You can use body paint to create a variety of different art works on the most amazing canvas - human skin. But body painting can take time and it is not uncommon for a session to last as long as 10 to 12 hours. Rough on both artist and model, I’m sure you will agree. These days body painting materials are becoming more user friendly, making it easy to learn how to use body paint with the minimum of fuss.
So practically anybody can use body paint with a little practice and experience. Old fashioned body paints were messy and time consuming to use, making the art of body painting popular with only the very dedicated. Some examples of modern body painting materials that are far easier and less time-consuming to use include:
Markers - These are inexpensive and safe to use but painting with them takes time. If you are learning how to use body paint and have patience go ahead and try them.
Airbrush Make Up - Excellent for speed and very safe, but you will pay the price for these features.
MagicColor and Mehron Face Paints - These aren’t too expensive, the quality is good and they are safe to use.
Textile Acrylics - A practical choice, textile acrylics are reasonably priced, work well and are safe.
Liquid Latex - Interesting materials to work with, and offer a variety of possibilities. Not recommended if you don’t know how to use body paint.
PAX MakeupAdhesive based paint - If you want your artwork to last a long time.
Tempera: Not recommended.
Using markers, like Crayola are a good idea if you want 100% safety. Markers are made for kids so they are fully washable. This makes them ideal for creating translucent effects which look like tattoos. After the paint dries it lasts until you wash it off and won’t peel off or wrinkle. Markers are a good idea if you’re not sure how to use body paint and need a bit of practice and experience.
The main problem with using markers is that the point of the marker is so small. This means it can take a long time to work up to the full design, especially if you are aiming at full bodywork. Try the wider tip markers that make a strip of about a third of an inch. If you don’t know how to use body paint, experiment with the markers first.
Airbrush make-up is a really safe, fast and the most flexible option for body painting. It won’t crack or peel like airbrush acrylics. It can be expensive but are the best choice if you work professionally. Try Kryolan, Dinair or Mehron. If you want to use body paint that’s a cut above the rest, this is your best option.
MagicColor and Mehron Face/Body Paints are made by Ben Nye. These body paints are opaque but are easy to apply and dry quickly. You can use them with an airbrush if you want to use body paint for all over coverage. You will find them in primary colors as well as glitter metallic. Never use body paint colors like red, pink or orange over or around the sensitive eye area. These paints have good staying power but will clean off with ease.
Airbrush textile acrylics are practical and affordable. They are non-toxic and are intended for use on fabric. They offer good staying power and dry quickly but are easy to wash off with soapy water. You can even use a bristle brush when you use body paint. Try Createx and Jurex. Createx is available in iridescent colors that shine when applied. You can use a Pasche airbrush for fine work or a production airbrush for bigger areas.
