Boost Your Beauty Skills with These Free Online Cosmetology Courses
Whether you're a freelance makeup artist, working in a salon, or dreaming of launching your own beauty business, you're likely always on the lookout for ways to enhance your skills and expand your client base.
Fortunately, there are plenty of free online cosmetology courses available that can help you stay ahead in the beauty industry.
These courses offer an excellent way to learn new techniques, keep up with the latest trends, and refine your expertise—all from the comfort of your home. They provide valuable insights and training that can complement your practical experience and help you decide if a career in cosmetology is right for you.
While these courses won't replace the need for state board licensing exams to become a certified cosmetologist, they are a great resource for ongoing professional development and exploration of your passion for beauty.
Top 10 Free Online Cosmetology Courses to Enhance Your Skills
10.Introduction to Makeup Techniques (Skillshare)
For those new to professional makeup artistry, this introductory course on Skillshare is a fantastic way to start. During the free trial, you can explore fundamental beauty techniques guided by makeup artist Chelsie Baker. It’s a great opportunity to learn the basics and see if this career path suits you. If you’re inspired, check out our list of essential tools for freelance makeup artists to kickstart your journey.
9.Comprehensive Beauty Therapy Course (Upskillist)
Formerly known as Shaw Academy, Upskillist offers a thorough beauty therapy course that covers skincare, body treatments, and hair removal. This course starts with foundational knowledge and advances to professional makeup techniques. You can complete it in four weeks, aligning with Upskillist's free trial period, making it a valuable resource for those looking to gain both practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
8.Makeup and Nails Certification Course (Upskillist)
For those ready to take their skills to the next level, Upskillist offers an extensive sixteen-week certification course in makeup and nail techniques. With nearly 52,000 students, this course provides advanced training that’s perfect for beginners or seasoned professionals needing a refresher. Note that after the four-week trial, there is a monthly fee of $69.99, but the course is designed to deepen your understanding and enhance your expertise in cosmetology.
7.Boost Your Holiday Sales with Our Free Course (Schedulicity)
We’ve teamed up with beauty expert Nina Tulio to offer a complimentary four-week course designed to help you increase your revenue during the busy holiday season. This course is tailored specifically for beauty professionals and is available through Schedulicity, a booking app that delivers lessons right to your inbox. You can access these valuable insights at your convenience, making it easier to maximize your earnings during peak times.
6.Beauty Tutorials by Huda Beauty (YouTube)
While YouTube may not be a formal online course, it’s an excellent resource for learning new beauty techniques. Many successful makeup artists use YouTube to keep up with the latest trends and skills. Huda Kattan, a renowned makeup artist and beauty influencer, offers a range of tutorials on her channel. These videos are a fantastic way to stay updated and learn new tips, especially when you have a busy schedule.
5.Hair Coloring Techniques with Shannon VanFleet (YouTube)
For those interested in mastering hair coloring, check out Shannon VanFleet’s free classes on YouTube. Shannon, a specialist in hair extensions, shares valuable insights and techniques that can enhance your skills. If you’re a fan of learning visually, this channel is a great addition to your educational resources in the beauty industry.
4.Explore Alison's Free Cosmetology Courses
Alison offers an array of free courses in cosmetology that are perfect for anyone looking to enhance their skills. Their platform provides both short Certificate Courses, lasting 2 to 4 hours, and more comprehensive Diploma Courses, which take 8 to 10 hours to complete. With lessons from award-winning beautician Kristina Bagrova, you can dive into topics such as:
• Basic Cosmetology Techniques
• Advanced Nail Care and Treatments
• Mesotherapy for Facial and Lip Enhancement
• Machine-Performed Permanent Eyebrow Makeup
• Pedicure Techniques and Nail Polish Application
These courses are a great way to gain specialized knowledge and stay updated in the field of cosmetology.
3.Access Cosmetology School Education Through Financial Aid
If you’re aiming for a formal cosmetology education but are concerned about the cost, many programs offer financial aid to help cover expenses. Numerous schools now provide online options, making education more accessible. To find financial aid opportunities, search for “cosmetology programs near me” and check the Financial Aid section of local institutions.
For inspiration, Peach Phillips, a prominent YouTuber in the beauty community, secured a free cosmetology degree through diligent research and discussions with the financial aid department at TCAT. This approach could help you achieve your cosmetology goals without incurring debt.
2.Online Makeup Academy
Led by Brazilian makeup artist Mariana Bull, the Online Makeup Academy offers an in-depth learning experience based on her expertise from Make-Up Designory and her work with Vogue, Chanel, OK Magazine, and various celebrities. The academy provides a comprehensive curriculum covering essential and advanced makeup techniques. Students can earn a certificate approved by OMACA after completing modules that include:
• Sanitation and Hygiene
• Skin Preparation
• Natural and Smoky Eye Makeup
• Casual and Glamour Makeup
• Bridal Makeup
• Makeup for Mature Skin
• Male Grooming
• Kids’ Beauty
• Techniques for Imperfections and Creative Eyeshadows
• Halo Eyes, Lashes, Eyebrows, and Strobing
• Photoshoot Etiquette
• Makeup for Sensitive Skin and Acne
Additionally, students enjoy a 40% discount on products from leading brands such as Make Up For Ever, L’Oreal, Stila, Naked Cosmetics, Beautyblender, Anastasia Beverly Hills, NYX, Smashbox, and Temptu.
1.QC Makeup Academy
Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your beauty career, QC Makeup Academy offers flexible online courses tailored to various interests in cosmetology and makeup. Their foundational courses cover:
• Makeup Artistry
• Skincare Consulting
• Global Beauty Trends
• Portfolio Development
• Special Effects Makeup
• Airbrush Techniques
• Hair Styling
• Fashion and More
As a MAC Pro Eligible School, QC Makeup Academy students receive discounts on MAC Cosmetics products, both online and in-store. Additionally, the academy has partnerships with brands offering 5-40% discounts on makeup products, providing valuable savings as you advance your skills.