How to Apply Face Paint

Kids will line up to have their faces painted no matter what the occasion. Whether you're offering simple designs or elaborate masks for them to wear, special technique is required when it comes to painting faces. The skin on your face is one of the most sensitive areas, so only use paints specifically designed for skin, and make sure prior to painting that your subjects aren't allergic to any of the ingredients in the paints you're using.

Things You'll Need

• Water-based face paint
• Small and medium soft-bristle brushes
• Sponges
• Water
• Baby wipes

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Instructions

• 1

  Clean the skin before applying face paint. If you're out at an event, a packet of baby wipes can be used to wipe down the surface.

• 2

  Apply a thin layer of base coat paint with a sponge if you intend to paint a large area of the face, for example, if creating a full mask. Dab the sponge into the color you are applying as a base and evenly pat it over the surface of the skin.

• 3

  Use a small, soft-bristled brush to create elaborate designs. Smaller brushes allow you to form thin and even lines. For example, if painting hearts or balloons, a small brush is perfect for the thin lines needed to add detail.

• 4

  Paint the inside of your designs with a medium-sized brush. Medium brushes give you a wider range for coating slightly larger areas without going outside the lines of your design.

• 5

  Clean sponges and brushes thoroughly with water between colors to keep from accidentally mixing colors together. You should also clean your brushes and sponges before using them on another subject.