PROTAC is the prosthetic-grade acrylic adhesive from The Monster Makers, designed specifically for bonding prosthetics and special effects applications directly onto skin. It creates a strong, long-lasting bond that holds through extended work sessions and removes cleanly with Isopropyl Myristate, without damaging skin or the prosthetic.
Technical specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Type |
Prosthetic-grade acrylic adhesive |
| Intended use |
Human skin / FX makeup |
| Compatible materials |
Latex, foam latex, gelatin-encapsulated silicone |
| Solvent / remover |
Isopropyl Myristate |
| Recommended storage temperature |
~23 °C |
| Notes |
High freezing point — avoid exposure to cold in winter. Keep container tightly closed at all times. |
What it's used for
PROTAC is designed for special effects makeup professionals, animatronics artists and Stop Motion creators who need a reliable adhesive that is safe on skin and compatible with the most common prosthetic materials. It has quickly become a cost-effective and efficient alternative within the FX industry.
- Bonding prosthetic foam latex prosthetics onto skin
- Adhering latex pieces (noses, ears, scars, wounds) in character makeup
- Bonding gelatin-encapsulated silicone for realistic skin effects
- FX makeup for film, television, theatre and long-duration events
- Stop Motion applications requiring controlled adhesion on surfaces
- Animatronics and character work with prosthetics that must hold for several hours without touch-ups
How to use it
- Make sure the skin is clean, dry and free of grease or residue from other products.
- Apply a thin, even layer of PROTAC to the skin area where the prosthetic will be placed. You can use a brush or sponge.
- Allow to dry briefly until the adhesive becomes translucent and tacky (slightly sticky to the touch).
- Apply a thin layer to the inner face of the prosthetic (latex, foam latex or gelatin encapsulate) and allow to dry in the same way.
- Place the prosthetic onto the skin, pressing gently from the centre outwards to avoid air bubbles.
- Blend the edges of the prosthetic into the skin using sealers or character makeup tools.
- Paint and finish the makeup with Mask Paint or other compatible products.
- To remove the prosthetic, apply Isopropyl Myristate to the edges and peel away gently without pulling sharply.
Important notice — storage: PROTAC has a high freezing point. Do not leave the container exposed to low temperatures during winter (outdoors, in a vehicle, in unheated storage areas). Always store tightly closed at approximately 23 °C. A single freeze cycle can alter the consistency and effectiveness of the product.
Usage tips
Skin preparation: the step that makes all the difference
PROTAC's adhesion depends directly on the condition of the skin. Remove any traces of moisturiser, foundation or sweat before applying the adhesive. If the area has hair, consider pre-sealing it with a very thin layer of skin sealer. On very oily skin, wiping with isopropyl alcohol before applying PROTAC noticeably improves adhesion.
Controlling the amount applied
Less is more. A thin, even layer bonds better than a thick layer that doesn't dry uniformly. If the edges of the prosthetic lift after a few hours, the cause is usually over-application in that area, not under-application. Use a fine-bristle brush for greater control in delicate areas such as eyelids or mouth corners.
Safe removal and prosthetic reuse
To keep prosthetics in good condition and allow reuse, always remove them with Isopropyl Myristate, never dry or with water. Apply the remover to the edges using a fine brush or cotton swab, wait a few seconds and peel away gently. Once removed, clean the back of the prosthetic with the same product to remove any PROTAC residue before storing. If the prosthetic has been painted with Mask Paint, Isopropyl Myristate will not damage the finish.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to use this adhesive directly on skin?
Yes. PROTAC is specifically formulated as a prosthetic-grade adhesive for use on human skin. It is the standard used in professional character makeup for film, television and theatre. As with any product that comes into contact with skin, it is recommended to perform a small patch test on the wrist if using for the first time, especially on sensitive skin or with a history of allergies.
How long does the prosthetic hold with this adhesive?
PROTAC is designed for long work sessions. Under normal conditions (controlled ambient temperature, without excessive sweating), the bond holds firmly for many hours, making it perfectly suitable for full shooting days. Intense heat and perspiration are the factors most likely to compromise adhesion; in those conditions it is advisable to reinforce the edges with a second thin application before starting.
What materials can I bond with this adhesive?
PROTAC is optimised for bonding latex, prosthetic foam latex and gelatin-encapsulated silicone prosthetics onto human skin. It also works well with other flexible materials commonly used in FX. If you need to bond pure silicone prosthetics (platinum encapsulates), a silicone adhesive such as Telesis 8 may offer better chemical compatibility.
How is this adhesive removed from skin?
The recommended and most effective remover is Isopropyl Myristate. Apply it to the edges of the prosthetic, allow it to act for a few seconds and peel away gently. It is a gentle remover for the skin and does not damage prosthetic materials, allowing pieces to be reused.
Can I use this adhesive outdoors during winter?
The product works perfectly outdoors, but the container must not be exposed to low temperatures during transport or storage, as PROTAC has a high freezing point. If the product freezes, its consistency and effectiveness may be affected. For winter shoots, keep the bottle in a warm place and use it at room temperature.
Can makeup be applied over prosthetics bonded with this adhesive?
Yes. Once the prosthetic is placed and the edges blended, you can paint and apply character makeup normally. For latex and foam latex prosthetics, Mask Paint is the specific paint designed for these materials, with excellent flexibility and adhesion. If the prosthetic needs a localised gloss finish, you can use Flex Gloss as a final coat.
What is the difference between this adhesive and silicone adhesives?
PROTAC is a water-based acrylic adhesive optimised for latex and foam latex, with an excellent price-to-performance ratio. Silicone adhesives such as Telesis 8 are particularly suited to pure silicone prosthetics and offer greater resistance to water and sweat, but at a higher cost. The choice depends on the prosthetic material and the conditions of the shoot.
Does it need thinning or is it used straight from the container?
PROTAC is used straight from the container, with no thinning required. If over time the consistency thickens slightly due to evaporation (from not closing the bottle properly), do not thin it with water without first consulting the manufacturer, as this may alter its adhesive properties. Always keep the container tightly closed when not in use.
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