Top 10 Best Makeup Artists

We feature professional makeup artists who specialize in bridal and event makeup. These experts are selected for their artistry, use of high-quality products, and excellent client feedback.

AH Boutique

East Taylor Street, San Jose, California
5.0 (77 reviews)
  • Permanent makeup touch-ups
  • Microblading
  • Eyebrow services
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Welcome! I'm Amber, a certified Phibrows Artist passionate about creating natural and realistic microbladed eyebrows that make you feel and look like More Detail

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Mena Mead Hair & Makeup Atelier

Fillmore Street, San Francisco, California
5.0 (49 reviews)

Creating Bewitching Balayage and color for clients around the globe. Styling for Red Carpet and extr More Detail

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MakeupStarStudio

Descanso Drive, San Jose, California
4.9 (164 reviews)
  • Makeup lessons
  • Makeup consultation
  • Makeovers
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San Francisco based Makeup Artist, Hair Stylist, Saree Draping More Detail

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Natalia Chertukhina by HMUA

Avenida Venusto, San Diego, California
5.0 (48 reviews)
  • Trial makeup and hairstyle for the bride
  • Wedding makeup and hairstyle
  • Evening makeup and hairstyle
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makeupartist and hairstylist with cosmetology license Natalia Chertukhina by HMUA makeup artist with cosmetology license Hi! My name is Natalia! More Detail

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Makeup by Monica

Camino Del Mar, San Diego, California
5.0 (45 reviews)
  • Makeup application
  • Makeup consultation
  • Makeup lessons
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Beauty makeup, weddings, commercial, headshots, tv, corporate video production, fashion. History Established in 2000. In the beauty industry si More Detail

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Selenia - Makeup Artist and Eyebrow Threading

Sutter Street, San Francisco, California
5.0 (62 reviews)
  • Weddings Hair
  • Weddings Makeup
  • Threading
  • See More

My mission is to beautify one person at a time. In the words of Marilyn Monroe "We are all stars and we deserve to twinkle." More Detail

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JC Bridal Boutique

Coleman Avenue, San Jose, California
4.9 (98 reviews)
  • Wedding planning
  • Decor nad flowers
  • Bridal salon
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Wedding Gown / Red evening dress / Veil / Accessories Rental Bridal dresses collection rental ranging between $380 to $680 Makeup And Hair Service Cle More Detail

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Adam Castillo Makeup Stylist - Meraki Studio

Winchester Boulevard, San Jose, California
5.0 (33 reviews)

Makeup and Hairstyling for any special ocassion. Visit my Beauty salon in San José, CA. Book now Makeup | Hairstyle | Color | Treatments Maquill More Detail

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AN Artistry — Wedding Makeup & Hair San Francisco

Washington Street, San Francisco, California
5.0 (46 reviews)
  • Makeup application
  • Hair styling
  • Makeovers
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Specialzing in timeless Hi-Def ready Bridal Makeup, A.N. Artistry is focused on speedy, precise, natural looking flawless and professional services th More Detail

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BUN BUN BRIDAL LAB

Fulton Street, San Francisco, California
4.9 (390 reviews)
  • Hair styling
  • Makeup consultation
  • Makeup application
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* All INQUIRY pls email thru WEBSITE & must provide information needed * Bun Bun Bridal Lab is a luxury award winning licensed makeup+hair team who sp More Detail

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Frequently Asked Questions

Start by checking their portfolio and reviews, this will give you an idea of their expertise and whether their work aligns with your vision. For brides or anyone with specific skin concerns, ask about the products they use to ensure compatibility with your skin. Booking a trial session is highly recommended to avoid last-minute surprises. Also, check their punctuality and hygiene practices, as a good artist should maintain a clean kit.

 Your skin should be clean, hydrated, and prepped for the best makeup results. A day before, exfoliate gently to remove dead skin cells and apply a good moisturizer. Avoid trying new skincare products, as they might cause breakouts or irritation. 

If you have a reference photo, bring it to help the artist understand your vision. On the day of your appointment, wear a button-down shirt to avoid ruining your makeup while changing outfits. If you have oily skin, ask the artist to use a mattifying primer and oil-control setting spray for longer wear.

Makeup application time depends on the look you’re going for. A simple glam look takes about 45–60 minutes, while bridal or special event makeup can take 2–3 hours due to accuracy and layering. If additional features like false lashes, contouring, or airbrush makeup are involved, expect extra time. Special effects or costume makeup can take even longer, depending on the difficulty. Always plan accordingly, especially for events like weddings, where you will need extra buffer time.

Pricing depends on experience, location, and the type of makeup service you need.

  • Basic event makeup: $50–$150
  • Bridal makeup: $150–$500+ (includes trials and touch-ups)
  • Photoshoot makeup: $100–$300
  • Special effects makeup: $100+ (varies by design and difficulty)

Some artists charge extra for travel, false lashes, and airbrush makeup, so always confirm pricing details before booking.

To make sure your look remains intact, here are a few key steps we suggest taking. 

  • Find a specialist: Look for artists experienced in bridal, event, or long-wear makeup.
  • Check reviews and portfolios: See if their makeup holds up in long events and different conditions.
  • Ask about products: Ensure they use waterproof, sweat-resistant, and high-quality formulas.
  • Book a trial: Test how the makeup lasts on your skin before the big day.

Get touch-up tips: A good artist will recommend products for quick fixes.