When you are first starting out creating special effects using makeup, chances are that you won’t have everything the professionals do. Luckily for you, though, there are several things that you can do even without a fancy kit. Here are some special effect ideas that you can do with stuff you have sitting around the house.
Wounds and Cuts
Most beginners don’t have liquid latex on hand, so instead use white glue, cotton pads, fake blood, and eyeshadow to create wounds. Use the cotton pads and glue to shape them. Color them in with red lipstick or face paint. Then use various eyeshadow colors to give them some depth.
Make Fake Blood
Everybody uses fake blood at some point, so learn how to make your own with common kitchen ingredients. Making it yourself allows you to customize its consistency and color. Mix a cup of corn syrup with two tablespoons of chocolate syrup. Add red food coloring a couple of drops at a time until you reach your desired color.
Make Prosthetics From Gelatin
One of the best things about using gelatin prosthetics is how inexpensive they are. They are also very forgiving to work with, which is ideal for beginners. To start making your prosthetics, you need glycerin, gelatin, and water.
Mix one spoonful of water and two spoonfuls of glycerin together. Slowly whisk in two spoonfuls of gelatin. Once thoroughly mixed, pop into the microwave for eight seconds and then stir. Place inside the freezer until solid.
Create Realistic Scars
Without rigid collodion, you might be thinking that it’s impossible to create realistic-looking scars. You can use some eyelash glue, face powder, red and pink eyeshadow, and foundation to make them. Use similar building techniques as you would for cuts.
Make Your Own Scar Wax
You can use scar wax for various special makeup effects, including exposed bones, broken skin, or a knife stabbing through your skin. To make your scar wax mix, together with flour, Vaseline, and some liquid foundation. Making it yourself allows you to customize its density for whatever you are using it for. Foundation is used to match the wax to your skin tone.