How can you create makeup looks for theatrical characters with skin conditions or scars?

Suggesting products or protocols at this stage would be irresponsible. It is not 100% clear if the question is asking for best protocol and product for application involving a skin condition and scarring OR best approach, techniques and products when creating special effects for stage and film. In this forum it becomes only slightly clearer when more perspective is provided later. If presented by itself it would be immature to suggest how to proceed. Whereas knowledge and expertise are required to address either scenario, it is equally, if not more important to have knowledge of clarity and certainty. The old adage "making assumptions" comes to mind and 90% of the answer to any question is in the question itself.

It’s important to ask the lighting team what their plans are, have a conversation that’s sensitive and informed about the actor’s skin condition or their need to conceal a scar. I think scars and human texture is A-OK as long as it doesn’t create a backstory for the character that isn’t in line with the script, There are tons of way to cover a scar big and small. You may want to use film tricks, like prosaide transfers or silicone appliances you can add over the top. It’s important to explore and exhaust options and land on one that is mindful of the time you have with the client, their comfort, and the budget you are working with. Skin conditions are another topic all together - they require research and correct approach to keep skin calm

I would also ask questions directly to the person who has the skin condition/scars about their past experiences with it. Something I ALWAYS ask before applying makeup to anyone is “do you have any sensitivities or allergies to products that I should be aware of” and this would be another form of asking the person I am directly working on about their specific needs or conditions and how to work around it. Ideally when we are working with anyone who has something of this sort, I hope there is also enough time for plenty of research aside from what information is given by the person themselves.

One of the best make ups that I have worked with for camouflage and the health of the skin is Oxygenetix Foundation. It offers breathable coverage and concealers. This way when you’re layering the make up upmakeup up, none of your pores will get clogged underneath. Breathable make up with healthy ingredients.

When creating artificial wounds texture of products are everything! You most definitely need great detail since scars have very much detail from color to skin texture soo it is important to keep eye on products to achieve this best looking scars, what you need from the products is for those items to have longevity along with a good set on face.

The right products get the job done without causing a storm on the actor’s skin. Find out what the makeup will have to endure, heat, sweat, hours under lights, removal etc. will the actor have to apply this look themselves backstage? And reapply between matinee and evening show? What facilities are available at the end of the night for removal? I would ask all of these questions and create a skincare routine, makeup application and removal plan based on skin type, skill level, budget and actor’s time alotted for the above

There always rehearsals I can’t say for a fact this comment is true or false. Yes skin and makeup should be blended. But at times in theatrics it’s just that theatrical tools and everyday routines for applying makeup don’t apply here

Applying carefully is fine, removing carefully and slowly is equally as important. If the scar is pigmented - colour correcting first is best, so you then don’t have to load up the concealer and have the risk of it caking or creasing under the lights

A test is always a good idea, this allows you to get an idea of any issues or makeup mishaps that may arise and address them immediately, it would be great if you could watch the rehearsal and take notes and then get extra feedback from your client afterwards so you can work together to combat all issues that may have arisen during the performance

Communication is key, they must feel assisted, listened to, informed and confident that you are on the ball. Do a tonne of research and take notes, learn them. Find out their habits and stay within the parameters of their skill set but also inspire them to learn new skills. Choose applicators they are comfortable with, don’t overwhelm them with too many steps or tons of products, try dual purpose products and make it fun as you teach them, like a dance with steps. Ask lots of questions find out aversions, bad experiences and allergies and curate a kit and removal kit that keeps their skin calm but doesn’t overwhelm them when it comes to application and removal

Everything I know I owe it to those who trained me. I worked for the best in the industry. Sure it was many years working under someone, but there isn’t an aspect of hair and makeup that I can’t take care of because I was thoroughly trained

1st&foremost what exactly is being asked needs to be clearer. Which is equally, if not more important for performing any task in the stage and film industry. Executing with assumptions because of uncertainty AND being wrong makes you solely responsible for the time it takes to be redone and the money it costs as well. Not to mention it is highly unlikely you will be afforded the opportunity to do it a 2nd time. Opportunities in this industry, no matter what the level, community or Broadway, are hard enough to earn the 1st time. The fear of asking questions so as not to appear uncertain is far less than facing the fears of uncertainty for your future.