How Much Should Makeup Artists Charge? Try This Formula
Makeup artistry is backbreaking work behind all that glitz and glamor. People think it’s easy but it’s really not, and so many makeup artists do it for love without necessarily thinking about their pricing too hard. And so, in the world of makeup, where passion meets business, how does one really put a price on something that’s both an art and a service? Let’s break down a formula tailored for our Filipino makeup artists!
But first, a note: I made this to help you with your base computation. You can definitely add more or subtract according to what you think the true cost of your services and artistry are worth. I also highly recommend researching the prices of other makeup artists in your area, and make sure to check how this relates to their skill level also. Benchmarking will help you price correctly for your target market especially if you’re in a provincial area. Admittedly, this pricing is Metro Manila-centric.
This computation also doesn’t take into account equipment like lighting, glam mirrors, makeup tables and chairs and so on. I’ve decided to take them out because they are not consumable on a per client basis (not the way makeup is with expiration dates). Typically it will take years for the equipment to be rendered unusable although you can definitely add them in the computation if you wish because technically these depreciating assets have a set number of uses.
Begin at the Basics: Base Hourly Rate (BHR)
Exprience speaks volumes. Clients get makeup artists because they want to be absolutely confident that they’ll look great throughout their special event. First and foremost, understand your worth. Your skills, time, and the investment in products play a crucial role. While starting low might attract clients, undervaluing can set a precedent that's hard to break.
Beginner: ₱300 - ₱700/hour
Intermediate: ₱700 - ₱2,500/hour
Seasoned Pro: ₱2,500 - ₱7,500/hour (or more, depending on the status and quality of clientele of the makeup artist).
Your skillset, coupled with your experiences, shapes your base rate. Remember, every gig, every client adds to your expertise.
Every Stroke Counts: Product Cost (PC)
Products are the tools of our trade. For a ₱2,000 foundation that serves 40 clients, the cost translates to about ₱50 per session. Estimate the rest of the products you have per use. Quality has its price, and it's only fair to factor it in.
Go the Distance: Travel & Convenience Fees (TCF)
These fees are just based on current Grab Car rates within Metro Manila and the greater MM area. Of course, you may take other modes of transportation like public lines and driving your own car.
Nearby: ₱100 - ₱500
A bit further: ₱500 - ₱1,000
A long drive: ₱1,000 - ₱3,000 (depending on the distance, especially for out of town gigs).
If you’re going to an out of town job that requires you to stay overnight, usually the client shoulders the hotel fees and transpo, or you can decide on your own arrangement. It depends on what you agree on.
The Unseen Essentials: Overhead Costs (OC)
From maintaining that cozy studio ambiance to your online presence, these are the costs that run in the background. Say, ₱8,000 in monthly overheads could equate to ₱400 per client, given 20 clients a month.
Special Touches Matter: Specialization Surcharge (SS)
Offering something unique, like airbrushing or bridal-specific makeup? This is where you can add a surcharge, ranging anywhere from ₱2,000 to ₱5,000 (or more).
Loyalty has its Perks: Package or Duration Discount (PDD)
For those extended bridal sessions or recurrent bookings, a discount goes a long way in building client loyalty. The discount you want to give depends on the package, of course, but thinking anywhere from 10% to 20% off your normal price.
The Grand Reveal: Total Charge Calculation
Your Makeup Artist Rate = (BHR x Number of Hours) + PC + TCF + OC + SS - PDD
For instance, an intermediate MUA working a 2-hour session at ₱2,500 per hour, using products worth ₱1,500 per face, traveling a short distance at ₱500 for a Grab, and shouldering a ₱400 overhead per client might look at a total of around ₱7,400. Offering a specialized service? Add the surcharge of ₱2,000, and you’re looking at ₱9,400!
If you’re a seasoned bridal MUA working a 3-hour session, then it can be at ₱7,500 per hour with a surcharge of ₱5,000 for your trademark bridal look, your rate can play at around ₱29,900, or rounded to ₱30,000.
My dear MUAs, remember, while formulas offer guidance, your intuition and unique flair hold immense value. Continue to adapt, evolve, and most importantly, believe in the magic you create with every brushstroke. Good luck!
