Are you looking for fun, bright-colored face paints for children?
We’ve struggled with low-quality face paints enough to know how challenging it can be to find a good set, and we want to save you the trouble of painfully scrubbing your crying child’s kitty whiskers off. So we’ve compared all the options we could find to create this list of the best face paints for kids.
The face paints on our list are designed specifically for children. These options meet our criteria of being affordable, nontoxic, easy to use, and easy to remove, and they come in a wide selection of bold, bright colors.
Read on to learn what to look for in face paints for kids, and find the perfect set for designing fun for your child.
- Kit-specific video tutorials
- Multiple brushes
- Spill-proof packaging
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
- 15 bright colors
- Water based
- Bright colors
- Many options for embellishments
- Money-back guarantee
- Metallic colors included
- Less messy
- Longer crayons measuring 3.25 inches
- Odorless and non-toxic
- Reviewed by professional dermatologists
- Washes off easily
- Water-based paint
- Hypoallergenic
- User-friendly stencils
- Certified nontoxic
- 6 vibrant neon fluorescent colors
- Appeals to older children
The Best Face Paints for Kids of 2023
Here are 7 safe and fun face paints for kids.
Kryvaline Face Paint Kit
Best Overall
There is only one word that can describe these face paints — awesome. Kryvaline went all out with these paints. Environmental enthusiasts will be glad to know this product features biodegradable glitter that is stored in a spill-proof bottle.
The kit features advanced split-colored and single-colored cakes, professional brushes, and dermo jewels. You also get cool stencils and non-stain sponges. It’s the ultimate set for professional or amateur use.
The paints are FDA-compliant, which is a top priority for sensitive skin. The stencils have rounded edges to prevent accidental scratches during application. This makes it suitable for older kids to create designs on each other.
Paint removal is easy if you follow the manufacturer’s detailed instructions. The colors stand out, and your child will enjoy the beautiful transformation and creativity.
Pros
- An excellent choice for professionals, amateurs, and kids.
- Kit-specific video tutorials.
- Multiple brushes for variety and a more enhanced finish.
- Spill-proof packaging.
Cons
- Doesn’t come with glue for attaching the gems to skin.
Our Ratings
Zenovika Professional Face Paint Palette
Perfect for Kid Crafting
When it comes to Zenovika, you know you’re getting quality. Kids will have a wonderful time creating their own designs and painting each other’s faces. It’s a fantastic way to bring out the budding artist in them. You’ll be glad to know that the product is made from cosmetic-grade ingredients.
The kit features 15 water-based colors, 60 stencils, three brushes, two glitter powders, two sponges, two chalk hair colors, and an idea book. The ideas are limitless.
You’ll need to wet these cake-style paints before use. They’re not messy, and once all the fun is over, you can wash them off with water and a washcloth. One of the best things about this kit is that it’s made of cosmetic-grade ingredients, which assures you that it is hypoallergenic.
Pros
- 15 bright colors.
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
- Water-based.
Cons
- The case isn’t travel-friendly.
Our Ratings
Blue Squid Face Paint
Best for Professional Use
Are you looking to whip up some great-looking face paint designs? This face paint set is worth considering. It features 18 vibrant colors, one large black and one white cake, four sponges, two brushes, and 24 stencils.
You also get a variety of chunky and fine glitters, over 100 sticker gems, and even two hair chalk colors to add to the look. The paints are made using nontoxic and FDA-compliant materials that are safe to use on sensitive skin. However, we always advise that you test the paints on a small patch of skin and watch for reactions before making a complete application.
We found that these paints wash off easily with a soapy washcloth.
Along with acquiring the paint set, you’ll gain access to the manufacturer’s online guide that provides tutorial videos for cool designs. Whether you’re a professional or a momma out to have fun with your kids, this is a set worth purchasing.
Pros
- Bright colors stay in place throughout the day.
- Plenty of embellishment options.
- Money-back guarantee.
Cons
- The paint may crack with time.
- Some buyers complain about the poor packaging.
Our Ratings
Blue Squid Face Paint Crayons
Great for the Skin-Sensitive
We’re big fans of Blue Squid face paints. And these paint crayons are a fabulous substitute for cake paints. They are easy to use, and you’ll have your kids ready for the party in no time.
The crayons are FDA-compliant and are made using safe, hypoallergenic, and nontoxic materials, making them ideal for sensitive skin.
The classic and metallic color combo gives this set an edge. If you own a cake face paint kit, you can combine it with these crayons for a heightened effect. You and your kids will have tons of creative fun.
Pros
- Metallic colors included.
- These crayons are less messy than cake-style paints.
- Crayons measure 3.25 inches, meaning they’ll last longer than many other brands.
- Access to online tutorials.
Cons
- The paints are soft for easy application but may melt in the sun.
Our Ratings
Snazaroo Face Paint for Kids
High Safety Measures
Manufactured in the U.K., this high-quality product follows stringent qualifications set abroad and by the FDA.
It’s skin-friendly, easy to apply, and it dries quickly. This set is an excellent option for impatient kids who want to get their faces done in a jiffy. Cleaning up is a breeze — use gentle soap and warm water, and your little munchkins will look like themselves in no time.
The kit contains 12 vibrant colors, two brushes, four sponges, and two glitter gels. Need help applying the paints? Not to worry, you also get a step-by-step guide to help you transform your little ones into anything or anyone they want to be.
If you find cake paints messy and hard to work with, you can go with their face paint brush pens. They are simple to use and feature different themes, including fantasy, adventure, and jungle.
Pros
- Odorless and nontoxic.
- Reviewed by professional dermatologists.
- Washes off easily.
Cons
- The liquid glitter may cause your paint to bleed or smear.
Our Ratings
Create-a-Face Painting Kit for Kids
Diverse Designs
If you’re racking your brain for face paint ideas, why not consider this option? The set comes with 32 stencils and a complimentary e-book showcasing face paint ideas. You’ll be brimming with inspiration.
This paint is made using safe and tested ingredients and is FDA compliant. All you need to do is add some water to suit your desired consistency, and you’re good to go.
The paint dries pretty fast, which is a desirable quality when you’re dealing with kids. You’ll need to use a damp cloth and some soap to wash off the paint. You can use makeup remover or baby wipes if the color doesn’t come off easily.
With this set, you get eight vibrant colors and two glitter gels. You also get one double-sided foam application, two brushes, and two sponges. It’s a viable choice for beginners as well as parents with a more skillful stroke.
Pros
- Money-back guarantee.
- Suitable for a large group of kids.
- User-friendly stencils.
Cons
- Darker colors may stain your hands and face.
Our Ratings
Midnight Glo UV Neon Paint Glow
Fun Paints for Tweens
Do you have some tweens in the house who aren’t interested in “childish” face paints? These six vibrant neon fluorescent colors will spice up their evenings as they glow in the dark. A metallic option is also sold separately.
These high-quality cream paints are ideal for night-themed birthday parties, a Halloween scare, or a family fun night. The awesome effect is best viewed under black lights or with UV lighting.
The paints use nontoxic materials, are safe for use, and wash off easily. You don’t need to use much to get your desired effect. This is one set you’ll use over and over.
Pros
- You can use it during the day and at night.
- Can be applied to the face and body.
- Appeals to older children.
Cons
- May stain clothes and other surfaces.
Our Ratings
How to Choose Face Paint for Children
It’s easy to be lured by color, cool packaging, and possibly low prices, but don’t reach for that face paint yet. Read about some important considerations you should keep in mind when shopping.
Safety
This is by far the most important consideration of them all. Avoid buying cheaply made paints or those that don’t include a list of the ingredients used on their labels.
Research conducted by the Breast Cancer Fund on cosmetics, including face paints, found cadmium, formaldehyde, lead, and other volatile organic compounds. These contaminants are associated with developmental delays, learning difficulties, and even cancer (1).
The FDA has set requirements that face paint manufacturers must meet. Ideally, you should look for products manufactured in the United States, as these do their best to comply with regulations.
European Union countries also adhere to strict regulations, and buyers are advised to check for an EU address before buying the product. This will make it easier to trace the supplier if something goes wrong.
The same can’t be said of products manufactured in other countries. Be wary of products whose labels are written in foreign languages, as you likely won’t understand what they say and thus can’t determine what’s in the product.
Remember
Types of Face Paints
There are various types of face paints to choose from.
- Cake paints: These are the most common. They come in individual colors or multi-color palettes. They are easy to use — you just add some water, mix, and use a sponge or brush to apply the paint to your children’s faces. Cake paints last a long time and often dry quickly.
- Crayons: These are cream based and are used to draw directly on the skin. They are an excellent choice for beginners and for use on younger kids.
- Cream face paints or liquid face paints: These kinds come in bright colors that mellow slightly when applied to the face. These paints come off easily with soap and water.
To spice things up, you can finish off your painting with some glitter. You can use dry or gel glitter. Gel glitter is applied on specific areas while dry glitter is blown onto the wet paint on your child’s face.
Older kids can also embellish with some face jewelry for a more glamorous look.
Previous History of Skin Irritation
Since face paints are topical products, they can irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction. Children with a history of eczema or teens being treated for acne are at a higher risk.
Experts advise you to avoid sensitive areas of your face, such as the eyes or the mouth. One of the ways to minimize skin reactions is to apply a fragrance-free barrier cream first.
Some of the signs of a reaction include redness and itching. If your child develops an irritation, gently cleanse the affected area and apply a moisturizing cream. If the symptoms don’t get better, consult your pediatrician or pediatric dermatologist.
Benefits of Face Painting
Children love having their faces painted, but is there any benefit that comes with this fun activity? Let’s look at what it can do for your child.
Boosts Creativity
Face paints encourage children to come up with their own designs or add their own touch to existing designs. This expands their ability to think outside the box and builds on their creativity. It’s an excellent way to foster a love for the arts.
Further, face paints allow kids to express themselves and how they perceive themselves or the world.
Improves Self-Confidence
A successful or beautiful face paint job that is applauded by family and friends will improve your child’s self-confidence. They can only achieve this through continual trials, goofs, and, finally, successes.
Allow your kids to practice often, on your face even. The final results will be well worth it.
Helps Increase Fine Motor Skills
Face painting requires concentration, and your child’s motor skills will improve with each stroke. Their ability to concentrate will increase, and so will their hand-eye coordination.
Increases Social Interactions
The fun part about face painting is when kids try out different designs on each other. Their social skills will improve immensely as they learn how to share and interact with others.
You and your family could use the time to bond as you try out different designs and colors on each others’ faces. There’s bound to be tons of laughter, love, and tissues going around.
Brings Happiness
Do you want to be Spiderman for a day? Face paints are a fantastic way for your kids to imitate their favorite superheroes.
They will get enjoyment as they go around looking and feeling like their superhero and doing superhero stuff.
Safety Tips When Using Face Paints
Here are some useful tips to help you along (2):
- Buy from a trustworthy brand.
- Do a patch test before using the product on your child’s face. It will help check for allergic reactions.
- Keep the paints out of reach. Younger children may swallow them.
- Follow the manufacturer’s advice on paint removal.
- Avoid leaving the paint on overnight to minimize irritation.
If you’re the DIY type or are worried about the ingredients in commercial face paints, you can make your own skin-safe paints at home using everyday ingredients.
