Whether you want to create wrinkles, wounds, or scars, or look like a zombie or fantasy character, latex makeup lets you do it all. Before you start on your masterpiece, take a moment to think about what look you want. Then experiment with different techniques and you will create something that is out of this world.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Applying liquid latex
Step 1. Shave the area before applying liquid latex
Liquid latex clings to the hair below it when it dries, making it painful if you want to remove the latex later. Shave the area if you can so you can remove the dried latex later without hurting.
Step 2. Cover the hairs you are not shaving with vegetable oil or petroleum jelly
If you're applying latex to an area you can't shave, such as your eyebrows, apply a fairly thick, even layer of vegetable oil or petroleum jelly. This helps to lubricate the hairs so it won't hurt to remove the latex.
- You can use any kind of vegetable oil, such as canola oil and olive oil.
- You can also apply lotion to the rest of your skin to make the latex easier to apply.
Step 3. Shake the bottle well before applying the latex makeup
Keep the cap on the bottle and shake it up and down for a few seconds. This ensures that the latex is thoroughly mixed.
If you don't shake the latex well, you may not be able to apply it properly
Step 4. Apply a thin layer of liquid latex with a brush or sponge
After shaking the bottle, put the latex in a bowl. Dip a brush or sponge into the bowl, then apply the liquid latex to the area you want to cover. Make sure to apply only a small amount, as liquid latex dries quickly.
Use a plastic cup or bowl that you can reuse later
Step 5. Use a hair dryer or wait for the liquid latex to dry
The liquid latex dries when it is at body temperature in five to ten minutes. You can also dry the liquid latex with a hair dryer during application. Set the blow dryer on a low setting and hold it about 6 inches from your skin. When the latex is dry, you can apply more layers or decorate the area.
Step 6. Wash your brushes and sponges with warm soapy water after use
If the latex dries on your brush, the bristles will harden and the brush will be ruined. Always stop between applications to rinse your brushes with soapy water.
You can run the brushes under the tap and clean with soap, or you can fill a bowl with soap and water and soak your brushes in it
Part 2 of 4: Creating your look
Step 1. Create wrinkles by tensing your muscles as the latex dries
Immediately after applying the latex, tighten the muscles in the area in question. Relax your muscles when the latex is dry. This way you create wrinkles and lines in the dried latex.
- You can do this in many places on your body. Simply tense and relax the muscles in question.
- You can also use special wrinkle-making latex to create noticeable wrinkles.
Step 2. Apply skin glue like Spirit Gum and tissues or cotton wool to create fake scars
With skin glue you stick the tissues to your skin and the tissues provide a texture that resembles a scar. Spread liquid latex over the tissues and let everything dry.
Step 3. Use tissues or toilet paper before applying latex to a fake wound or fake cut.
Place a flat piece of tissue on your skin and hold it with your hand. When the tissue is on your skin, make small tears in the paper with a toothpick or tweezers. Then spray liquid latex on your skin and on the tissue.
- The liquid latex ensures that the tissue sticks to your skin.
- Apply more layers and pieces of tissue to create the look you want and make sure everything stays in place.
- To create a scar or cut, apply a long strip of latex and let it dry. Then wave the edges and apply another coat of liquid latex.
Step 4. Experiment with multiple wounds to create a zombie look
Try a combination of bites, scratches, and open wounds. The combination of different effects will make your zombie costume look realistic and detailed.
Part 3 of 4: Decorating the latex
Step 1. Apply foundation to blend the latex into the rest of your makeup
When the latex has dried, use liquid or powder foundation to blend everything together. Dab the foundation onto the latex and surrounding skin. In this way, the area treated with latex and the skin around it merge seamlessly.
Step 2. Use eyeliner and eyeshadow to create light and dark spots in the latex
Eyeliner works great to add clear lines and fine details. Eyeshadows are available in different colors, and some colors have glitter or shimmer. These shades can be applied to your latex makeup to add different effects and colors.
- For example, use green, gray and black tones if you want a zombie look.
- Use dark red, purple and crimson tones to add detail to wounds and scars.
Step 3. Decorate your makeup using face paint
You can use make-up to further elaborate the latex-treated area. Buy some face paint and apply it to the liquid latex. Adding more color or depth will make your special makeup look even more realistic and detailed.
- Apply makeup to details like wrinkles and bruises.
- Make-up can be applied to your entire body for a complete look.
Step 4. Apply loose powder to your latex makeup or use a setting spray to complete your look
This is especially helpful if you've already used liquid foundation. Apply powder with a brush or lightly spray a fixing spray on your face. By fixing your make-up you neatly finish your appearance.
Step 5. Color your lips to match your look
Whether you've applied latex around your mouth and jaw or not, you can choose a lip color that matches your look. Try lipstick, tinted lip balm, or paint, depending on the look you want. Color your lips when the latex is dry.
Part 4 of 4: Removing liquid latex
Step 1. Pull the latex into pieces from your skin
You can pick the liquid latex off your face or body, if it doesn't hurt to pull on it. You should be able to remove the latex in large chunks.
Step 2. Soak the remaining latex with warm water
The heat will loosen the liquid latex, making it easier to remove. Peel the remaining pieces from your skin when they are soaked off.
Step 3. Wipe the latex off with soap, water and a washcloth
Wash off any remaining makeup or latex from your skin with soap and water. Then rub a washcloth with small circular movements over your make-up. This should allow you to remove the remaining latex. Pat your skin dry with a dry towel.
Step 4. Use shampoo and warm water to get liquid latex out of your hair
Take a shower and apply plenty of shampoo and warm water to your hair. You can use a washcloth or loofah to help remove the latex. Rub the washcloth in circular motions to loosen the latex.
If you still can't get the latex off, dab some rubbing alcohol on it. Use a cotton ball or swab and lightly rub some rubbing alcohol on the latex. This should help to loosen it from the skin
Warnings
- Test if you are allergic before applying latex. Liquid latex is completely safe to use, although many people are allergic or sensitive to latex. Before starting your makeup, apply a small amount of liquid latex to the inside of your elbow. Let the latex dry and wait half an hour. If you don't have a rash or an allergic reaction, you should be able to use the liquid latex safely.
- Avoid getting liquid latex in your eyes and mouth. It is intended for external use only.
- If you get liquid latex in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with saline. Call your doctor or 112 if you experience side effects and symptoms.
- Keep in mind that liquid latex comes off through sweat and natural skin oils. This is normal, so keep an eye on the treated area to make sure the latex doesn't come off.