Putting on your paint is a rite of passage. It transforms you into a living canvas of the Dark Carnival. You don't need to be a professional makeup artist to look wicked—imperfections just make it look more raw and underground.
Essential Gear Required
- White Cream Base Paint (Mehron or Ben Nye work best)
- Black Setting Powder or Heavy-Duty Black Cream/Liquid Paint
- Translucent Setting Powder (Crucial so it doesn't run during a Faygo shower!)
- Makeup Sponges & Thin Detailing Brushes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Canvas
Wash your face thoroughly with soap and water to clear out all oils. If you have facial hair, apply a bit of hair gel or glue stick to flatten it down so the paint sticks smoothly.
Step 2: The Ghostly White Base
Dab a makeup sponge into your white greasepaint. Pat it firmly all over your face, avoiding your upper eyelids and the area directly around your mouth. Keep patting until the layer is solid white and completely even.
Step 3: Lock It In
Dust your entire white face layer heavily with translucent setting powder. Let it sit for two minutes, then gently brush away the excess. This locks the greasepaint so it won't smudge or sweat off when the music starts pumping.
Step 4: Map the Wicked Eyes
Using a thin brush dipped in black paint, carefully trace out aggressive clown points above and below your eyes. You can go for classic razor triangles, tall points, or jagged lightning bolts. Fill them in solid black.
Step 5: The Extended Wicked Smile
Paint your lips black, then extend the corners of your mouth out across your cheeks into an exaggerated, dramatic wicked grin. Trace a thick black outline around your nose if you want the classic Violent J look.
Pro-Tip for Faygo Showers
If you plan on getting completely drenched at meetups, apply a light layer of barrier spray or makeup sealer over the final design. It protects your hard work from turning into a blurry mess!