Are you already working on perfecting your Halloween aesthetic for 2020? Perhaps it is your dream to become a professional makeup artist? Either way, you will definitely want to learn more about special FX makeup, otherwise known as special effects makeup, and how to perfect it. Here is a handy guide to help get you started. 

Invest in Quality FX Makeup Supplies

No matter how on-point your makeup skills are, your look is going to fall flat if you use low quality FX makeup. Do some research into the different brands that specialize in the manufacture of theatrical makeup before handing over your credit card. Also, be sure to practice with your new tools and makeup well ahead of the specific event that you are going to be attending to ensure that you have your technique down pat. 

Get Your Hands on FX Makeup Essentials 

It’s true that you can find most FX makeup must-haves at your regular costume store. However, if you want to enhance how convincing your look is, then you might want to consider spending a little bit extra at a special FX makeup supplies store. Here, you are likely to find an abundance of essentials, such as sculpting compound, metallic powders, specialized palettes (such as those for creating life-like bruises or dark undereye circles), makeup sealer, and latex. 

Stock Up on the Right Tools

Along with high quality theatrical makeup and FX makeup essentials, you will need to ensure that you have purchased the right tools to aid you in guaranteeing seamless, stress-free application. The two most important tools include sponges and brushes. Sponges can be used to apply a variety of different makeup products, and can be utilized to create various effects through different techniques, such as smudging. If you want a truly flawless application, you also cannot go wrong with a classic Beauty Blender. 

From a brush perspective, the more varied your collection, the easier it will be to create different looks. No need to splurge on special FX makeup brushes. You should be fine to use those already in your possession. Alternatively, buy yourself a collection of children’s paintbrushes. These tend to be cheaper and work just as well. Some makeup artists swear by them when it comes to bringing special effects and characters to life. 

Buy Different Types of Base Paint 

The base paint that you use will be exactly that — the foundation from which you build your character. Hence the reason why it is so important. The most popular types of base paints are either water-based or oil-based. Ideally, you should use water-based base paint for when you are going to be adding a lot of detail to the face. It dries well, thus making it possible for you to paint fine lines and use a host of different colors without having to worry about ‘bleeding’.

Oil-based base paint, on the other hand, should be used when your look is going to require lots of blending. For example, when you are creating a zombie character. 

Now that you know what you’ll need, it’s time to get started. Have lots of fun experimenting. It is through fearless experimentation that you will eventually build a remarkable set of special FX makeup skills!