Halloween makeup has come along way since the '90s, when cheap grease paint palettes and the once-yearly release of black nail polish (goths of the era can tell you!) made up the limited selection of colorful cosmetics you could use to get done up for scary, seasonal fun.
Online shopping changed it all, though, and these days, you can have professional-grade makeup delivered straight to your door with the click of a button.
But with all these options available to you, where do you start if you're still an amateur with avant-garde and special FX looks in mind?
We're here to help. From theatrical makeup brands like Ben Nye and Mehron to more commonplace powders and brushes that work great for drawing on a scary face, you'll find our top suggestions on what to buy now so you can create your best Halloween look yet by Oct. 31.
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Start with the basics, and stock up on affordable but highly rated brushes that come in an 18-piece set so you'll have the tools you need for every type of swoop, line, blend and more. Some 20,000 people purchased this set last month!
] originalPrice=[$9.99] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />Skin prep is important for every makeup look, but especially when you'll be trying out elaborate and heavier looks than usual. For sensitive skin, use toner pads like these gentle, depuffing ones form Mediheal that remove excess dirt and oil without stripping the skin to create your best canvas yet.
] originalPrice=[$24] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />For oiler skin types that can handle a little more during prep, try this toner from Mehron that creates a matte canvas and helps prevent oil seep-through that can break down makeup from underneath, leading to seperation and a cakey look.
] originalPrice=[$17.95] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />One of Amazon's consistent top sellers in the Halloween or costume makeup arena is this mutli-use palette that smartly features extra large sections for black and white paints, the most commonly used colors.
] originalPrice=[$21.99] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />While traditional grease paint can smear, smudge and just overall feel gross on the skin, Mehron is a water-activated face paint that transforms into an easy-to-use medium that dries to the touch and stays put for hours. The pigmentation is fantastic, too, so you can build vibrant, saturated looks and even blend powder pigments on top to contour and create depth and extra detail.
] originalPrice=[$123.95] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />Since you may need more white paint than the palette above provides, here's the basic single-color option to add to your kit.
] originalPrice=[$11.95] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />While the Mehron water-activated paints are ideal for precision, the cream paints like those found in this bruise kit are better suited for creating realistic injuries thanks to the full range of colors found in human bruises, cuts and scrapes. Start with a yellow and green base, then tap in the other shades to add depth and horror to your special FX looks.
] originalPrice=[$18.95] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />Does your character call for missing teeth? Try blacking them out with this special use temporary tooth makeup crafted specifically for theater and cosplay. It's safe, long-lasting and comes with an applicator that's easy to use for even the most amateur makeup artist.
] originalPrice=[$11.95] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />For detailed blood droplets, smears and more, choose a thick, professional-grade special FX product like this under-$10 option from Mehron to ensure you're looking your best as a vampire, zombie or any other creature on the monster roster.
] originalPrice=[$9.95] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />Look older or like a spectre in no time with this hair-whitening makeup that can be easily applied and removed and promises not to stain hair.
] originalPrice=[$16.95] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />While this is a fantastic palette for creating smokey eye looks for year-round wear, it comes in especially handy when contouring and creating darker, more intense looks for Halloween.
] originalPrice=[$14] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />A light dusting of neutral setting powder over your entire face can really help lock things in, especially for a long night of trick-or-treating, partying or other Halloween mischief. Go for a trusted one like this well-loved option from Ben Nye.
] originalPrice=[$19.99] dealPrice=[$18.50] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />Once you're painted, powdered and ready to roll, lock it all into place with a heavy duty setting spray created with theatrical makeup in mind. Not only will it ensure makeup stays in place all night, it helps melt together the various layers of product for a more cohesive, professional appearance.
] originalPrice=[$36.90] ctaCarouselClass=[btn-lightpink] />
