Instagram Hooks for Makeup Artists (+ Free Generator)

If you're a makeup artist posting on Instagram, your hook is what stops someone mid-scroll. Most makeup Reels get skipped because the hook is generic ("Makeup transformation!") or doesn't speak to what clients or other artists actually care about.

Below are makeup-specific hooks, formulas, and examples that grab attention without overhyping.

5 Instagram Hook Examples for Makeup Artists

These hooks work because they educate, solve problems, or showcase expertise.

  1. "If your makeup looks pretty in person, but it's not showing up on photos, you are 100 percent not layering your makeup properly"
  2. "Watch me SLAY this shade match for my client"
  3. "Soft Foxy Eyes hack you'll wish you knew earlier"
  4. "Makeup that enhances, not distracts"
  5. "Honestly, this is probably one of my favorite glams that I've done so far (keep watching to see how I've done it)"

These hooks work because they solve specific problems (photo-ready makeup, shade matching), show technique, or promise a satisfying reveal.

3 Hook Formulas You Can Reuse Forever

1. Problem to Solution

Template: "If your makeup [common problem], here's what you're doing wrong..."

Examples:

Why it works: People want solutions to their specific makeup frustrations. This formula addresses pain points directly.

2. Technique Spotlight or Hack

Template: "[Specific technique] hack you'll wish you knew earlier" or "[Look/style] that [benefit]."

Examples:

Why it works: People love learning shortcuts and techniques. Positions you as the expert who makes things easy.

3. Pride in Work or Client Result

Template: "Watch me SLAY [specific skill]" or "This is one of my favorite [results] I've done."

Examples:

Why it works: Confidence is magnetic. People want to see your best work and how you deliver results.

(Need hooks tailored to your makeup style and client base? Captain Hook AI generates custom hooks for makeup artists in seconds.)

What Makes Makeup Artist Hooks Different

Makeup content thrives on education, transformation, and technique. Clients want to see your skill and learn how to improve their own makeup.

A strong makeup artist hook has:

If your hook sounds like a generic beauty ad, rethink it.

How to Use Hooks in Makeup Artist Reels (Mini Strategy)

Most makeup artists make one big mistake: they show the final look before explaining what problem was solved or what technique was used.

Your viewer needs to know what they're about to see in the first 0.5 seconds, before the reveal, before the close-up, before anything else.

Use text on screen

Most people scroll with sound off. Put your hook as text in the first frame, whether you're showing a before shot or starting mid-application.

Match your hook to one specific skill or concern

Don't try to show foundation + eyes + lips + contour in one video. Pick one focus.

Focus on these high-intent topics:

These consistently get the most engagement for makeup artists:

If your hook speaks to something clients struggle with or ask about, it performs.

For more Instagram hook patterns and templates, check out our Instagram Hooks: The Ultimate Guide.

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FAQ: Instagram Hooks for Makeup Artists

Q: Do makeup artist hooks need to be dramatic?

No. Educational hooks and technique spotlights perform just as well as dramatic transformations.

Q: How long should my hook be?

Depends, but short and punchy often works best. Keep it concise.

Q: Should I use text, voiceover, or both?

Depends on the video format. Keep a good mix of text-only, voiceover + text, and some talking-to-camera videos for more upfront education.

Q: My videos get views but no bookings. Why?

Your hook might show beautiful makeup but not mention what service was done, your process, or how to book. Add clear CTAs.

Q: What's the biggest mistake makeup artists make with hooks?

Starting with the final look instead of the problem being solved or the technique being used. Lead with context, then show your work.

Q: Can I reuse the same hook formula?

Yes. If "If your makeup [problem]" works for your audience, run it with different problems.