Kinds of Paints to Use for Face Painting

Are you wondering about the kinds of paints to use for face painting? Did you know that there are a lot of face paints in the market to choose from? Get to know what kinds of paints to use for face painting, to ensure the safety of your kids and their guests. And yes, I have included affiliate links to brands I use at face painting gigs and love.

Face painting is one of the most popular children’s activities today. In fact, even adults are incorporating face painting sessions in their events. The reason behind this is because of the fun experience that it provides not only for the kids but as well as for the adults. It may be easy to hire face painters, but it is also essential to know the kind of face paints that they are using.

You can’t just let your face painter use any kinds of face paints, especially if you are going to hire them for a children’s event. The reason behind this is because not every face paints today are ideal for kids. You need to make sure that all paints that will be used are safe and are FDA approved. Always remember that the paint will be on your kid’s face for an extended period. So ensuring that what’s on their face won’t cause any harm is essential.

Whether this is your first time hiring a face painter or not, knowing the kinds of paints to use for face painting would be best. Continue reading below for you to be able to find out more information about this.

All of the suggestions for face paints I have used personally, and still use to this very day. I have been painting professionally since 2010 and tried out many brands. Our company recommends (and uses) Wolfe face paint for the darkest black and brightest white face paint colors. We have also included some information on types of blending (bottom base layer) face paints like SuperStar and layering (top layer waxed base) face paints such as Tag  or Diamond FX. All of the links we have included are to professional grade face paints which our team uses for personal and professional use. If you are just getting started Mehron color pallet is a great start for every face painter. You’ll still want to purchase Wolfe brand to use for your lines!

Top Kinds of Paints To Use for Face Painting

Grease Based Face Paints

One of the oldest kind of face paint today, which has been in use for quite some time already is the grease-based face paints. In fact, most of the theater performer before and today are using this kind of paint on their faces whenever they have performances. This is mainly because there is a lot to advantages of using grease based face paints. One would be this kind of paint will never crack. This is just because it won’t cause for the paint to dry. So being careful when you have this kind of paint on your face would be best.

Another good thing about this kind of paint is that it can stay on your face for an extended period. They are also known to blend correctly with any other colors. This is due to the texture that this paint has. Typically, the face painter will be using her fingers because using a brush can be challenging. Many clown performers use Snazaroo paints for these reasons. Snazaroo also has affordable kits easy to use and affordable to purchase which are fun for all ages. 

Cream Based Face Paints

Another great kind of paint for face painting is cream based ones. Since this kind of paint comes in tubes, you can squeeze them until the last drop. The tubes can also be squeezed just right so you don’t have to worry about the mess. Face painters also don’t need to worry about water because this kind of paint doesn’t need water to be activated. The only downside of this face paint is that it may take a little while for it to dry up.

Powder Based Face Paints

Powder-based face paints are perfect whether dry or wet, which makes them very versatile. But always keep in mind that once the paints get wet, you won’t be able to go back to the quality that it has. So it would be best to be careful when you are using this kind of face paint. Now, if you prefer using it dry, then applying a base first would be best. This will keep the paint’s color to be stronger and nicer. Mehron has a brand called Starblend. Face painters in humid areas often use this “powder” face paint. It 

For people who don’t know, this kind of paint can also be a base. But keep in mind that this kind of paint tends to be messy at times. So covering the kid’s and the face painter’s clothing would be best. Your face painter should already know about this.

Wax Based Face Paints

Typically wax based face paints are used by the majority of the face painters if they want to add in more details. The reason behind this is because the wax has this behavior with the painter’s brush which makes it ideal for painting. Wax based tend to load on the brush lightly. It can also dry very quickly, so you no longer have to worry about anything at all. Waxy face paints include our favorite brands such as Wolfe, Tag, and Diamond FX.

Glycerin Based Face Paints

Glycerin based face paints are one of the favorites of most face painters today. The reason behind this is because of the creamy texture that they have. These brands include Snazaroo, Glycerin based also can work correctly with sponges. But remember that if you want more details, your face painter will note this kind of paint. This is mainly because they tend to dry too slowly. They also tend to blend with other types of color quickly.

Professional Grade Face Paints

This kind of face paint is usually the most expensive kind of paint. If you are going to require your face painter to use this kind of paint, then you need to be ready to shell out additional cash. This kind of paint is usually high in quality and are safer. The above types of paints have professional grade versions and links are included directly to them so you may opt for this kind of paint. It may be a bit more expensive, but you will be assured that it is safe for your kids and their guests.

Organic Grade Face Paints

Organic grade face paints are growing in popularity because of the advantages that it has. Some of the best things about organic grade ones are that they come in a wide variety of colors, they are high in quality, and they can be used easily.

These are the kinds of paints to use for face painting that your face painter should have. Whether your face painter is using a professional grade or an organic grade one, it would always be best to ensure that the paints are safe. Don’t forget to check if they are all FDA approved to avoid having problems and such.

Every face painter has a different style and technique for their art! We have affiliate linked to popular cosmetic grade brands above that we use and would greatly appreciate if you used them for making your purchases. When purchasing face paints always ensure that they are cosmetic grade! Purchasing cheaper paints or using crafts paints are damaging to our skin and can cause serious damage. Also remember to always purchase cosmetic grade glitter as well. Craft glitter can scratch our eyes and is not as easy to blink out.