Soβ¦ Youβre curious about AOFM Dubai but unsure if itβs worth your time (and money). Or are you second-guessing whether itβs the right academy for your makeup career? Let me help you out!
London Academy of Freelance Makeup (AOFM) keeps on popping up on top of my Google search results when I was searching for professional makeup courses near me. Theyβve got Google reviews and all but there wasnβt really a deep dive into what to expect when you choose to enroll in the academy.
And sure, I found reviews here and there, but I didnβt want to rely solely on Google reviews or pretty Instagram posts. I wanted to know exactly what to expect. If youβre like me, you want more than just a surface-level βitβs great!β or βitβs not worth it.β
Instead, Iβve laid out my unfiltered experience at AOFM Dubaiβthe good, the bad, and the bits you should know before making a decision.
By the end of this post, youβll have a clearer picture of whether this academy is the right fit to help you confidently kickstart your journey as a professional makeup artist.
This post is all about my personal journey at AOFM Dubai and why it could (or couldnβt) be the right training ground for you. Letβs dive in!
AOFM Dubai Review
Why You Might Choose AOFM Dubai
When I was searching for makeup courses, I was working full-time in a completely unrelated field (civil engineering, to be exact!). Iβve also considered online classesβtheyβre flexible, cheaper, come with a free makeup kit, and are easy to fit into a busy schedule.
But I couldnβt shake the feeling that Iβd be missing out on the hands-on experience and real-time feedback you only get in person.
After researching ALL the options and reading each page of all the beginner course curriculums of at least 4 makeup academies (yes, I was that thorough), AOFM Dubai stood out. Hereβs why:
- AOFMβs course curriculum is more detailed and transparent than other academies.
- Their KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority) certification and optional CIBTAC (Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology) accreditation meant I could confidently show my credentials to future clients, no matter where I worked.
- When I reached out to AOFM, Sarah from their team spent over 30 minutes understanding my goals and recommending the best program for me. Her support was reassuring and helped me feel confident in my choice.
- And letβs be honestβscrolling through their Instagram page sealed the deal. Seeing their studentsβ stunning work and the opportunities AOFM creates for graduates gave me the push I needed.
If youβre serious about becoming a professional makeup artist, youβve probably realized one thing:
Passion alone isnβt enough.
To truly stand out, you need training, credibility, and hands-on experience. If that sounds like what you’re looking for, AOFM Dubai might be the perfect fit for you, too.
AOFM Dubai’s Learning Environment
Upon enrollment, AOFM will email you an admission confirmation with attachments that youβll need to study. These topics will be crucial to pass the requirements of the course.
Youβll also have access to high-end skincare and makeup brands like Dermalogica, Charlotte Tilbury, Huda Beauty, Mac, Nars, Tom Ford, Bobbi Brown, and more! This hands-on experience allows you to explore different textures, formulations, and techniques.
The studio was spotless every day. Tools and palettes were sanitized each morning, and lockers were provided for personal belongings.
My class had 13 students, which felt ideal. There was enough space for everyone to comfortably practice at their own station. With 11 dressers in the room, moving around during hands-on sessions was seamless.
If youβre someone who thrives in an organized, well-equipped, and professional setting, youβll feel right at home here.
What Youβll Learn: Course Structure and Instructors
The program I choseβ6-Day Foundation in Professional Makeup Artistryβis perfect for beginners or anyone looking to strengthen their basics.
As mentioned on their website, the lesson plan includes the essential learnings to become a Professional Makeup Artist, including Skin Analysis, Colour Theory, Skin Tone Matching, Facial Sculpting, Blending, Precision, Male Grooming, and Creating different Looks to start a strong and successful career.
Although they werenβt in particular order, they covered everything and more as theyβve stated in their learning outcome.
Youβll learn from resident makeup artists and guest instructors who specialize in specific techniques. This gives you a variety of perspectives and styles to explore.
We had discussions and demos from 9 am to 12 pm and hands-on practice + critiques from 1 pm to 5 pm.
And honestly, we got carried away on other days and extended beyond 5 to cater to some clarifications about our work. At the end of every session, you must finish filling out your face chart. Or you can come at 8:30 the next morning to fill out your face chart before the classes start.
Speaking of face charts, why not grab my FREE Makeup Consultation Sheet with Face Chart below? Itβs the perfect tool to sharpen your communication and artistry skills while working with clients!
Day 1 – Introduction to Beauty
The moment you step into AOFM, youβre not just a studentβyouβre stepping into your future as a pro makeup artist. And what better way to start than with a gift? Youβll receive the AOFM 35 Pro Brush Setβyour new ride-or-die tools for this journey. Unwrapping those luxe, high-quality brushes? Pure magic. Trust me, youβll feel it too.
Instructor
Valentino isnβt just an instructorβheβs an experience. As AOFMβs resident makeup artist, he sets the bar high from the start. Used or improperly cleaned brushes? Not on his watch. Thatβs a small but powerful lesson youβll carry with you throughout your career.
Heβs a mix of talent, fun, and authority. His βhouse rulesβ on Day 1? They donβt just keep the class running smoothlyβthey shape the mindset of a real professional. Youβll quickly realize that heβs not here to play; heβs here to make sure you learn, grow, and stand out.
And hey, donβt let this demure-looking IG post fool youβI picked it to match our Day 1 Natural Beauty theme. Take a scroll through his feed, and youβll see what I mean. Youβre welcome. π
Morning Lectures
The first half of the day is all about laying a strong foundationβboth literally and figuratively. The lectures cover everything you need to know to set yourself up for success as a makeup artist, including:
- Organizing your makeup kit for efficiency and hygiene
- Emphasis on personal hygiene and grooming
- Understanding the shelf life of products (because expired makeup has no place in your kit!)
- Skin preparation tailored to different skin types
- The types of foundations and their coverage levels
- Color correction and camouflage techniques
- Setting up a professional workstation
- Mastering the uses of your new brush set
Even as someone whoβs obsessed with all things beauty, I found these lectures eye-opening. Youβll learn so much more than just how to apply makeupβyouβll understand the science and strategy behind it.
Day 1 Makeup Demo: Natural Beauty to Smokey Eyes & Red Lips
Valentino doesnβt just teachβhe performs. For the first demo, he walked us through how to transform a natural beauty look into classic smokey eyes paired with red lips. One of my classmates was chosen as his model, and it was fascinating to see how each step was built on the last.
Hereβs the cool part: if youβre curious about how a technique works for your specific features, this is your chance to speak up. I asked Valentino how he would do smokey eyes on hooded lids like mine, and guess what? He invited me to his chair to demonstrate for the class.
Be vocal!
The instructors genuinely want to help, and every question you ask benefits everyone in the room.
Just make sure your phone is fully charged before class. Mine was dying by the time I wanted to snap a picture of the look Valentino created on me. Lesson learned!
Afternoon Hands-On Makeup Sessions
The afternoon is where the real fun begins. Youβll be paired with a partner (or a guest model if the class numbers are uneven) and given 1.5 hours to replicate the look from the morning demo.
This part of the day is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking!
I was paired with Valerie, a former AOFM student who graciously agreed to be my model. She mustβve sensed my nerves because she immediately put me at ease, reminding me that it was okay to take my time and learn as I went.
Her advice? Treat every practice session as if youβre working with a real client. Speak to them, check in often, and donβt be afraid to ask for feedback. These small habits will become second nature and help you build confidence when you start booking clients.
Valerieβs making moves! Sheβs already booking corporate clients, and judging by the invites she gets to the events she works on, sheβs clearly leaving a lasting impression. Good for her!
Check out her work belowβyouβll see exactly why sheβs in demand. π
My biggest takeaway from Day 1? You donβt have to be perfectβyou just have to be willing to learn.
Day 2 – Shapes and Features
If Day 1 was about building the foundation, Day 2 was all about mastering the art of shaping and enhancing features. This is where things started to get technical but in the best way possible. Understanding different face shapes, and eye shapes, and how to sculpt features with precision is what separates a good makeup artist from a great one.
Instructor
I’m telling you, there’s more to Val’s pieces than subtle looks like this. But again, I want to be consistent here as we discuss how to achieve a Neutral Look on Day 2.
Morning Lectures
- Sculpting
- Facial Shapes
- Eyeshapes
- Eyeliner Variations
- Eyebrow Mapping and Symmetry
- False Lashes Application
Day 2 Makeup Demo: Neutral Makeup Look
Valentino chose Anna, one of my classmates, as his model for a beautifully soft and neutral makeup look. Watching him work felt like magicβhis ability to enhance features so effortlessly made me realize just how much technique goes into even the simplest look.
Afternoon Hands-On Makeup Sessions
Anna ended up being my partner for the hands-on session, and I was both excited and a little nervous. Her eye shape and face structure were totally different from what I was used to working onβa challenge, but the good kind! I reminded myself to slow down, step back, and really see the look coming together.
At one point, I struggled with getting the eyeliner symmetrical, and Anna, in her effortlessly calm way, just smiled and said, “Youβll get itβjust breathe and go step by step.” That little moment hit me. This wasnβt just about technique; it was about building confidence as I’m on my way to being a PRO.
Anna has this cool, collected energy that makes you instantly like her. Sheβs got an eye for both art and personal style, andβno surpriseβsheβs already making waves with the connections sheβs built. Seriously, look at her work below!
Day 3 – Bridal Makeup
Bridal makeup day felt specialβthereβs something about creating a timeless, radiant look that makes this part of makeup artistry so rewarding. But let me tell you, itβs more than just about looking pretty. Bridal makeup is about longevity, skin prep, and making sure the look photographs beautifully in every lighting situation.
This is actually the industry that I want to be in. And I was also the only one in the batch thatβs interested in weddings, except that one girl, Vaishali whoβs already got a career as a bridal makeup artist.
Instructor
First day with Roxanna, and wowβshe was an absolute dream. The way she speaks, the way she movesβthereβs this effortless grace about her that instantly draws you in.
She gave us a peek into her world, sharing stories about working with bridal clients and how she navigates those inevitable tricky moments. So much wisdom packed into one session!
Beyond that, her digital portfolio? Flawless. See for yourself! And just like my photo choices for Val’s IG here, I chose this photo to match our Day 3 European Bridal Makeup Look.
Morning Lectures
- Initial Consultation
- Skincare Prep
- Go-to Bridal Makeup Products
- Bridal Makeup Techniques
Day 3 Makeup Demo: European Bridal Makeup Look
Roxanna specializes in bridal and editorial makeup, and her kit was like an open bookβshe generously shared all her favorite products and techniques.
Her bridal makeup demo was breathtakingβfresh, luminous skin, soft neutral tones, and elegant definition. It was stunning! I made a mental note of every product she used, especially how she layered skincare for a flawless base.
Afternoon Hands-On Makeup Sessions
Okay. I wanted to learn in this bridal makeup class so badly! But I was the first one to sit on the chair and my partner that day, Rupali, consumed a little more time than she was supposed to. Which meant that Iβd only had less than an hour to complete my makeup look on hers.
Nevertheless, I learned so much that day. Especially realizing and planning on ways on how to improve my agility. I also learned facial massage techniques from Rupali. I felt special that afternoon with the skincare treatment I was getting. Realizing that this is how my clients should feel when Iβm doing their makeup. I want them to feel relaxed, confident, and beautiful.
Although I didnβt get to finish the bridal makeup look on Rupali, I still got 1 hour. Which was actually more than enough! But I was starting out and I didnβt want to be too hard on myself. So I moved on and just took notes of what I learned that day.
Rupali is absolutely killing it with her portfolioβjust look at her work! π She’s also diving deep into bridal makeup and shared some behind-the-scenes stories with me. Hearing about her experiences made me appreciate just how much goes into perfecting a bridal look!
Day 4 – Glamour Makeup
This was the day we all had been waiting forβfull-on glam! Think red carpets, magazine covers, and bold, confident beauty.
Instructor
This was our first session with Amanda, and let me tell youβshe was a powerhouse. Sassy, brutally honest, nd dripping with knowledgeβshe didnβt sugarcoat a single thing.
Scrolling through her IG feels less like browsing a profile and more like flipping through the pages of a high-end editorial. The womanβs got style and her expertise is next level!
Morning Lectures
- Understanding the elements of glamour makeup
- How to layer and intensify pigments for high-impact looks
- Creating bold, defined features without looking overdone
Day 4 Makeup Demo: Full Glam Makeup look
Amanda’s demo was mesmerizing. She sculpted, layered, and intensified every feature with such precision. Her bold lipstick and confident energy were everything.
She also spilled so many secrets and hacks about makeup artistry and was just challenging us to ask ANY questions about artistry, business, freelancing, techniques, tools, products, you name it!
Afternoon Hands-On Makeup Sessions
This was the day that I thought I could do better since Iβm in love with bold colors. But nope, I didnβt have inspiration that day. I looked on some Pinterest photos over lunch, pressured on what I should do on my lovely partner that day, Trang.
I was hoping that I could do a proper glam but it turned out to look neutral on her. Doing full glam means packing the face with a full-coverage foundation with a condensed brush, which I was SO hesitant to put on Trang. But since Amanda was doing her rounds when she saw me unsure of what to do, she demoed half of Trangβs face while explaining to me what, how, and why I should do it.
Trang flew in all the way from Japan to dive into AOFMβs 6-week program, and let me tell youβshe brought a whole new perspective. As she said (and as our instructors agreed), Japanβs beauty scene is all about doing things their own way, and contour? Well, thatβs a whole new world for her.
But look at her nowβslaying her modelβs makeup like a pro in this photoshoot! Itβs amazing how she took that new concept and turned it into her own style. Total transformation.
Day 5 – Hands and Body, Male, Mature Skin, Different Skintone Makeup
Makeup isnβt just about the faceβthereβs body makeup, working on male clients, and adapting techniques for mature skin and diverse skin tones. I learned so much about customizing applications for different clients.
Instructor
Roxanna was back with her signature grace and expertise. She guided us through a bold, high-impact makeup look, emphasizing how to create vibrant, confident styles while maintaining balance and polish.
Morning Lectures
- How to work with different skin tones and undertones
- Adjusting techniques for mature skin (hydration is key!)
- Makeup for male clients: natural yet refined
- Body makeup: covering scars, tattoos, and creating an even skin tone
Day 5 Makeup Demo: Bold Makeup Look
Although male and body makeup were only covered in a pre-recorded video, it still provided valuable knowledge. I personally donβt see myself working much with male makeup, so I didnβt mind that this was just a recorded lesson.
For mature skin, Roxanna shared essential techniques since we didnβt have any models with visibly mature skin in our group. She did her best to walk us through key adjustments and shared real-life experiences from her work.
One of the biggest lessons came from understanding deeper skin tones. Since our class had mostly fair-to-medium complexions, Roxanna demonstrated by applying a deeper shade of foundation on one of our classmates. This allowed her to explain why deeper skin tones require bolder hues and color concentration.
Afternoon Hands-On Makeup Sessions
On Day 5, Iβve partnered with this sweet and pretty girl from Jo’burg, Zaneera. She is so charming and since we need to create a bold and colorful look, I tried the light green and violet eyeshadow combination on her, paired with a candy pink colored lips.
Sheβs the most chill partner Iβve been with and I had fun creating this look on her. On this day too, I gained my confidence and with all that training from the past four days, Iβve finally picked up my pace and finished a complete makeup look (without false lashes βcoz she already have long, curly lashes!).
In just her first year of college as a marketing major, Zaneera is already thinking big. She’s passionate about creating a life she truly lovesβone where she can work from home and welcome makeup clients into her own space. She shared her vision with me, and honestly, I can already see her making it happen!
Day 6 – Editorial and Black & White/Color Photography
The final day was bittersweet. We had come so far, and now it was time to put everything to the test. I mean literal test!
Remember the files AOFM sends via email after enrollment? Make sure to review them! Passing the KHDA exam is a requirement for certification. The test covered:
- Identifying facial bone structure and features
- Recognizing contagious skin diseases
It wasnβt too difficult if you had skimmed through the materials at least twice. I passed (thankfully!). But in case you donβt, AOFM will arrange another schedule for you to take the exam.
Instructor
To wrap up our training, Amanda was back on the scene! And honestly? Her presence is both exhilarating and a little nerve-wracking. She brings SO MUCH wisdomβnot just in makeup artistry but also in positioning yourself as a pro MUA, especially on Instagram. Sheβs generous with her insights, but sheβs also refreshingly frank. The way she delivers critiques? Firm, yet incredibly effective. You feel yourself growing just by being in the room with her.
Morning Lectures
- Editorial vs. Commercial Makeup
- How makeup translates on camera
- Black & white photography vs. color photography makeup techniques
Day 6 Makeup Demo: Makeup for Photography
Amanda returned to wrap up the program with a bang! She introduced us to different colored filters, explaining how each affects makeup on camera. Her insights were goldβshe shared firsthand experiences from working with photographers and videographers on set, in studios, and even in extreme locations like deserts.
She gave us some of the most practical tips Iβd ever heardβlike:
- How different lighting setups impact makeup
- Why certain textures work better on film
- The importance of adjusting contrast and depth for black-and-white photography
β¦all the while explaining to us what sheβs doing to our classmate on her makeup chair!
Afternoon Hands-On Makeup Sessions
Makeup for the camera is entirely different from real life. We were instructed to apply foundation two shades darker than our modelsβ actual skin tone and use intense colors to prevent the face from looking flat in black-and-white photography.
I was paired with an experienced makeup artist who had been in the industry for eight years. Everyone wanted to work with her, and I was so grateful I got the chance! We had amazing conversations about the industry, her reasons for enrolling, and her future career plans. It was inspiring to hear different perspectives from artists with unique career paths.
She did my makeup flawlesslyβno surprise there! When it was my turn, I struggled with speed again. I took 1.5 hours (still no lashes!) and wasnβt able to complete the look. To make things trickier, my model wasnβt feeling well, so I let her leave early. Still, I was proud of what I had accomplished.
I couldn’t find her IG yet! So maybe come back later?
Pros of AOFM Dubai for Beginners
- The course structure is highly practical, giving you ample time to practice techniques and gain confidence as you apply what youβve learned.
- Youβll work with professional-grade brands like MAC, Charlotte Tilbury, and Tom Ford, helping you familiarize yourself with products that elevate your skills and portfolio.
- Learning from a diverse team of makeup artists exposes you to a wide range of techniques and stylesβfrom natural, everyday looks to bold editorial creations.
- AOFMβs team ensures a smooth experience with everything from inquiries to scheduling, making the logistics stress-free.
- The learning environment encourages you to ask questions, seek clarifications, and collaborate with peers, fostering growth and support.
- The classroom setup prioritizes hygiene and professionalism, offering a safe, clean, and comfortable space for learning.
- AOFM gives you access to professional discounts from brands like MAC (30% off!), Make Up For Ever, and others listed on their website. These discounts are invaluable for beginners building their kits on a budget!
Cons of AOFM Dubai for Beginners
- While the pre-class materials were helpful, receiving printed copies of daily lessons or key points at the start of each day would have made it easier to follow along and take notes during lectures.
- Depending on the day, class sizes may vary, which could affect how much one-on-one attention you receive from instructors.
Who is AOFM Dubai Best For?
If youβre completely new to makeup artistry, this course is an amazing starting point. It covers everythingβtechniques, products, and even how to interact with clients. Youβll leave feeling more confident, even if itβs your first time picking up a brush professionally.
For those already in the industry, AOFMβs advanced courses, like their 6-week program, are packed with creative and SFX techniques, making it perfect for artists who want to level up their skills.
My Personal Growth and Key Takeaways
Enrolling in AOFM Dubaiβs 6-Day Foundation Course was a game-changer for me, both personally and professionally. Here are my key takeaways:
Skill Development
When I started, I was so nervous about applying makeup on other people. By the end of the course, I was confidently creating polished looks like natural beauty and bridal styles. Practicing on different skin tones and face shapes really pushed me to grow.
Confidence Boost
Having access to professional products and working in such a supportive environment made me believe I could actually make a career out of makeup artistry.
Networking
I met some incredible people during the courseβfellow students, instructors, and even guest artists. These connections have already opened doors for collaborations and advice as I continue to grow.
Professionalism
Hygiene, client consultations, and setting up an efficient workstation were a big focus. I now understand how important these are for building trust with clients and being taken seriously as a professional.
Tips for Future Students
- Be Prepared. Go through the pre-course materials and brush up on basic makeup terms. Itβll make it easier to keep up during lectures.
- Ask Questions. Donβt be shy! The instructors are there to help you, and their feedback is priceless.
- Take Pictures of Your Work. Document every look you create in class. Itβll help with your face charts and give you something to show potential clients.
- Keep Your Brushes Clean. Hygiene isnβt just a class ruleβitβs a career rule. Get into the habit of cleaning your tools every day.
- Build Connections. Your classmates and instructors can become future collaborators, so take the time to network.
- Be Open to Feedback. Nobodyβs perfect right away. Use constructive criticism to improve your skills.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Enrolling in AOFM Dubaiβs 6-Day Foundation in Professional Makeup Artistry was one of the best decisions I made for my career. It gave me the skills, confidence, and foundation I needed to move closer to my dream of becoming a professional makeup artist.
If youβre considering a career in makeup artistry, I highly recommend starting here. AOFM doesnβt just teach you makeupβit prepares you for the realities of working in the industry. Whether youβre a beginner or looking to expand your expertise, they have something for everyone.
This experience taught me that investing in yourself is always worth it. Itβs the first step toward turning your passion into a career, and AOFM is the perfect place to start.