Best Glow In The Dark Acrylic Paint – Top Picks & Guide

Imagine turning your ordinary artwork into something magical once the lights go out. Have you ever wished your creations could truly shine in the dark? That’s the exciting promise of glow in the dark acrylic paint, but finding the perfect one can feel like a real challenge.

The market is flooded with options, and it’s tough to know which paints actually glow bright and last long. You might worry about weak colors or paints that fade quickly. Choosing the wrong type can lead to disappointing results, leaving your project dull instead of dazzling.

This post cuts through the confusion. We will explore exactly what makes a great glow paint. You will learn the key features to look for, how to get the brightest glow, and which brands deliver real performance. Get ready to illuminate your next project!

Top Glow In The Dark Acrylic Paint Recommendations

No. 1
FolkArt glow in the dark Acrylic paint, 8 oz, Neutral 8 Fl Oz
  • CONVENIENT SIZE - This versatile glowing acrylic paint comes in an easy-to-use 8 oz bottle - perfect for all your arts and crafts!
  • GLOWING FINISH - This brilliant acrylic paint dries to a smooth finish - perfect for adding a pop of glowing color to all your DIY projects. Simply place your project in light to charge
  • USE ON MULTIPLE SURFACES - Use this bright acrylic paint on a variety of surfaces such as wood, paper, canvas, Styrofoam, paper mache, and so much more
  • EASY CLEAN UP - Clean up is easy with this acrylic paint! Simply clean up while wet with soap and water
  • AMERICAN MADE - FolkArt Acrylic Paint is proudly made in the USA
No. 2
ABEIER Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint - 10 Bright Colors (60ml/2oz) Long Lasting Glow Fluorescent Paint for DIY Projects, Halloween, Easter, Christmas Decorations
  • 10 UNIQUE COLORS AND LARGE CAPACITY : the luminous acrylic paint offers 10 bright and vivid colors that are eye-catch in both daylight and darkness. The large 60ml bottles ensure that there is enough paint to complete multiple projects.
  • GLOW IN THE DARK: This paint glows in the dark after being charged under UV light black light or sunlight, making it perfect for night parties. The long-lasting luminous effect ensures that your creations will continue to glow for hours after the lights go out.
  • HIGH-QUALITY GLOW PAINTS: This luminous paint features premium pigments with waterproof properties, excellent lightfastness, and a glossy finish. The colors glow brightly and vividly in the dark, adding a stunning luminous effect to your artwork.
  • VERSATILE APPLICATIONS: This luminous paint can be used on a variety of surfaces, including canvas, wood, stone,plastic, etc. It is perfect for creating unique and personalized decorations for neon party Halloween Easter Christmas.
  • SAFE AND NON-TOXIC: This paint is non-toxic, eco-friendly, and safe for artists of all ages to use. It is ideal for kids' craft projects and provides a fun and safe way to experiment with art.
No. 3
Artecho Glow in the Dark Paint 8 Colors, 20 ml / 0.7 oz Acrylic Paint for Decoration, Supplies for Canvas, Rock, Wood
  • Vibrant Colors: The Artecho acrylic glow paint set comes with 8 neon and glow-in-the-dark colors, each in a 0.7 ounce / 20 ml bottle
  • High-Quality and Long-Lasting: Our glow & neon paint set features high-quality pigments that create a glossy finish and provide light fastness. The paint glows in the dark and fluoresces under daylight, providing a beautiful luminous effect
  • Fast Charging and Great Luminosity: This glow & neon paint set shows great luminous effects under black light and quickly charges in the sun or lamp. For better results, we recommend using black light or LED light
  • Suitable for Various Surfaces: Our acrylic paints are versatile and suitable for most painting surfaces including canvas, paper, wood, leather, cardboard, and crafts. For smooth surfaces, we recommend painting two or more layers or a pure color undercoat to achieve the desired fluorescent effect
  • Perfect Gift: This paint set is a great gift for painting enthusiasts, beginners, and professionals alike. It's perfect for Christmas decorations, outdoor and indoor decorations, and makes an ideal gift for birthdays, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and more
No. 4
ARTME Glow in The Dark Paint, 10 Bright Colors 60ml/2oz Blacklight Paint Set, Neon Craft Paint, Acrylic Glow Fluorescent Paint Perfect for Art Painting, DIY projects, Halloween and Christmas Decoration
  • HIGH-QUALITY GLOW PAINTS: ARTME glow in the dark paint uses high-quality pigments, has great light fastness, and a gloss finish to ensure that each color will glow for hours after absorbing light under light sources. It is recommended to be used with black light or LED light for better effect.
  • MULTI-USAGE: ARTME glow paints can be used on most painting surfaces including Canvas, Paper, Wood, Leather, Model, and Crafts.
  • HOW TO GET IT GLOW: 1. Shake evenly before use. 2. Apply at least 3 layers. 3. Charge the paint with UV, sunlight, or Lamp, then place the painting or crafts in the dark. (The way of charging determines the final effect). UV light is recommended.(G08 PINK PURPLE color should charge with direct sunlight or UV light, it will get glow effect)
  • THE BEST GIFT: The glow acrylic paint set is a wonderful gift for Halloween, birthdays, Christmas, and even holiday craft supplies! It's perfect for artists, art hobbyists, and students, and will inspire their creativity.
  • SAFETY: Made from quality pigments and designed for artists, art hobbyists, and students. Safe, non-toxic, acid-free, conforms to safety certificates: U.S. ASTM D-4236 & EU EN71.
No. 5
Artecho Glow in the Dark Paint 6 Colors, 120 ml / 4 oz Acrylic Paint for Decoration, Art Painting, Outdoor and Indoor Art Craft, Supplies for Canvas, Rock, Wood, Waterproof Rich Pigments
  • Acrylic Pigment: Artecho Glow in the dark acrylic paint 4.05oz/120ml tube-6 colors. Individual package is convenient for you to carry around. So You can choose any single pigment as you wish
  • Great Light fastness and Gloss Finish: these acrylics will glide smoothly onto canvas, paper, wood, ceramic, etc. and fast dry to a glossy finish
  • High Quality Pigments: the creamy consistency and high pigments offer great covering power for large areas and fine details. Conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71. Acid-free, non-toxic and suitable for adults
  • Great Mixability: the clarity and brilliance allow for superb color mixing to provide a bigger color palette of shades and tones
  • Versatile for most art and art techniques and suitable for most painting surfaces including Canvas, Paper, Wood, Fabric, Leather, Cardboard, MDF and Crafts
No. 6
Fantastory Fluorescent Glow in the Dark Paint,60ml /2oz,Neon Colors Glow Acrylic Paints; Waterproof Blacklight Paint for Outdoor Rock,Wood,DIY Craft,Canva,Pumpkin,Halloween,Holiday Decor
  • Fluorescent Series Set: These vibrant neon paints are eye-catching during the day and reflect brilliantly under black light. They also glow in the dark for several minutes after being charged. -(Charge with a black light for optimal results.) For Halloween, Fantastory glow paints can add a spooky atmosphere to your crafts. It’s the great option for imaginative people and those who love spooky and creative Halloween crafts.
  • Vibrant Neon Colors: The Fluorescent Series Set is made from superior, vibrant pigments, ensuring good coverage. It includes fluorescent pink, purple,green,yellow,orange,etc. These vibrant neon paints are eye-catching during the day and reflect brilliantly under black light. They also glow in the dark for several minutes after charging. (Charge with a black light for optimal results.)
  • High Quality: Fantastory glow paint set conforms to ASTM D-4236. Toxicological assessment has been conducted in accordance with LHAMA requirements. Its excellent viscosity, exceptional smoothness, and glossiness offer a delightful way to explore the magic of art. Get this fluorescent paint set to add a glowing touch to your crafts for Halloween, birthdays, Christmas, and more!
  • Apply 2 or More Layers: Fantastory glow in dark outdoor paints suit most surfaces, such as canvas, paper, wood, etc. For smooth surfaces, we recommend applying 2 or more layers or using a solid color base coat to achieve the best results. Note: The paint will gradually fade in the dark but can be reactivated by charging, allowing it to glow again.
  • The Star Under Black Light: This bright glow in dark acrylic paint set is perfect for music festivals, neon parties, raves, and more. It reflects brilliantly under black light, potentially making you the life of the party! Use this black light paint set to create personalized decorations for Halloween, Easter, and other events. Note: DIY T-shirts may become difficult to clean after painting, so please apply with care.
No. 7
FolkArt Neon Glow Acrylic Paint Set, 2 oz, 8 Fl Oz
  • CONVENIENT SIZES - This versatile glowing and neon acrylic paint set includes 8 - 2 oz bottles of vivid, colorful and glowing craft paint. The colors in this kit include: four neon colors: neon pink, neon orange, neon blue, neon green and four glow in the dark colors: neutral glow, green glow, yellow glow, and pink glow
  • GLOWING, NEON FINISH - This brilliant acrylic paint dries to a smooth vibrant finish - perfect for adding a pop of color and glow to all your arts and crafts!
  • USE ON MULTIPLE SURFACES - Use this bright acrylic paint on a variety of surfaces such as wood, paper, canvas, Styrofoam, paper mache, and so much more
  • EASY CLEAN UP - Clean up is easy with this acrylic paint! Simply clean up while wet with soap and water
  • AMERICAN MADE - This FolkArt Acrylic Paint kit is proudly made in the USA
No. 8
milo Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint | Clear Phosphorescent Green Glow | 16 oz Bottle | Easy Light Glow Activated | Made in the USA | Non-Toxic | Glows UV in Black Light | Paint in the Dark
  • GLOW IN THE DARK: easily activate the bright glow with sunlight, UV, or any indoor light source. Dries clear, glows green after activating with light or a strong white glow under UV Light. Perfect for your paint in the dark party, use as a coating on a painting or artwork, or try on a black canvas.
  • 16 oz BOTTLE: Comes in easy to pour and use, large paint bottle for pouring and cap for a tight seal to keep the acrylic paint fresh and ready to use. High coverage to use for all of your painting projects to add a special glow to your artwork.
  • BRIGHT GLOW: Milo glow in the dark acrylic paint contain phosphorescent additives that allow them to glow in the dark. Try the paints on a black canvas for extra contrast. Perfect for your paint party or rave. Simply activate the paint with either the light from the sun or from an indoor light; also works under blacklight.
  • MANY USES: Perfect for painting on canvas, wood boards, posters, and arts and crafts. Great for the classroom and painting parties. Fluid enough for acrylic pouring. Try it on pumpkins, ceramic, rock, halloween, indoor and outdoor!
  • NON-TOXIC & SAFE: AP Certified-- the highest standard of safety testing for art supplies. We understand the importance of safety for our art supplies and paint, including to the environment. Does NOT contain latex, dairy, casein, soy, egg, gluten, peanut, or tree nuts.

Your Complete Guide to Buying Glow-in-the-Dark Acrylic Paint

Glow-in-the-dark paint adds a magical touch to any project. Whether you are decorating for Halloween or just want cool artwork, this paint is fun. Choosing the right paint ensures your creations truly shine. This guide helps you find the best glow paint for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

How Bright and How Long Does It Glow?

The most important feature is the glow itself. Look for terms like “high luminescence” or “intense glow.” Some paints only glow faintly. Others light up a room! Check the packaging. It should tell you how long the glow lasts after charging. A good quality paint glows brightly for several minutes before fading.

Charging Time

These paints need light to charge up. Sunlight or a strong lamp works best. Fast-charging paints are very convenient. Check reviews to see how quickly different brands absorb light and start glowing. Quick charging means more glowing time for you.

Color Options

Most glow paints are green or blue. These colors usually glow the strongest. However, many brands now offer pink, yellow, and even white glow paints. Remember that lighter colors might not look as bright in the dark as the traditional greens.

Important Materials in Glow Paint

The Glowing Pigment

Glow-in-the-dark paint gets its power from special pigments. These are usually strontium aluminate or zinc sulfide. Strontium aluminate is modern and generally glows brighter and longer than older zinc sulfide types. Always check what pigment the manufacturer uses.

The Base Medium

Since you are buying acrylic paint, the base is acrylic polymer. This makes the paint durable and water-resistant once dry. Ensure the acrylic base is high quality. A good base helps the glow pigments stick well to your surface.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Thickness and Coverage

Thick, opaque paint covers surfaces better. You often need several thick coats of glow paint to get a strong glow. If the paint is too thin, you will need many more layers. Good quality paint applies smoothly without clumping.

Factors That Reduce Quality
  • Weak Binders: If the acrylic binder is weak, the paint might flake off your surface, taking the glow with it.
  • Too Much Filler: Some cheaper paints use too much filler material. This waters down the glow pigment, making the light weak.
  • Poor Mixing: If the glow powder settles too quickly in the jar, the paint is poorly formulated. You must stir constantly, which reduces user experience.

User Experience and Use Cases

Surface Suitability

Check where the paint works best. Most acrylic glow paints work well on canvas, wood, paper, and some plastics. Some paints are specifically formulated for fabrics or outdoor use.

Safety First

Always check if the paint is non-toxic. Since kids often use glow paint for crafts, non-toxic certification is essential. Most reputable brands meet these safety standards.

Common Uses

People use this paint for many things! You can paint stars on a bedroom ceiling. Artists use it for unique, glowing accents in paintings. It is perfect for decorating costumes or making safety markers on pathways or steps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does glow paint work on black surfaces?

A: Yes, but you must apply many coats. Glow paint works best when you apply it over a white base coat first. The white base reflects the light better, making the final glow much stronger.

Q: How do I make the glow last longer?

A: Charge the paint with a very bright light source, like a UV blacklight, for about 15 minutes. Then, use the paint in a completely dark area. The darker the environment, the more intense the glow appears.

Q: Is glow paint waterproof?

A: Most acrylic glow paints are water-resistant once fully cured (dried). However, if you use them outdoors or on items that soak, like untreated wood, you should seal them with a clear, waterproof varnish.

Q: Can I mix glow paint with regular acrylic paint?

A: You can, but it weakens the glow significantly. If you mix one part glow paint with one part regular paint, the glow will be cut in half. For the best results, use the glow paint straight or mix it only with a clear acrylic medium.

Q: What is the best way to clean brushes?

A: Since this is acrylic paint, clean your brushes immediately with warm, soapy water before the paint dries. Dried glow paint is very hard to remove from bristles.

Q: Will sunlight fade the glow over time?

A: Yes, prolonged, direct exposure to strong sunlight (UV rays) will eventually break down the glow pigments. This reduces their ability to recharge. Keep glow artwork indoors or in shaded areas for maximum lifespan.

Q: Is the paint visible during the day?

A: Usually, no. Glow-in-the-dark acrylic paint looks like a dull, slightly off-white or pale version of its daytime color. You only see the true effect in the dark after charging.

Q: How many coats should I apply?

A: Aim for three to five thick, even coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. This layering builds up the pigment concentration for a powerful glow.

Q: Are there different glow colors that glow brighter?

A: Green and aqua/light blue typically offer the brightest and longest-lasting glow. Reds, oranges, and purples usually glow the weakest.

Q: Does the paint smell bad?

A: Quality, non-toxic brands have very little odor, similar to standard acrylic craft paint. If you notice a very strong, chemical smell, stop using it immediately; it might not be safe.