If you will be painting the faces of several children, be sure to set up your workstation in a small, organized space. You don't want kids running all through your area, spilling your paints and rifling through your supplies. You'll need a comfortable chair for yourself and a taller chair for the kids so you don't have to bend over, hurting your back. Select good quality paints intended specifically for the face and body, as these are the only paints that are safe to use on skin. There are a number of quality brands available in several different forms, such as makeup, liquid paint or grease crayons. Grease crayons are usually very easy to work with and are less messy, but it is difficult to sterilize each crayon between use. Keep that in mind if you choose to use them. If you use liquid paint, you will also need enough makeup sponges or brushes that you can use a new one for each child. Sponges are usually easier to use for face painting than brushes. Also get a number of small jars or paper cups to use for water and some baby wipes to erase mistakes.
Face painting is fairly easy once you get set up. Decide before you start (or be sure the child has decided) what you plan to paint in order to avoid having to sit, contemplating the face of an antsy child. Choose simple designs with several contrasting colors. Too many colors that are similar tend to lose clarity, especially after several hours of smiling, laughing and talking. Once you have decided on a pattern, select your paint and dilute it slightly according to the manufacturer's directions. The consistency should be thick and pasty, almost like shoe polish. Start with the lightest colors first and allow each layer to dry thoroughly between coats. Face paint is fairly sticky when wet, and you can often stick rhinestones, sequins and other little objects to the paint if you keep them away from the eyes. Never use glitter when painting faces, unless it is specifically cosmetic glitter, as it can cause permanent damage to the cornea if it gets in the eye.
Always heed all warnings supplied with your face paint. Never paint the face of a child who is sick, has open wounds or sores or who may be allergic to the paint. Use a fresh sponge or brush between each person and pour out a small amount of paint each time, so you do not contaminate the entire bottle. Keep in mind that individuals with sensitive skin, especially those prone to acne, can develop breakouts due to the heavy nature of face paint. If an individual with sensitive skin does have her face painted, she should not leave the paint on for long and should wash her face thoroughly, then use a makeup remover. Generally, removal of face paint is very easy, when the manufacturer's directions are followed. Warm water, a gentle facial soap and a washcloth are usually more than enough to remove all traces of paint.