Women are to be allowed to work as makeup artists in India's movie industry after the Supreme Court lifted a de facto ban that has lasted nearly six decades.

The Cine Costume Makeup Artists and Hair Dressers Association had an unofficial ban on women as makeup artists, though they could be hairdressers to the stars.

The top court heard the challenge from female makeup artists last week and has ordered the association to end its ban.

The association said it was trying to ensure that male staff were not deprived of work.