How to Do Glitter Makeup for Beginners

Want to try glitter makeup but wondering where to start? Pick one colour, one spot and a base to hold the glitter in place. A few flecks on your cheekbone can change the whole look in minutes.

What Do You Need for Your First Glitter Makeup Look?

Start with cosmetic glitter, a suitable base and a small brush or clean fingertip to apply it. If you’d like to add a finishing detail, set aside a few face gems.

Fine glitter gives a soft, even shimmer and works well for small details like glitter freckles. Chunky glitter gives you more visible flecks and catches the light beautifully across the cheekbones or towards the temples. One shade is plenty for your first look, although in our experience, glitter collections rarely stop at one pot.

Glitter Primer or Petroleum Jelly?

Glitternisti Glitter Primer is our go-to for face glitter. It’s clear and lightweight, and a thin layer helps hold the glitter exactly where you place it. Try it for a precise line of sparkle or a party look you want to wear for longer.

Petroleum jelly or another thick, water-free balm works well for a quick cheekbone look. It stays soft, so you can move the flecks around as you work and wipe the glitter away easily afterwards.

When Should You Use Glitter Glue?

Glitter Glue is useful for individual face gems and stencil glitter tattoos. Follow the product instructions for the area where you’re applying it. For a sweep of loose glitter across your cheekbones or temples, primer is easier to apply and remove.

Easy Glitter Makeup Ideas to Try First

For a simple first look, follow the highest point of your cheekbone with a few flecks of glitter. For glitter freckles, place tiny dots of primer across your cheeks and the bridge of your nose, then add glitter one dot at a time. If you’re getting ready for a party, try a sweep of glitter towards one temple and finish with a couple of face gems.

For a small accent on the eyelid or near the inner corner, check that both the glitter and the base are suitable for that exact area. Keep them clear of the waterline.

How to Apply Glitter Makeup Step by Step

1. Finish your usual makeup, or start with clean, dry skin if you’re going bare-faced.
2. Dab a thin layer of Glitter Primer just where you want the sparkle.
3. Gently press the glitter onto the primer with a clean fingertip or a small brush, then let it set.
4. Check how it catches the light. If you want more sparkle, add a few flecks where you’d like the strongest effect.

Once you’ve tried one colour, try placing two shades side by side and letting them overlap slightly in the middle. Or add a few chunky flakes over fine glitter to give the look more texture.

Give Yourself Room to Experiment

Some of our favourite glitter looks started with someone saying, “What if we add a little more right here?” Give yourself a few minutes to play with colour and placement. You might find that a tiny detail is plenty. You might also find yourself reaching for a second pot.