The first thing many people think of when they hear face paint is Halloween.
However, there’re plenty of many other occasions where face paint is handy, including birthdays, themed events, anime conventions, Cosplay, theater performance, and so much more.
Now, whatever you plan using face paint for, finding the right one can feel like a Herculean task, especially in the world of Chinese knockoffs, questionable ingredients, and lackluster results.
See, the wrong choice of face paint doesn’t only lack vitality, but it might even cause adverse effects on your skin.
The right face paint for you should not only go effortlessly, but they should also be resistant to sweat or other elements.
Most importantly, however, the face paint shouldn’t cause any adverse side effects (it should be FDA-compliant and non-toxic).
Fortunately, in our review guide below, we shall share the best face paints in the market with you, and hopefully, you'll find one suiting your needs.
Quick Comparison Table & Our Pick
Product | Size | Water-Based | Fragrance | Base Colors | BUY NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
18ml/ | Yes | No | 37 | ||
30g | No | No | 12 | ||
N/A | No | No | 15 | ||
Other Great Recommendations | |||||
2 ¼ in crayons | No | No | 12 | ||
32g | Yes | No | 12 | ||
7g | No | No | 30 | ||
1 oz | No | No | 1 | ||
3g | No | No | 14 | ||
N/A | No | No | 15 | ||
Best Top 5 Face Paints in the Market for the Money
Snazaroo Face Paint Set
Topping our list of the best face paint is the Snazaroo Face Paint Set; a product from the reputable Snazaroo brand.
Now, if you know anything about face paints, you know Snazaroo is the go-to brand. It’s a popular brand, delivering when it comes to ingredient quality and vibrant results.
But what’s striking with the Snazaroo Face Paint Set?
Well, there's a lot to like about this face paint set.
First, it’s the ingredient profile.
Like all the Snazaroo products, Snazaroo Face Paint Set is a fragrance-free option, and it's manufactured to adhere to both the EU and US regulations and cosmetic regulations.
It's also non-toxic face paint, making it an ideal and safe option for kids and those with sensitive skin.
However, as great as the ingredient list is, where the face paint counts is on the vibrancy and color selection.
The Snazaroo set has one of the widest color selections in the market; with 37 base colors, including metallic and sparkle options, so you can never fail to find a color option or combination you desire. The vastness of the color options lets you create stunning effects on your face.
Another likable element on this face paint is the water-soluble nature.
Water-soluble face paints are easy to apply. To apply this paint, you simply need a damp brush or sponge for activation, and you're ready to go.
At the same time, the water-soluble Snazaroo is resistant to sweat, and so, it won't easily distort even in the hot conditions.
More importantly, you won't struggle to wash the face paint from your skin since a dab of water and soap is sufficient to clean off the paint.
Of course, depending on the color selected, you might experience some staining on your skin, but a deeper scrub will remove any left-over pigmentation signs.
Pros
- Safe for kids
- No fragrance
- Easy to clean
- Isn’t distorted by sweat
Cons
- Might leave some stains depending on the choice of color
See Snazaroo Face Paint Set Price on Amazon
Face Paint Kit by Kryvaline
If we were to describe Face Paint by Kryvaline, only one word would do: Awesome.
The folks are Kryvaline went out with this paint set.
For starters, this kit offers an all-around ace painting solution as you won’t require extra accessories to look good.
It features an advanced split and single color cakes, dermo jewel, and professional brushes. You also get non-stains sponges and cool stencils. As I mentioned above, the Kryvaline set is perhaps the ultimate set for both beginners and professional users.
Also, the ingredient composition for this face paint has everything you would desire to see in the best face paint.
The environmental enthusiasts will be pleased with this product as it features biodegradable paint stores in a spill-proof bottle.
The paint constituents are also FDA-compliant, a top priority for those with kids, allergies, or sensitive skin.
If you're worried about your safety during paint application, you'll be glad to know the stencils feature rounded edges to prevent the accidental cut. The safety element makes this face paint a suitable option for older kids to create designs on each other without an adult's supervision.
Like the Snazaroo, this face paint has a vibrant color scheme, and the individual colors and design will stand out. And as such, your kid will always have the beautiful creativity and transformation brought about by the face paint.
Finally, it’s easy to remove the paint as it easily washes off.
Pros
- Plenty of accessories
- Spill-proof packaging
- Ideal for beginner and professional
Cons
- Lacks glue for sticking gems
See Face Paint Kit by Kryvaline Price on Amazon
Zenovika Face Paint Kit
The Zenovika Face Paint Kit is all you need for your Halloween, birthday party, or any other occasion.
It's a versatile and accommodative option as it can be used by kids, teens, and even adults.
Featuring up to 15 bright and vibrant colors, the Zenovika Face Paint Kit will allow you to design and draw any design you desire.
Like the Snazaroo, the Zenovika Face Paint Kit is water-based face paint, so it’s easy to use.
To apply the face paint, you simply need to mix Zenovika Face Paint Kit with a few water drops. This gives you a smooth and soft finish, which you can apply with a brush or sponge.
The paint also dries pretty fast, and though not long-lasting, it will stay put for a couple of hours, giving excellent coverage.
The ingredient composition is also something we like; the manufacturer only uses cosmetic grade ingredients, which are non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free.
The entire mixture is also FDA-approved, so you shouldn’t have any concerns about getting side effects.
Some of the notable ingredients include glycerol, calcium carbonate, static acid, and candelilla wax. All the components are safe and won't cause any irritation or skin problems.
The ingredients are also easy to wash, and to clean your face; you simply need to use warm water and damp cloth to wipe off the paint.
In my opinion, though, the best part of this face paint is the number of accessories. The Zenovika Face Paint Kit features 60 stencils, which you can reuse multiple times.
It also has two chalk hair colors, making it easy for the user to achieve a matching face theme. Finally, it includes two brushes and two sponges for easy application.
The face paint results are also quite exceptional, and this is largely because the paint contains gold and silver glitter that deliver a more vibrant and sparkly look.
Pros
- Plenty of accessories
- Easy to wash
- Safe; FDA-approved
Cons
- Color is light
See Zenovika Face Paint Kit Price on Amazon
Dress-Up-America Face Paint Kit
Understandably, professional face paint artists often hesitate from using scrubs and brushes to do their paint makeover.
However, the folks at Dress-Up-America solve the hassle of getting paint on your face and reducing pain by introducing face paint in crayon form.
With the Dress-Up-America Face Paint Kit, it’s possible to apply paint on your face just as you would use a crayon on a paper.
The Dress-Up-America Face Paint Kit set contains 12 handy-size crayons with bright shades.
Like the regular crayons, you can hold these paint instruments like a marker to create a stunning design on your face.
The paint-filled crayons aren't only effective at achieving the perfect face design, but they're free from toxins and any harsh chemicals. In fact, you can even leave them on your skin as long as you want without the concern of irritation or even setting off an allergic reaction.
Unlike other face paints, the crayon form makes the paint a great option for kid's activities.
Kids can use crayons to paint each other and have a great time.
Packaging of the face paint is also quite nifty as the crayons are conveniently packed in a hard-case plastic box.
The face paint is also easy to remove, and a simple wipe with tissue paper and thorough wash with warmwater is sufficient to clean it off your face.
Finally, the set is available in a 32-color set, so you will always find a design and color combination suiting your needs.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Safe (Free from toxins)
- Variety in colors
Cons
- Doesn’t last for long
See Dress-Up-America Face Paint Kit Price on Amazon
TAG Face Paint
The TAG Face Paint is a bit expensive, but if you’re willing to upgrade your face painting kit, and don’t mind paying for premium, you won’t be disappointed.
The TAG Face Paint, a product from the renowned Australian TAG, is an inspiring option for those who need new paint to try in Cosplay and professional applications.
We love this option because it comes with several different color palettes, making it possible to find the perfect paint for your intended application.
However, when compared with other face paints on our list, you’ll notice TAG Face Paint has a bit lighter shade.
The good news is that it's not necessarily a bad thing since the lighter colors can look a bit more natural and allow your painting to feel more real.
As with any premium option, TAG Face Paint uses cosmetic-grade, and FDA approved ingredients, so no need to get concerned about your skin safety.
Moreover, the ingredients are hypoallergenic and non-toxic, so TAG Face Paint is a suitable option for all skin types, including those with allergies and sensitive skin.
Finally, the face paint is water-activated, making the application and eventual removal a cinch.
Pros
- Safe
- Easy to apply and remove
- Looks more real when applied
Cons
- Tad expensive
See TAG Face Paint Price on Amazon
Mehron Paradise AQ Pro Face Paint Palette
Whether you need new face paint for professional use or Cosplay, it can't get any better than the Mehron Paradise.
But what separates this face paint from the rest?
First, it’s the organization design.
Mehron features 30 shallows well, so you’ve an organized palette that is easy to use with a brush and sponge repeatedly.
Ultimately, the face paint's organization design will help increase your productivity and generate better results.
Now as great as the organization of Mehron might be, the greatest benefit of this face paint is the ability to blend.
To use, you simply need to add a bit of water, and the highly pigmented colors of the face paint will mix with ease.
The 30 colors included on the kit are impressive, but the ability to generate just about any color is probably what makes this face paint suited for professional use.
As with any other face paint, safety is always a concern.
However, with the Mehron, you'll be pleased to know its vegan, so no issue if incidentally ingested. It's also not tested on animals, and most importantly, it's FDA compliant.
Most of the ingredients on this face paint are natural and plant-based.
And despite the richness of the plant-based extracts, these face paints deliver uncompromising performance, and it even doubles up as a face moisturizer.
Pros
- Doubles up as an ace moisturizer
- FDA approved
- All-natural product
Cons
- Tad expensive
See Mehron Paradise AQ Pro Face Paint Palette Price on Amazon
Graftobian Face Paint
Like Snazaroo and Mehron, Graftobianhas been in the industry for some time, and they know a thing or two about face painting.
The Graftobian Face Paint is a step-up from some of the intermediate brands and a kit that generates terrific results.
What users love most with Graftobian Face Paint is the pigment concentration.
Each one of the 12 colors in the palette produces vibrant and brilliant coloration, making your paint stand out.
The pigmentation is free of streaks, and it delivers predictable results when blending.
The face paints rarely crack the creases on your skin even when applied to the high movement areas such as the mount or around the eyes.
The face paint is also water-soluble, so removal is as easy as the application,
Though the face paint is a bit pricey, Graftobian Face Paint is sure to take your face painting skills to a whole new level.
And as we mentioned, it's quite a versatile and an all-around option, and the bright results will surely make your characters come to life.
Pros
- All-around option
- Pigment concentration
- Free of streaks
Cons
- Pricey
See Graftobian Face Paint Price on Amazon
Blue Squid Face Paint
If you’re looking to whip up some great looking face paint designs, the Blue Squid Face Paint is worth considering.
This face kit consists of 12 vibrant paints, one large and one white cake, two brushes, four sponges, and 24 stencils.
It's the ultimate face paint you would need to create beautiful designs on your face.
Additionally, the kit also includes a fine gold glitter, silver glitter, and a tattoo sheet.
With Blue Squid Face Paint, safety should be the least of your worries, since the paint is made using non-toxic and FDA-compliant materials.
The face paint is, therefore, an ideal option for those with sensitive skin. Nonetheless, we always advise you to test before application.
However, the application isn't as straightforward as other face paints because, being as cake paint, you'll first need to wet it first before using it. Fortunately, it comes off easily with a soapy washcloth.
Pros
- Bright colors
- Ideal for carnivals and parties
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Might crack with time
See Blue Squid Face Paint Price on Amazon
SpeedRobot Face Paint Kit
SpeedRobot Face Paint Kit is yet another all-around face paint, suitable for both kids and adults/
It's available in 24 color options, allowing you to create stunning looks. So, whatever occasion you're gracing, you're always ready to rock with this face paint.
The SpeedRobot Face Paint Kit package also includes 32 reusable stencil and two professional brushes in the palette.
The color options on the face paint adhere to both the EU and FDA standards. They’re made 100% natural, non-toxic and hypoallergenic components. The superior composition of the face paint means you don’t have to get concerned about using them on sensitive skins.
The face paint is water activated, so both the paint's application and removal are quite easy. To clean it off, you won't require extensive rubbing or the use of expensive cleaners. You simply need a damp cloth, soapy water, and baby wipes.
When it comes to performance, the water-activated colors are highly vibrant and act like watercolor paints.
When you combine the ace paint with water, it forms a paste, which you can apply on your face for a smooth finish. After application, the colors dry pretty fast and provide excellent coverage.
Pros
- 24-colors
- Easy to apply
- Fast drying
Cons
- Tends to crack with time
See SpeedRobot Face Paint Kit Price on Amazon
Best Face Paint Buying Guide
With so many different market options, finding the right face paint for your needs can feel a bit intimidating.
The good news is, we’ve prepared a detailed face paint buying guide to make your selection easier.
Here we outline the types of face paints and the factors to consider when selecting face paint.
Types of Face Paint
There're different types of face paints, but we shall look at the five common types.
- Water-Based Paint
It's the most common option, and we recommend it for those starting.
Its main constituent is water, and as a result, it's easy to wash, making it an ideal option for kids.
It's equally easy to apply and maintain as it doesn't melt easily.
The best part of the water- based is the affordability.
- Powder-Based Paints
Powder paints are a fast way to apply background colors without the wait time of cake paints.
The powder paints are also comfortable, lighter, and less itchy.
- Grease-Based Paint
Grease paints have strong holding power and commonly used by clowns.
They don't come off easily, and so are not suitable for kids.
These grease paints can also make your clothing messy and will even settle deep into your pores and leave a residue.
- Alcohol-Based Paint
The alcohol paint is waterproof and has a great staying power.
It's an ideal option for those who'll be working through the hot and sweaty days or need paint that'll last for long.
It’s easy to wash off, but not quite as easy as the water-based paints.
It’s also quite expensive, but if you’re looking for your design to stay put, it’s a great choice.
- Liquid-Based Paint
Liquid-based paints dry off quickly, typically within 15-20 seconds.
Like water-based solutions, they usually come clean fast.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Face Paint
You already have an idea of the types of ace paints in the market.
Now, let’s look at the essential factors to consider when purchasing your face paint.
Safety
First things first, your face paint option should be safe and non-harmful on the skin.
After all, there would be no need to invest in face paint that will later hurt your skin.
Ideally, most of the safe face paints are made with natural ingredients.
Also, choose an option with hypoallergenic properties, especially if you’ve sensitive skin.
Remember, bad paints might cause itching, swelling, and even infections.
So, choose carefully on this part.
Colors
Color selections can vary wildly.
Ideally, face paint should come with a palette of colors, around 8 to 10 colors.
Anything less than eight color options will restrict your painting opportunities.
Simply put, the more color options a face paint kit has, the better it is.
Quality
Quality is subjective, but from our experience, quality face paint is smooth, doesn't take long to dry, it is easy to wash off and lasts for long.
Of course, determining quality is a challenge since some of the paints last for long, but will eventually require a lot of effort to clean.
However, there're face paints with all the traits above, but they tend to be more expensive.
Budget
Speaking of budget, face paint greatly varies, with some options costing as low as $10 and other $100.
While the most expensive isn't necessarily the best face paint, you're likely to get what you pay for.
The trick here is to strike a balance between cost and functionality; find a model well-within your budget and, more importantly, one to satiate your face painting needs.
Conclusion
There you have it.
We’ve reviewed some of the best face paints in the market.
Choosing any of the above-listed models will guarantee a fun experience, and more importantly, you won't have to worry about the side effects.
All our listed models are suitable for any skin, and won’t have any side effects.
FAQs
How do I remove face paint?
The best way to get rid of face paint is by using water and detergent. Some paint might remain even after a vigorous wash. So, ensure you use an old rag or towel to remove the paint.
Avoid using baby wipes or similar products to wipe off the paint. Such products contain chemicals that can react with the paint to form compounds that may harm you.
How do I avoid my face paint from going mushy?
Some face paints should not be kept in hot conditions. To avoid your face paint from getting mushy, you can avoid carrying them along under the scorching sun. Alternatively, you can place them in a cool bag containing freezer blocks.
Why does my face paint smell when I remove it?
Sometimes, you may get a foul smell when removing your face paint using wet wipes. So, avoid using wipes and instead stick to water and soap.
What should I do if my face paint leaks liquid?
Some face paints, especially greens and yellows, tend to leak liquid over time. You can wipe away the leakage. Another option is to prick holes into your paint and let the liquid sip back in.
Current Best Selling Face Paints!
