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Glow in the dark paints have been on the market for around 100 years but have only been used more extensively in the past 40 years. So, where would you use this type of paint? If you are planning a kid’s or Halloween party, school project, craft ideas, or just want to have some fun then the best glow in the dark paints are the answer. They are effective when painted on the face or body or can also be applied to many other surfaces as well. In this article we will be helping you through the maze of products, to get you the right paint for your project. Table of Contents
Glow in the Dark Paint ExplainedLike all other products there are hundreds of different types available, so how do we choose the best glow in the dark paint. Before you buy this type of paint you need to learn a bit more about the variety of paints available. Here are a few that are available on the market:
Types of Glow in the Dark PaintsYou get many varieties of glow in the dark paint, each specially formulated to be applied on hard or solid surfaces and are excellent glow in the dark paint for walls, ceilings, and metal. Others can be applied to different types of fabric and then some can be applied to the body and face. Recently there has also been released washable glow in the dark paint for cosmetic use like make-up. There are two formulations or types of glow in the dark paints which are water-based and glow in the dark acrylic paint. These two options may not appear to be different, however, where you can apply them, and their performance varies greatly. These need to be properly understood if your project you have in mind is to be perfect.
Water-Based Glow in the Dark PaintThis type of paint is water-based and therefore has several advantages:
Glow in the Dark Acrylic PaintThis type of paint is chemical-based and is a good glow in the dark paint for walls and other solid surfaces. Here are some of its benefits and disadvantages:
Top Brands for Glow in the Dark PaintsGlow in the dark paints can be used for numerous types of projects, but you need to consider a few things before you go out and buy. The main thing is the type of surface you want to paint. This is important, as they are not universal and not all brands can be used on all types of materials. You also need to think about the strength of the glow, and for how long you want that glow to last. So, for these reasons we are going to define our choices to two main areas:
Best Value for Money: LET’S Resin Glow in the Dark Powder SetLet’s Resin is a famous company when it comes to products around the epoxy resin world. It contains 12 x 0.7 ounces of pigment powder that you can mix with any type of binder of your choice. For best results, we suggest that you mix it with a clear binder to bring out the brightest glow. A good binder can be clear polyurethane, varnish, lacquer, paints, or epoxies, which makes it the best glow in the dark spray paint. When mixing with paints a higher ratio will be required, refer to the manufactures instructions. LET'S RESIN 12 Colors Glow in The Dark Pigment Powder
To mix the product, take one-part pigment powder and mix it with two-parts of your choice of binder. With this mixing ratio, the glow pigment powder should last you a long time and is one of the best glow in the dark spray paints. A major disadvantage is that there are only two colors: green and blue. This product can easily be used outdoors or indoors. When using it outdoors you need to follow the manufactures instructions for mixing, as you need to use a solvent-based binder. The paint needs to be charged first for a few hours by the sunlight or other light source, and then it should glow brightly with a vivid green or blue glow. Pros
Cons
Best Overall Glow in the Dark Paint for Solid Surfaces: AURORA Bright GreenThe Aurora Bright Green Glow in the dark paint manufactured by Space Beams is one of the best outdoor glow in the dark paint products available and is for use on fabrics and solid surfaces only. The product can be applied to several different surfaces such as metal, wood, plastic, glass, rock, fabric, and more, and is effective when applied indoors or outdoors.However, it is not recommended for use on the body or face. With just one strong charge of around 10 seconds, using a UV flashlight or direct sunlight, it can hold a charge for 12 hours. If properly cared for, you can keep charging and it will last for many years. AURORA Bright Green, Water Based Glow in the Dark Paint, 0.68 fl oz
For best results, it is better if you apply it to a light background at a thickness of around 3 mm. Aurora Bright Green can give you a bright glow even when wet, but it is advisable to coat it with a layer of varnish to protect it from moisture deterioration.Aurora Bright Green is manufactured with a thick consistency which allows you to use it as is, or you can easily thin it by adding water. Be careful and only add one drop of water at a time, as it tends to thin very quickly. Once applied, it will dry within 30 to 60 minutes, however, for a thicker application it may take a little longer to dry. Certainly, this is the best outdoor glow in the dark paint. Pros
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Best Overall Glow in the Dark Paint for Face and Body: MIDNIGHT GLO UV Body PaintThe best glow in the dark face paint we found is the Midnight Glo UV Body Paint. This comes in eight bright fluorescent neon colors: yellow, orange, purple, blue, pink, white, red, and green. At your party or function when the black lights or UV lights are switched on, your skin will glow with all those amazing color combinations and designs. Please avoid applying this paint near or around your eyes, as it could cause harm. MIDNIGHT GLO UV Reactive Face and Body Paint, 6 Bottles, 0.75 oz
The creamy consistency of the Midnight Glo UV Body Paint is similar to that of Tempera Paint, which is smooth. The product is a washable glow in the dark paint and can easily be removed by washing with water no need to scrub. However, it can withstand your bodies’ perspiration. The paint is quite easy to apply, is quick-drying, and gives your skin a bright shiny appearance. The paint is harmless and can be smeared onto the skin. However, do not let it get on your clothes, as it can cause a stain. This body paint is available in 0.75 fluid ounce and 2 fluid ounce packs with each pack consisting of 6, 7, or 8 bottles. Pros
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Tips When Buying Your Best Glow in the Dark PaintWhen you are about to go and purchase your glow in the dark paint you first need to consider certain key factors. This is to ensure you buy the correct paint for your project as not all of them perform in the same way. There are many different types on the market, so let us read on to find out what you can look out for when purchasing.
Purpose of UseThe specific type of glow in the dark paint will depend solely on the type of project you have in mind. Some projects cover more than one surface, so you need to choose the paint that will perform best on the surface you want to cover. For example, some of the paints are for use on fabrics, others on hard surfaces, while others are for face and body application. There are two basic kinds of glow in the dark paints, these are acrylic or water-based. The acrylic type is thick like toothpaste and easily adheres to surfaces but is very difficult to remove once dry. The water-based type is much thinner and is great to use for craft ideas and parties and can easily be removed using water. Also known as washable glow in the dark paint.
Strength of GlowMost of the glow in the dark paints receive their charge from direct sunlight or UV lights, and the glow strength may depend on the strength of the light source. Some users use UV flashlights to charge the product and this operation can be done in a matter of seconds. There is glow in the dark paint that gives out a strong bright glow when others provide a softer pastel type of glow. The formulation of the particular product will determine the type and strength of glow that you will receive.
Variety of ColorsSome of the glow in the dark paints have only one or two colors per pack. However, you may need to have a lot more for your project. No problem, for there are products on the market that have multicolor packs, so you need to choose the product that is right for you. Remember, the blues and greens give out the brightest glow in the dark paint while colors like reds, purples, and pinks are less striking.
Long-lastingThe time you want the glow to last is also dependent on your project. If used on a costume that only has to last for one night then the long-lasting factor is not very important. However, if you intend your glow to last for a long time, like a design on your child’s ceiling, then it needs to last for a few years. For this purpose, you need to buy a high-quality glow in the dark paint that can be applied to a hard surface which can last for many years. This type of paint could be expensive, but you will end up with a long-lasting design.
SizeThis factor will be dependent on the size of your project so you may need to buy a bigger size bottle. The average size is a 0.75-ounce bottle, which should be sufficient to cover most of your project needs like stars on the ceiling or various craft ideas. If you are planning a party or a function then the 0.75-ounce bottle should be ample, but if you are having a group of friends around then we advise that you buy the 1 or 2-ounce bottles. To give you an idea a 1 fluid ounce bottle can be enough to cover one up to two square feet of surface area.
Safety of the PaintHow safe is glow in the dark paint? The is determined by the type of paint you are using. Some of the paints like acrylic-based glow in the dark paints are not for use on the body or face and if used can cause serious harm. Only paints labeled as glow in the dark body paints are safe for use on your skin and can easily be washed off with soap and water. Most of the water-based paints do not have harmful chemicals and are non-toxic and can be applied to the skin but must be kept away from the eyes. However, you need to consider the condition of the skin before applying the paint, as people with skin problems like eczema need to stay away from putting this type of paint onto their skin. The different ingredients in the paint can irritate the skin.
Application Process for Glow in the Dark Paint for WallsApplying the best glow in the dark paint is easy and can be done by almost everyone. There is some preparation if you are going to apply glow in the dark paint for walls, or onto other types of surfaces. You need to make sure how many coats to apply and various other tips, which will provide the best long-lasting glow.
How to Create Your Own Glow in the Dark PaintsIs it possible to create glow in the dark paint by yourself? The answer is yes, you can make your own ensuring that it is safe and non-toxic. There are certain advantages for making your own glow in the dark paint and not purchasing it from the store:
The ingredients needed for your glow in the dark paint:
Steps to Follow When Making Glow in the Dark PaintWhen making your own glow in the dark paint follow these simple steps to ensure the best results. Do not worry about precision when adding the ingredients, just be creative.
Tips When Creating Your Own Paint That GlowsThe next time you plan a party, or next Halloween why not give the glow in the dark paints a try? Here are a few guidelines when using the brightest glow in the dark paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Glow in the Dark Paint Unsafe?There are certain types of glow in the dark paints that can be harmful to your skin. That is why it is important to use the correct formulated products for application on your face and body. Always take a look at the product information before buying.
What is Glow in the Dark Paint?The glow in the dark paint is manufactured using luminescent phosphors particles in the paint. These particles are charged under a UV light or the sunlight and can then hold the charge and glow for a certain time.
How Long can the Paint Hold its Glow?It all depends on what type of product you are using, which can result in your paint holding its glow for up to 24 hours. Some of the glow in the dark paints that are applied permanently will begin to fade after a time, but the high-quality type of paints can last for 20 years or more.
Why Does my Glow in the Dark Paint not Glow?These types of paints need to be charged before they can glow and must be exposed to some form of light like the sun or UV light for them to glow. If the paint is applied indoors then the ordinary indoor lighting should be sufficient to charge the paint and cause it to glow.
Is There a Difference Between Fluorescence and Glow in the Dark Paint?Both of these paints will glow in the dark but fluorescent paints will only glow when a UV or black light is turned on them. Most of the fluorescent paints are body and face paint. Glow in the dark paint also glows in the dark but it first needs to be charged and then it can glow without the need of any light source. How well does glow in the dark acrylic paint work?I ordered this for a Halloween costume and other general art uses- and it definitely works! As long as you let the paint dry as recommended and let it charge in the sun or bright light it'll glow. 2-3 coats may be needed, but thats pretty standard for most paints. It dries well also!
Does glowThe invisible UV light with lots of energy can charge the special phosphors in your paint and make it glow in your bedroom at night. There are different types of glow-in-the-dark paint. One type can be charged during the day and can glow for hours in the dark at night.
What is the best glow in the dark acrylic paint?Explore our top picks below.. PEBEO Phosphorescent Gel. A thick acrylic paint that is best suited for application with a painting knife, Pebeo's product is ideal for studio work. ... . FolkArt Neon Glow Acrylic Paint Set. ... . Tulip Glow Fabric Paint. ... . Neon Nights UV Fabric Paint Set. ... . SpaceBeams Glow in the Dark Paint.. Why doesn't my glowYou need to use a bright light not a dim one! Charging is more about light quality and less about the length of time you charge it for. The paint is constantly discharging light even during the day, when you can't see the glow. For this reason charging it up all day isn't going to make it brighter at night.
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