Top Special Effects Makeup Artists in Washington, DC
Changing someone’s physical appearance may seem almost vague or impossible. However, some people now tell us that it is possible, given that a series of tools or substances are available. These people are called special effects makeup artists, and they are everywhere – they work in the advertising and film industries. And as few as they can be, there are levels to their performance, which is why choosing the most-skilled options is important.
Here, you will find the best six special effects makeup artists in the nation's capital. You can choose the service provider that meets your needs. Ready to start your search for special effects makeup artists in Washington? Check out this list of some of the city's top talent to find the best match for your production.
Alexis Arenas Makeup Artist
Alexis Arenas is a Washington-based company with over two decades’ experience in men’s grooming and makeup (including special effects (SFX), high-definition ready traditional and airbrush) artistry. Alexis herself established the brand, and so far, she's provided services to the television, film, and still photography industries.
Trained in the Greasepaint School, London as a film, television, and stage makeup artist, Alexis' education allows her to create masterpieces in prosthetic application. Today, she's worked with several clients, including The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Rolling Stone. She also held leadership/artistry positions in the United States and the United Kingdom with brands like M.A.C., Clinique Cosmetics, and Trish McEvoy.
De Casanova Beauty
De Casanova Beauty is the brainchild of Abigail De Casanova. She has over 15 years of experience in the beauty, entertainment, media, and fashion industry, working as a stylist for several renowned figures. Her greatest strength is her ability to work in different settings and still connect with her clients.
While Abigail is skilled as a traditional makeup artist, she is also good with special effects. She has a huge portfolio, showing her best works in the movie industry, and the reviews from her clients are always overwhelming. Currently, she's a proud member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E).
Aja McDaniels
Aja McDaniels is a production makeup artist licensed by the I.A.T.S.E and operates wholly in Washington, DC. She loved the idea of makeup from teenagehood when she saw Pat McGrath anchoring E Network’s Fashion File. From there, Aja started gathering skills by watching other talented individuals in the industry, including Kevin Aucoin.
Aja learned Aucoin’s techniques from his books and shows and started doing makeup for local shows and her relatives. Soon, she ventured into special effects makeup artistry while working for M.A.C. Cosmetics. Her knowledge of graphic designing also helped improve her SFX skills, in which she now has a thriving business.
Carolyn Walter Makeup
Carolyn Walter’s contribution to the makeup industry over the last decade won’t go unnoticed. She's one of the many individuals who has provided her services on various occasions, including features, industrials, commercials, theatrics, and photography.
As an expert in men’s grooming, natural beauty makeup, period-piece, tattoo and prosthetic application, and SFX aging, Carolyn's skill has earned her features in several magazines. She even competed in Toronto for the Battle of Brushes at the International Makeup Artist Trade Show. Her ability to provide her services to clients works in Washington D.C., Baltimore, and the Metro Area dwells mainly on her love for time management and continuity.
Killer Makeup Effects by Kate Dixson
Killer Makeup Effects by Kate Dixson is a makeup studio that lives up to its name. It brings the idea of goriness into the most real it can be. In fact, the website is self-descriptive of the type of services this Washington-based brand provides.
Killer Makeup Effects has a huge resume. The founder, Kate Dixson, has worked on features, TV series, and movies, such as Dreamin’ Wild, Boon, The End of Youth, Combat Report, and many others. Other services provided by this brand are beauty, hair, and more.
Jessie D’Angelo Makeup Artist
SFX artists in Washington D.C. list is incomplete without mentioning Jessie D’Angelo, a second-gen and 3-time-certified member of I.A.T.S.E. She runs a brand that has worked on T.V., news, film, and commercial productions in the district and beyond. She has been in business for over 19 years – 12 in the beauty world and 7 in media.
Jessie’s talent as a makeup artist has earned respect among many tv networks and theaters. FOX, CNN, BET, TVOne, NBC are only a few of the networks she has worked with. With her experience behind and in front of the camera, Jessie can deliver the makeup artistry, hairstyling and grooming clients need.