Three Easy Ways to Use Liquid Latex, SFX Tutorial Pt. 19

When it comes to SFX makeup, liquid latex is one of the most versatile products you can add to your kit. However, using this best-selling product can be a bit of a challenge for beginners. That's why we partnered with SFX artist @Caykeface to share three of her favorite ways to use liquid latex makeup to create fake cuts, maggots, and blisters for next-level SFX makeup looks.

First, let's talk about what liquid latex is. As you probably guessed, liquid latex makeup is a liquified rubber that is skin-safe and contains ammonia to prevent it from solidifying before use. As a result, it has a rather potent smell, so we recommend using it in a well-ventilated area. It is available in a variety of shades to resemble various skin tones and several popular colors, like the red, white, green, blue, and yellow found in Graftobian’s Liquid Latex line.

It is great for sealing modeling wax, can serve as an adhesive for body glitter and lightweight prosthetics, and can be used in a mold to create prosthetics. One of the most popular ways to use liquid latex makeup is to apply it directly to the skin to create a "second skin." Once it has dried, the elasticity allows it to move and flex like real skin, and it may be manipulated to create effects like aging, blisters, and fake wounds.

PRO TIP: If you or your client have sensitive skin or are sensitive to the smell of ammonia, Ben Nye offers a formula that has less ammonia. Be sure to perform a spot test on the skin before using liquid latex makeup since some individuals are allergic to latex.

Now that we've discussed what liquid latex is, here are a few important tips to keep in mind while working with it:

Now that we've discussed what liquid latex is, here are a few important tips to keep in mind when applying and removing it. We’ll discuss:

Application Tips

Removal Tips

Liquid Latex SFX Makeup Application Tips

It is important to keep plenty of disposable applicators handy because liquid latex makeup can be extremely hard to remove from brush bristles and other porous surfaces. Applicators like disposable wedge sponges and cotton swabs are popular choices. Be sure to shake the SFX makeup well before using.

Liquid Latex SFX Makeup Removal Tips

Removing liquid latex can be a tricky feat if you've applied it to a larger area or if you have applied it on top of body hair. To remove smaller sections of the SFX makeup, soak the area in warm and soapy water or apply a towel that has been soaked in hot water and gently peel it away. For larger areas or those that are harder to remove, consider using a product like Ben Nye Bond Off. Once you have removed the liquid latex SFX creations, be sure to cleanse the skin and moisturize.

Start with clean, dry skin and use a disposable wedge sponge to apply a thin layer of liquid latex makeup to the area where you want to create the blistered effect. Allow it to dry. This will take a minute or two, but you may speed up the fake wound process using a handheld fan. The SFX makeup will become translucent as it dries.

Repeat the layering and drying process two to three times. Once the final layer has dried, use a spatula to gently tear holes in the liquid latex and push the opened latex on top of itself. Since it is still tacky, it will stick to itself to create a cool fake wound liquid latex SFX. 

Next, add some color! Using eyeshadows or your favorite paint (cream-based, water activated, or alcohol activated), color the skin you’ve exposed to be whatever color you want. For extra gory or realistic fake wounds, add your favorite SFX blood.

Start with clean, dry skin and use a cotton swab to paint the liquid latex SFX makeup into the shape you want the fake cut to be. If you want the fake wound to be a large, open gash, apply the SFX makeup to a wider area of skin.

While the liquid latex makeup is still tacky, rip up small pieces of tissues and lay them down flat on top of the latex. Leave a gap in the middle where you want the fake cut to be. Let it dry, and then repeat this step at least two to three more times. Set with a powder to remove the shine.

Next, use a spatula to tear into your fresh liquid latex SFX and gently pull it open to form the fake cut. Add eyeshadow, fake blood, and other products to finish the fake cut look!

If you want to take your fake wounds to the next level, consider adding fake maggots! These little liquid latex SFX critters are an easy way to enhance a zombie look or simply add a bit of fear factor to the fake cuts and blisters.

First, paint a few circles of liquid latex onto a stainless steel mixing palette and allow them to dry. The diameter of the circles will be the same length as the maggots you are creating.

Once dry, gently peel them off and place them into the palm of your hand with the sticky side (the side that was facing the stainless steel palette) facing upward. Roll them up, and voila! You have maggots!

The last step is applying your fake maggots. Use a small dab of liquid latex to adhere them to your fake wounds, and you’re all set!

Feeling inspired to make your own fake cuts and wounds with liquid latex? Watch the video at the top of this blog to see the step-by-step liquid latex SFX tutorial, or visit our YouTube Channel! If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Beauty Advisors!

If you follow this or any of our other SFX Tutorials, don't forget to tag @camerareadysfx on social media!

Cat Makeup Look by Caykeface

Dog Makeup Look by Kristen B Artistry

Alcohol vs Water Activated Paint with Nsomniaksdream

The Different Types of Fake Blood with Kristen B Artistry

La Llorona by The Official Lola Rose

Two-Face by Nsomniaksdream

Rainbow Skull by fancyflutie

Beetlejuice + Miss Argentina by The Official Lola Rose

Comic Book Pop Art by Kelly Tull

CATS with a Twist by Andie Piazza

The Nun by Janet Cake

Glam-Gore Witch by Rachel Quattlebaum

Halloween Clown by Kelly Tull

Butterfly Face Paint by Angie Lum

Need something specific to create your SFX makeup Halloween looks? Shop Camera Ready’s extensive collection of top special effects brands. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Contact our Beauty Advisors for a comparable alternative or to see if we can order the exact product you need.