What are the essential tools and supplies for creating realistic wounds and scars?

1 Foundation and concealer

Before you start applying any fake blood or latex, you need to prepare the skin with a suitable foundation and concealer. These products help to even out the skin tone, cover any blemishes or tattoos, and create a base for the rest of the makeup. Choose a foundation and concealer that match your skin tone or the character's skin tone, and blend them well with a sponge or brush.

2 Liquid latex and tissue paper

Liquid latex and tissue paper are the key ingredients for creating realistic wounds and scars. Liquid latex is a rubbery substance that dries on the skin and can be shaped, torn, or peeled off to create different effects. Tissue paper is used to add texture and volume to the latex, and can be layered, wrinkled, or ripped to create different types of wounds. To use them, apply a thin layer of liquid latex on the area where you want the wound or scar, then place a piece of tissue paper on top of it. Press it gently with your fingers, then apply another layer of liquid latex on top of the tissue paper. Repeat this process until you have the desired thickness and shape, then let it dry completely.

3 Fake blood and gelatin

Fake blood and gelatin are the finishing touches for creating realistic wounds and scars. Fake blood is a liquid or gel that simulates the color and consistency of blood, and can be applied with a brush, sponge, dropper, or spray bottle. Gelatin is a solid or semi-solid substance that can be melted and molded into different shapes, such as bullet holes, stab wounds, or skin flaps. To use them, apply fake blood on and around the wound or scar, and blend it with the foundation and concealer. You can also add some fake blood inside the wound or scar, or drip some from the edges for a more dramatic effect. To use gelatin, melt it in a microwave or a double boiler, then pour it into a mold or shape it with your fingers. Let it cool slightly, then attach it to the skin with liquid latex or spirit gum.

4 Brushes and sponges

Brushes and sponges are the tools you need to apply and blend the makeup products. Brushes come in different sizes and shapes, and are used for precise and detailed work, such as drawing veins, bruises, or stitches. Sponges are used for larger and softer work, such as applying foundation, concealer, or fake blood. Choose brushes and sponges that are soft, clean, and suitable for the type of product you are using. You can also cut or tear them to create different textures and effects.

5 Powder and setting spray

Powder and setting spray are the products you need to seal and protect your makeup. Powder helps to mattify the skin and reduce any shine or stickiness from the liquid latex or fake blood. Setting spray helps to lock the makeup in place and prevent it from smudging, sweating, or rubbing off. To use them, apply a light layer of powder over the entire makeup with a large brush or puff, then spray a generous amount of setting spray over the face and neck. Let it dry completely before touching or moving the makeup.

6 Spirit gum and remover

Spirit gum and remover are the products you need to attach and remove any prosthetics or accessories, such as gelatin pieces, fake hair, or jewelry. Spirit gum is a sticky adhesive that can be applied with a brush or a cotton swab on the skin and on the item you want to attach. Press them together firmly until they stick. Remover is a solvent that can be applied with a cotton pad or ball on the edges of the item you want to remove. Gently peel it off the skin, then clean the area with soap and water.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?