SFX + Makeup Program
An in-depth exploration of both fundamental and advanced techniques. For any skill level.
1072.5Hrs32 WeeksNext class: Nov 17, 2025
Bring Your Wildest Ideas to LIFE
Regardless of your initial skill level, the master beauty, hairstyling, airbrush, body painting and special effects makeup classes included in the Journey 2 special effects program offers an in-depth exploration of both fundamental and advanced techniques.
These are essential for becoming a well-rounded, highly skilled, certified makeup artist prepared to work in the many beauty and special effects industries upon graduating. Whether you desire to do makeup for the runways in Milan, hair and makeup for a bridal party, create hair raising Zombie’s for a movie set, or airbrush art on a human body there are no limits on what you can create.
Course Cirriculum
Course Cirriculum
Course Cirriculum
Course Cirriculum
Mastering the Art of BEAUTY
520 Hrs16 Weeks
This immersive beauty makeup course guides students from foundational skills to advanced artistry, blending theory with extensive hands-on practice. Covering everything from skin preparation to on-camera techniques, the program develops the expertise needed for a variety of makeup styles—from everyday beauty to editorial and film. Along the way, students gain professional experience in airbrushing, creative looks, and industry best practices, preparing them to enter the beauty field with confidence, skill, and a strong portfolio.
You'll Learn...
- Sanitation & infection control
- Product & brand knowledge
- Tools, face charts & storyboarding
- Color theory, face anatomy & skincare
- Skin tone matching & color correction
- Highlighting, contouring & complexion
- Layering, gradation, crease & blending
- Airbrush makeup
- False eyelash application
- Time period, Bridal & mature makeup
- HD camera-ready & editorial makeup
- Makeup Trends
- Avant-garde, drag & fantasy makeup
- Rhinestones & appliques
- Tattoo cover
- Portfolio building
Hair Styling
for the Makeup Artist
130 Hrs4 Weeks
Hairstyling for the makeup artist is not just an add-on skill; it’s an essential facet necessary to complement and elevate the work of beauty and special makeup effects artists across film, photo shoots, runway, stage, and print.
You'll Learn...
- Products, tools & sanitation
- Client consultation
- Hair texture work & blow-drying
- Curling & waving
- Male grooming
- Up-dos, braiding, & buns
- French twists & chignons
- Hair Clip-Ins
- Photo Shoot – hair & makeup
- & More
Airbrush & Body Painting
195 Hrs6 Weeks
This advanced body painting and airbrush course builds on foundational skills to help students bring bold, imaginative concepts to life. Training covers precision airbrush techniques, anatomy-based designs, realistic textures, and effects like clothing illusions and scales. Students also learn full character creation, from makeup and prosthetic application to costume design, hairpieces, and bald caps. With a focus on creativity and professionalism, the program prepares graduates for work in film, television, cosplay, and other creative industries.
You'll Learn...
- Product overview, etiquette & sanitation
- Freehand strokes, stencils & shading
- Advanced Airbrush Techniques
- Realistic clothing effects
- Extended color theory
- Freehand techniques
- Character Creation Techniques
- Scales, Logos, Cosplay
- Abstract concepts
- Hairpiece & Bald cap application
- Propping & styling
- Photo Shoot – body & airbrush art
- & More
Special Effects Makeup
227.5 Hrs7 Weeks
LMI’s special effects makeup classes cover the full spectrum of SFX artistry, from foundational theory and kit usage to advanced character creation. Students explore a range of methods for transforming concepts into fully realized characters, gaining hands-on experience with sculpting, mold-making, prosthetic work, and detailed painting for lifelike results. The program blends technical mastery with creative problem-solving, preparing graduates to design and execute compelling effects for film, television, stage, and more.
You'll Learn...
- SFX tools, anatomy, &character design
- Making Bald Caps
- Teeth Molding
- Hair hackling & steaming
- Beard application
- Cuts, bruises, & burns
- Old-age makeup
- Using silicone for lifelike zombie effects
- Life Casting
- Making foam latex prosthetics
- Sculpting and Molding
- Prosthetic placement & edge work
- Mask & PAX painting
- Character Creation
- Job Education
- & More
Based on combined institutional outcomes for placement rates as of 10/01/2024 for the cohort reporting period ending March 2023.
Get HIRED After Graduation
Helping L Makeup Institute alumni future makeup artists find their dream careers is what L Makeup Institute is all about. From the moment you step through our doors to begin your makeup career, our dedicated team is committed to providing you with the tools, resources, and support you need to turn your passion for makeup into a successful makeup artist career.
Creativity Shouldn’t Break the BANK
We understand that financing your beauty school education can be a daunting task, filled with complexities and important decisions. We want to alleviate stress by providing valuable information and assistance through L Makeup Institutes’ Financial Aid Department.
L Makeup Institute has earned accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), demonstrating its commitment to meeting and surpassing the rigorous standards set by industry and education experts. Additionally, accredited makeup schools can offer financial aid to eligible students, making education more accessible and affordable.
Learn from a Team of AWARD WINNING Professionals
At L Makeup Institute, our faculty is composed of working professionals, award-winning artists, and seasoned educators who represent the highest standards in makeup artistry, special effects, hair, and esthetics. Collectively, they bring decades of hands-on experience across the beauty, entertainment, fashion, and live production industries—giving our students an unmatched education rooted in real-world expertise.
Our Grads Work With The Best
What Our Grads Have to Say
“My journey at L Makeup has been so amazing! Although I had moments where I felt down or defeated, I always got back up10x stronger thanks to myself and everyone around me. I have learned how to overcome so many things, this is definitely aplace for growth. Ive built so many great friendships and beautiful memories I will forever take with me on this new journey!”
—Chrystne Valencia
“I am so grateful to have been able to attend L Makeup Institute. The courses I’ve taken here have helped grow my skills tremendously, and I am incredibly proud of the portfolio I’ve built during my time here. All of the L Makeup instructors have taught me things I will never forget while also building an irreplaceable bond with my classmates and I. I would recommend LMI to anyone in a heartbeat!”
—Malorie Tompkins
“L makeup Institute was an eye-opener. It allowed me to look at makeup in a more detailed and personal way. Forcing me to care about the minor details that create the bigger picture. The school allowed me to completely be myself. I was able to relax and learn. Each instructor was encouraging and cared about the outcomes of each student. I am forever grateful for LMI, the friendships I was able to create, and the knowledge I was able to learn”
—Jessica Armstead
“EXTREMELY happy that I came to this school; I was looking for one that was only focused on makeup, since I’m not interested in cosmetology. After going for a tour, I moved from Puerto Rico to Las Vegas just for this school. L Makeup was recommended to me, and I’m so glad I went with it. I’ve learned so much, from obviously makeup application to sanitation, product knowledge, staying organized and becoming way quicker at the makeup application since it is very hands on. Everyday we would do makeup applications so I was never bored and always enjoyed going to class. Body paint was so much fun, creative and very new to me but I was able to learn so much, same thing with Special FX. ALL of the teachers and assistants are very experienced, very nice and super helpful. The facilities are so gorgeous and very prestigious, and were always kept clean. After so much training, I’m so much more confident about my artistry and can’t wait to start working. I have already finished the whole program but I’m definitely coming back to take Advanced Prosthetics.” -Lakshmi F.
—Lakshmi F
Creative. Passionate. A Little Bit Misfit.
LMI is home to students from all walks of life—this is a blurb that introduces student stories.
Lakshmi F
Shannon C
Jessica Armstead
J1: Beauty Makeup
Cade Perlman
J1: Beauty Makeup
Lillian Abuan
J3: Beauty Makeup + Fashion
Maya Anguiano
J2: Beauty Makeup + Sfx
Caitlyn Y
Malorie Tompkins
J3: Beauty Makeup + Fashion
Mercedes Hernandez
J1: Beauty Makeup
Chrystne Valencia
J2: Beauty Makeup + Sfx
Allie Moore
J3: Beauty Makeup + Fashion
Olivia Grade
J1: Beauty Makeup
Brynna Berge
J1: Beauty Makeup
Kurtis Janitch
J1: Beauty Makeup
Viviana Duarte
J1: Beauty Makeup
November 17th
1072.5
Clock Hours
Monday-Thursday | 8:00am – 5:30pm
Weekly Pacing
32 Weeks
Course Duration
Our application process consists of 3 simple steps. Complete a student application and pay a $100 application fee, secure funding to pay for the course or program of study, then complete the interview process.
Whether you have questions or need additional information, our dedicated Admissions Team and Financial Aid Office is ready to assist you on your journey to becoming a certified makeup artist.
To Soon? We have cohorts throughout the year.
See Program ScheduleFAQs
What’s the difference between LMI and a cosmetology school?
Lorem ipsum dolor ist amte, consectetuer adipiscing eilt. Aenean commodo ligula egget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec quak felis, ultricies nec, pellentesque eu, pretium quid, sem.
What programs are offered at L Makeup Institute?
Lorem ipsum dolor ist amte, consectetuer adipiscing eilt. Aenean commodo ligula egget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec quak felis, ultricies nec, pellentesque eu, pretium quid, sem.
Is L Makeup Institute accredited?
Lorem ipsum dolor ist amte, consectetuer adipiscing eilt. Aenean commodo ligula egget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec quak felis, ultricies nec, pellentesque eu, pretium quid, sem.
What Are You Waiting For?
Start Your Journey TODAY.
Whether you have questions or need additional information, our dedicated Admissions Team and Financial Aid Office is ready to assist you on your journey to becoming a certified makeup artist.