How Much Does Mac Makeup Appointment Cost?

Last Updated on June 20, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

MAC Cosmetics is world-renowned for its professional makeup services, providing clients with transformative beauty experiences tailored to their unique needs. But what exactly is the cost of booking a MAC makeup appointment?

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of standard MAC appointment pricing, factors that influence costs, included services, available promotions, and comparisons to competitors to help you understand what to budget for a MAC session.

How Much Does Mac Makeup Appointment Cost?

MAC makeup appointments have a cost range from $50 for 30-minute sessions up to over $250 for deluxe VIP packages. Understanding the cost structure helps clients appropriately plan and budget for their ideal MAC experience.

Here is an overview of the typical price ranges for standard MAC makeup bookings:

• 30-Minute Makeup Session – Prices range from $50 to $80

This provides time for a short consultation plus application of select products like foundation, lip color, and eye makeup.

• 60-Minute Makeup Session – Rates span $80 to $150

This comprehensive appointment allows for an in-depth consultation, full face makeup, and guidance for recreating looks at home.

• 90-Minute Makeup Session – Costs from $120 to $180

Ideal for special events like weddings. Includes extended consultation, full makeup application, and comprehensive beauty tips.

• Teen Makeup Sessions – Average $50 to $100

30 to 60-minutes tailored for teen skin needs and natural makeup looks.

VIP Package Pricing – Typically $250 to $500+

Elite sessions with add-ons like false lashes, lip treatments, gifts, and luxury amenities. The ultimate MAC experience.

MAC’s wide range of service lengths and prices accommodates various budgets and occasions.

Weddingbee mentions that the cost of a MAC makeup appointment varies by location. Some stores charge $50 for the makeover, while others require a minimum purchase of $50 in products to receive the makeover for free. The cost of fake eyelashes is also mentioned, with some stores charging $12 for the lashes and applying them for free when you buy them.

MAC Cosmetics provides detailed information on their makeup services, including the 10-minute complimentary makeover demo, the 30-minute makeup service for $50, and the 60-minute makeup service for $65. They also offer a bridal beauty service for $95, which includes a prior consultation and a full makeup application for the wedding day or special event.

Brown Thomas offers a range of MAC makeup services, including a 10-minute complimentary makeover demo, a 30-minute makeup service for $30, a 60-minute makeup service for $65, and a bridal beauty service for €90. The value of the appointment is fully redeemable against M·A·C product purchased at the appointment.

Reddit users share their experiences with MAC makeup appointments, mentioning that the cost varies by location and that some stores charge almost $90 for a full face. They also highlight that the quality of the makeup application can vary depending on the artist, but that the products are generally good.

Overview of MAC Makeup Appointments

MAC stands for Make-Up Art Cosmetics, one of the most prestigious and popular professional makeup brands. At MAC store beauty counters and freestanding boutiques globally, clients can book private one-on-one makeup appointments with expert MAC artists.

These sessions provide a fully customized experience catered to the client’s unique needs and preferences. A thorough beauty consultation allows the artist to tailor product suggestions and makeup application specifically for the individual. Appointments range from quick 30-minute beauty touchups to luxurious 2-hour elite bridal preparations.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Appointments

Several important factors influence the exact price of a MAC makeup session:

• Service Duration – Longer appointment times allow for more extensive consultation and makeup application, at increased cost.
• Products Used – Specialty products like limited edition releases may increase the price.
• Makeup Artist Level – Pricing is tiered by experience, with the most senior MAC Pro artists charging higher service fees.
• Add-On Services – Additional costs added for eyelash application, Multimask facials, lip exfoliation, etc.
• Location – Appointments at flagship stores in major cities or high-profile settings cost more.
• Date/Time – Peak weekends, holidays, and special events often incur surcharges.

Booking Your MAC Makeup Appointment

You can reserve a MAC session through:

• Online – Request appointments 24/7 via MAC’s website. Easily view availability by location.
• In-Store – Speak with an artist or concierge at a MAC store for on-the-spot bookings.
• By Phone – Call your nearest MAC boutique to schedule with the help of a live agent.

When booking weekends, holidays, or for special events, schedule 4-6 weeks in advance for optimal availability. MAC may require a non-refundable $50 deposit at booking to guarantee your slot.

You might also like our articles about the cost of esthetician classes, eyelash lamination, or Macy’s makeup appointments.

What’s Included

A MAC makeup session typically includes:

• Personalized Consultation – A MAC artist will consult with you to understand your beauty goals, style preferences, and occasion needs to best customize recommendations.
• Luxury Makeup Application – The artist will expertly apply cosmetics tailored specifically to your skin tone, face shape, eye shape, and features. Guidance will be provided to help you recreate the look at home.
• Product Recommendations and Samples – You’ll receive personalized product suggestions and liquid samples during your session for purchase and home use post-appointment.

The consultation and customization make the experience personal and valuable compared to simply buying makeup.

MAC Makeup Promotions and Discounts

MAC offers frequent specials to help save on makeup appointments:

• Holiday Sales – Black Friday, Cyber Week, and holiday sales often include makeup appointment discounts up to 20% off.
• Summer Sales – Special summer appointment promotions offer savings on services.
• Email Offers – Subscribing to MAC’s email newsletter gives access to exclusive coupon codes and special offers.
• Social Media Deals – MAC promotes flash discounts through Instagram and Facebook redeemable on makeup appointments.
• Package Bundles – Multi-service packages like three 60-min appointments for $300 provide appointment savings.
• Gift Card Incentives – Purchase gift card promotions like get a free $20 card with $100 offer extra savings.
• MAC Loyalty Program – Join MAC’s loyalty program to earn points and discounts on services.

Taking advantage of current deals maximizes appointment savings.

MAC Beauty Costs vs Competitors

MAC provides exceptional value for a professional makeup brand. Competitor pricing comparisons:

• Sephora – Similar service menu and pricing from $50-$150 per session.
• Bobbi Brown – Slightly higher price ranges from $75-$175 per appointment. More prestige pricing.
• Benefit – Specialized brow bar services from $20-$60. Lower cost but limited services.
• NARS – Makeup sessions range $75-$200 for 60-90 minutes. Luxe boutique brand.
• Department Store Brands – Freelance counters from $50-$100. Less formal training.
• Local Salons – Independent artists $50-$150. Skills vary.

Overall, MAC’s combination of world-class training, premium products, and reasonable prices provide an excellent cost-to-value ratio.

Final Words

Pricing varies based on duration, products, artist level, and services added. While not inexpensive, MAC’s exceptional quality and artistry justify the reasonable cost. With promotions and strategic booking, MAC’s beauty expertise can fit many beauty budgets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Mac still give free lipstick with 6 empty containers?

No, as of 2013 MAC discontinued their free lipstick reward program where clients could get a free lipstick for returning 6 empty product containers. MAC now instead suggests clients recycle empties at Origins or bareMinerals stores.

Can you return MAC makeup after using it?

MAC accepts gently used cosmetics returns within 60 days of purchase, with the exclusion of lip products and mascara which cannot be resold for sanitary reasons. An original receipt is required for any opened or used product returns.

Do MAC cosmetics employees get commission?

Unlike some cosmetic brands, MAC employees do not work on commission. MAC artists are paid hourly rather than earning a percentage of sales. This allows them to focus on education and artistry over sales goals during client appointments.