Special Effects Makeup Program
Are you a passionate makeup artist looking to elevate your skills and stand out from the competition? The SFX Program from The Makeup Academy will unlock a whole new world of possibilities for you! In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving industry, being a well-rounded makeup artist is crucial. Basic special effects techniques are the secret weapons that can take your artistry to the next level. Whether you aspire to work in film, television, beauty and editorial campaigns, or even on special occasions like Halloween, mastering special effects can open doors to endless opportunities.
Special effects are constantly evolving, with new materials, tools and techniques emerging regularly. By taking our program, curated by top FX artists and educators, you will stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and gain a competition edge over other artists.
Learn the fundamentals of creating realistic wounds, bruises, scars, aging effects, and more. By mastering these techniques, you’ll be able to create captivating characters and bring your artistic vision to life.
SPECIAL FX MAKEUP PROGRAM
Want to expand your makeup knowledge and bring your fantasy characters to life? The SFX Program from The Makeup Academy gives you hands-on demos daily and 40 hours of hands-on practice. We’re an international school of makeup located in NY, and we have been licensed by NYSED to provide an unbeatable educational experience. Whether you’re just learning about SFX or want to revisit your SFX skills this program is for you. From learning how to create bruises and swelling to creating characters. Working alongside instructors that are working in the industry for 10+ years.
In this program, you’ll be equipped with a SFX kit that will allow you to learn the fundamentals and techniques of SFX while also focusing on crucial skills such as color theory, blood application, and prosthetics. You’ll receive practice hours, photoshoots, and various opportunities to extend your portfolio, such as collaborating with photographers and expanding your professional network.
WHAT YOU'LL GET
Program Essentials
- 40 hours of hands-on practice
- Instructors with 10+ years of industry experience on TV and production sets around the world.
- Opportunity to work closely with our dream team
- Special FX All-Pro Makeup Kit ($500+ Value)
- Work with professional agency models
- PHOTOSHOOT (priceless real-world experience) showcasing character building and specific techniques
- 8 Professionally retouched photos to build your FX Portfolio
- Complete education in all areas of SFX and more…
course details
Tuition & Financing
Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your skill set and revolutionize your career as a makeup artist. Enroll in Special Effects program today and embark on a transformative journey of creativity and success. Unleash your full potential and become an even more sought-after makeup artist.
Let nothing stand in your way — CALL US NOW & take the first step to leveling up your potential.
$2400
*Includes non refundable $200 registration fee.
We have financial plans for everyone who has the passion and drive. If you can dream it, we can help you make that dream a reality…just ask our thousands of graduates from all over the world who have come before you.
Let nothing stand in your way- CALL US NOW. Our FX Program is built with the expectation students have previous formal training or have worked in the industry. Our Master Program is a great starting point for students interested in FX as it will give you the foundational skill sets that are required for this program!
Special FX Kit
To ensure that your SFX career gets started on the right track, included in your tuition is an exclusive FX Makeup Kit curated along with industry leader Alcone Company. Not only will you be prepared with proper training in our SFX Program in New York City, you’ll also have the tools to be successful and great student and grad discounts to take advantage of!
Special FX All – Pro Makeup Kit includes:
- European Body Art Encore Master Palette – 12 alcohol activated colors
- Kryolan Rubber Mask Grease Palette – 16 shades
- Ben Nye 6 Color Master Bruise Wheel
- Foam Latex Prosthetic Deep Bone Gash
- Foam Latex Prosthetic Bullet Hole
- Dick Smith 6 piece FX Brush Set
- Kryolan Rigid Collodian
- Alcone Theatrical Acetone
- 3rd Degree – Kit, Silicone Modeling Compound
- Alcone Pros Aide Adhesive
- Alcone Liquid Latex Clear
- Kryolan Old Age Stipple
- Ben Nye Thick Blood
- Ben Nye Classic Translucent Powder
- Ben Nye Final Seal
- 99% Isopropyl Alcohol
- Ben Nye Spirit Gum Remover
- Ben Nye Spirit Gum
- Black Stipple Sponge
The Best Classes
For SFX Makeup Artists in NYC
what you'll learn
Our Curriculum
Level One: Out of the Kit - FX Foundations
- Chromatic Progression of Bruising: Theory and Application
- Realistic Injury Simulation: Lacerations, Contusions & Periorbital Hematoma (Black Eye)
- Hemoglobin-Based Blood Effects: Texture, Tone, and Placement
- Tattoo Pigment Theory and Skin Tone Adaptation
- Corrective Tattoo Concealment for Film & Photography
- Application Techniques for Temporary and Faux Tattoos (Ink Transfer, Stencil, Freehand)
- Dimensional Aging with Highlight, Contour, and Texture Mapping (2D Aging FX)
- Stipple Techniques for Advanced Skin Texturization and Hair Whitening Effects
- Crepe Wool Breakdown, Coloring, and Hand Application Techniques
- Design and Application of Facial Hair: Mustaches, Beards, and Stubble
- Hand-Laying and Ventilating Techniques for Custom Beards
- Follicular Growth Direction and Hair Pattern Theory for Character Continuity
- Advanced Body Painting Techniques for Creature and Fantasy Design
- Airbrush Mastery for Seamless Application, Blending, and Skin FX Texture
Level Two: Film & TV - Character & On Camera
- Realistic Burn Trauma: First, Second, and Third Degree Injury Simulation
- Advanced Application of Liquid Latex and Gelatin for Skin Distortion
- Scar Tissue Development: Raised, Healed, and Keloid Effects for Narrative Continuity
- Introduction to Prosthetic Transfer Materials (PTM): Zombie FX and Seamless Blending
- Foam Latex Prosthetic Integration: Bullet Wound and Impact Trauma Effects
- Encapsulated Silicone Appliances: Precision Cut and Gash Simulation Techniques
- Scalp and Hairline Preparation for Professional Bald Cap Adherence
- Bald Cap Fabrication: Custom-Fit Latex and Vinyl Cap Creation
- Application and Edge Work Techniques for On-Camera Realism
- Color Matching and Texture Blending for Seamless Film Appearance
- Character Conceptualization: From Design Board to Camera-Ready Look
- Studio Photoshoot Featuring Three Completed FX Looks
- Creative Direction and Portfolio Building: Two Character-Focused Shoots
portfolio building
Photoshoots
Showcase your FX mastery in a professional studio photoshoot, collaborating with agency-represented models and seasoned photographers specializing in special effects imagery.
Design one look incorporating two advanced FX techniques, followed by two original character creations, each demonstrating two additional specialized applications.
Upon graduation, you’ll receive eight professionally retouched portfolio images — perfect for presenting your skills to production teams, film studios, clients, and hiring managers.
Industry Connections
Career Pathways
We believe learning special effects makeup is only the beginning — building a career is the ultimate goal. Our FX program is designed to not only train you in industry-standard techniques, but to launch you toward real opportunities in the world of professional special effects.
Career Opportunities:
Graduates of our program are prepared for a wide range of careers, including:
Special Effects Makeup Artist for Film & Television
Prosthetic and Creature Effects Technician
On-Set Makeup Department Assistant
Haunted Attraction and Live Event FX Artist
Theme Park Makeup and Character Designer
Advertising & Editorial SFX Makeup Specialist
Freelance Artist for Private Clients and Production Studios
Industry Connections:
Through our curated photoshoots, professional model collaborations, and network of photographers and production teams, students gain exposure to real-world working conditions while building an industry-ready portfolio. Our graduates have the skills and polished materials needed to pursue freelance opportunities, production house internships, and assistant positions on set.
Alumni Support:
After graduation, you’ll continue to receive access to networking events, alumni updates, and early notices for freelance and assistant job openings within our growing industry network.
At The Makeup Academy NYC, we don’t just teach FX — we prepare you to work in it.
