A Guide to Glitter Fixatives

If you love adding glitter to your makeup or body art, you know the struggle, glitter can easily fall off or smudge without the right fixative.
Choosing the best glitter cosmetic fixative is key to achieving a long-lasting, dazzling look.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top fixatives for glitter application and why aloe vera gel is our favorite natural adhesive for a flawless finish.

Aloe vera application gel by Luminosity Glitter

What Is a Glitter Cosmetic Fixative?

A glitter cosmetic fixative is a product designed to securely hold glitter on your skin, hair, or beard. The ideal fixative is safe for skin, easy to apply and remove, and keeps your sparkle intact throughout the day or night.

Shop Aloe Vera Gel

Glitter Fixatives – What to Use and When 💫

When applying face and body glitter, the product you use underneath the sparkle is just as important as the glitter itself. The right fixative will keep your glitter looking fab all day (or night), while being kind to the skin and easy to remove. Here's a breakdown of the most popular fixatives, their pros and cons, and when to use them.

  • Aloe Vera Gel – The Natural Glitter Fixative 🌿

    Aloe vera gel is lightweight, soothing, and a fan-favourite for sensitive skin. It’s hydrating, dries clear, and holds glitter well for casual wear.

    • ✅ Skin-friendly & cooling – perfect for festivals and kids
    • ✅ Dries fast and evenly
    • ⚠️ Not the strongest hold for sweaty events or oily skin types

    Best For: Face glitter, kids, daytime events
    How to Apply: Spread a thin layer on clean, dry skin and press glitter on top.

  • Cosmetic Glitter Glue 💎

    This is a professional-grade adhesive designed just for glitter. It provides a longer-lasting hold and is ideal for performers or longer wear.

    • ✅ Very strong hold – great for stage or nightclubs
    • ✅ Clear-drying and waterproof (varies by brand)
    • ⚠️ Can feel tight or sticky – patch test recommended
    • ⚠️ Some glues contain latex – always check the label

    Best For: Beards, chest pieces, long events, sweaty dancing
    How to Apply: Dab gently with a brush or finger and press glitter in. Avoid eyes!

  • Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline) 💋

    A slippery, hydrating base that’s good for glitter placement on the body. It’s not long-lasting but great for quick glam shots or low-movement looks.

    • ✅ Easy to apply
    • ✅ Great for smooth application of chunkier glitters
    • ⚠️ Not sweat-proof or smudge-resistant
    • ⚠️ Can clog pores – avoid for acne-prone areas
    • ⚠️Difficult to remove as it's greasy!

    Best For: Décolletage, shoulders, collarbones, editorial shoots
    Top Tip: Not great for hot weather or oily skin

  • Balm-Based Primers (like Paw Paw Balm or Shea Butter Balms) 🧴

    These multi-purpose balms are a nice in-between: they’re nourishing like jelly, but less greasy. Some artists use these for a dewier finish.

    • ✅ Hydrating with a softer hold
    • ✅ Great for dry skin
    • ⚠️ May break down quicker in heat

    Best For: Arms, cheeks, dry skin clients
    Pro Tip: Avoid scented or coloured versions unless you’ve patch-tested them first.

  • Lash Glue (For Face Gems Only!) 💎

    Not for glitter itself, but worth mentioning! Most face gems need a little extra help. Lash glue is popular but must be used with caution:

    • ⚠️ Many contain latex (a common allergy)
    • ⚠️ Always use a separate brush for glue to avoid cross-contamination

    Best For: Face gems, rhinestones, tiny designs
    Accessibility Note: Carry a latex-free alternative

  • Hair Gel (for Glitter Roots) 💇‍♀️

    When applying glitter to hair or beards, traditional hair gel (clear, non-flaky types) is ideal. It holds shape, dries nicely, and is easy to wash out.

    • ✅ Affordable and widely available
    • ✅ Great for glitter roots, partings, and hair streaks
    • ⚠️ Some gels flake or dry white – always test!

    Best For: Glitter roots, hairlines, beards
    Tip: Apply with a tint brush or comb and press glitter in before it dries

  • Bonus Section: What NOT to Use

    • ❌ PVA glue or craft glue (toxic and unsafe for skin)
    • ❌ Spirit gum (for glitter – it’s for prosthetics, not sparkle!)
    • ❌ Hairspray (sounds like it might work – but no… it won’t)
Aloeha! Aloe Vera Application Gel Luminosity Glitter

Final Thoughts

Why Aloe Vera Gel Is Our Top Pick

For a natural, gentle, and effective glitter fixative, aloe vera gel stands out as the best option. It’s perfect for sensitive skin and offers a comfortable, long-lasting hold. If you want stronger adhesion, cosmetic glue is a great alternative - just prioritise skin safety!

Glitter Application Tips Using Fixatives

  • Apply a thin layer of fixative for smooth, clump-free glitter.
  • Pat glitter gently into place instead of rubbing.
  • Use a silicone applicator or flat brush for precise glitter placement.
  • For extra sparkle, layer glitter and fixative carefully.