Festival Makeup: How to Achieve Neon Looks Safely

Festival season is here, and with it comes the vibrant trend of neon makeup. From electric graphic eyeliners to vampy lips and shimmering holographic highlighters, bold beauty looks are dominating the scene. However, the allure of these eye-catching styles is tempered by warnings about the potential dangers lurking in some products.

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If you want colours to "pop", he says use a white eye pencil on the skin first and then press bright eyeshadows on top. "It will make bold colours more intense, and last all night."

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute has alerted consumers to the presence of toxic chemicals in certain makeup items sold by third-party vendors on online marketplaces like TikTok Shop. These ingredients can lead to severe skin reactions, including bad rashes and allergic responses. Consumers are urged to exercise caution and scrutinize product labels.

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There are some items that are UV reflective, glow-in-the-dark or neon that are made by cosmetics brands but are quietly labelled as a 'non-cosmetic paint'.

Experts advise checking for banned colorants such as Solvent Yellow 172, CI 45161 (Basic Red 1:1), and CI 45174 (Basic Violet 11:1). It is crucial to avoid products explicitly labeled 'not for cosmetic use,' even if they appear suitable for skin application. Makeup artist Dominic Skinner emphasizes being wary of suspiciously cheap products or unfamiliar sellers, noting that some items, while appearing cosmetic, are quietly marketed as 'non-cosmetic paint.'

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"The 'no make-up look' is gone. Clean girl is out!"

For those embracing the playful, exaggerated aesthetic of festival makeup, glitter and face gems are recommended. Skinner suggests using gems for their impact and reusability. However, Dr. Emma Wedgeworth of the British Skin Foundation advises caution with glitter near the eyes to prevent corneal scratches, recommending biodegradable, eco-friendly glitter and safe adhesives like lash glue. The trend also embraces juicy, blurred lips, moving away from traditional summer shades.

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Skip near the eyes to avoid nasty scratches on your cornea, says the British Skin Foundation's Dr Emma Wedgeworth, and never use craft glitter.