How to Apply Glitter to Your Face, Hair and Nails

One of the questions we hear most often at Glitternisti is “What should I use to make glitter stick?”

It depends on where you’re applying it and how long you want it to last. Glitter Primer is our go-to for face makeup, glitter glue works well for face gems and stencil tattoos, and ordinary hair gel holds glitter in place in your hair or beard. For nails, a coat of clear polish does the job.

Glitter Primer for Face and Eye Makeup

Glitternisti Glitter Primer gives loose glitter a lightweight, clear base to grip. Try it for glitter freckles, a sweep of sparkle across the cheekbones or a precise accent over eyeshadow.

1. Dab a thin layer of primer where you want the glitter.
2. Gently press the glitter onto the primer with a clean fingertip or small brush.
3. Let it set before touching the area.

For eyelids or details near the eyes, check that both the primer and glitter are suitable for the exact area where you’re applying them. Keep both clear of the waterline.

Petroleum Jelly for an Easy-to-Remove Look

A thin layer of petroleum jelly or another thick, water-free balm works well for quick cheekbone sparkle. It stays soft, so you can move a few flecks around, add more later or wipe the look away easily. Start with a small amount, since a thick layer can collect in creases as your face moves.

For children’s face glitter, use petroleum jelly or another water-free balm and choose cosmetic glitter suitable for the area. An adult should help with application.

Glitter Glue for Face Gems and Glitter Tattoos

Glitternisti Glitter Glue is useful for securing individual face gems and creating crisp stencil designs. For a larger sweep of loose glitter across the cheeks or temples, Glitter Primer is easier to spread and remove. Use glitter glue on children’s hands and body only.

For glitter tattoos, place the stencil on clean, dry skin and apply a thin layer of glue inside the cut-out. Follow your kit’s instructions for adding the glitter and removing the stencil. Fine cosmetic glitter works especially well for small details and clean edges.

A glue-based glitter tattoo can last several days. How long it lasts depends on where you place it and how often the area gets wet or rubs against clothing.

Hair Gel for Glitter Hair and Beards

Smooth a little hair gel along your parting, over a braid or around the base of a ponytail. Dab the glitter onto the gel with a brush or your fingertips and let it dry. The same technique works for beard glitter. The gel will set, so the area may feel a little stiffer afterwards.

For glitter brows, choose a base and glitter suitable for use near the eyes.

Clear Polish for Glitter Nails

Apply a coat of clear nail polish and sprinkle a little glitter over it while it’s still wet. Once it’s dry, seal it with one or two coats of clear top coat. For denser coverage, put a little glitter on a separate dish and dip the freshly painted nail into it.

How to Remove Glitter Makeup

Gently lift away as much glitter as possible with a makeup remover wipe or cotton pad before washing your face. If you’ve used glitter glue, an oil-based makeup remover can help loosen it. Follow the product’s removal instructions and wipe gently.

Put used disposable pads and wipes in the bin. If you use a reusable pad, collect the loose glitter before washing it. For hair or beard glitter, brush out the loose flecks before rinsing and collect them for the bin.