1) Using the spatula, apply some Pros-Aide cream in the center of the scar.

by Bradley M. Look

Since writing the article Stuck On You (Jan/Feb 2008), that demonstrated how to apply transfer scars, many people have asked me to write how the 3-D appliances are made in the first place.

First, you will need the following items which are available in many of the theatrical makeup beauty suppliers: Frekote #1711 silicone spray, cream Pros-Aide, flocking fibers (used to color the Pros-Aide if desired), silicone scar mold (for this demonstration I am using the S.O.S. silicone molds from MEL Products), permanent marker, metal spatula, transfer plastic and paper, as well as a wooden tongue depressor.

Start by spraying a light coat of silicone on the mold. Let dry. Next, using the spatula, apply some of the Pros-Aide cream in the center of the scar. Smooth out so that material is level in mold. (Photo 1)

Using the permanent marker, make a small dot on the transfer plastic. If the marker “beads” up, you have the correct side. If not, flip it over.

2) Carefully place the plastic so the "beaded" side comes in contact with the Pros-Aide.

Carefully place the plastic so that the “beaded” side comes in contact with the Pros-Aide. Drag the wooden tongue depressor across the plastic. (Photo 2) Carefully place the silicone mold in the freezer. It must stay in the freezer for approximately one hour. Of course the larger the piece the longer it will need to be in the freezer. (Photo 3)

When the Pros-Aide has firmed up, the mold can be removed from the freezer. To remove the appliance, you can either gently peel it back from the mold as shown in the photo, or flex the mold so that the piece pops out. (Photo 4)

Let the Pros-Aide appliance cure undisturbed for one to two days. To apply, follow the steps as listed in the previous article.  

One of the most common makeup needs on set is for a look of exposure to the elements, one of which is the look that someone has from being out for a long time in severe heat. Many a Western has used this look, such as The Good The Bad And The Ugly, Deadwood, or while not a cowboy drama, The Flight of the Phoenix. To give the skin a severe sun exposure look, here is what I do.

Like a first-degree burn, I stipple the face and neck with a pale pink tone. For this demonstration, I applied Skin Illustrator DT Blush using a torn latex sponge. while having my model, Clayton Stang, wrinkle his face. After this I stippled two light coats of Duo Adhesive to a few spots on Clayton’s face. While that was drying, I glued three pre-made blisters made from 3rd Degree Silicone.

Next, as illustrated in the second photo, darker reds were stippled over some areas of the face. I also mixed the hand painted work with some airbrush spatter while Clayton wrinkled his face.

Burnt sienna and additional red tones were added around the eyes. Grayed purple was also worked around the eyes. The Duo Adhesive was pulled in the center and broken to a desired size. The center of each broken blister was then made up with a pale color, followed by a bit of red around the edge. A little K-Y Jelly was painted inside the blister to enhance the sore appearance.

With these simple steps, an artist can create a look that holds up even in High Definition.