Glitter face tattoos are a quick way to complete a party or fancy-dress look. Depending on the design, these self-adhesive face tattoos require little or no additional make-up and are suitable for carnival, fancy-dress parties, Halloween, children's birthday parties, festivals, cosplay and themed parties.
However, colour and glitter effect are not the only things to consider when buying. Some offers display a large number of designs but contain only small individual elements. Others promise easy application without clearly highlighting important information about skin condition, the eye area or removal. The following guide explains what families, young people and adults should look for when choosing temporary face tattoos.
“30 designs” or “60 elements” may initially sound like a generous selection. However, it is important to check whether these are tattoos in different sizes, individual glitter gems or lots of very small decorations. A few larger elements are enough for a subtle accent. For a complete party make-up look without applying make-up, sets with a range of shapes and sizes are more practical.
So look for specific information about designs, colours, sizes and decorative elements. Hearts, stars, lines, animals and gems can all be combined in different ways.
Self-adhesive face tattoos generally adhere best to clean, dry and oil-free skin. Cream, sun protection, make-up and perspiration can affect adhesion. Most sets are not intended for direct application around the eyes or mouth, or on injured or irritated skin.
Children should be supervised by an adult during application. Small parts may be swallowed, which is why several of the products featured are not suitable for children under three.
Some temporary glitter tattoos are described as removable with soap and water, while other product information also mentions oil or make-up remover. Do not rub vigorously; loosen the tattoo carefully instead. If redness, itching or any other unpleasant skin sensation occurs, remove the product immediately and stop using it.
Check whether the retailer provides clear and understandable information about the product material and how it should be used. Several Party Factory models are described as featuring dermatologically tested tattoo film. This is a product characteristic, not a guarantee of individual compatibility. Even products described as “skin-friendly” may cause reactions in some people.
Important points include:
Most self-adhesive face tattoos are removed from the backing film and pressed directly onto prepared skin. Some versions are activated with water. Always follow the specific instructions on the packaging or product page.
For the most even application possible:
Pumpkin, spider, bat and scar designs are ideal for Halloween face tattoos. For carnival and fancy-dress face tattoos, clown, heart, sweet-themed and colourful line designs are versatile choices. Pirate, clown, unicorn and animal designs can be combined with an eye patch, hat, hairband or costume.
Subtle glitter face-jewellery designs are also available for adults. A single design on the cheek creates a more understated look than a large combination of glitter gems and lines.
Why this product suits this profile: According to the product description, the set contains 17 self-adhesive glitter tattoos and gems featuring sword, skull and nautical designs. It makes it easy to complete a pirate look without elaborate make-up.
The product description specifies the exact number and theme of the elements, rather than simply promoting a general glitter effect.
17 different elements; according to the retailer, suitable for children aged three and over and adults.
Why this product suits this profile: Black, white and silver work well with a wide range of costumes. According to the product description, more than 30 individual elements are available for creating a personalised look.
The colour palette is clearly stated, avoiding a hard-to-assess mixed pack containing random shades.
More than 30 elements; silver glitter effect and self-adhesive application according to the retailer.
Why this product suits this profile: With around 35 blue, white and silver designs, this set is suitable for children's birthday parties, school events, festivals and recurring themed parties.
The product information specifies the designs, colours and approximate quantity. This makes it easier to plan use for several people.
Around 35 self-adhesive elements; blue and white colour scheme with a silver-look finish.
Why this product suits this profile: Unicorn designs in pink, white, turquoise and silver are ideal for children's birthday parties, imaginative costumes and family events with a fairytale theme.
The product description lists 16 different tattoos and gems. It also recommends careful storage for possible reuse.
16 elements; clearly defined colour palette and self-adhesive design requiring no additional glue, according to the retailer.
We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.
Remove the tattoo as soon as reasonably possible after the event and avoid vigorous rubbing. Depending on the product information, soap and water, baby oil or make-up remover may be suitable. Check the specific instructions beforehand. Children should also have an adult remove the tattoo. Keep packaging remnants and small decorative elements out of the reach of young children.
How long they last depends on skin type, movement, perspiration, friction and skincare products. It is therefore not possible to give a fixed wear time that applies to every product. Self-adhesive face tattoos usually adhere more reliably to clean, dry and oil-free skin than to skin with cream on it. Remove them if any discomfort occurs, regardless of how well they are still adhering.
That depends on the individual product. Make-up can reduce adhesion because the surface is less dry and oil-free. For better adhesion, it is often recommended to apply the tattoo directly to cleansed skin. Always follow the instructions provided by the relevant manufacturer.
According to the retailer, many products are intended for children aged three and over and adults. However, the minimum age does not replace supervision. Small parts pose a swallowing risk for younger children. Face tattoos should not be applied near the eyes or mouth, or to irritated skin.