Applying Special FX Makeup: Tips for Beginners

Applying Special FX Makeup: Tips for Beginners

While hiring a professional FX makeup artist is always a great way to get the perfect look for a play, performance, street art exhibit, or even for Halloween, it is also a lot of fun to do your own special FX makeup.

If you are planning to do your own makeup and don’t have any professional training, don’t despair! Here are a few simple tips and tricks to help you create the best look possible—from ‘cute and sassy’ to ‘scary and extreme’.

Start Simple

For those new to special FX makeup, the best option is a kit. We carry a variety of kits that contain a wide range of different colors. Several unique looks can be created—from a head trauma patient to characters from different movies.

It’s best to start with something relatively simple. However, if you choose to add elements such as foam latex or other types of features, be sure to also get the correct adhesives and removers.

Use Professional Quality Special FX Makeup

For creating the perfect look, you should always choose quality makeup that is specifically designed for special effects. Cheap makeup brands found at drug stores or at costume stores over the Halloween season will not look realistic or professional.

Cheap makeup is also more likely to cause damage to your skin. If you have skin allergies or sensitivity to makeup, we recommend trying a very tiny patch of skin that is out of sight—even when using professional makeup. This will allow you to determine if you need to reconsider using it before it is too late.

At Graftobian, we only offer top-quality makeup that is used by professional makeup artists and FX artists. We also sell kits which provide everything that you will need to create whatever look you desire.

It is important to remember that some of the added elements contain latex, so avoid these if you have a latex allergy. Regardless, you can still create the look you want, just make sure to choose the right cosmetics rather than the latex accessory to develop the look.

Ultimately, one of the biggest mistakes that people make when applying their own FX makeup is not practicing in advance. By applying the special FX makeup a few times before the big day, you will be comfortable and confident in creating the appearance you want… without all of the stress of doing it for the very first time.