Liquid Latex and Skin FX

These are the building blocks of special effects makeup. Liquid latex, scar wax, modelling putty, rigid collodion and burn gel let you build genuine three dimensional texture onto skin: wounds, scars, blisters, peeling flesh and decay. Paint can only suggest those things. These products actually make them.

Which product does what

• Liquid latex is the most versatile and the easiest to learn. Stipple it on with a sponge, let it dry, then tear it for peeling skin, or lay tissue into it to build a raised burn. We stock 30ml, 50ml, 133ml and 270ml, which covers one face through to a whole cast.
• Scar wax and modelling putty are for sculpting: a raised welt, a broken nose, a bullet hole. Warm it between your fingers, press it on, and blend the edges out with a spatula before you colour it.
• Rigid collodion works the opposite way. It contracts as it dries and puckers the skin into an indented scar in about a minute, which is why it reads so well on camera and why it is not for sensitive skin or for anywhere near the eyes.
• 3D burn gel gives the wet, blistered, melted look that dry products cannot.
• Skin simulation and blister gel from Ripper FX either fill and smooth so an appliance edge disappears, or raise a translucent blister on their own.

A note on latex allergies

Liquid latex contains natural rubber latex. Patch test on the inside of the elbow 24 hours before use, never apply it over broken skin, and keep it away from hair and eyebrows unless you enjoy removing it later. If you have a known latex allergy, build with modelling wax instead, or start from premade prosthetics, which need only an adhesive.

Colouring, sealing and getting it off

Texture is only half the job. Colour it with a bruise wheel, add fake blood, and seal or remove with the right product from preps, barriers, sealers and removers. Latex peels away, wax lifts off, and collodion needs a proper remover rather than scrubbing at it.

We carry Mehron, Ripper FX and Heart Face Art in this range. For a full walk through, read how to use liquid latex and its latex free alternatives, how to build a realistic wound with scar wax, or follow the zombie face paint guide.