About IATSE Local 706

We are Makeup Artists.

We are Hairstylists.

We are Creators.

In unity, We are the Brothers and Sisters of Local 706.

Since the earliest days of film and theater, our members have shaped the faces of storytelling — transforming actors into icons, crafting characters that endure, and innovating with every new era of technology and style.

In 1937, Local 706 was officially chartered by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), following decades of creative and political upheaval in the growing motion picture industry. Out of those early battles — between producers and workers, artists and studios, rival organizations and trades — a union was born. And with it, the foundation for safer, fairer, and more professional working conditions.

From silent films to streaming platforms, we’ve evolved alongside entertainment itself. Our members are the artists behind Hollywood’s most recognizable looks and most complex transformations — setting trends, honoring history, and building legacies. We are masters of beauty and illusion, technicians and collaborators. Our work spans feature films, television, live stage, digital content, and more.

We stand on the shoulders of pioneers — individuals who fought for everything we now protect: fair wages, quality healthcare, workplace safety, and the recognition of our crafts as both art and labor. Their sacrifices shape our future. Their spirit fuels our solidarity.

Today, Local 706 continues that legacy with pride, purpose, and a vision for what’s next.

Local 706 Crafts

Membership in the Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild (IATSE Local 706) is earned through hard work, perseverance, and a deep passion for the craft. There are no shortcuts — no apprenticeship programs or internships. But for those committed to excellence, joining Local 706 is a goal worth achieving.

Each classification within our Guild has specific entry requirements (see How to Join Local 706). Make-up artists and hair stylists must be versatile — staying current with make-up and styling techniques and emerging technologies, while also mastering period styling, character looks, bald caps, facial hair, basic prosthetics, wigs for both men and women, and fundamental barbering.

In film and television, Journeyman and Trainee Make-up Artists and Hair Stylists are required to work within their designated craft. Hair Stylists must also hold and maintain a current cosmetology license. Our members are not only artists and technicians — they are storytellers, collaborators, and leaders in their field.

Important Advice for Prospective Members

Prospective members are strongly encouraged to keep detailed and accurate records of their professional experience, including dates, production titles, callsheets, paystubs, and contact details. Thorough record-keeping facilitates meeting classification requirements and ensures a smoother, faster application process. Carefully following official application instructions greatly improves the efficiency and success of your qualification review.

Makeup Artists

Makeup Artists perform the art of makeup, which includes:

Application of all mustaches, chin pieces, side bums, beards, false eyebrows, and lashes.
Application of any facial or body appliances, masks, etc., used in the art of makeup, whethermade of rubber, plastic, or any other material.
All body makeup. (Except on Network Broadcasting productions, i.e. NBC, CBS, etc.)
May apply wigs, toupees, or cut the hair on male performers only.
May also do hairstyling on Legitimate Theater and Opera productions.

Hair Stylists

Hair Stylists perform the art of hair styling, which includes:

Cutting hair and its various effects.
Procuring, fitting, dressing, and applying wigs and hair goods on all performers.
Hair Dying and permanent hair waving (the Producer may have work performed by other persons who are not and shall not be subject to our Contracts.)
May apply wigs, toupees, or cut the hair on all performers.
May also do makeup on Legitimate Theater and Opera productions.

Note: A valid cosmetology license is mandatory for Hair Stylists. Possession of only a barbering license does not qualify an individual to be a Local 706 Hairstylist.

Wig-Makers

Wig-makers perform the art of wig-making, which includes:

Making and fitting hair lace wigs, switches, toupees, bread, mustaches, chin pieces, sideburns, and false eyebrows.

LOCAL UNIONS

Within the U.S. and Canada, there are more than 300 IATSE locals whose members make up the rank and file of the IATSE. The IATSE local unions are organized to represent workers by geographic and craft jurisdiction.

Each local functions independently, maintaining their own Constitution and By-Laws, elections, dues structure, membership meetings, and more. Locals negotiate labor contracts regarding wages, work rules, and grievance procedures. They also provide services to their members by administering health and retirement funds and providing training and education. The IATSE local unions work for the interest of their membership, while also representing the overarching goals of the IATSE International.

DISTRICTS

The IATSE Locals are subdivided into 13 geographical districts between the U.S. and Canada. Each district has a designated secretary whose responsibility is to maintain records of the Districts activities and finances, coordinate the District’s initiatives among the constituent locals, and facilitate communication between the locals.

District No.2 – California, Nevada, Arizona and Hawaii (Local 706’s district, District 2 represents more than 31,000 members from 61 locals) District Conventions are required to be held at least once every two years. Most Districts meet annually. The District Conventions are for delegates of the affiliated locals to share common interests, problems, and receive education and training. Resolutions and amendments to the Constitution can originate in the District Conventions immediately preceding the International Convention. Districts are also integral to coordinating the political and legislative activities of their affiliated local unions.

IATSE: International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, Its Territories and Canada (IATSE) was founded in 1893 when representatives of stagehands working in eleven cities met in New York and pledged to support each others’ efforts to establish fair wages and working conditions for their members.

Today, we work in all forms of live theater, motion picture and television production, trade shows and exhibitions, television broadcasting, and concerts as well as the equipment and construction shops that support all these areas of the entertainment industry.

We are more than 168,000 workers strong in virtually all arts, media, and entertainment crafts, and our mission is to improve all entertainment workers’ lives both inside and outside the workplace.

www.iatse.net