Face paint is often used for holidays, dress-ups, theatre, cosplay, and more to transform appearances or depict characters. But specialty face paint kits can be pricey for one-time use. And pre-made paints may contain irritating or toxic ingredients unsafe for application, especially around delicate eye areas in children. Luckily, there are common household substances that make playful, vivid, and safe face paint substitutions.
Crayons
Wax-based crayons provide a rich, creamy color payoff when applied directly on the skin. Their soft texture helps them glide smoothly onto faces without excessive pulling or irritation. For best results, choose large chunky crayons over thin twistable types that do not transfer enough dense pigment. Remove paper wrapping then draw crayon color lightly over cheeks, chins, and foreheads pressing firmly to deposit color but not harsh enough to break skin.
Chalk Pastels
Like crayons, soft chalk pastels contain lots of wax allowing them to be brushed liberally over faces to mimic face paint consistency. Their fine powdery texture creates soft blends without the waxy residue some crayons leave behind. To activate and adhere color from chalk, simply spritz faces with plain water from a spray bottle before application. The water transforms pastel into vibrant liquid paint ideal for maximal coverage when doing full face looks.
Eye Shadow
Many eye shadow palettes house a rainbow of shades suitable for painting pretty patterns all over faces. Matte finishes tend to grip skin better than shimmers. Apply them using short-rounded makeup brushes for the easiest handling when doing detailed work like hearts, stars, dots, and stripes over small areas. To intensify color payoff, first paint on some translucent face powder so shadows have something sticky to cling to. Just avoid formulas containing irritants like fragrance and glitter near the eyes.
Yogurt Face Masks
For all-natural face paint, look no further than plain yogurt. Its creamy texture and probiotic content nourish skin while lending itself perfectly to accepting vivid fruit and vegetable juices. Blend yogurt with purple cabbage juice, beet juice, turmeric, paprika, carrot juice, or berry purees. Apply to faces with a foundation brush or cosmetic sponge before allowing to dry for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and faces look freshly rosy and radiant.
With so many readily available ingredients that can transform into quick DIY face paints, getting creative is both fun and affordable. Always spot-test new mixtures before extensive use and supervise young children. Then prepare for dazzling temporary makeovers that leave faces of all ages looking festively painted for dress-up fun or even cat faces!
