Education | Launch a creative career in an evolving industry

Discover the art of special effects makeup and launch a creative career

If you are creative, curious, and fascinated by movies, monsters, or transformations, special effects (SFX) makeup could be the path you didn’t know you were looking for.

Author | Sophie T

With the global market for SFX makeup expected to reach £5.6 billion by 2031, there has never been a better time to explore this exciting industry.

This guide addresses the most common questions about SFX makeup courses, including what they involve, how to get started, and where they can take you. Whether you are leaving school, considering a career change, or simply exploring your options, reading on could mark the start of something significant.

What is special effects makeup?

Special effects makeup is the craft of creating illusions using makeup and prosthetics. It covers everything from zombie wounds and sci-fi creatures to characters ageing decades in a single scene. SFX makeup is employed in film, television, theatre, live events, haunted attractions, and even medical training simulations.

Unlike traditional beauty makeup, which enhances natural features, SFX makeup transforms a person completely. The effects can be as subtle as a black eye or as complex as a full alien headpiece. Artists use materials such as latex, silicone, gelatine, clay and paint to make every detail convincing.

If you have ever watched behind-the-scenes footage of a horror or superhero film and wondered how it was done, that is SFX makeup in action.

The video from The Academy offers an interesting insight into the industry.

How to learn special effects makeup

You can begin experimenting at home with basic kits or online tutorials, which is a great way to see if it sparks your interest. For those considering a career, enrolling on an SFX makeup course provides a significant advantage.

A quality course offers access to professional tools and products and structured training from experienced industry professionals. No prior experience is needed, only passion and dedication. Learning in a studio also gives you feedback, deadlines to keep you motivated, and the chance to build a network with like-minded students.

Where can I study in London?

Click the link Google search button below to discover a range of courses across London and beyond. Some of these higher education/degree level courses and others are shorter courses offered by institutions like University of Arts London.

Brushstroke offers professional training and stands out as the only academy in the city to provide both the extensive two-year BTEC and ITEC Level 3 Diploma makeup courses. The school also offers shorter courses in areas such as special effects, airbrushing, and editorial makeup techniques.

What does a special effects makeup course involve?

Most courses are practical and fast-paced. You will start with the basics, such as creating bruises, cuts, burns and scars, before moving on to more advanced skills, including:

• Sculpting characters in clay
• Moulding and casting prosthetics
• Applying silicone pieces to actors
• Creating creatures and fantasy looks
• Airbrushing and painting realistic skin tones
• Understanding hygiene, safety and on-set etiquette

Many courses also guide you in building a professional portfolio and learning how to work on real sets, approach clients, and find paid opportunities.