SFX Makeup

SFX makeup: special effects make-up for every transformation

What is SFX makeup?

SFX stands for special effects. SFX makeup is therefore special effects make-up: products that don't make you prettier but different. Think fake wounds, scars, burns, a bald skull, zombie skin or a completely unfamiliar face. Where regular make-up accentuates the shape of your face, SFX makeup literally builds something on top of it with latex, wax and paint. It's used in film and theatre, but just as much for Halloween, carnival and cosplay.

Where do you start? The base of an SFX look

Every SFX look is made of three layers. First the shape: wax or latex you use to build relief on the skin. Then the colour: face paint to match the shape to your skin tone and set blue or red edges around it. And finally the finish: blood, shine, dirt or powder to make it look real and lock it in. Just starting out? A pot of scar wax, a face paint palette and some fake blood will already get you surprisingly far.

Liquid latex, scar wax and fake skin

With liquid latex you make a second skin: apply it in thin layers, let it dry and then tear it open for a graze or a burn. It's also the base under a bald cap. Scar wax, or nose and scar wax, is a mouldable wax you use to build relief: a cut, a broken nose or a swollen lip. Smooth the edges with a spatula or a little mixing medium, then cover it with face paint so it blends into your skin tone. For smooth, shiny wounds use a wound gel such as scar matrix or liquid glass.

Spirit gum and skin adhesive: how to make it hold

Whatever you build has to stay put. Spirit gum and mastix are the classic skin adhesives for prosthetics, beards and bald caps: apply a thin layer, let it go tacky and then press down. There are latex free versions too if you're sensitive to it. Don't forget the matching remover, because spirit gum won't come off with water.

Fake blood for wounds and splatter

Nothing finishes an SFX look faster than blood. There's thin, bright red blood for fresh wounds, dark and thick blood for older ones, drying blood that sets into a crust, and even special blood for the mouth and around the eyes. The full range is at fake blood.

Face paint and body paint as a base

The colour under and over your effects comes from our face paint and body paint. Water-based paint from Kryolan, Mehron and Superstar covers well, dries fast and comes off easily. For larger areas and the whole body, reach for the bigger pots or the cream sticks.

Glitter and face jewels for festival and carnival

Not every SFX look has to be scary. For a festival, carnival or a themed party you work with glitter over your paint and with face jewels you stick on your face. Glitter gel holds loose glitter in place without your paint running, and face jewels simply peel off afterwards.

Which brushes and tools do you need?

For SFX you work with different brushes than for regular make-up: fine liners for razor sharp edges, firm brushes that don't shed in latex and wax, and a stippling brush to dab texture onto the skin. Sponges and stencils belong in the kit too. It's all at brushes, sponges and stencils.

How do you remove SFX makeup?

Water-based paint comes off with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Peel latex off gently, with a little oil underneath if needed. For spirit gum, mastix and wax you need a dedicated remover; don't pull at it or you'll take skin with it. Always finish with a nourishing cream afterwards, especially if you've had latex on your face all day.

Shop SFX makeup at Boozyshop

Ready to make someone unrecognisable? Order before 8 PM and your parcel ships today. With every order you pick your own free gift. Not sure which product suits your look? Ask us in the chat and get personal advice.