Sil-Key Thinners -Thinners
21,78 € Tax incl.
Sil-Key Thinners is the medical-grade thinner formulated specifically to work alongside the Sil-Key Adhesive silicone adhesive. Its function is to reduce the viscosity of the adhesive, improving its flow and making application on skin easier. It also acts as a skin primer, preparing the surface for cleaner, more controlled adhesion.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Thinner / Skin primer |
| Grade | Medical |
| Compatibility | Sil-Key Adhesive |
| Recommended ratio | 10–15% of adhesive volume |
| Additional function | Skin priming prior to adhesion |
What it's used for
Sil-Key Thinners is designed for FX makeup professionals, theatrical and film prosthetics, and live special effects. It has two main uses: thinning the adhesive when it has thickened or when a more fluid application is needed, and preparing the skin before attaching a silicone prosthetic or piece.
- Thinning Sil-Key Adhesive to improve workability
- Skin priming prior to bonding silicone prosthetics
- Viscosity adjustment during long makeup sessions
- Extending the working life of the adhesive between uses
- Skin preparation for theatrical and film character applications
How to use it
- Shake Sil-Key Adhesive well before preparing the mixture.
- Add Sil-Key Thinners at a ratio of 10–15% of the adhesive amount you intend to use. Always start at the lower end and adjust as needed.
- Mix gently until you achieve a smooth, fluid consistency.
- If using it as a primer, apply a thin layer of the pure thinner onto clean, dry skin. Allow a few seconds for it to evaporate before applying the adhesive.
- Apply the thinned adhesive onto the prosthetic or directly onto the primed skin using a fine brush or spatula.
- Position the prosthetic and press gently until the desired bond is achieved.
- Close the container tightly after each use to prevent evaporation of the thinner.
Usage tips
Don't overdo the amount
Adding more than 15% thinner can significantly reduce bond strength and greatly extend drying time. If the adhesive already has good fluidity, try it first without thinning, or use a minimum ratio of 5–8%.
Use it to clean your brush too
Sil-Key Thinners is compatible with the same brushes and tools you use with the adhesive. A small amount of thinner on the brush just before storing extends the tool's lifespan and prevents polymerised adhesive from ruining it.
Storage and shelf life
The solvent evaporates easily. Keep the container tightly closed, away from heat sources and direct light. If you notice the contents have thickened or changed colour, do not use it on skin — it may have lost its medical-grade properties.
Frequently asked questions
What is a silicone adhesive thinner used for?
It is used to reduce the viscosity of the adhesive, make it easier to apply with a brush, and adapt its behaviour to different temperature conditions or stages of work. Sil-Key Thinners also acts as a skin primer, improving the adhesion of silicone prosthetics on skin.
How much thinner should I add to the adhesive?
The recommended ratio for Sil-Key Thinners is 10 to 15% of the adhesive amount. Exceeding that percentage can noticeably reduce bond strength and extend drying time.
Can I use this thinner with other silicone adhesives?
Sil-Key Thinners is formulated and validated specifically for Sil-Key Adhesive. If you are working with other silicone adhesives, check with the manufacturer before mixing thinners, as chemical compatibility is not guaranteed and may alter the adhesive's behaviour.
Can it be applied directly on skin as a primer?
Yes. Being medical grade, Sil-Key Thinners can be applied directly onto clean, dry skin before placing the adhesive. This thin layer improves adhesion and facilitates a more even bond of the prosthetic.
What is the difference between this thinner and those from other adhesive systems?
Each adhesive system has its own thinner formulated to maintain chemical compatibility and dermal safety properties. For example, Telesis 8 Thinner is exclusive to the Telesis 8 adhesive. They are not interchangeable between different systems.
Can it be used to make complete FX prosthetics?
The thinner is only one part of the process. For a complete FX prosthetic you will need a platinum silicone for the mould and the piece, an encapsulant, the adhesive (such as Sil-Key Adhesive), pigments, and Sil-Key Thinners as thinner and primer. Feroca stocks all of these materials in its catalogue.
How do you remove a prosthetic bonded with Sil-Key Adhesive?
For removal, it is recommended to use Sil-Key Thinners itself, applied gently at the edges of the prosthetic. The solvent softens the adhesive layer and allows the piece to be lifted without pulling that could damage the skin.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
Being formulated to medical grade, it is designed to minimise skin irritation. Even so, for very sensitive skin or those with a history of allergic reactions, it is recommended to carry out a patch test on a small area before full application.