How to Make Freddy's Face for Halloween

Missing a mask? Achieving Freddy Krueger's burned look still is within reach.

Freddy Krueger's face is covered in a third degree burn that allegedly resulted when the fictional character's captors trapped him in a boiler room to avenge the deaths of children he'd killed. The gruesome appearance of the Nightmare on Elm Street character is replicated most easily by purchasing a high quality mask. However, it is possible to re-create Freddy's look with makeup and a few household materials. Freddy first appeared in 1984; however, re-makes and sequels of Nightmare on Elm Street and companion films, like Freddy vs. Jason, ensure that, as of 2011, Freddy still is a popular Halloween choice.

Things You'll Need

• Bald cap
• Spirit Gum adhesive
• Nose wax
• Baby oil
• Clear plastic wrap
• Makeup, various shades

Instructions

1. Secure the bald cap on whomever is dressing as Freddy. Pull it tight and secure it in place with Spirit Gum applied around the edges for extra security if needed.

2. Roll out several strips of nose wax in varying sizes and cover the face with a layer of Spirit Gum. Apply the wax strips to the gum covering the face but leaving gaps to represent pock marks. This will create the look of torn muscles and peeling skin.

3. Apply baby oil to your fingers and smooth it over the wax so that all the wax strips blend together and look more like part of a cohesive unit than individually applied strips.

4. Apply an additional layer of Spirit Gum and cover the face with pieces of plastic wrap, leaving open spaces for the eyes, nostrils and mouth. Smooth down the plastic wrap as best as possible making sure there are no air bubbles, and cover it with a thin layer of liquid latex using the sponge.

5. Allow the liquid latex to dry and then apply deep purple and red make up to the face using a thin makeup brush. Focus on adding extra color to all the pock marks and sunken places.

6. Powder the face and then brush on a layer of flesh-colored makeup. Apply another layer of powder to complete the look.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a blow dryer set to cool air, but never hot, to speed the drying of liquid latex. Complete the look by applying brown and black make-up to the teeth or by wearing false teeth designed to appear as though they are rotting. Repeat the same process on the neck and Freddy's un-gloved hand for added authenticity.

References

• Indy Mogul; Don't Fall Asleep, Freddy Krueger's Burn Make-Up, Nightmare on Elm Street, Backyard FX; 2010