A professional makeup artist’s salary varies depending on the level of experience, skill, and location. A makeup artist can expect to earn between $30,000 and $75,000 per year or £20,000 to £35,000 in the UK. If you decide to work for a salon you’ll have a regular salary. If you choose a freelance makeup career, your salary will be less steady but you’ll have a lot more flexibility in the way you want to work. A professional makeup artist working at a beauty counter or for a cosmetics company will typically make a steady hourly wage, with the potential for commission depending on the company.