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.

Hollywood Makeup Studio

West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, California
4.5 (83 reviews)
  • Makeup & Hair
  • Skin Care
  • Classes & Workshops
  • See More

Hollywood Makeup Studio offers top of the line semi-permanent eyelash extension service, makeup application and hair styling services for wedding, spe More Detail

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Lavish Hair & Make Up Studio

Larkin Street, San Francisco, California
4.5 (111 reviews)
  • Wash And Blowout
  • Hot Heads Extensions
  • Haircut & Style
  • See More

We believe life is Lavish at Lavish Hair & Make Up Studio. At Lavish Hair & Make Up Studio we strive to provide you with the most advanced training an More Detail

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Makeup By Megs

Newark Boulevard, San Jose, California
4.5 (80 reviews)
  • Party Makeup
  • Bridal Event Hair & Makeup
  • MBM Academy
  • See More

My name is Megan, a 38-year-old passionate makeup artist in the beauty industry with over 21 years of experience and a loving mother to my 7-year-old More Detail

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Makeup Gourmet

Westmoorland Drive, San Francisco, California
4.5 (111 reviews)
  • Makeup Artists Training
  • Head Shots
  • Free Online Consultations
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Very early in my career, a client once asked me to make her look like anyone but herself. I did just that. When I stood back I was so ashamed of More Detail

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Glam Dolls Hair & Make-Up Studio

Fourth Avenue, San Diego, California
4.5 (227 reviews)
  • Airbrush tanning
  • Bridal hair services
  • Cut and color
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A list of Specialty Services offered at our salon include: - Custom Hair Extension - Individual Eyelash Extensions - Airbrush Spray Tanning - Makeup - More Detail

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Atelier by Tiffany

South Western Avenue, Los Angeles, California
4.6 (3986 reviews)
  • Hair extension removal
  • Haircut
  • Make up Wedding
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Atelier By Tiffany is a Luxury Salon located in the Korea Town Area of Los Angeles. We specialize in personalized one on one service for diverse clien More Detail

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PaperDoll Salon

Garnet Avenue, San Diego, California
4.5 (684 reviews)
  • Hair extension coloring
  • Bridal hair services
  • Reapplying hair extensions
  • See More

UNITE Product, Olaplex, Balayage, Custom Highlighting, Dimensional Color, Fashion Color, Women Cuts, Men's Cuts & Color, Styling, Tape-in extensions, More Detail

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The Bristle Hair and Makeup Artistry

Santo Road, San Diego, California
4.3 (93 reviews)
  • Makeovers
  • Haircut
  • Makeup application

The Bristle is San Diego's newest salon for hair and make-up artistry. Offering a wide variety of styles. More Detail

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Kryolan City San Francisco

Union Street, San Francisco, California
4.5 (3504 reviews)
  • Wedding Hair
  • Wedding Makeup
  • Cosmetics & Beauty Supply

Professional make-up for more than 70 years. Make-up Is A Science More Detail

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Ruby's Beauty Studio

Oakland Road, San Jose, California
4.3 (233 reviews)
  • Waxing
  • Makeup consultation
  • Makeup application
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Threading, Herbal facials, Waxing, Bleach, Bridal Makeup & updos, Head Massage.. 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.