Glitter Makeup for Beginners: How to Apply and Remove Glitter

Want to try glitter makeup but unsure where to start? For your first look, all you need is cosmetic glitter, a suitable base and a few minutes. Try a little sparkle on bare skin or use it to finish a party look. A few flecks on your cheekbone are enough to get started, and you can always build them into a bolder sweep towards your temple.

 

What Do You Need for Glitter Makeup?

Start with cosmetic glitter and a base suited to where you’ll apply it. A small brush makes it easier to place the flecks exactly where you want them.

Choose glitter intended for cosmetic use and check the product instructions for the areas it can be applied to. For eye makeup, make sure both the glitter and the base are suitable for the exact area you want to decorate, and keep them clear of the waterline.

If you’re wearing foundation, blush or other makeup, finish that first. Adding glitter last helps keep the flecks from spreading as you blend other products.

 

What Should You Use to Make Glitter Stick?

Glitter Primer is a clear, lightweight gel made for glitter makeup. Dab a thin layer where you want the sparkle, then gently press the glitter on top. You can also apply it over eyeshadow when both products are suitable for eyelid use.

Petroleum jelly or another water-free balm is an easy option for cheekbone or temple glitter. Use a thin layer. Too much balm can make the flecks slide around.

Glitter Glue works well for stencil tattoos on the hands and body. For glitter designs on children’s faces, use petroleum jelly or another water-free balm. Use glitter glue on children’s hands and body only.

 

How Do You Choose the Right Glitter?

Fine glitter gives an even shimmer and works well for small details and stencil glitter tattoos. A little gives a soft finish, while a dense layer gives more coverage.

Chunky glitter has larger flecks that show up individually on the skin. It’s an easy choice for cheekbones and temples because even a small amount creates visible sparkle.

XL glitter is ideal when you want a few standout pieces. Wear it on its own or add a few larger flecks to a finer mix. Place the larger pieces on the cheekbones or temples, well away from the eyes.

For colour, start with a favourite shade or pick up a colour from your outfit. You can mix shades and particle sizes to see how they look together in the light.

 

How to Apply Glitter to Your Cheekbones

1. Finish the rest of your makeup, or start with clean, dry skin. Pick the highest point of one cheekbone as your starting point.
2. Dab on a thin layer of Glitter Primer or petroleum jelly. Start with a small area so you can expand the design as you go.
3. Pick up a little glitter with a clean brush and gently press it onto the base. Use a patting motion to keep the flecks where you want them and avoid disturbing the makeup underneath.
4. Add more glitter at the highest point of your cheekbone, then space the flecks farther apart towards the edges for a soft fade.
5. If you want a bolder finish, place a few larger flecks among the smaller ones or extend the design towards your temple.

The SHOP THE LOOK Easy Glitter Makeup bundles bring the products for each look together at 20% less than buying them separately.

Why Does Glitter Fall Off or Fail to Stick?

Check that the base covers the exact spot where you’re trying to apply glitter. Work in small sections so you can press the flecks into place while the base can still grip them.

A thick layer of glitter can shed because the top flecks aren’t touching the base. Start with a thin layer and add a few more flecks where there’s room. If the glitter slides around when you use petroleum jelly, try a thinner layer of balm next time.

Keep a Brush Just for Glitter

A small Magic Brush makes it easier to pat glitter onto small areas. It’s worth keeping a brush just for glitter, since a few flecks can linger even after cleaning. That way your next everyday look won’t come with a surprise shimmer. Clean the brush after use and let it dry before putting it away.

How Do You Remove Glitter Makeup?

Gently lift away as much glitter as possible with a cotton pad dampened with makeup remover or a soft cleansing wipe. Follow the removal instructions for the base you used and avoid rubbing.

Put the loose glitter and used disposable pads or wipes in the bin before rinsing your face. Once you’ve collected the visible flecks, cleanse your skin as usual.

Can Children Wear Glitter Makeup?

Choose products and placement based on the child’s age and the instructions on the packaging. Have an adult help with application and keep glitter away from the eyes and mouth.

For a small design on a child’s cheek, use petroleum jelly or another water-free balm and cosmetic glitter suitable for facial use. Use glitter glue on the hands and body only. At Glitternisti events, children under five get glitter tattoos on their hands only.

A little sparkle on one cheek is plenty for a party look. For more ideas, explore the SHOP THE LOOK Kids’ Party Sets.

How to Combine Glitter and Face Gems

Use face gems to add a few points of light or build a pattern alongside the glitter. Check the product instructions to see whether the gems need a separate adhesive.

A Magic Pick wax pencil helps you lift and place small gems. Use it to position each stone, then secure the gem according to the product instructions. Try a few along the cheekbone or at the temple, away from the eyes.

Start with a colour you love and a few flecks where the light hits. If you want more ideas before you reach for the next pot, find us on Instagram.