What Makes Cosmetic Glitter Different from Craft Glitter

Most people are well acquainted with glitter and its variety of uses. We got introduced to these shiny colorful dust-like particles as early as pre-school when we would use glitter in a myriad of ways to jazz up our arts and crafts. Then we grew up and found a new use for glitter, in our make-up, for nails and the eyes, making them shine and helping us stand out in masses of festival crowds. So, there are the two most common varieties of glitter that are popularly used, one for art and another for make-up.

But, is the cosmetic glitter the same as the craft glitter? What makes one different from the other? Well, that’s what we will explain in detail in this blog.

Craft Glitter vs Cosmetic Glitter

Glitters are available in all kinds of cuts, shapes, effects, colors, and materials. Their range varies from prismatic, iridescent to neon, holographic and even with glow in the dark effects. All these factors contribute to the glitters’ shiny and shimmery effect. The particles of glitter differ in size range as well, starting from a microscopic 25 micron up to a whopping confetti-like 10mm and larger. A wide variety of shapes are also available including hearts, stars, unicorns, triangle, cupcakes etc. These are usually around the 2-3mm mark and can be made in standard craft grade or cosmetic grade glitters.

The main points of distinction in both varieties of the glitter are in respect of materials used, the processing and packaging of the same.

Glitter Materials

The materials used for cosmetic glitter is always of higher quality compared to craft glitter, because the former is directly used over the skin.  Cosmetic glitter is formulated from a highly refined grade of PET and then coated in a polymer which makes it far more comfortable to wear. The glitter pigment and colors used are all approved by the FDA and dermatologically tested. We ensure that the colours are colourfast and no staining is left on the skin.

Our craft glitter is also made from PET and all colourings used are EN-71 approved. This means they are completely safe to be handled with bare hands and by kids and no irritation will occur. 

Glitter Cuts

Since it is used directly on the skin and mostly the sensitive facial skin, the glitter cuts need to be milled in a more careful and refined manner. That’s not the same with craft glitter. In case of cosmetics, the glitters come in circular shapes, which minimizes the risk of anyirritation or abrasions on the skin.

Craft glitter, on the other hand, is cut angularly, like in squares or hexagons, which adds to the shimmer when used on paper or other objects.

Glitter Processing

There are handling and packaging statutes and standards in place for cosmetic glitter for safety and to prevent contamination of any kind. The ones packaging and processing the glitter products are meant to maintain certain handling regulations, such as sanitary conduct, and keeping all machines used in the process ultra clean, so that no impurity can get into the glitter. 

In the case of craft glitter, certain standards are maintained but they are not as stringent as cosmetic ones.

All that we discussed about both varieties of glitter, can be found at Victoria Street. It is one of the leading glitter wholesale in UK suppliers, who have a wide range of offerings in this area. Their product variety range from cosmetic glitters, industrial glitters, glitter wallpaper, glue and accessories to craft glitter UK. You will get ample choices in colors, tones, and shimmer when shopping for glitter at Victoria Street. Visit their site www.victoriastreet.co.uk to know more about their shimmery offerings.