Halloween is your chance to step into a world of classic terror and charming ghoulishness. Embrace the night with these evergreen Halloween makeup ideas that’ll have your friends hissing with envy or purring with delight.
Halloween is the one time of year when your face gets to play dress-up too!
Whether you’re planning to hit up every party in town or scare the socks off your trick-or-treating visitors, a killer makeup look is your secret weapon.
Forget about being a garden-variety ghost or a ho-hum witch; it’s time to transform into the talk of the spooky season.
Ditch the dusty old costumes and get ready to let your makeup do the heavy lifting.
You could be channeling your inner Frankenstein’s fashionista or serving some serious Black Swan realness.
The options are as endless as the candy aisle.
So, grab your eyeshadow palettes and summon your inner makeup artist—it’s going to be a scream!
Remember, whether you’re a makeup novice or a contouring conqueror, these 25 best Halloween makeup ideas are about to take your costume game from “meh” to “more, please!”
Let’s get that glam-squad-of-one ready to roll; your face is about to be the masterpiece that turns heads faster than a twist in a horror flick.
25 HALLOWEEN MAKEUP IDEAS
Choosing the Right Foundation and Concealer
Foundation is your canvas—the smoother it is, the more your eerie art will pop.
In 2024, you’ve got options galore, but a full-coverage formula will give you the ghostly (or ghastly) complexion you’re craving without going cakey.
Remember:
- Liquid Foundation: Spooky, not streaky, please. A matte or semi-matte liquid foundation will stick around for the monster mash and beyond.
- Concealer: Those dark circles might work for a zombie look, but for anything else, lock them down with a long-lasting concealer. Heavy-duty, yet lightweight concealers are your besties.
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Selecting the Perfect Eyeliner and Mascara
Now, your eyes are where the real Halloween magic happens.
Sharp wings or smoky shadows, get them to stay all night with some trusty tools.
- Eyeliners: A waterproof eyeliner is like a good horror movie—intense and lasts forever. Whether it’s liquid eyeliner for Morticia Addams’ style or a soft pencil for smudging into a werewolf’s midnight howl, it’s gotta endure the night.
- Mascara: Clump-free and smudge-proof, please! Look for volumizing or lengthening mascaras that can survive a ‘Thriller’ flash mob. Here’s a not-so-secret secret: layering helps build that dramatic look.
Classic Vampire Glam
You’re about to slay, and not just in the metaphorical sense.
Get your fangs ready and let’s talk vampire essentials:
- Eyeshadow: Deep, dark, and dramatic. Smokey eyes are a go-to, with hues of purple or red to add that bloodthirsty allure.
- Black Eyeliner: Wing it out for a haunting gaze. The sharper, the better – you’re going for that killer look.
- Black Lipstick: This isn’t your everyday shade. It screams ‘vampiric chic’ and ties your deadly look together.
The Charming Cat Look
Pounce on this feline fantasy with sleek and seductive makeup moves.
- Black Eyeliner: Can’t forget the whiskers and the pointed feline flicks. The more precise, the closer you are to your nine lives.
- Nose & Whiskers: A little bit of black paint or eyeliner right on the tip of your nose, and some delicate lines on your cheeks – and voilà!
Spooky Skeleton Chic
Your bones are about to become the star of the show with this one!
- Skull Makeup: White face paint sets the stage, black shadow and liner carve out those eerie hollows and contours.
- Dramatic Edge: Go all in around the eyes with dark circles and extend to create an exaggerated skeletal effect.
Witchy Whimsy
Brew up a storm with a witch look that could hex the pants off anyone.
- Green Tint: Optional, but it adds an extra witch factor to your getup.
- Eyeshadow & Liner: Bring on the mysterious smoky eyes and magical glitter highlights.
- Pout: A swipe of bewitching purple or green lipstick to seal the spell.
Whip out your makeup brushes and let the Halloween haunt begin – you’ve got some looks to perfect!
Emulating Wednesday Addams
It’s all about the pale face, dark eyes, and even darker wit when you decide to dress up as everyone’s favorite gothic girl.
Grab white face paint and a black kohl pencil to accentuate those signature deadpan eyes.
Don’t forget to braid your hair into two plaits—Wednesday wouldn’t have it any other way.
| Key Makeup Supplies | Usage |
|---|---|
| White face powder | For that eerily pale complexion |
| Black eyeshadow | To create shadowed eyes |
| Black lipstick | Optional, for a goth pout |
Channeling David Bowie
Ziggy Stardust is in the building, and you’re rocking his space-age vibe.
Slap on some metallic eyeshadow and draw on that iconic lightning bolt across your face with a bold, pigmented eyeliner.
Pair it with some rock star flair, and you’ll have everyone singing “Starman” in your presence.
| Key Makeup Supplies | Usage |
|---|---|
| Metallic eyeshadow | For a stellar eye look |
| Red and blue eyeliner | To recreate the lightning bolt |
| Glitter (optional) | To add the Ziggy stardust touch |
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Becoming Marilyn Monroe
Transform into the blonde bombshell with some classic, Hollywood glam.
Use a generous application of red lipstick and a beauty mark to capture Marilyn’s iconic look.
Don’t forget the fluttery lashes—false ones will do the trick.
Prepare your best pouty face and practice saying, “Happy Halloween, Mr. President.”
| Key Makeup Supplies | Usage |
|---|---|
| Red lipstick | For Monroe’s kissable lips |
| Black eyeliner | To draw the beauty mark |
| False eyelashes | For voluptuous lashes |
Mermaid Mystique
Mermaid Makeup Essentials:
- Shadows: Dive into the deep blue with sea-inspired eyeshadows. Use a mix of shimmering turquoise and marine greens to mimic the ocean’s essence.
- Liquid Liner: To define those enchanting eyes, a waterproof liquid liner is your go-to for lasting impressions.
- Start with a base of seafoam green shadow.
- Layer on shades of blue and purple, blending well for that oceanic gradient effect.
- Complete your look with a flick of liquid liner, mimicking the swift tail of a mermaid.
Fierce Fairy
Fairy Makeup Tutorial Steps:
- Purple Eyeshadow: A fairy’s go-to, combining whimsical with fierceness on your lids.
- Pink Accents: Don’t shy away from a blushing pink that captures the fairy blush.
- Apply your purple eyeshadow generously for that magical fairy vibe.
- Accentuate with pink hues on the cheeks and brows because fairies don’t do monochrome.
Butterfly Beauty
Butterfly Halloween Makeup Tips:
- Winged Effects: Ensure your butterfly wings are the statement with strategic liner use.
- Color Play: Butterflies love color, so your shadow palette should be a rainbow coalition.
- Create bold, black winged liner that extends to your temples—butterfly style!
- Dabble in vibrant shadows across the lids; think of the kaleidoscope of butterfly wings.
Zombie Apocalypse Prep
You’ve watched the shows, you’ve played the games, now it’s time to get your zombie on.
Grab a neutral eyeshadow palette and get to work on those undead vibes.
Start with hollowed eyes and gaunt cheeks using the darkest shades for that ‘I haven’t eaten brains in weeks’ look.
Don’t skimp on the fake blood—a splatter here and a dribble there will give you that fresh-from-the-horde effect.
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Scarecrow in the Spotlight
Ain’t no party like a scarecrow party, ’cause a scarecrow party is surprisingly… glamorous?
For a scarecrow makeup style that’s more chic than shriek, apply a warm bronzer for that sun-kissed, just-hopped-off-the-stake look.
And remember, stitch details drawn with a fine eyeliner will truly tie it all together—literally.
Mix in costumes with a touch of straw and a hat, and voilà, you’ve got the charm without the harm.
Devilish Details
When it comes to devil makeup, it’s all about the fiery attitude… and the right shade of red.
Get started with a bold red eyeshadow smoked out to perfection.
Horns are a must-have accessory, and don’t forget the pitchfork! For an extra twist, why not pair it with an unexpected costume like a twist on Snow White?
Think ‘Snow White turned wicked’, with apple-red lipstick to seal the deal.
Black Swan Elegance
If you’re channeling your inner prima ballerina gone rogue, Black Swan makeup is your go-to.
Start with a pale base for your face, then use Danessa Myricks black waterproof cream for that dark, dramatic eye makeup.
Use a fine brush to sketch out feathery details around the eyes.
Add crystals along the contours of your face to resemble small droplets of dew, catching the light with every turn of your head.
Glittery Glamour Ghouls
Get ready to sparkle like you’ve never sparkled before.
Take your ghoul game to the next level with a combination of shimmer eyeshadow from ColourPop and a generous sprinkle of cosmetic-grade glitter over the top.
Apply some heavy-duty adhesive before you layer on the sparkles.
Your cheeks should gleam in the moonlight; use a sculpting palette for that perfect shading that chisels your face yet twinkles in the dark.
You’re not just any ghoul, you’re a glittery sensation!
Crafting Creepy Clowns
Let’s get this freaky party started with clown faces that’ll make your friends double-check if their doors are locked tonight.
You don’t need to be a professional makeup artist to ace this look.
Whip out the black liner for those exaggerated smile lines that stretch from ear to ear, and the red lipstick—the bloodier, the better.
For that harlequin vibe:
- Base: Use a white Snazaroo face paint as a canvas
- Eyes & Mouth: Go wild with the black liner for oversized, dramatic shapes
- Nose & Cheeks: Dot on some bright red to get those classic chuckles going
Homebrewed Horror Effects
Want to send shivers down the spine with something more ‘eek’ than clown peek?
Time to concoct some homebrewed horror.
This is where a basic DIY makeup tutorial morphs into a snazzy special effects showcase.
Gather your courage and:
- Shade and contour with grays and purples for that undead chic look
- Add oozing fake wounds with tissue paper, liquid latex, or gelatin
- For an extra punch, use a dab of fake blood for that fresh-from-the-crypt finish
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Mastering Eyeshadow Blending
You know that moment when you’re trying to create a smokey eye and instead end up looking like a panda?
Yeah, let’s avoid that.
You’ll need a blending brush to gently diffuse colors into a seamless gradient.
Remember that blending is like making a smoothie – everything has to mix well.
Your Eyeshadow Blending Arsenal:
- Fluffy blending brush: Your BFF for spreading color without harsh lines.
- Dense crease brush: For precision when applying darker shades in the crease.
- Flat shader brush: To pack on color where needed.
- A smudge brush: To softly blur eyeliner for a sultry look.
Simple steps to blend like a boss:
- Start with a transition shade that’s similar to your skin tone.
- Apply darker shades to the crease and outer V of your eye with controlled movements.
- Use a clean fluffy brush to blend the edges in windshield wiper motions.
Face Paint Fundamentals
Amping up your look from “I woke up like this” to “I definitely didn’t wake up like this”?
Face paint is your ticket.
Use water-based face paints as they’re a cinch to apply and remove.
Just dip your brush or sponge in water, swirl in the paint, and you’re the next Picasso.
Essentials for Face Paint Wizards:
- Professional face paint palette: Choose quality paints that won’t irritate.
- Sponges: For covering large areas smoothly.
- Fine detail brush: On-point for drawing intricate designs or adding sharp lines.
Tips to keep things crisp:
- Lightly sketch your designs with an eye pencil first.
- Pat colors on with a sponge for a smooth base.
- Layer up – start with lighter colors and darken as you dare.
Lipstick Tricks for Treats
If you’re going for that “vampy vampire” or “glam ghoul”, the right lipstick can be a game-changer.
A bold red or black can sell any look, but if you’re painting outside the lines; well, that’s just part of the scare.
Lip Toolkit for a Locked Pout:
- Long-lasting matte lipstick: Because smudging can be scarier than your costume.
- Lip liner: To outline and fill for extra staying power.
- Concealer: Clean up the edges and perfect that pout post-application.
To apply like a makeup artist:
- Exfoliate those lips first; flaky is not a flavor.
- Outline your lips with a liner that matches or compliments your lipstick.
- Fill in with your choice of lipstick using a lip brush for precision, then blot and reapply for longevity.
Trendy Themes for 2024
Hey there, makeup mavericks!
As you gear up for 2024’s Halloween extravaganzas, let’s dive into the trendy themes that’ll have you nailing the costume party circuit.
- Euphoria High: Unleash your inner Rue or Jules with glitter-bombed eyes and gemstone accents. Capture the chaotic beauty of the show with smudges of color and fearless designs.
- TikTok Transformations: Get your phone’s camera ready because you’re about to become a TikTok sensation. Go viral with makeup trends from the latest challenges and dances. Think vibrant, rapid-fire flashes of neon that’ll pop in every scroll.
- ’90s Nostalgia: It’s time to throw it back with flannel shirts and frosted tips. Channel your inner ’90s kid with makeup that screams “As if!” Bold liners and bright, matte shadows will have you looking all that and a bag of chips.
- Ariana Grande Vogue: Come through with an Ariana Grande high ponytail and a spot-on cat eye. Nailing her iconic look from the Eras Tour might just have you mistaken for the pop queen herself.
- Time Warp: Whether it’s the roaring ’20s or the swinging ’60s, pick your favorite era and add a spooky twist! A dash of historical flair might just win you the “Best Makeup” award at this year’s bash.
Remember, Halloween is your chance to shine (or spook) with a look that’s totally you, amplified by a hundred.
Whether you’re going for laughs, likes, or screams, these themes are your ticket to slaying the makeup game.
Quick and Cute Ensembles
- Kitty Cat Purr-fection: Just need eyeliner and you’re golden. Draw on some whiskers, a little nose, and flick out those eyes with some winged liner. Add a headband with ears and let the night hear you roar!
- Witchy Woo: Black eyeshadow, stat! Sweep it across your lids and under your eyes for that ‘I’ve been brewing potions all night’ look. A dab of purple lipstick, and you’ve spelled yourself into a witch!
Speedy Spooky Specials
- Gothic Ghost: Pale foundation? Check. Dark, hollow eyes using shades of gray and black? Double-check. Glide that ghostly pale look across your face and float into the party.
- Vampy Vampire: Blood-red lips – which are as easy as swiping on your boldest lipstick. Add some dark eyeshadow around the eyes and slick your hair back. Fangs are optional but encouraged for full effect.
Hairstyles to Haunt
Getting your spook on with a haunting hairstyle this Halloween?
You’ve got options that will turn heads and maybe even send a chill down someone’s spine – in the best way, of course!
Ariel’s Under the Sea Waves
Grab your dinglehopper! For that Ariel look, think vibrant red and flowing waves. Use a curling iron to get those sea-swept locks, then add a starfish hair accessory to really channel the mermaid vibes.
Ursula’s Sinister Elegance
Feeling villainous? To mimic Ursula’s iconic style, go with a bold, deep purple wig and style it in an updo with tentacle-like curls. Add a splash of hairspray for that sea witch hold.
Mad as a Hatter Hair
Oh, it’s always time for tea when you’re rocking Mad Hatter hair! Tease your hair to high heavens for volume, mix in some orange and green hues, and don’t forget the top hat, because well, you’re mad!
Vecna’s Vicious ‘Do
Fancy being the Big Bad from the Upside Down? Get a bald cap, some creepy vine-like attachments and go to town with gnarly special effects makeup for that Vecna scalp.
Princess Fiona’s Ogre Chic
Who says ogres can’t be adorable? Get your Fiona on with a green wig or hair spray, braid it down the side, and you’re instantly royal-ogre-party-ready!
Pull off any of these looks, and you’re sure to be the scream of the party. Remember, a little hair-raising style is all in good fun. Boo!
Choosing Chilling Jewelry
So you’ve smeared on the corpse-pale foundation and perfected your Carrie Halloween makeup, all drippy and dramatic.
What’s next? Jewelry that screams (literally) “Halloween chic”.
How about a spider web necklace glistening with dewdrop-like crystals?
Or maybe a bracelet with tiny, shimmering skulls that clatter against each other with every bewitching gesture you make.
For earrings, think about little pumpkins dangling from your lobes, grinning maniacally each time you turn your head.
Crafting the Perfect Prop
Propping up your look with…well, a prop, is a game-changer.
Did you decide to dot your face with candy-like dots for a playful yet sinister clown?
Make sure you’ve got a balloon animal… that pops unexpectedly.
Or perhaps you’re going classic with a witch vibe—your broom better have the latest in-flight entertainment (think a cackling pumpkin strapped to the handle).
Whatever you hold in your hand should complement the eerie aura you’re aiming for, adding that oomph to your spooky spectacle.
Perfecting Scary Scars
Creating realistic-looking scars is way easier than convincing your friends you saw a ghost.
You’ll need an eyeliner pencil to outline your scar first.
Go for a jagged or curved line to mimic a real scar’s irregular shape.
Take your trusty eyeliner pencil and sketch out a scratch or gash where you want that personal touch of terror.
Then, using a bit of scar wax or liquid latex, layer it along the line.
Mold it to perfection, and once you’ve got the shape down, color it with makeups like a pro—think dark reds and purples for bruises, and a mix of red and black for depth.
Applying Blood for Effect
Fake blood: it’s like the hot sauce of Halloween, a little dab will do!
Want weeping wounds or a vampire’s snack?
Drip a little fake blood over your scars and let it ooze for maximum ickiness.
The trick is to not overdo it – unless you’re dressing up as a blood bank mishap.
Makeup for Halloween Gatherings
At an intimate soirée with the who’s who of your social circles, your makeup steals the show.
Ensure you have high-impact liquid eyeliner for graphic designs that pop against the flash of paparazzi cameras.
Think about adding glitter or crystals for a touch of glam—you’re not just dressing up, you’re dressing to impress.
Your makeup should be a mix of ethereal and jaw-dropping, think ethereal ghost or glitzy vampire rather than garden-variety ghouls.
| Element | Makeup Tip |
|---|---|
| Eyes | Go bold with a smoky eye or colorful shadows. |
| Lips | A statement lip—deep reds or even black to turn heads. |
| Detail | Rhinestones or temporary tattoos can add wow-factor. |
Halloween Spirit at Costume Parties
Now, off to the costume party where your entrance must say, “I’ve arrived, and I own this Halloween bash.”
Are you channeling a superhero vibe?
Maybe some intense contouring to get those comic book angles is just what you need.
If you’re leaning into a retro look, say a Lindy Hop pinup, pair that winged eye with a bold red lip and prepare to jive, candy in one hand, confidence in the other.
- Superhero Chic: Bold colors, sharp contours, and a cape to swoosh.
- Retro Maven: Winged eyeliner, victory rolls, and that classic red bandana.
- Creature Feature: Think full-on monster makeup—scales, fangs, and all the theatrical flair you can muster.
Conclusion
Let’s wrap this spooky train up, shall we?
You’ve now got a cauldron full of the 25 best Halloween makeup ideas to choose from.
Whether you decide to be a classic Disney villain or channel your inner makeup maven with an Euphoria-inspired eye-palooza, you’ve got the tricks and treats ready.
Remember:
- Keep it simple if you’re a makeup newbie. There’s no shame in rocking a killer cat-eye and calling it a night.
- Go bold if you dare! Mix those colors, layer the fake blood, and let your creativity haunt the neighborhood.
- Practice makes perfect. If you’re planning something complex, give it a whirl before the big night to avoid any monstrous mishaps.
If all else fails, slap on some pastel shadow, add a pair of faux lashes, and tease that hair because, hey, you’re fabulous—even as a zombie.
Have a wickedly fun Halloween, and snap plenty of pics because your makeup is going to be absolutely to die for.
Bullet-proof your makeup game:
- Use a primer for longevity
- Remember to set everything with a fixative
- Waterproof products are your best friends
Stay spooky, keep it sassy, and most importantly, have an eerie-sistibly good time!
Now, go forth and be the ghostess with the mostess.
