Ageing Using Liquid Latex

Ageing using liquid latex is a popular method used within the film and television industry. Simple, cost effective and not as time consuming as applying prosthetic pieces, it is easy to see why this is a popular choice for makeup artists and productions. 

As with all latex products, if you are using liquid latex for the first time it is essential you allergy test yourself by putting a small amount of the latex on your inner forearm and let it dry. You'll know if you've had a reaction as you'll start itching and going red. It's also worth using a barrier cream if you have sensitive skin as it can be quite harsh when you come to peel the dried latex off.

Before:

To begin the ageing on my own hand I ensured my skin was clean and moisturised, as you would with any face makeup, giving me a bare base to work on. Using my Kryolan Rubber Mask Greasepaint Palette I started by adding veining (using a blue) and a couple of age spots (using browns). 

I then began stippling on the liquid latex using a sponge. I did this in a light layer with my hand clenched in a fist to stretch the skin. By stretching the skin in the opposite direction of natural wrinkles, when you release the skin, the latex creates the wrinkles. Once I had applied the first layer of latex I sped up the drying process with a hair dryer and then applied a fine dusting of Graftobian Translucent Powder. 

I wanted it create more of an aged effect so I continued with adding layers of latex and powdering each one until I was happy with the effect.

As you can see by these images, the powder I used made the latex have a white tone to it. To overcome this effect, I simply waited until all the layers were dry and then used a baby wipe to dab off the excess powder. 

To match the colour of the latex to my natural skin tone I used a mixture of Airbase foundations. I applied these using my fingers to add subtle skin tones and to blend the latex into my skin. 

I love the effect ageing with liquid latex creates and how easy it is to achieve with a few simple products. As you move your hand you can really see all the wrinkles and how they contort your skin adding to the effect.

After:

Have you ever used a different ageing technique? 

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