What makes face paint safe or unsafe?
Not all face paints are equal. The difference between a professional face painter and someone with a $10 kit from a discount store is the quality of the products — and on a child's face, that matters.
Safe, professional face paints are:
Water-based
Professional face paints are water-activated and water-removable. They go on smoothly, dry quickly without cracking, and wash off easily at bath time. No solvents, no oils that clog pores.
Cosmetic-grade and hypoallergenic
The products Picco uses are tested to cosmetic safety standards — the same regulatory framework that applies to makeup sold in Australian chemists and department stores. They are formulated to minimise the risk of skin reactions and are suitable for use on the face from age two upward.
Not craft or acrylic paint
Craft paints, acrylic paints and standard poster paints are not designed for skin contact. They can cause irritation, are difficult to remove and should never be used on a child's face. Professional face painters use dedicated skin-safe products only.
Cosmetic-grade glitter only
When glitter is used in a face painting design, Picco uses cosmetic-grade glitter only — not craft glitter, which has sharp edges and is unsafe near eyes. Cosmetic glitter is specifically manufactured for skin and facial use.
What about kids with sensitive skin?
Most children with sensitive skin can enjoy face painting with professional hypoallergenic products without any issues. The formulations are gentle and the products are designed to minimise reactions even on reactive skin.
⚠️ When to mention it when booking
If your child has known allergies to cosmetic products, a diagnosed skin condition such as eczema that is currently flaring, or has previously had a reaction to face paint, mention this when booking. Picco can discuss the specific products being used and, if needed, do a small patch test on the wrist or inner arm before applying any design to the face.
How do you remove face paint?
Professional water-based face paint removes easily with warm water and a gentle face wash or baby wipe. Most designs come off completely in a normal bath or shower at the end of the day — no harsh removers, no scrubbing, no staining.
For glitter accents, a little gentle cleanser or micellar water helps lift the glitter completely. Pat dry rather than rubbing, and the skin underneath is perfectly clean.
Hygiene at the party
Professional face painters use clean brushes and sponges throughout the event. Picco uses fresh applicators between children and never double-dips a sponge into a paint that has touched another child's face. Water is changed regularly throughout the session. These are basic professional standards that every face painter you hire should follow — and it is a reasonable question to ask when booking.
Is face painting safe for kids?
Yes, with the right professional products. Picco uses water-based, hypoallergenic face paints tested to cosmetic safety standards, suitable for children from age two upward. Parents with children who have known skin sensitivities should mention this when booking.
What face paints does Picco The Clown use?
Professional-grade water-based face paints that are hypoallergenic, skin-safe and tested to cosmetic safety standards — not craft paints or cheap hobby products.
How do you remove face paint from kids?
Warm water and a gentle face wash or baby wipe. Most designs come off completely in a normal bath or shower. No harsh removers or scrubbing required.
Can kids with sensitive skin have face painting?
Most children with sensitive skin can enjoy face painting with professional hypoallergenic products. Mention any known skin sensitivities or allergies when booking and Picco will discuss the products and can do a patch test if needed.
Book Picco for your Ballarat kids party
Skin-safe professional products, fully insured, Working With Children Checked. Call for a friendly chat and a firm quote.
📞 0432 622 157Or email 0432 622 157