How to Use Face Painting Crayons

Face painting crayons are non-toxic, kid-friendly face paints used to quickly apply theatrical and costume makeup. Similar to lipstick and eyeliner, face painting crayons have a soft consistency and may be applied directly to the face, eliminating the need for separate brushes and sponges. The crayons come in a wide range of colors and several different sizes. You can use face paint crayons alone or in combination with traditional face paints to apply makeup quickly at a party or carnival.

Moisten a makeup sponge with water and swirl it in traditional face paint. Apply the face paint all over the face to make a base. Certain costumes – a clown or ghoul, for example – require a white or colored base. It is easier to apply the base with a sponge than to color the entire face with a crayon. If you don’t have traditional face paint, you can break up a piece of a face painting crayon and dip your sponge in it for the same effect.

Block in large areas with lipstick or crayon-sized face painting crayons. Draw directly on the face with the crayon to make war paint stripes, a clown nose and mouth, black circles around the eyes, hollowed-out cheeks and any large features needed for the desired design.

Draw finer details or outline large painted areas with pencil-sized face painting crayons. Use the finer points to draw freckles, eyelashes, whiskers, wrinkles and any small details needed for the desired design. Keep the pencil point sharp with a makeup crayon sharpener made specifically for use with makeup crayons.

Wash off face paint with soap and warm water.