How to Make Rhinestones Stay on Your Face — All Day Long

Choose Your Glue

Even if you’re using a rhinestone or gem with adhesive already on it, you’re going to want to use a skin-friendly glue to secure it in place. Eyelash glue works well for rhinestone application, and chances are you already have it at home and can easily toss it in your bag for touch-ups. 

But if eyelash glue isn’t doing the trick, opt for something stronger like spirit gum (choose one that comes with a remover), an adhesive commonly used to keep prosthetics in place, or an adhesive that’s specifically formulated for the job, like the Mehron Makeup AdGem Adhesive.

Prep the Area

A clean, dry surface is essential for getting a rhinestone to stick. Either apply a mattifying setting spray like the NYX Professional Makeup Matte Setting Spray before applying the gem, or clean the spots where you want to apply the embellishments  with a cotton swab dipped in micellar water.

Apply Your Adhesive and Stick on Your Rhinestones

Once your skin is dry, apply a small dot of glue on the stone or gem and wait a few seconds for it to get tacky. Use tweezers to apply the stones for precise application. Once the gem is on your face, gently press it into your skin with a clean finger.

Remove Them

If you use eyelash glue for application, the stones and glue should come off easily with a makeup remover like the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water with Hyaluronic Acid + Aloe. Professional-grade adhesives like spirit gum may require the use of the remover that came with them for best results.