Halloween? What? With so many of us still in the grip of summer heat, it can be hard to think about Halloween makeup.
But this pre-season is one of the best times of year to find a good selection of ideas and inspiration. Here are a few I’ve turned up recently.
1. Glam Sugar Skull Makeup Idea
Source: @makeupby_makenzie
I’m seriously crushing on this sugar skull inspired look. The artist went with one glam eye and one skull eye, and I just love the whole spooky-but-pretty vibe, which is perfect for a party.
She decorated her face with these stunning patterns, and the red lip color is such a statement maker. If you want to make it even scarier, I’d suggest throwing on some contact lenses.
2. Pink Bunny
Source: @alvajay
Do you have a random pair of bunny ears just collecting dust? I feel like we all do. Well, this look is the perfect excuse to bring them out!
Maybe you bought them for a party years ago, but I can guarantee you’re going to fall in love with this makeup idea.
3. SAW Inspired Makeup
Source: @luisacristinamua
If you’re a big horror movie fan like me, you absolutely have to check this one out. Here we have a look inspired by Billy the Puppet from the movie SAW.
The artist created the signature swirl pattern on her cheeks and a doll-like mouth. It’s an easy look to pull off, but it will definitely creep everyone out. You can keep it simple like this or go all in with a white face and a black wig.
4. Masquerade Makeup Mask
Source: @missj15
Who even needs to buy a mask when you can create one this gorgeous? This is such a stunning design made with just makeup and a few rhinestones. I’d start by applying your usual makeup, just a little heavier.
Use dark colors on your eyelids and a purple shade for your lips. Then, you can start drawing the masquerade mask design with eyeliner.
To attach the rhinestones, a little false lash adhesive works perfectly.
5. All Black Sugar Skull Makeup
Source: @astmog_mua
I love this look because it’s pretty easy and quick to do. All you really need is black makeup or face paint.
The sugar skull makeup tradition comes from Dia de los Muertos, which means Day of the Dead. It’s a Mexican holiday that’s been celebrated for years and has become super popular in Latin America, the United States, and Europe.
6. Creepy Stitches
Source: @michpagemakeup
Up next, we have some seriously creepy stitches! The artist created the illusion that her face was split and then sewn back together. This is such a scary idea and would work so well with doll or scarecrow makeup.
You can find tutorials online that show you how to create the stitch effect. I think adding some fake blood would really take it to a gory new level.
7. Gangsta Clown
Source: @chrisspy
This look is so good and totally freaky! It will definitely give your friends a scare. If you happen to have a check shirt, it would look amazing with this makeup. You can finish off the whole vibe with either a wig or by clipping in a few colorful hair strands.
Here is a YouTube tutorial by Chrisspy to help you re-create this look:
8. Cool and Creepy Circus Clown
Source: @ohmygeeee
This is the kind of makeup that will give everyone a fright on Halloween. The artist took inspiration from classic clowns to create a look that is both dark and scary. I love that she also painted circus style stripes on her body.
It’s such a cool and creepy vibe that’s absolutely perfect for a party. You can check out the full list of products she used over on her page.
9. Easy Fairy Makeup
Source: @akhanartistry
Who says Halloween has to be all about being scary? You can create a beautiful face like this easy fairy makeup look. Your eyes should be the main focal point here. Adding a few flowers is also a really nice touch to complete the look.
10. Halloween Ghost Face Makeup
Source: @beautybymols
This next makeup idea is definitely on the more unique side. The artist has created glam eyes and lips, but she gave it a Halloween twist by adding little ghosts.
I think this is such a cool idea and it’s perfect for anyone wanting to try something a little different. You can wear any costume with this, and it would suit any Halloween event.
11. Pop Art Makeup Look
Source: @beautydesignsbydenise
You can never go wrong with a bit of pop art! Pop art is so fun, and so is Halloween. This is a really easy makeup look that you can honestly do in about 5 to 10 minutes.
Don’t forget to paint your fingernails to match the pop art theme!
12. Spider-Man Inspired Makeup Look
Source: @jadedeacon
Peter Parker, also known as Spiderman, is the inspiration behind this fun makeup look. It’s got a girly, sexy, and simple vibe.
I think the key is to make sure you have big, luscious red lips and some glitter in the corners of your eyes. This will give the spider web a softer and sexier feel.
13. Bride of Chucky Costume Idea
Source: @viva_glam_kay
If you live for horror movies, then you have to see this next idea. This is makeup and a costume inspired by the character Tiffany from the movie Chucky’s Bride.
As you can see, the makeup is pretty easy to recreate, and the costume is simple too. It’s such a unique and scary idea, and I think it would be great for any last minute Halloween plans.
14. Unique Skeleton Makeup with Hearts
Source: @kerminaxtadros
If you want to stand out from the spooky crowd, try makeup like this. This is a skeleton look with a fun twist because the artist added hearts to the design.
You can see how the hearts create a much prettier look. The black makeup is also super elegant. I’d pair this with a floral headband and a black dress for a really stylish Halloween costume.
15. Spooky Scarecrow
Source: @anshelicious
Of course, I couldn’t make a list of Halloween makeup without including a spooky scarecrow! It’s such a Halloween classic. This makeup artist created a version that is both colorful and creepy.
The look is completed with patches, stitches, and even a hat made from a grocery bag. There are tons of scarecrow makeup tutorials online, and you can make your look as scary or as cute as you want.
16. Cute Cat Makeup
Source: @_fk26
If you’re going for a sexier vibe instead of a scary one, then you need to check this out. It’s a cute cat look that is so easy to do at home.
Don’t be afraid to go a little wild with your makeup. I know it might feel strange at first, but trust me, you’ll love it.
17. Trippy Double Vision Makeup
Source: @getreadywithvivienne
Okay, no, you aren’t seeing double or even triple! This is just an amazing makeup look, and I am obsessed with it. It definitely messes with your mind a bit, so be warned!
Check out the tutorial!
18. Werewolf Makeup for Halloween
Source: @holuter_makeup_artistry
For our next look, we have a classic werewolf to show you. The makeup artist has made her face look furry and has also added whiskers and ears.
I think this is such a fun idea, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves the more classic Halloween characters. You can find tutorials for wolf makeup online, and you can see all the products she used on her page.
19. Wicked Witch Makeup
Source: @lissypink10
Here is another Halloween classic. This makeup artist has created a look inspired by a wicked witch. She has the pointy black hat, warts, and green makeup. It’s a pretty yet spooky look.
You can recreate this or go for a full green face, which we often see with witch makeup. I think wearing contact lenses would create an even more scary and mystical vibe.
20. Half Face Pop Art Zombie
Source: @drawingupbeauty
I think opting for a pop art zombie on just one side of your face looks incredible. If you have ever wanted to express your style and experiment with makeup, Halloween is the perfect time to do it.
And honestly, who is going to notice if you make a mistake! It’s all about having fun.
21. Simple Circus Clown Makeup
Source: @brewsandbeautybybri
The circus can be either delightful or frightening, and this makeup is definitely on the creepy side. This artist has created simple circus clown makeup that is so effective.
You can find tutorials online for the makeup and clown costumes are easy to find. I think adding some illusion effects or contact lenses would make it even scarier.
22. Ariana Grande (Dangerous Woman) Inspired Look
Source: @akhanartistry
Are you a big Ariana Grande fan? This look is inspired by her Dangerous Woman era. It’s another great example of turning a daily makeup look into a Halloween style.
Just apply your everyday makeup as usual, and then start creating the eye mask with an eyeliner pen or pencil.
23. Broken Porcelain Doll
Source: @hotonbeauty
The effect of this makeup is just awesome. And the best part is, you don’t have to be great at art to pull it off! Just remember to use subtle makeup colors on your eyes so all the attention stays on your face.
24. Pretty Leopard Makeup
Source: @annaxkrajewska
Why not show off your wild side this Halloween with some leopard makeup like this? As you can see, the artist created a glam eye makeup look and then added a leopard nose and spots.
It’s such a cool idea because you can look pretty while still being dressed up, giving you the best of both worlds.
25. Cute Deer Makeup Idea
Source: @jwmua
If you’re aiming for a look that’s more cute than creepy for Halloween, then this idea is perfect for you. This makeup artist has created such a pretty deer look. She has glam eye makeup, a little heart nose, and a delicate dotted pattern.
The look is finished off with a pair of antlers. I think makeup like this would suit everyone, and you can recreate this or try an even simpler version.
26. Classic Halloween Vampire
Source: @flawless_by_tenisha
Vampire costumes are a true Halloween classic, and I just had to show you this beautiful version. The makeup artist has created a glam eye look using dark purple tones and paired it with a dark lip color.
The whole look is completed with fake blood and fangs. It’s such a simple yet amazing idea, and you can probably use the makeup you already own.
All you’ll need to buy are the blood and fangs. A black dress would look absolutely stunning with this.
27. Cheshire Cat
Source: @alvajay
You can keep smiling just like a Cheshire Cat! This look is so freaky, and the best part is you can match it to your hair and outfit.
28. Mermaid Makeup
Source: @missj15
This is just so gorgeous. You can turn half of your face into a mermaid with some shimmer and glitter. My rule is, the more you use, the better! Just draw on the mermaid design with either face paint or a colorful eyeliner.
29. Cute Werewolf Makeup
Source: @alex21andra
This next idea is both cute and classic. Here we have some werewolf makeup. The artist has painted her face to look hairy and has even added a few sharp teeth!
This look is finished off with some super cool contact lenses. You can find tutorials online that show you how to create the furry effect, and you can also buy werewolf contact lenses.
30. Sunflower Scarecrow
Source: @alex21andra
This next idea features another take on the scarecrow. This time, the scarecrow has a beautiful sunflower design. She has a sunflower painted around one eye and another on her nose.
The rest of the makeup is pretty classic, with stitches. I love this look because it’s sparkly and quite glam, but still has that perfect Halloween feel.
31. Mystical Makeup
Source: @beautybybrontey
Here is a mystical makeup idea for you. The artist has created dark eye makeup, a dark lip color, stars, and a moon on the forehead.
It’s such a mysterious idea and would look amazing with a fortune teller costume. The makeup is also pretty simple to recreate, so it’s a great option for any last minute events.
32. Pixelated Face Makeup Look
Source: @thepowderrooom
This might look a little strange while you’re applying it, but my advice is don’t give up. The final result looks absolutely fabulous!
Tutorial for the look is here:
33. Egyptian Queen
Source: @caro_losada
You can look like the queen you are with this next costume. This one is inspired by Ancient Egypt and definitely has Cleopatra vibes. It’s such a cool costume and makeup idea. You can find tutorials for this type of makeup online, and you can buy the wig and costume online as well.
To make it a little creepy, you could add a mummy costume or some kind of makeup illusion.
34. Gory Halloween Makeup
Source: @makeupby_makenzie
This next makeup idea features a very gory illusion. For this look, the artist has created the illusion that her jaw is stitched on, with a gap between the two halves of her face. She finished the look with dripping blood.
This is such a scary and creative idea, it’s one of my personal favorites. You can find tutorials online that will show you how to create the stitch effect.
35. Pretty Skull Makeup Look
Source: @jordzcrazymakeup
This look is both scary and pretty at the same time. It’s truly unbelievable how makeup can completely transform your face. You can achieve this look for Halloween, and you don’t even need to buy a fancy costume!
Everything can be done with items from your daily makeup bag. Use eyeliner for your cheeks, eyes, and mouth, and use eyeshadow for the shading on your cheeks.
To add a little bit of glitter, create a lovely design on your forehead like in the photo, and you’ll be all set for Halloween.
36. Spider Eye Makeup
Source: @chloe_frizzell
Looking for makeup that’s simple but still scary? If so, this could be the perfect look for you. This is spider eye makeup.
When your eye is open, it looks like spider legs are coming out of it, and when your eye is closed, the black makeup creates a spider illusion. It’s a cool and creepy idea.
You can find lots of tutorials for spider eye makeup on YouTube to help you create a similar look.
37. Skeleton Makeup Look
Source: @giuliannaa
Skeleton makeup is always a timeless and simple choice. You can use either face powder or face paint for this type of Halloween look. The only color you’ll need is for your eyelids. The rest of your face will just be black and white.
Watch the tutorial for this look by Giulianna Maria down below:
38. Scary Doll
Source: @coco_mckim
You should definitely not rule out being a scary doll, especially one with a stitched mouth! This look would go with any dress you decide to wear, and it looks so good with a hair bow.
39. Magical Unicorn Makeup
Source: @sarahnewsfx
If all the scary makeup, blood, and gore isn’t really your thing, you can always try something pretty like this! Here is a magical unicorn idea.
The artist has created beautiful makeup using purple tones and has finished the look with glitter, gems, and a unicorn horn headband. This is such a cute look that will let you dress up and celebrate Halloween without all the terror.
You can watch a tutorial for this makeup down below.
40. Scary Clown
Source: @dressyourface
Just looking at this face makes me want to try it out. Clowns are already scary, but when they show up on Halloween night, it’s even more terrifying. Not many people are fans of clowns, so you can be sure you’ll make a scary impression!
41. Pumpkin Illusion Makeup
Source: @rubymediamakeup
Next up, we have another illusion design. The artist has created the illusion that her face is cracking open to reveal a pumpkin underneath. This is such a cool idea and is absolutely perfect for Halloween.
42. Gangster Clown
Source: @addybeauty
Gangster clowns have become super popular, and this is a really cool version. She has the classic clown features with black and white patterns.
This is another great option for a last minute look, and you could even add contacts if you want to make it scarier. Any kind of clothing or costume can be worn with this makeup.
43. Easy Beetlejuice Makeup
Source: @cakefacedali
Beetlejuice is one of the most popular Halloween costumes, so I had to show you a cool makeup look to try. This artist has created a simple but spooky version. She has the pale face with green and purple eyes, and she finished off the look with green hair.
This is an awesome and easy makeup idea. Just wear a striped top, jacket, or dress, and your costume will be complete.
44. Joker Makeup Idea
Source: @kerminaxtadros
Halloween is the best time to dress up as your favorite villain. This next idea features a cool makeup look inspired by the Joker. This makeup is easy to create, and everyone will instantly know who you are.
It’s a fun idea, and I love this one because she still looks stylish, especially with the purple eye makeup. You can check out the products used on the artist’s page.
45. Cute Deer Makeup Look
Source: @adilenexoxo
This might just be the most simple, yet cutest Halloween makeup look I have ever seen. It’s an overload of cuteness. The best thing about it is that it’s quick and easy to do yourself.
The key is to concentrate on drawing attention to your eyes, which you can do by using false eyelashes or just keep applying mascara. Many people prefer to let mascara work its magic instead of using lashes.
To make the ears and cheeks stand out, use bronzer, and don’t be afraid to apply a lot of it! Remember, this isn’t your everyday look, so it needs to be radically different.
46. Bat Halloween Makeup with Scary Contact Lenses
Source: @hayleyshanksmakeup
Next, we have a creepy look that is absolutely perfect for Halloween. This makeup artist has created a bat design on her face. The look is completed with glam eye makeup, red lips, and some scary contact lenses.
I love this one because the bat design is so creative. You can find tutorials for painting bats online, and you can recreate this with any color contact lenses you like.
47. Sugar Skull Makeup
Source: @_heartwork_
You can mix the sugar sweet with a scary theme, and this is what you get! This is truly remarkable. It’s scary and looks like you put so much effort into your Halloween look, everyone is going to be jealous.
48. Scary Spider Makeup
Source: @jodiehulme
Spider makeup is so popular, and with a look like this, it’s easy to see why! The artist has painted spiders on her skin and also created that cool spider eye makeup. But she took it a step further by painting a spider on her mouth too.
It’s so creepy because it looks like the spider is crawling out of her mouth! You can see the products she used on her page, and you can find lots of spider makeup tutorials online.
49. Glam 1920’s Makeup
Source: @madykennedy
If you’re a fan of the 1920s, then you need to see this idea. Here we have some illusion makeup inspired by the decade.
The artist created dark makeup with red lips and even made her eyebrows disappear. This is such a fun and glam costume, and it totally reminds me of old silent movie stars.
50. Fortune Teller Makeup and Costume
Source: @manal
This next idea is one of my absolute favorites. This makeup artist has created an amazing costume inspired by fortune tellers. Her makeup is so pretty and magical, with bright eye makeup and a little bit of sparkle.
You can check out the products she used and watch a tutorial on her page. I just love this mystical idea.