One of the Halloween trends I’ve been seeing at the retail level is an approach that’s actually quite classic. The focus on an elaborate makeup look, often dubbed a “Halloween face,” might be considered an updated take on costuming.
I’m not crazy about the name, as it evokes something rather simple. But I’ve always loved this approach, especially when mixed with more casual pieces, so I’ll set aside that reaction.
1. Half Burned Face
Source: @astmog_mua
I’m obsessed with this look, and I think we can all agree the eye is what takes it to the next level. A half-burned face is a classic Halloween go-to, but adding that light-colored contact lens?
It makes the whole thing so freaky and unforgettable.
2. Claw Marks
Okay, these claw marks are such a statement. The effect is so realistic and fresh, it’s seriously impressive.
I’ll admit, you might need a practice run to nail the application, but trust me, once you get the hang of it, it’s a surprisingly easy way to get a killer look.
3. Horrifying Face Off Makeup
Source: @nicky_soup
Just looking at this gives me the chills. I mean, can you imagine opening your door to this on Halloween night? How creepy would this be!
One thing I’d definitely suggest is getting in some practice with applying the teeth. Good luck with this one!
4. Frankenstein’s Mistress
Source: @anne_sfx
This one is so simple but makes such a big impact. You can totally become Frankenstein’s mistress with a look that relies mostly on red makeup.
You’ll need just a little bit of shading in a few spots, but then you can finish it off with some sexy red lips.
5. Zombie Teacher
The pencils are what make this whole look a total masterpiece. I have to say, it’s such a great idea.
The makeup itself is pretty straightforward, but adding the pencils gives it that perfect Halloween touch. So be ready, you’re going to need a few pencils for this!
6. Bloody SFX Makeup
Source: @makeupbystevens
I love this idea for a scary, blood-red face. It’s a little more detailed since it involves an eye patch, but it looks so good.
You can get really creative and messy with the bloody SFX makeup application. Just be sure to leave that patch over one eye to nail the final look.
7. Scary Pumpkin
Source: @katharinaeppendorf
Don’t just stop at carving a pumpkin, become one! Seriously, there’s nothing that says Halloween more than a classic scary pumpkin face. This one is always a hit.
8. Masquerade Flesh Mask
Source: @artandsfx_eve
While wearing a mask is always fun, a flesh face is even better for Halloween! This one might take a few hours to pull off, but the result looks amazing.
I’ll warn you, the application process will be messy, but the fantastic outcome is so worth it.
9. Zombie Nurse
Source: @akhanartistry
You really can’t go wrong with a zombie nurse. It’s such a good choice because you get to have a scary face paired with a sexy costume.
The key to this look is lots of shading and, of course, a zombie attitude! Don’t forget to practice your zombie walk. If you need some pointers, I’d suggest watching The Walking Dead.
10. Burned Face
Source: @katharinaeppendorf
If you want to go for the ultimate burnt face, this half-face makeup idea is it. It’s such a scary look and is guaranteed to shock everyone you see.
11. Scary and Gore
Halloween is totally about the gore. The more gore you have, the better! This gruesome makeup idea is one you have to see, it looks so amazing.
12. Ripped Face
If you’re looking for a look that feels sexy but still has that Halloween twist, you have to check this out. How does this sound?
You still get to wear your everyday eye makeup, but with the addition of a slightly ripped face.
Need to know how you can achieve this look? Below is the tutorial for the ripped face look by Aya Jade.
13. Bloody & Gore.
Source: @_heartwork_
I’m calling this one blood and gore. This is such a great idea for a Halloween face that’s simple but still super effective. It’s definitely one to consider!
14. Zombie Red Riding Hood
Source: @nicoleguerriero
A zombie and Red Riding Hood combo is such a great idea! You can make your Red Riding Hood costume look extra scary by adding a few makeup effects to your face.
Go for a bloody chin and some light-colored eye contacts to really sell the zombie style. And whatever you do, don’t forget the red cape!
Check out the tutorial by Nicole Guerriero on YouTube:
15. Burned Face
This look is so scary and frightening. Okay, so you might need to set aside a few hours for the application, but I promise the final result will be so worth it.
The more makeup or face paint you pile on, the better it looks.
16. Ripped Out Throat
Source: @tiffanybazesfx
Sometimes, keeping it simple is the way to go. How about leaving your face totally Halloween-free and going for a ripped-out throat instead? This sounds like a pretty good idea to me!
17. Skeleton
If you’re planning on wearing a dress or a low top, why not take the makeup down to your neck, shoulders, and arms?
I know this looks absolutely amazing, but it’s going to take a few practice runs to get it perfect. Don’t get discouraged if it’s not right on the first try, just keep at it.
You might even want to grab a friend to help with your back. You could also pop in some colored eye contacts like in the photo. It really adds to the whole look.
18. Vampire Makeup
Source: @giuliannaa
Are you a fan of Twilight? If you have a thing for vampires, this is the look for you. It’s so easy to create, and you can pretty much use all your daily makeup products to pull it off.
Here is how you can achieve this vampire Halloween look:
19. Patchwork
Source: @daunting_beauty
Bloody patchwork is such a great look for Halloween. Having a bloody face with a few patchwork details looks freaky and scary, and the best part is you can’t really go wrong with the makeup application.
You can wear any lipstick color and some gorgeous eye makeup. A shiny red makeup or face paint is an absolute must-have for this.
I’d suggest applying red makeup all over, then dabbing on a slightly darker red to add to the effect.
20. Disney Villain
Source: @promisetamang
When you’re not sure what to do, go with Disney. A Disney villain is the perfect mix of scary and fun all at the same time.
In case you need a tutorial for this freaky Halloween makeup look, here it is:
21. Sew In Face
Source: @akhanartistry
Are you good with a needle and thread? It honestly doesn’t matter, because you won’t need to be for this Halloween face. A sew-in face looks so creepy and scary.
As you can tell, popping in some eye contacts will really add to the effect and make it look more realistic. Go for a light color to make your eyes stand out.
Also, remember to continue the makeup down your neck and around your chin area.