How to Create a Standout Glitter Makeup Look Step by Step

Glitter makeup is one of the easiest ways to add a little drama to a party, a festival, a photoshoot or an ordinary Tuesday. It might look like something that takes serious makeup skills, but with the right products and a few simple tricks, you can create a standout glitter look in minutes.

Here are the ABCs of glitter makeup, Glitternisti style!

A Is for Attitude

The most important ingredient in any glitter look? A little courage.

Play with colour, try unexpected combinations and let go of getting it perfect. Glitter catches the light differently from every angle, so the same shade can look like several different colours throughout the day.

Mix shades and particle sizes. Layering a few different glitters adds depth and gives the look more dimension.

B Is for Best Placement

Where you put your glitter makes a surprising difference to the finished look.

Try sweeping the glitter diagonally or outwards across the face. This follows the natural lines of your features and keeps the look balanced.

If you’re new to glitter makeup, start small. The outer corners of your eyes, the tops of your cheekbones and your brow bones are all easy places to practise. It’s always easier to add a little more glitter than to take it away.

What Do You Need for Glitter Makeup?

You only need a few things to get started.

• Cosmetic glitter
• Glitter Primer or another product designed to hold glitter in place
• A brush for application
• Cotton pads or tape for removal

Glitternisti cosmetic glitters can be used on the face, hair, body and nails. Use glitter to accent a bold eye look or make it the star of your makeup.

Step 1. Apply Your Glitter Base

A good base is the secret to glitter makeup that lasts.

Apply a thin layer of Glitternisti Glitter Primer or another suitable product wherever you want to place the glitter. Primer grips glitter more effectively than petroleum jelly and helps it stay put through a long day or night.

For a lighter touch of sparkle on a small area, petroleum jelly can work too.

Pro Glitter Tip

If you’re trying a new glitter or primer, give it a test run before a big event. That’s especially handy if you’re working on the eyelids or around the lips and want to see how the finished look comes together.

Step 2. Apply the Glitter

You can apply glitter with your fingertip or a brush such as the Magic Brush.

Gently press the glitter onto the base. A light pat helps the particles stick and gives you a more even finish.

Build up the sparkle a little at a time. Try layering different shades to add depth and bring out the way each glitter catches the light.

Pro Glitter Tip

Keep a brush just for glitter. Once a brush has had a taste of sparkle, it’s almost impossible to get every last fleck out.

Step 3. Finish Your Glitter Makeup

Once the glitter is in place, you can finish with a makeup setting spray.

A good glitter primer can hold the glitter on its own. Setting spray can help keep the rest of your makeup looking fresh for longer.

If a few flecks come off during the day, simply pat a little more glitter onto those spots.

Pro Glitter Tip

For touch-ups, try pressing a little more glitter onto the area first. The original base often has enough grip to hold it in place.

Step 4. Remove Glitter Before Cleansing

Keep the sparkle at the party and out of the drain.

Gently lift off as much glitter as you can with a dry cotton pad or a piece of tape. Put the used pad or tape in the bin, then cleanse your skin as usual with makeup remover.

Removing the loose glitter first helps keep it out of drains and waterways.

Common Glitter Makeup Mistakes

Applying Too Much Glitter at Once

Start with a little and add more as you go. Building it up in layers gives you more control over the shape and intensity.

Using the Wrong Base

Glitter can fall off quickly if it has nothing to grip. A dedicated glitter primer is often the easiest way to keep it in place.

Playing It Too Safe with Colour

Let your personality show. Try a shade you don’t usually reach for or mix two colours you’ve never worn together.

Glitter Makeup Is for Everyone

You can create a standout glitter look with a few simple techniques, whatever your makeup experience.

A little sparkle at the outer corner of your eye, across your cheekbones or in your hair can change the whole look in minutes.

If you can apply eyeshadow, you can wear glitter.