13 Best Skin Tone Markers For Every Occasion In 2023
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Do you have a hard time finding the perfect skin tone marker for every occasion? Are you constantly wondering if skin tone markers are essential for your work? This blog post will discuss the 10 best skin tone markers on the market and provide you with tips on choosing the right set for your project.
Our Top Picks
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Best overall - Arteza Skin Tone Alcohol Markers• High-quality inks |
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Runner-up - Ohuhu Skin Tone Alcohol Markers• Dual-tip markers |
Budget-Friendly Markers - Arrtx Skin Tone Dual-Tip Markers• Excellent blendability |
1. Arteza Skin Tone Alcohol Markers - Best Overall
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What Customers Have to Say
A proud DIY crafter posted the cards she made with these markers online, saying the colors are perfect for her works. Several art students love these markers for their affordable price and extensive color selection. Even pre-teeners are very happy with the result of their work using these skin tone markers.
Why We Think It's Great
The Arteza Skin Tone Alcohol Markers use high-quality inks that glide on smoothly to deliver beautiful, even coverage. You can use these markers on wood, marker paper, cardstock, and even rocks.
The triangular barrel of the markers affords easier grip, while the highly blendable colors are perfect for your journals, illustrations, cards, and other DIY crafts. The close tonal difference allows for the smoother transition you need for realistic drawings.
The dual-tipped pens (fine and chisel tips) work for fine detailing and coloring in for maximum versatility. The set comes in 36 colors, arranged in a plastic organizer inside a sturdy carton case for easier organizing.
Arteza's customer service is the best around, very responsive, and truly cares for its customers.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are best for portrait artists, designers, manga & anime artists, and architects looking for a full range of skin tone markers. Crafters will also love these markers for their many projects.
2. Ohuhu Skin Tone Alcohol Markers - Runner-up
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What Customers Have to Say
These markers have fantastic quality, even for their very affordable price. They're about half the price of Copic marker alternatives and way below the hundreds of dollars on original Copic markers.
Some users complained of some duplicate colors in their 120-color set, though. For the most part, artists buy them repeatedly because they're satisfied with the color combination and the quality of this skin tone set.
Why We Think It's Great
Check out Ohuhu Skin Tone Markers with their smudge-free ink and dual-tips for versatility and freedom. The ink blends well, and the 36 colors in the set ensure that you'll find the perfect skin tone shades.
The oval barrel is comfortable to use even for younger artists. It also comes with a zippered canvas carrying case and a translucent plastic sheet to protect the following pages of your sketchbook.
Who Should Buy It
If you are looking for a great set of skin tone markers at an affordable price, the Ohuhu Skin Tone Alcohol Markers would be our top pick. These markers are also great for animation artists and fashion designers.
3. Tombow Portrait Water-Based Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Customers have varying comments on these markers. While a few hate the markers because of their limited blending capacity, many artists refute these reviews. Artists who understand the correct use of these markers appreciate the quality. These markers need blender markers to blend the colors, though.
Why We Think It's Great
Tombow Portrait Water-Based Markers are perfect for various creative applications, from brush lettering to illustrations and journaling. They feature durable nibs that can withstand wear and tear.
The set does not include a blender pen for smooth transitions and shading. However, you can buy blender markers individually. These markers don't leave clean lines but create color washes.
The water-based inks are acid-free, non-toxic, and conform with ASTM D-4236 standards, making them safe for all your projects. Best of all, they're easy to clean, so you can get right back to work.
Who Should Buy It
This marker set is excellent for artists looking for a watercolor effect on their work. You can also use these markers for your crafts and other art projects like calligraphy, journaling, and watercolor illustrations.
4. Art-n-Fly Skin Tone Brush Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Users appreciate that these affordable skin tone markers are also refillable, making them excellent alternative Copic markers. The refill inks are also very affordable. Even dedicated Copic users became converts of Art-n-Fly because of their quality and price.
Why We Think It's Great
Art-n-Fly Brush Tip Skin Tone Markers are versatile markers that work well for at least three skin tones, depending on the combination you use. However, these dual-tip markers need blender markers for better blending and a natural blur effect.
Some of the colors are close in range, but the difference becomes apparent when you layer them. It is best to make a color swatch for the individual markers or color combinations for more consistency.
Art-n-Fly Brush Tip Skin Tone Markers feature Japan-quality replaceable nibs, and they conform to ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards. The company also offers excellent after-sales customer service to make sure you're happy with your purchase.
This 12-marker set also comes with access to a free art tutorial by scanning the code on the product box.
Who Should Buy It
Users recommend this set if you're ready to upgrade from a 6-marker skin tone set. These markers do not have the best quality for professional artists, but they work well as cheap alternatives for more expensive brands.
5. CMYK+ Skin Tone Dual-Tip Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Many customers have tried more expensive brands, but they reported that this set is comparable with the pricier ones. However, the lightest colors don't darken even with repeated colors, making them good base tones.
The set also comes with a color swatch sheet and sample skin tone combinations for convenience.
Why We Think It's Great
If you're also fond of freebies, the colorless blender, white gel pen, and water-based white pencils are an excellent treat for you.
Who Should Buy It
This set is best for artists looking for fine tip skin tone markers for extra fine detail work. The skin tone combo reference is a big help also for newbies trying to get a hang with skin tone combinations.
6. Chameleon Skin Tone Marker Set
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What Customers Have to Say
Many users reported that these markers are excellent in color, coverage, and price. However, learning to blend the pens using the companion product takes a while. However, once you understand how it works, you can extend the 5-color palette to more options.
Why We Think It's Great
Though the Chameleon Skin Tone Marker Set includes only five refillable markers, you can extend the color range using the Chameleon Color Tops. The markers are refillable and have replaceable nibs, so you can keep your markers in excellent condition for years to come.
The companion set, sold separately, lets you blend the colors on the marker itself. This way, you get seamless blending for a more natural look. To blend the colors, touch the pens on the color tops to let the ink flow between them.
The non-toxic, low-odor ink dries quickly to avoid smudging. You can use these markers for highlighting, blending, and shading.
Who Should Buy It
The Chameleon Skin Tone Marker Set is the perfect solution for artists and crafters who need a wide range of colors to match any skin tone with fewer supplies.
7. Arrtx Skin Tone Dual-Tip Markers - Budget-Friendly Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Customers prefer this affordable skin tone marker set because the colors are not streaky. The 36-color set is best for many skin colors, including those with warm undertones.
Several artists also posted their works and reviews on these markers, saying the wide color selection allows them more freedom to work on their projects.
Why We Think It's Great
Arrtx Skin Tone Markers are perfect for blending and creating natural-looking skin tones. The dual tips offer precision and control for detailing and filling-in jobs. The quick-drying, smudge-resistant inks keep your work looking pristine.
The triangular barrel provides a comfortable grip, allowing you to work on your projects with minimal hand fatigue.
The 36-color set comes with a sturdy box with a lid that serves as reclining support for the case for easy access while working. The case also has a handle for better portability.
Who Should Buy It
This set is best for artists looking for budget-friendly skin tone markers with a great selection. The markers are also great for artists who want a portable set to organize their markers when on the go.
8. Crayola Ultra-Clean Skin Tone Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Parents love these markers because they give their kids the freedom to create art. No more messy walls (as long as they're painted) since you can wash the markings off with some soap and water. The colors even last long, which is why parents love these markers.
Why We Think It's Great
Crayola Ultra-Clean Skin Tone Markers are the perfect choice for your little artist. The large-grip markers make it easy for kids to hold, and the washable ink washes off the skin and most fabrics with ease.
These markers use non-toxic inks, so you can feel confident that they're safe for your child to use. Best of all, these markers are very affordable, making them an excellent value for any family.
Crayola designed these markers to let children understand that skin color comes in many shades. Available colors in this 10-marker set are mahogany, sienna, golden beige, bronze, terra cotta, tan beige, tawny, sepia, and apricot.
Who Should Buy It
These washable markers are best for younger kids because of their large-grip design and non-toxic formulation.
9. Adaxi Skin Tone Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
According to many users, these are the best budget skin tone markers they have tried. These markers are perfect for artists looking for the right shade of tones for their portrait and anime projects.
Why We Think It's Great
Create amazing portraits with the Adaxi Skin Tone Markers. These high-quality markers have a fine and broad tip for more versatility.
The permanent alcohol inks apply smoothly, and the close tonal graduation of the colors makes it easy for you to achieve a more natural look with your work. The set has 30 colors, including a colorless blender marker for seamless blending.
The caps have no perforations or holes to let gas in or out, so the markers don't dry out. To prevent the ink from leaking, loosen the cap to allow air inside, then remove the cap gently. When using the markers for the first time, dip the marker's tip into a small amount of alcohol to coax the ink into the nib.
The set also comes with a zippered canvas case and a plastic base that fits into the base for easier desk and travel organization.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are best for portrait artists, fashion designers, landscape artists, and other artists requiring markers with close tonal graduation. If you need more tonal markers, they also offer sets in blue and gray tones.
10. TouchNew Permanent Dual-Tip Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Many users think that these markers have a steep learning curve because they can't figure out how to stop the streaky effect. Overall, though, the colors are impressive and blendable.
Why We Think It's Great
TouchNew Permanent Dual-Tip Markers are the perfect tools for artists and crafters of all experience levels. The special cap design allows for better ink management, so your markers don't dry quickly.
These markers can quickly achieve photorealistic artwork because they have a unique color palette. The set makes an excellent complement for other marker brands because it includes colors not available in other brands.
The unique colors offered in this set are not found in other brands, making them a must-have for any artist's toolkit. The excellent ink quality and coverage will let you create beautiful pieces with ease and at an affordable price point.
The set has 23 colors and a blender marker for easier use.
Who Should Buy It
Anyone who wants to take their artwork up a notch should invest in this set. The markers are perfect for artists of all skill levels and everyone looking for a budget alternative.
11. Artify Alcohol Brush & Chisel-Tip Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
According to many users, these markers are an excellent alternative to Copic markers. Even newbies love these markers. Some users think these markers duplicate the design of other markers, though.
Why We Think It's Great
Artify Alcohol Brush & Chisel-Tip Markers have a dual-tip design, perfect for detailed work and larger strokes. Alcohol ink markers are notorious for their offensive odors. However, these markers are less odorous. You can use them with confidence in any setting.
The sturdy carrying case is a great addition to the set. It is lightweight but strong, so you can bring it with you if doing outdoor drawings.
The set has 23 skin tone markers and a blender marker for easier blending of the markers. Blender markers of other brands work with these alcohol markers.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are perfect for both newbies and serious artists because of the high-quality inks and dual tips for better flexibility.
12. NadowArt Skin Tone Water-based Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Many artists who have tried these markers say these are excellent markers because you can use these markers on various surfaces. Some crafters used these markers to paint wine glasses, ceramic mugs, plates, rocks, even shoes.
Why We Think It's Great
NadowArt Skin Tone Water-based Markers are perfect for any artist looking to create beautiful and precise artwork. The quick-drying, non-toxic inks apply smoothly and blend well, making it easy to achieve the desired effect.
The nibs turn dry a lot, but you can revive the markers by shaking them as the ink settles. You should hear a rattling sound inside when you shake the pen, so you know it works.
The markers are certified ASTM D-4236, ensuring that they are safe for use.
However, if used on semi-porous surfaces such as a painted wine glass, bake your projects for 1 hour in a 350oF oven. Don't preheat the oven. Just place the plate or wine glass inside the still-cold oven and set it to the desired temperature and time.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are best for artists looking for extra-fine tip markers for their projects. However, they are best for outlining, not filling your drawings since they're darker than the usual skin tone colors.
13. Shuttle Art Skin Tone Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
These markers are very affordable, so users think these are the best skin tone markers for everyone. The markers have a sleek design, and they come with a great case. The tips are dual-ended so that you can use them for different purposes.
Why We Think It's Great
Let Shuttle Art's Skin Tone Markers take your coloring game up a notch with their skin tone colors. The markers have fine and broad tips for versatile coloring and detailing.
The inks are non-toxic, ASTM D-4236 certified ink is safe for children and adults. The set has 36 markers, including a blender marker, organized in a flat zippered canvas case, so it fits into your purse easily.
Customer service is very responsive, so you know they genuinely care about their customers.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are best for every artist on the go. The case has a sleeker design, plus the free sketchbook is marker-ready.
Skin Tone Marker Buying Guide
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Color selection
If you're going for a basic set, start with at least 6 colors. However, go for 20 shades or more for a more seamless blending. Sets with fewer colors either shift abruptly.
Other sets work for only a specific skin tone. These sets are better, though, since you can build your collection one skin tone at a time. The colors don't shift abruptly, too, for a more natural blending. The downside of these sets is that you can only work on a skin tone until you buy an additional set.
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Ink type & quality
Choose alcohol-based markers over water-based markers when working on skin tones because they blend better. Check if your marker uses a single ink barrel for a more consistent effect for dual-tipped markers.
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Nibs
Markers usually have a bullet, brush, or chisel tip. Bullet and brush nibs are best for detail works, while chisel nibs are best for coloring large areas. Get dual-tipped markers if your brand offers one, so you can get detailing and filling tips in one set.
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Blending
Skin tone markers should have a good blending capacity to give your work a more natural and seamless look. Blender markers also help blend your skin tones better. Some sets include a blender marker, but you can always buy them individually if they run out.
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Budget
If you're a newbie artist, find something within your budget to let you practice. However, the ink quality of more affordable sets is poorer, so don't expect quality output.
For professional artists looking for markers, we recommend Copic. You can try some Copic alternatives for high-quality but affordable markers if you're short on budget.
Skin Tone Marker FAQ
1. What colors make for skin tone using markers?
Before choosing the markers to use, decide on the skin color you want for your drawing. Be consistent with your color choices throughout the project. Once you've chosen the right skin tone, try the markers you want to use on scratch paper to see how different colors blend.
For lighter skin tones, try floral white, nude, and sand. Highlight the cheeks with blush, flesh, or fruit pink so they don't look overly pale. For medium skin tones, start with light peach, then build darker tones using caramel and burnt umber.
When coloring dark skin tones, start with flesh or sand for base tones, brick brown for mid-tones, and burnt sienna for the darkest tone. Use chestnut brown instead of burnt umber for near-black skin and start with a darker base tone than sand.
2. How do you shade skin with alcohol markers?
When shading skin with alcohol markers, start with the lightest shade in your set. Identify the tones and values from your reference image, then build up from there. You need 3-4 different tones to blend and get the right skin tone you want.
Start with the lightest shade for your base tone. Some artists recommend using the blender markers on the T-zone of the face and the lightest parts of the drawing. Others recommend just leaving these areas without color. Experiment and choose the technique that works best for you.
Next, apply the mid-tones on the darker values on the face. You can observe these darker values along the hairline, around the eyes, nose, mouth, and under the chin.
Add the darkest tone, then blend it with the lighter values using the mid-tone marker or a blender marker. Lastly, fill the areas you left without colors with the lightest tones, then blur the edges for a more natural look using the base tone.
3. How do you dye brown skin with markers?
To dye brown skin with markers, choose the darker colors on your skin tone marker set. Start with the lightest brown, leaving the lightest values of the drawing without color. Darken the other areas - under the hairline, around the eyes, nose, and chin.
Use the lighter shade you first used on the areas you left without color, blending as you do. Add another layer of dark brown to the darker areas until you get the correct values.
Conclusion
Skin tone markers are necessary if you're a portrait artist, especially if you're going for photorealism. Our top pick for skin tone markers is the Arteza Skin Tone Alcohol Markers. They have high-quality inks, apply on porous and non-porous surfaces, and are compatible for various applications.
Ohuhu Skin Tone Alcohol Markers is an excellent runner-up too. The dual-tip markers blend easily, and the close tonal differences in this palette help to make your portraits look more realistic.
If you're looking for budget-friendly markers, Arrtx Skin Tone Dual-Tip Markers are an excellent choice. Aside from the very affordable price, they also have blendable inks that don't smudge a lot. The barrel design is also comfortable on the hands, even if you work with them for a long time.