Special Effects & Theatrical Makeup Flashcards

Prosthetic pieces in theatrical makeup are most commonly adhered to skin using which type of adhesive?

Answer: Spirit gum or medical-grade silicone adhesive

Spirit gum and medical-grade silicone adhesives are the professional standard for adhering prosthetics safely to skin.

Gelatin-based prosthetics in SFX makeup are known for what primary advantage over silicone prosthetics?

Answer: More affordable and easier for beginners to make, with a skin-like translucency

Gelatin prosthetics are cost-effective, easy to self-make, and have a translucent quality that blends naturally with skin.

In theatrical stage makeup, why is the makeup applied more heavily than in everyday or film makeup?

Answer: Stage lighting bleaches out features at a distance, requiring intensified color and definition

Strong stage lighting washes out facial features at a distance, so heavily applied, exaggerated makeup ensures features remain visible to the audience.

Cream-based SFX makeup is typically sealed (set) using which method to make it sweat- and smear-resistant?

Answer: Setting with loose powder and a setting spray

Cream SFX products are set with translucent powder followed by setting spray to lock them in place and prevent smearing.

Which material is commonly used to create the texture of fake skin wounds or aged skin effects in SFX makeup?

Answer: Liquid latex or silicone molding compounds

Liquid latex is a flexible, skin-safe material used to build up wound texture, wrinkles, and skin appliances in SFX makeup.

When applying SFX makeup with liquid latex near a client's hairline, what precaution is essential?

Answer: Protect the hair with barrier cream or keep latex away from hair, as it is extremely difficult to remove from hair

Liquid latex bonds strongly to hair and is very painful and difficult to remove, so the hairline must be protected with barrier cream or latex kept clear of hair.