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