This includes everything from keeping track of your finances to staying on top of your inventory. The more organized you are, the easier it will be to run your business smoothly and efficiently.

There are a number of ways to stay organized, but some of the most effective include:

  • Use software: As we looked at earlier, there are tons of great software programs out there designed specifically for businesses. By using one of these programs, you can keep track of your finances, inventory, customers, and more.
  • Hire an assistant: If you’re finding it difficult to keep up with everything, consider hiring an assistant. This can be a great way to take some of the pressure off yourself and free up your time to focus on other aspects of your business.
  • Stay on top of your schedule: Make sure you’re keeping track of your appointments, deadlines, and to-do lists. The more organized you are, the easier it will be to stay on top of everything.

By taking the time to stay organized, you’ll be in a much better position to run your business effectively. And believe us, your customers will appreciate it, too!

Conclusion

There you have it! These are just some the best tips for growing your makeup business. By following all of this invaluable advice, you’ll be well on your way to success.

So, what are you waiting for? Get started today! πŸ’•

We hope you found this article helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share your thoughts down below. And as always, thanks again for reading!

Stay glam, beauties! 😘

Become an internationally-certified makeup artist in as little as 12 short weeks by training online with QC Makeup Academy!