How to Use Latex in Halloween Makeup

Liquid latex is a relatively inexpensive tool of the trade for any makeup or special effects artist and it can be used to make any Halloween costume look extra scary and really authentic. Use liquid latex to easily create everything from extra folds of skin to nasty burns and ugly scars.

Instructions

1. Choose a well-ventilated room with windows that can be opened for air circulation when applying liquid latex. Liquid latex contains a large quantity of ammonia and releases strong fumes when applied. Circulating air also helps the latex dry faster once applied to the skin.

2. Put liquid latex on areas of the skin with the least amount of body hair. If you are applying the latex to large areas of the arms or legs, consider shaving the area before applying the latex. Liquid latex will adhere strongly to any body hair, making it painful to remove.

3. Pour a small amount of the liquid latex into a bowl or container. Make sure that the container is large and wide enough that a makeup sponge can be placed in the liquid latex easily and that any excess latex can be sponged off before application to the skin.

4. Dip a sponge into the latex. Dip the sponge in only partially and sponge any excess off onto the side of the container until the sponge is well saturated but not dripping or messy.

5. Sponge the liquid latex onto the skin using quick dabbing or stippling motions. Sponge outward from the center of the total area of the skin where the latex will be applied.

6. Paint the liquid latex in a single thin and even layer. Work quickly so the latex will dry evenly.

7. Apply additional thin layers of liquid latex over the first layer. Thin layers of latex will dry faster and more evenly and will help the skin pull together better to look more puckered and give the appearance of scarring or burning.

8. Use a hair dryer or a fan to make the latex dry faster. The body heat of the person wearing the latex will also help speed up the drying process.