In the world of Makeup Artists, there’s a challenge rarely talked about; the toll it takes on your body. During my first visit to a chiropractor, I learned that Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists frequently battle persistent back pain. It wasn’t until my seventh year in the field that I truly absorbed this fact, as discomfort settled into my neck, upper back & lower back. Turns out, the cervical spine, where your neck meets your shoulders, holds a lot of power. It’s the central of your spinal system where all your nerves meets. If any of the nerves are obstructed, it can cause muscle weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, vision problems, headache & migraines. I am not a medical expert, but discussions with doctors and specialists, it gave me a lot of insights. What peculiar about back pain is how it can ambush you, one day you’re fine, the next day can lead to chronic back issues. That’s why being aware of your posture and movements is absolutely key. Here are 10 tips that I learned that can help you avoid back issues as Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists.

1. CONDENSE YOUR KIT

Be mindful of the weight you carry in your makeup kit. Consider condensing your kit to reduce the strain on your back for the long run. You can still have everything you want but in a smaller size. This not only helps in preventing back issues but also enhances your workflow allowing you to work faster and more efficient. It’s an investment of your money and time, but much cheaper than seeing specialist in the future.

2. OPTIMAL SEATING

Ensure your client’s chair is at eye level to yours. This is crucial for maintaining excellent posture throughout your work day.

3. PRE AND POST WORK STRETCHES

Incorporate simple stretches before and after your workday to counteract the strain from prolonged uncomfortable positions that we put our body in to alleviate back tensions

4. LOOK UP

We spend a lot of time on our phone, laptop & other electronic devices. Instead of looking down, raise your devices to eye level. This relieves stress on your neck and shoulder muscles caused by the weight of your head.

5. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR CLIENT

Most of us try to accommodate our client and put our body in the most awkward positions. Don’t hesitate to discuss your comfort needs with your clients. Ensure your work environment accommodates good posture. Request higher chairs for longer sessions or adapt to the situation by lowering yourself to your client’s eye level.

6. STANDING MAT & FOOTWEAR

For long period of standing, request a standing mat on bigger jobs or consider using one in your home studio. Wear well-padded, comfortable footwear to ease the strain of extended standing.

7. SLEEPING POSITIONS & PILLOWS

Adjust your sleeping position to avoid spin misalignment and breathing issues. Sleeping on your stomach is the worst position you can put your body through during 8+ hours of rest. Choose a neck supportive pillow and place another under your knees to maintain a straight spine and prevent lower back discomfrot. I know it could look silly but if I knew this beforehand, I rather look silly now than having chronic back pain and waking up up like someone beat me up the day before.

8. LIFT SMART

Learn proper lifting techniques, especially if you ave a heavy makeup kit. Elevate with your knees to protect your back during tasks like moving your kit up stairs or in and out of vehicles.

9. LIGHTING

Ensure your workspace is well-lit to prevent leaning or hunching over to see your work. Adequate lighting reduces the strain on your neck and back.

10. CORE STRENGHTENING

Research on which muscles that you often use as Makeup Artist, learn a few simple exercises that target those muscles in order to strengthen them.

In conclusion, there may be instances in this profession where fulfilling all ten points might be challenging, but strive to stay conscious of your posture. Once chronic back pain sets in, fixing it isn’t as simple. Preventing through lifestyle adjustments becomes the key. It’s far more challenging to make these chances once the issue has developed. This is a subject I wish I had been informed about when I began my journey as a Makeup Artist, so I genuinly hope you give it serious consideration, even if you currently feel perfectly fine and invincible. If you find this read valuable, please share it with your friends and colleagues.

If you enjoyed the read and like to donate a coffee, Zelle vanktr@gmail.com & Venmo @vanktr

As a Makeup Artist, my journey in the beauty industry has been filled with both fascinating and unique experiences. I remember being on set for an Adidas campaign in NYC, as I set up my makeup kit, the production manager noticed I was wearing shoes from a different brand. To my surprise, they had a runner buy me a pair of Adidas shoes. It was a strange experience, but it made me rethink my approach to my makeup kit. Since then, I decided to remove all branding from my kit. Let me tell you my 5 reasons why I don’t display branding in my kit.

1. Versatility and Ease of Work

In the fast-paced world of makeup artistry, I work with a diverse array of cosmetic brands on various sets. With cameras constantly rolling behind the scenes, keeping brand labels concealed makes my life as an artist a whole lot easier. I can seamlessly transition between products, adapt to the specific needs of each project, and focus solely on creating stunning looks without unnecessary distractions.

2. Personalized Care for Clients

Every individual's skin is unique, and so are their preferences. Some clients may claim to be allergic to certain brands, but it's often specific ingredients that trigger sensitivities. By avoiding visible brand labels, I can concentrate on understanding the individual’s concerns and customizing makeup choices to suit their needs while being able to use proper products for the best results. This ensures a safe and tailored makeup experience for everyone.

3. Emphasizing Skill and Personality

One important thing I value is building connections based on talent and personality, rather than brand affiliations. I take pride in working with clients who appreciate my skills and unique approach to artistry. By not relying on brand endorsements, I can establish genuine connections with clients who choose me for who I am as an artist.

4. Authenticity and Product Evaluation

In an era dominated by social media, authenticity is key. I believe in staying true to myself and my craft, and that includes promoting only the products I genuinely use and believe in. By avoiding brand displays, I can freely experiment with new products on set, ensuring that I only endorse items that I truly love.

5. Honesty and Integrity

As a makeup artist, I understand the power of influence. Rather than endorsing products solely for financial gain, I prioritize honesty and transparency with my audience and clients. By concealing brands in my kit, I maintain the integrity of my recommendations and ensure that they stem from authentic experiences, fostering a sense of trust between myself and those who rely on my expertise.

In Conclusion

My decision to not display branding in my makeup kit helps me build genuine connections with my clients and audience. With this approach, it allows me to focus on what matters: creating, ensuring client satisfaction, and sharing only the best and most reliable products with my audience. As I continue to grow as an artist, I remain committed to staying true to my craft and being authentic.

Disclaimer: Just because something cost a lot and considered “luxury” it does not mean it works or good for all clients and vice versa. This is my personal opinion and my experience as an artist. you can do whatever you want, carry whatever you like, if it works for you by carrying products with all branding, then do you. Also, if you work for a cosmetic brand then it’s normal to carry that particular brand in your kit.

If you enjoyed the read and like to donate a coffee, Zelle vanktr@gmail.com & Venmo @vanktr

10 Ways To Prevent Future Back Problems As Makeup Artists