11
Applying Facial Hair and Prosthetics
Because this is a book on basic, not advanced techniques, we will not be covering the actual making of complicated latex prosthetics or facial hair pieces. For those advanced projects I recommend using one of the more all-inclusive texts. If you are performing in a production that requires you to wear false facial hair or a facial prosthetic, it is likely that either the makeup designer or the costume designer will be responsible for providing these; you may or may not be responsible for their application. Pre-made facial hair and latex prosthetics are also readily available to purchase at specialty costume shops and various websites.
There are a number of methods for applying facial hair and prosthetics. For quick application and removal, double-sided toupee tape can be used. Apply the tape to the hair piece first, then to your face. The tape will remove from your face by pulling, usually leaving no residue.
Spirit gum and spirit gum remover are products made specifically for applying and removing facial hair and prosthetics; these items have been staples of makeup kits for many years. Some people are allergic to the ingredients in spirit gum, so many makeup retailers also sell medical adhesive and medical adhesive remover, which seems to be more acceptable to sensitive skin. One may also use a glue stick from an office or crafts store as an application medium. This is a safe and easy option, because it is non-toxic and removes with soap and water.
MARKING THE PLACEMENT
Applying a Facial Hair Appliance
Before applying a facial hair appliance, wash it with mild soap and water to remove any styling product. Gently press it between the folds of a towel to dry it. When dry, it can be combed. If it has been used previously, carefully remove any remaining adhesive with the appropriate remover.
To apply a facial hair appliance, hold it up to your Face to determine exactly here it will sit. Using an eyeliner pencil make a series of dots, about an inch apart, lightly outlining the shape of the piece.
DOTS MARKING PLACEMENT
Next, brush a thin layer of spirit gum or medical adhesive onto your face inside and up to the dots.
Allow the adhesive to dry and get tacky—about a minute. Test it with your finger. Carefully press the piece to your face exactly where you want it. Try to get it right the first time so you don't have to start over.
Using barber shears, trim the hair appliance to the desired shape after it is securely applied.
APPLIED ADHESIVE
APPLIED FACIAL HAIR
FACIAL HAIR APPLIANCE TRIMMED TO SHAPE
Applying Latex Prosthetics
If a latex prosthetic has been made specifically for you, the makeup artist should already have applied makeup to it. When using a commercial, store-bought facial prosthetic, you will need to apply foundation, highlight, and shadow to coordinate with the makeup on your face. Do this before applying it to your face.
Use the same technique of positioning, marking, gluing, and applying the prosthetic as described above in the section on applying a facial hair appliance.
POSITIONING THE PROSTHETIC
MARKING THE PROSTHETIC
After applying a latex prosthetic, you may need to apply a combination of highlight and shadow with your stipple sponge to diminish to visibility of the edge.
APPLIED LATEX PROSTHETIC
APPLIED LATEX PROSTHETIC WITH STIPPLED EDGE