Why the Right Body Art Adhesive Matters for Glitter Tattoos, Parties and Festivals
The complete guide to choosing safe, long-lasting body art adhesive for glitter tattoos, festivals, children's parties and professional use.
When people think about glitter tattoos, they usually focus on the glitter itself. However, the adhesive underneath is what actually determines how beautiful, safe, and long-lasting the design will be, especially on delicate children's skin.
What Is The Best Glitter Tattoo Glue?
When choosing the best glitter tattoo glue, look for products that are:
- Made specifically for use on skin
- Supported by proper safety documentation
- Manufactured to consistent professional standards
- Supplied by a trusted company
The Glitter Tree Body Art Adhesive meets these criteria and is manufactured in the United Kingdom, supported by a Safety Data Sheet, product liability insurance and professional packaging designed for both retail and professional users.
What Our Customers Say
★★★★★"I like the fact that all the ingredients were really good. The stickiness is really good."
Gillian, verified Amazon purchase of our Event Size 30mL, September 2026
We don't write our reviews, we share them. See every review on Amazon
How to Apply Glitter Tattoos, Step by Step
For best results and longest wear time:
- Clean the skin with an alcohol wipe (included with our kits and stencil packs) or soap & water, and let it dry completely.
- Place your desired stencil onto the skin and press it down firmly.
- Apply a thin, even layer of adhesive over the stencil using the sponge wand, keeping it away from the eyes.
- Wait until the glue turns from white to completely clear (usually 30 to 60 seconds).
- While the glue is tacky, gently press or sprinkle cosmetic glitter over the stencil.
- Brush or blow away excess glitter.
- Allow the design to set for a minute, then carefully peel off the stencil.
Important: Our stencils are designed for one-time use only. We do not recommend reusing the same stencil on another child.
Pro tip: a thin layer gives the best results and usually lasts 3 to 5 days, depending on where the design is placed. More adhesive won't make it last longer, as a thick layer builds up and rubs off sooner.
What Makes The Glitter Tree Body Art Adhesive Different?
- Manufactured in the United Kingdom by The Glitter Tree
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Water-based and latex-free
- Over 80 medium-sized glitter tattoos per 10mL bottle
- Keeps for 36 months once opened
- Product liability insurance
- Safety Data Sheet available: Download the Body Art Adhesive SDS (PDF)
- Professional tamper-proof packaging
- Shatterproof anti-spill bottles with non-drip stopper
- Includes sponge wand applicator, apart from the Refill 250mL, which is a refill bottle only
- Available as the Single 10mL, Twin Pack 2 x 10mL for sharing, Event Size 30mL and Party Pack 6 x 10mL, ideal for parties and events with several helpers, plus the Refill 250mL for entertainers who fill their own applicators
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between body art adhesive and craft glue?
Body art adhesive is specifically designed for use on the skin, whereas craft glues are not intended for cosmetic applications. For safety reasons, only products designed for body art and cosmetic use should be applied to the skin.
Is your adhesive vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes, 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, from age 3, when used as directed with adult supervision. If in any doubt, do a quick patch test first, especially on younger children.
How long do glitter tattoos last?
Usually 3 to 5 days, depending on where the design is placed. A thin layer lasts longest. A thick layer builds up and tends to rub off sooner, so there's no need to use more.
Can I use it on my face?
Yes, on older children and adults, but we don't recommend it on young children's faces. Always keep it away from the eyes.
How do I remove a glitter tattoo?
Smooth a little baby oil over the design and let it soak in, then wash off with soap and water or a very mild alcohol-based remover. Please don't scrub, as this can irritate delicate skin.
Can I shower or swim with a glitter tattoo?
Yes. Showers and swimming are fine, just pat the area dry afterwards. Avoid soaking it in the bath, and remember that how long it lasts also depends on where it's placed.
How many glitter tattoos does one bottle do?
Over 80 medium-sized glitter tattoos per Single 10mL bottle, depending on size. That's over 160 from the Twin Pack 2 x 10mL, over 240 from the Event Size 30mL and over 480 from the Party Pack 6 x 10mL. The Refill 250mL should be enough for over 2000, but that is our own estimate, as everyone applies adhesive differently.
How long does the adhesive keep, and how should I store it?
It keeps for 36 months once opened. Always put the lid back on after use, and store it at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and away from extreme cold.
Is it latex-free and water-based?
Yes. Our Body Art Adhesive is water-based and latex-free.
Does it work with chunky and biodegradable glitter?
Yes. It works with all types of cosmetic glitter, including fine, chunky and biodegradable glitter, as well as face gems and body jewels, so it's just as good for festivals and nights out as it is for kids' parties.
Should I do a patch test?
If in any doubt, yes. A quick patch test before use is always a good idea, especially on younger children.
Where can I find safety and compliance information?
All Safety Data Sheets and compliance documentation can be found in our Safety & Compliance Centre.
Do you offer replacement glue?
Yes. Our Body Art Adhesive comes in five sizes: the Single 10mL, Twin Pack 2 x 10mL, Event Size 30mL, Party Pack 6 x 10mL and the Refill 250mL, a flip top refill bottle for filling your own applicators.