Halloween is a time when everyone—both young and old—has the opportunity to become someone or something else. One of the best ways to achieve that magical transformation on this eerie evening is with the help of face paint! Whether you want to create the look of a mummy coming to life, a fairy fluttering by, or the ever-popular zombie, face painting can elevate any costume to the next level.

If you’re new to this art form, don’t fret! Here are some beginner-friendly tips to achieve the desired look for yourself or your kids.

1. Use Quality Paints

First things first, always make sure to use paints that are meant for the skin. Regular craft paints or acrylics can cause irritation and won’t apply as desired. It’s also worthwhile to invest in quality brands like Snazaroo, Diamond FX, or Kryolan that have been tried and tested in the face-painting community.

2. Gather Your Brushes

A set of brushes in various sizes will make it easier to achieve exactly the look you want. A wider brush can cover large areas like the forehead or cheeks, while a thinner brush is perfect for detailed work like whiskers or cobwebs. While you can pick up face paint brushes from the craft store, regular makeup brushes will work as well.

3. Stock Up on Sponges

For a more airbrushed and blended look, use makeup sponges. They’re great for applying base colours or for creating gradient effects, like turning into the Hulk or getting that perfect vampire pallor.

4. Start with a Patch Test

Before you go Picasso on your face, do a patch test to ensure you or the person whose face you are painting doesn’t react to the paints. Apply a small amount on the inside of the wrist and wait for an hour. If no irritation appears, you’re good to go.

5. Prep the Canvas

Face paint applies best to a clean face without any makeup. Mild soap and water or a face wash will help get rid of extra oils. Then, just pat your face dry. If needed, use moisturizer sparingly and make sure it is fully absorbed before painting.

6. Keep it Simple

While it’s tempting to go for intricate designs right out the gate, starting with simpler designs can lead to more satisfying results. Ghostly white faces with darkened eyes, cute whiskers and a nose for a cat, or some scars for a monster are all achievable yet effective designs for beginners.

7. Go Step by Step

When face painting, it’s easy to smudge your hard work if you’re not careful! Start with the base colour, let it dry, then add details. This step-by-step approach ensures that colours don’t bleed into each other and that your design stays sharp.

8. Finish with a Setting Spray

To ensure longevity, especially if you’ll be out and about (or dancing the monster mash), use a setting spray or translucent powder to set your design. This reduces the risk of smudging or fading throughout the night.

Halloween face painting is all about having fun and getting creative. With a few tries and a steady hand, you’ll be sure to get that desired look to impress or frighten!