If you’re like me (the glitter-obsessed generation), your makeup collection is probably overflowing with shimmery highlighters, sparkly shadows, and wayyyy too many tubes of glitter gloss that you only use for special looks. But what about body glitter? Like, full-on festival-ready, glowing-like-a-unicorn, extra AF body glitter?! It can make such a statement, but finding something that’s not going to turn your skin into a dry, itchy scale-fest is tough. Trust me, as a makeup artist, I’ve seen soooo many products that look magical on the shelf but straight up tragic when they actually hit your skin.
Here’s the tea: making your own body glitter gel at home is seriously SO easy, and the best part? You probably already have everything you need in your bathroom! We’re talking about super hydrating Aloe Vera gel (cheap but chef’s kiss magical), fine glitter (because duh), a cute lil jar to store it in, and that DIY girl swag! Ready to check out how to glow up on your own terms? Let’s go, bestie!!
Why Aloe Vera Gel is EVERYTHING
Before we mix up all the glittery goodness, let me hit you up with some knowledge. Aloe vera gel isn’t just for when you burn the crap out of your skin after one tanning sesh (btw, wear sunscreen). It’s literally like a skin savior that hydrates while calming down any irritation. Aloe is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and it just feels so cooling and fresh when you apply it—like a free skincare boost!
Also, since aloe vera is water-based, it dries on your skin without leaving you feeling greasy, so your glitter will stay in place without sliding all over your clothes. We love a responsible glitter moment.
What You’ll Need
Honestly, when I say you only need like three things, I’m not even kidding. Here’s the essentials:
| Ingredient | Why We Love It |
|---|---|
| Aloe Vera Gel | It’s the moisturizing queen, doesn’t leave you all sticky. |
| Fine Glitter | Because you want that sparkle, right?! My go-to is holographic. |
| A Small Jar/Container | Something cute that seals tightly, so you can take it on-the-go. |
| Essential Oils (Optional) | Add a drop for a slight fragrance, if you’re feeling boujee. |
For the aloe vera gel, you can go for something straight from the drugstore or hit up Walmart or Target—whatever works for you. Just make sure it says “pure aloe vera gel” on the front. My final tip for the glitter: use cosmetic-grade glitter, bestie! It’s safer for your skin and eyes. If you need a rec, NYX has some bomb options in all the colors you can dream of.
The Fun Part: Let’s Make It!
Okayyy, let’s get to the good part, shall we? Here’s your step-by-step glitter gel recipe (you’re literally going to feel like a beauty scientist).
Step 1: Choose Your Jar
Obviously, you need somewhere to store this glittery potion. Look for a jar or container that seals well, because the last thing you need is glitter exploding all over your makeup drawer. You know the kind of mess I’m talking about!
Step 2: Add Aloe Vera, the Star Ingredient
Squeeze aloe vera gel into your jar; I’d say start with about two tablespoons. This doesn’t have to be an exact science, but you want enough so the glitter suspends nicely in the gel. Aloe’s gonna be what holds your glitter party together, so don’t be shy.
Step 3: Time for the Glitter Bomb!
Girrrrl, go wild. Add in about a half-teaspoon of your fine glitter (you can always add more later if you’re feeling extra). Mix it up gently with a small spoon or stir stick. If you have a more chill day ahead, try less glitter for a subtle shimmer. Got a festival or rave happening? Add more until you’re basically a human disco ball.
Step 4: Optional Boujee Moment (Essential Oils)
If you’re feeling fancy, now’s the time to drop in some essential oils. I personally love lavender oil as it’s soothing and smells amaze, but you do you! Just one or two drops is enough so it won’t overpower your gel’s texture.
Step 5: Mix, Mix, Mix!
Once everything’s in the jar, give it a good stir. Make sure the glitter is evenly distributed in the aloe, so you don’t get clumps when you use it. After mixing, your glitter gel should look like liquid magic—a blend of sparkles suspended in a smooth, hydrating base. Heart eyes, for sure.
How to Apply It Like a Pro
I know you’re extra, and you want to make sure that glitter sticks all day (no smudging or falling off by the end of the night). So, here’s my #protip: apply your body glitter gel on clean, dry skin. You can use your fingers (because who’s got time for brushes), or you can go in with a makeup brush if you prefer a more precise application—whatever floats your boat.
Once you’ve applied it, let it dry for a hot minute before putting on your clothes. Aloe dries quickly but hey, patience is key, right? If you’re going for a shoulder-alone shimmer or layering it up for a head-to-toe festival lewk, just make sure you give it time to set.
Trust—the results are everything.
A hundred percent ready to sparkle like the star you are!
Customizing Your Look
What’s amazing about this body glitter gel DIY is that you can totally mix it up depending on the vibe you’re going for. Want to flex at a pool party? You could even throw in some glow-in-the-dark glitter (it’s a whole thing, trust me). Just keep in mind the finer the glitter, the more evenly it mixes into the gel—so avoid chunky glitter unless you’re okay with some spottier application (which, tbh, is still a LOOK on its own).
Also, feel free to play around with different glitter colors. You can mix pink, gold, and even silver for a more colorful holographic vibe. Feeling daring? Mix in some iridescent flakes for a mermaid-goddess finish. Yaaasss!
Festival Tips & Tricks
Since festivals are basically made for glitter, and glitter is life, here are a few extra tips to keep you poppin’ all day and night:
- Set your gel with a body spray: A few spritzes of setting spray on top (trust me, a $7 travel-size NYX Matte Setting Spray works wonders) will help lock that glitter into place.$7 travel-size NYX Matte Setting Spray works wonders
- Use sunscreen BEFORE the glitter gel: Sunscreen saves lives, babe. Make sure it’s dry before adding the glitter, so it doesn’t end up mixing weird.
- Don’t rub your glitter off: Don’t get all crazy rubbing or itching. That glitter can fall victim to sweaty hands and clothes if you’re not careful.
Cleaning It Up Later?
Okay, real talk—glitter can be stubborn, but not when you do it right. When the party’s over and you’re ready to take it all off, use an oil-based makeup remover or coconut oil to remove the aloe/grit mix without damaging your skin. It breaks down the gel and helps glide the glitter off without turning your bedroom into a hot glittery mess.
Less mess = more time to shine tomorrow, amirite?!
Ok, Recap Time!
Because let’s be real, you might be scrolling through all this info on your phone at lightning speed. So here’s the super-fast glitter gel recipe:
- Grab a jar that’s cute and seals properly.
- Squeeze in 2 tablespoons of Aloe Vera Gel.
- Add in about ½ teaspoon of fine glitter (you can go back for more if needed).
- Optional: Drop in 1-2 drops of your fave essential oil for fragrance.
- Mix, Mix, and Mix until the glitter is evenly distributed.
- Apply on clean, dry skin, wait for it to dry and TA-DA. You’re ready to G-L-O-W.
If you loved this DIY, hit me up in the comments or DM me on Insta @SuLovesMakeup. Don’t forget to tag me the next time you’re shining at your next festival or just on your skincare glow-up day. I wanna see alllll the sparkles. ✨
Remember: the glitter might wash off, but your glow never will! 😘
