What Is Glow In The Dark Paint

Glow-in-the-dark paint adds a special touch to a variety of surfaces. Whether you want to illuminate objects in a child’s room or home décor, you can add a special effect to countless spaces.

How Does Glow-in-the-Dark Paint Work?

Glow-in-the-dark paint needs to be "charged" with a light source, like direct sunlight or indoor lights. The paint contains phosphors that absorb light and then release it in the dark. This creates a visible glow.

For best results, you’ll want to expose the painted surface to a bright light source for at least 15 to 30 minutes. The effect is not permanent. Surfaces typically glow for a few hours. Once your painted surface stops glowing, you’ll need to recharge it in the light for it to glow again.

What Can You Make Glow?

You can use glow-in-the-dark paint on a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces. Consider using it to illuminate light switch plates, tabletop objects, Halloween décor and more. Use your creativity to find objects in and around your home that could benefit from an evening glow.

Rust-Oleum’s glow-in-the-dark and brush-on formulas can be used on wood, metal and plastic. If you want to paint plaster or brick, brush-on paint is the better option. When choosing your product, you’ll want to consider what kind of surface you plan to paint. Be sure to check the can’s label for details about using this paint on different surfaces.

How Do You Apply Glow-in-the-Dark Paint?

Before painting a surface, it’s important to make sure it is clean and dry. If your object is glossy or has loose paint, use sandpaper to scuff the surface or remove imperfections.

You should use glow-in-the-dark paint over a white or light-colored surface. If you have a dark surface, you’ll need to apply white paint before you apply glow-in-the-dark paint.

Once your surface is ready, spray or brush on your glow-in-the-dark paint according to the directions on the can.

Does Fluorescent Paint Glow in the Dark?

People sometimes confuse fluorescent paint with glow-in-the-dark paint, but these are two different types of paint.

Fluorescent paint comes in bright, highly visible colors that brightly illuminate under ultraviolet blacklights. However, unlike glow-in-the-dark paint, fluorescent paint does not store light. When you switch off the UV blacklight, a fluorescent painted surface will immediately stop glowing. It needs a constant source of UV light to be visible in the dark.

In addition to being a popular choice for decorative projects, it’s commonly used for signage and safety markings. You’ll often see fluorescent paint used in places like miniature golf courses and construction sites.

Choose the Right Paint

By understanding the differences between glow-in-the-dark paint and fluorescent paint, you can choose the right paint for your project. Then, with the help of an appropriate light source, you can enjoy a unique glowing effect indoors or out.