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Face Paint BasicsNo. 7907 · The 2026 edition

65 Halloween Makeup Tutorials for a Truly Epic Costume Without Needing to Buy One

Skip the store-bought costume this Halloween with 18 makeup-only looks that transform you into anything from a fairy to a zombie Barbie.

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65 Best Halloween Makeup Tutorials and Easy Ideas for 2025
PHOTO · COSMOPOLITAN.COM

These 18 Halloween makeup tutorials require no costume—just face paint and creativity. From Chappel Roan's ultra-thin brows to a Victorian ghost's pale pallor, each look is fully explained. Whether you want glam, scary, or whimsical, you'll find a step-by-step guide to achieve it.

Directions

  1. Begin with extremely skinny eyebrows, a very pale foundation, vibrant eyes, and a deep red mouth. Finish by curling your hair into a red winged shape.
  2. Cover your entire face in green using a face and body paint stick, carefully following the instructions for an even coat.
  3. Sweep on shimmery pink eye shadow and sprinkle glitter liberally across your face.
  4. Craft a sharp cut-crease cat eye and finish with a bold red lip.
  5. Whiten your skin to an extreme pallor and accessorize with a playful corset.
  6. Use classic Hollywood glam techniques, but add extra glitter for a showgirl vibe.
  7. Achieve a slightly messy, effortlessly cool style with a blended smoky eye and a muted, worn-in lip.
  8. Use playful green shadows around the eyes and a touch of fine glitter for a woodland fairy effect.
  9. This look takes roughly 15 minutes; sweep your hair into space buns that mimic bear ears.
  10. Create a spooky face using simple techniques that don't require professional special effects skills.
  11. Go bold with vivid color accents as a twist on the usual Alice in Wonderland theme.
  12. Embrace your inner extraterrestrial diva with a fresh, one-of-a-kind alien aesthetic.
  13. Draw a dramatic winged liner, coat lids in pink shadow, and finish with a vibrant pink mouth.
  14. Fill in brows with powder, add rosy blush, and dot on a few freckles for a sweet yet eerie appearance.
  15. Stick to soft nude and pink tones on the eyes, then complete with a curly updo and a Regency-era gown.
  16. Take the Barbiecore trend and make it horror-ready by adding zombie-like details.
  17. Experiment with bright neon greens and vivid purples, even coloring your eyebrows green.
  18. Use glamorous makeup to channel the Joker's iconic look.

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