Top 5 Face Paint Kits: Your Ultimate Review Guide Now

Ever seen a child transform into a sparkling tiger or a fierce superhero? That magic happens with the right face paint! But choosing the perfect paint can feel like navigating a colorful maze. You worry about skin safety, vibrant colors that actually show up, and paints that wash off easily—or maybe not easily enough!

Many parents and artists struggle with confusing labels and questionable ingredients. Picking the wrong paint can lead to disappointing designs or even irritated skin. We know you want safe, brilliant colors that make every face painting session a roaring success. That’s where we step in to clear up the confusion.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about selecting the best paint for your next creative adventure. We will explore the differences between cream, cake, and water-based options, ensuring you choose products that are safe and spectacular. Get ready to ditch the guesswork and start painting with confidence!

Top Paint For Face Painting Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
Drawdart Face Painting Kit for Kids - 20 Colors Water Based Non-Toxic Paint With Stencils & Brushes - Professional Body Makeup Kit for Parties, Birthdays, Halloween
  • SAFE AND PROFESSIONAL QUALITY - Suitable for sensitive skin! Our cosmetic grade face paint is 100% non-toxic, hypoallergenic, & paraben-free, which makes it safe for every kid and adult with sensitive skin.
  • EASY TO USE AND WASH OFF - The high-quality formula ensures that vibrant colors easy to apply and won't fade or smudge. When the fun is over, the washable face paint effortlessly comes off with mild soap and water or wet wipes.
  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED AND VERSATILE - Includes: 20 colors, 32 stencils, 3 glitters, 4 brushes, 100pcs gem sheet, 2 sponges, 26 tattoos, user guide, & 3-color split cake. Perfect for adding fun and color to any party or school event. Perfect face painting kit for kids party!
  • HIGHLY PIGMENTED - All our premium face paint goes on smoothly with excellent coverage. It's easy to create even a very scary makeup look. Take your Halloween costume to the next level with the Halloween makeup kit.
  • YOUR SATISFACTION IS GUARANTEED - We're confident about the quality of our Drawdart face paints. Please join us and receive a FULL-YEAR GUARANTEE on this professional face painting kit for kids!
SaleBestseller No. 2
UCANBE Athena Face Body Paint Oil Palette, 20 Colors Large Black White Professional Flash Tattoo Halloween SFX Party Artist Costume Festival Stage Cosplay Full Size Makeup Painting Kit 168g
  • A LARGE SIZE Face Body Paint makeup palette refilled 20 creamy intensive pigmented colors in a convenient and sturdy plastic case that applies easily with sponge or brush. It worked on the face and body such flawlessly and easy to mix and layer.
  • Painting makeup cream is made of high quality ingredients to be easy blended, comfortable on the skin while being vibrant. It remain flexible to resist cracking while drying quickly to a smudge-proof and durable finish but minimal rub-off.
  • 20 flash Aqua colors is suitable for creating many different artistic looks. It included big sized black and white that people used a lot! Bossy gold and silver, pink, purple, red, yellow, blue, green, brown of all basic It meet the needs of different occasions. The colors can be easily shaded together to obtain a wide variety of effects for artistic makeup or special effects coloring.
  • Non-toxic oil-based painting palette, the formula is moist, semi-soft, safe and gentle on skin. Richer color-saturated coverage than ordinary makeup, long lasting, easy to wear and easy to wash off with olive oil or professional waterproof makeup remover.
  • Professional face paint for festivals, carnivals, birthday, campfire or theme parties, SFX makeup,stage performances, baby shower, not to forget fun halloween and other occasions! Easily create crown, costume, bruise, blood, cosplay looks. Friendly materials are safe for both popular teens and adult.
Bestseller No. 3
UCANBE Face Body Paint Oil, Professional 15 Colors FX Makeup Palette- Non Toxic Hypoallergenic Safe Facepaint for Halloween, Cosplay Costumes, Parties and Festivals
  • PROFESSIONAL 15 COLORS PAINT OIL : It works exceptionally well for all aspects of face and body painting such as line work, based work, blending, layering, and meets the needs of pro face painters and beginners.
  • VIVID COLORS : Through your creativity, you can blend colors to paint various colors and unique looks on your skin, which will last a long time and always present vibrant colors.
  • SAFE TO USE : All ingredients were laboratory-tested. The formula is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, making it a confident choice for face painting on all skin types.
  • MORE FUN : You can bring people(friends/ family/ customers) together in a warm face paint party and enjoy more fun, perfect for birthday parties, festivals, Halloween, and stage makeup.
  • NO STAINED SKIN : You can slightly wipe off with olive oil or professional waterproof makeup remover.
SaleBestseller No. 4
UCANBE Face Body Paint Set-Athena Painting Palette,10 Professional Artist Brush,Large Deep Pan Ideal for Halloween Cosplay Party SFX Arty Stage Makeup
  • ★Athena 20 Color Paint + 10 pcs Professional Brushes.★ With these brushes you may paint whatever you want. It work exceptionally well for all aspects of face and body painting such as line work, base work, blending and layering.
  • ★ Vibrant Pigment Color. ★ No flawless appearance but a vivid performance.
  • ★ Large Pan of Black & White.★ With an ATHENA paint, you don't need to buy an extra clown white/ black any more.
  • ★Long Lasting formula. ★ As it is oil based, it is waterproof and may take sometime to dry out. Use some setting powder can get a long lasting effect.
  • ★ Creamy Smooth Texture★ Waterproof oil based formula is no need to use water and easy to apply.
SaleBestseller No. 5
Face Painting Kit for Kids, 12 Colors Oil-Based Face Paint with 2 Brushes, Non-Toxic Halloween Makeup Kit, Professional Face Body Paint for Halloween, Parties, Carnival, School Events
  • Complete Face Painting Kit for Kids & Adults: This Halloween face paint includes 12 highly pigmented vibrant colors and 2 brushes. It can be used on face or body to create impressive face and body painting effects. Ideal for DIY enthusiasts and beginner painters
  • Safe and Gentle for All Skin Types: Formulated with non-toxic, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and skin-friendly ingredients, this oil-based face paint is even suitable for kids or adults with sensitive skin. As with any cosmetic product, we recommend testing a small patch before full application for the most comfortable experience
  • Easy to Use and Wash off: This kids facepaint kit blends smoothly, easy to draw, dries fast and with great coverage. It goes on easily, washes off easily and doesn’t stain the skin. When the party is over, you can remove the washable face paint effortlessly with soap and water or wet wipes
  • Professional Face Painting Kit for Various Occasions: Perfect for Halloween, costume parties, birthday parties, music festivals, carnivals, sports games, school events, Christmas, theater, cosplay, stage performances, or any fun gatherings, ensuring endless fun for kids or adults
  • Unique and Fun Gift - This face paint palette is a great gift which will be liked by both kids and adults. Don’t miss the opportunity to make unforgettable moments at your next party or any special occasions with this easy-to-use face paint kit
Bestseller No. 6
Drawdart Face Body Paint Kit, 15 Colors Face Painting Palette with 10 Pcs Artist Brushes| Facepaint Makeup Kit Ideal for Halloween SFX Cosplay Party Costume Makeup
  • Non-toxic Oil-based Face Paint: Superior oil-based moisture formula that glide smoothly and easy to blend. It remains flexible to resist cracking, comfortable on the skin while being vibrant. As oil-based face paint dries slowly, we suggest to put on some setting powder so that remains your look last all day without smudging.
  • 15 Vibrant Colors and High Pigmented: Each color is intensely pigmented for excellent coverage and can be easily blended to create diverse effects for artistic or special effects makeup, now with 10 different size brushes that provide great control and precision for both face and body painting.
  • Easy to Apply and Remove: Apply directly by hand or brush or sponge(No need to activate with water). Creamy Smooth Texture. Easy to wash off with mild soap and warm water(No need to use professional olive oil and makeup remover). Drawdart face paint safe for both teenagers and adult.
  • Suit for Various Occasions: Perfect for Halloween, carnivals, costume parties, stage performances, and cosplay events. With this face painting kit, you can easily create crown, bruise, fake blood, and other SFX & Arty Stage makeup looks.
  • Convenient Palette & Long-Lasting Wear: Our formula is specially designed for extended wear. Even after hours of dancing at a party or performing on stage, the colors remain true without fading. Your look will stay captivating from beginning to end
SaleBestseller No. 7
Pintada 42 Color Face Painting Kit for Kids - Non Toxic Water Activated Face Paint Palette With Stencils, Brush, Gems. For Carnival, Halloween, Costume Makeup and Any Creative Activity with Kids
  • This water-soluble face paint is easy to use—just mix with water! Dilute for a thinner consistency to cover larger areas, or keep it thick for smaller, precise applications. Even if you’re not a professional face painter, you can quickly learn by following our instructions
  • Kid-Safe Halloween Makeup Kit: Water-activated, non-toxic face paint formulated with cosmetic-grade ingredients for sensitive skin. Paraben-free, cruelty-free, and safe for both kids & adults. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before full application
  • 42 Vibrant Colors & Pro Tools: Unleash creativity with 18 matte shades, 16 glitter gels, and 8 UV-glow paints—perfect for Halloween raves, sleepover party, school carnivals, or superhero costumes. Includes 11 brushes, 5 reusable face paint stencils, 4 sticker stencils, 2 gem stickers, and user guide
  • Easy to Use and Wash Off face painting kit professional: Different from cleaning oil-based painting;Our Face Painting kits Water Activated and Dries Fast With Extremely Pigmented,Provide Long Lasting,Excellent Coverage,Less Prone to Fading or Cracking.Please note that it is not waterproof,Easy to clean ,You Can Easy Wash Off With Soap and Water or Wet Wipes
  • Versatile Face Paints Set: Our makeup kit contains a large number of face paints and accessories. One set can meet more of your body painting needs; is perfect for birthday parties, carnivals,school events,Halloween makeup,clown makeup, festivals,Prime Sports, theatre plays, theme costume makeup parties, stage performances, cosplay, costume makeup, and any creative activity with kids
SaleBestseller No. 8
Professional Face Painting Kit – 42 Color Water Activated Facepaint Makeup Kit, Non-Toxic face Paint with Stencils, Gems, Brushes– for Halloween, Parties, Carnival, Festivals & Creative Events
  • 【Complete Face Painting Kit】-Includes 42 vibrant colors: 8 fluorescent paints, 16 glitter shades, and 18 matte shades. Comes with 11 brushes, 2 water-drop sponges, 2 sponge finger applicators, 4 gem sheets, 8 reusable stencils, and 4 sticker stencils. A professional face paint kit for endless creative possibilities
  • 【Water Activated & Easy to Use】 – This water-activated face paint is simple to apply—just add water! It glides on smoothly, dries quickly, and is durable and not prone to cracking. Easy to remove with soap and water or gentle wipes, making it a mess-free facepaint makeup kit ideal for beginners and anyone new to face painting
  • 【Gentle & Skin-Friendly Formula】 – Crafted with non-toxic, skin-friendly ingredients, this washable face paint is designed for everyday creative fun. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. As with any cosmetic product, we recommend testing a small patch before full application for the most comfortable experience
  • 【Bold Colors with Stunning Effects】-Packed with highly pigmented colors, this face paint palette delivers vibrant coverage and smooth blending. fluorescent paints shine under ultraviolet blacklight(it cannot glow in Darkness itself), glitters sparkle, and mattes offer rich depth. Create dazzling looks for any event with this premium face painting kit professional
  • 【Fun for All Occasions & Creative Projects】 – Whether it’s Halloween, birthday parties, school plays, carnivals, cosplay, or festivals, this face paint kit adds fun and excitement to any occasion. The variety of colors and tools allows for creative freedom, making it ideal for family activities, costume parties, stage performances, or artistic projects

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Face Painting Paints

Face painting brings smiles to parties and events. Choosing the right paint makes a big difference. This guide helps you pick the best colors for your next masterpiece.

Key Features to Look For

When buying face paint, several features matter most. These decide how easy the paint is to use and how safe it is for the skin.

1. Safety and Ingredients

Always check the ingredients list first. Look for paints labeled “Non-Toxic” or “Cosmetic Grade.” This means professionals use them safely.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals. Good paints use gentle ingredients.
  • Look for FDA compliance if possible, especially for paints used on children.
  • Patch testing is smart. Try a small bit of paint on the arm before painting a whole face.
2. Consistency and Texture

The paint consistency affects how smoothly it applies. Most face paints are water-activated. This means you add water to a solid cake of color to use it.

  • Good paints mix easily with a little water. They should not be too runny or too dry.
  • Smooth application means fewer streaks. You want vibrant, even color coverage.
3. Pigment Load (Color Intensity)

Pigment load refers to how strong the color is. High pigment load means you need less paint to get a bright color.

  • Strong colors cover skin tones better. This saves time, especially when painting over dark colors.
  • White paint often shows the pigment quality best. Good white should cover skin in one or two thin layers.
4. Drying Time and Smudge Resistance

Face paint needs to dry quickly. Slow drying paint transfers onto clothes or other faces easily.

  • Once dry, the paint should not smudge easily. This keeps the artwork looking good for hours.
  • Set the paint with a light dusting of translucent powder for best staying power.

Important Materials: What Your Paint Is Made Of

Face paints generally fall into two main material types: water-based and oil-based.

Water-Based Paints (The Most Common Choice)

These are the standard for beginners and professionals alike. They are easy to use and clean up.

  • Pros: They dry fast and wash off easily with just soap and warm water. They are breathable for the skin.
  • Cons: They can crack if the skin moves a lot, and they might run if the face gets sweaty or wet.
Oil-Based Paints (Grease Paints)

These paints use oil or wax as a base. They offer very heavy coverage.

  • Pros: They stay put for a long time and resist smudging very well. They are great for theatrical or very humid conditions.
  • Cons: They feel heavier on the skin. You must use oil-based removers or wipes to clean them off, which can sometimes irritate sensitive skin.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality directly impacts your painting success.

Factors That Improve Quality

High-quality paints use better binders and finer pigments. This makes them blend better and last longer. Professional brands invest in better formulas. Look for brands known for smooth application and vibrant colors.

Factors That Reduce Quality

Cheap paints often contain fillers. Fillers make the paint chalky or cause it to crack immediately. Paints with low pigment load require many layers, wasting your time. Also, poor quality ingredients might cause skin reactions.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where and how you will use the paint. This guides your final purchase.

Beginner Use

If you are just starting out, choose a reliable, non-toxic, water-based kit. Look for easy-to-open containers and simple color palettes. Practice makes perfect!

Professional Use

Professionals need high pigment load and durability. They often buy larger “cakes” of their favorite colors. They need paints that perform well under hot lights or outdoors.

Special Effects and Coverage

For full-face designs or covering large areas (like superhero masks), you need excellent coverage. White and black paints must be top quality for this purpose.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Face Painting Paints

Q: Are face paints safe for kids?

A: Yes, if you choose paints specifically labeled “Non-Toxic” and “Cosmetic Grade.” Always check the labels before use.

Q: How do I clean water-based face paint off the skin?

A: Warm water and mild soap work best. You might need a washcloth to gently scrub off stubborn spots.

Q: Can I use regular craft acrylic paint on faces?

A: No! Never use craft acrylics. They are not skin-safe and can cause serious irritation or allergic reactions.

Q: How long does face paint last once opened?

A: Most good quality water-based paints last a year or more if stored correctly (cool, dry place). Oil-based paints can last longer.

Q: What is the best way to activate water-based paint?

A: Use a clean, slightly damp sponge or brush. Dab the surface of the dry paint cake until a creamy consistency forms. Do not soak the paint.

Q: Why is my white face paint not covering well?

A: White is often the first color to show low quality. A low pigment load means you need many layers. Try using a high-quality, dense white paint.

Q: Do I need a setting powder?

A: Setting powder (like translucent baby powder) helps water-based paint dry completely and prevents smudging, especially in hot weather.

Q: What is the difference between a face paint “cake” and a “stick”?

A: A cake is the solid block you activate with water. A stick is usually oil-based and applies like a thick crayon for quick lines and details.

Q: Can I mix different brands of face paint together?

A: You can mix the colors within the same brand easily. Mixing formulas from different brands is generally not recommended as they might not blend well or dry evenly.

Q: How do I stop the paint from cracking on moving areas like elbows?

A: Oil-based paints resist cracking better than water-based paints in areas of high movement. For water-based paints, use thin layers and try not to over-saturate the area with water.